So this is really what people are calling for?
I know that this article by Gregg Easterbrook is well intentioned. He talks about how the NFL playoff system is broken because of the possibility of 11-5 teams missing the playoffs while 8-8 teams are in. Well, I will say I severely disagree.
1. The system isn't broken because the division winners are being rewarded for exceptional division play. There are no division leaders that are playing at least .600 in division. The cardinals 5-0 in division. Some would argue that's easy because the division is awful but you still have to reward them for winning those games and putting themselves into clinching the division so that they haven't had anything to play for for the last 3 weeks.
2. For you to just have a seeded tournament where the best 12 play, the schedule must be a true round-robin format to be fair. I could see NFL owners going for a 31 game schedule, but I can't see the players doing it. The reason that is the only way to be fair is the same reason the NFL went to consolidated schedules for divisions. For each team within a division, they play 14 common games, 6 in the division, 4 against a specific AFC division and 4 against a specific NFC division. That makes rewarding division winners with a playoff spot makes sense. If they play the same schedule, the one that does the best should be in. If a team went 6-0 in the division and 0-10 outside of it and still won their division I would still have the same argument. Maybe they played 8 playoff teams. I don't know.
I think that was a pretty shallow argument and was more of a porr attempt at getting the people on the side of a bad argument. Thanks, Gregg
Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!
I really just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. But I just can't stop there.
So the Houston Rockets traded Steve Francis to the Memphis Grizzlies. Fhis complete his full-circle career path. Remember, Francis forced a trade from the Grizz to the Rockets before he ever played a game. The Grizz were in Vancouver at the time though. But the more interesting part of this trade was The Grizzlies gave up a conditional second-round pick in 2011, and the Rockets gave the Grizzlies a second-round pick this year and enough money to pay off the rest of his salary for the year. So its pretty wierd but it seems like The Rockets were like we don't want him SO MUCH that we'll give you your second round pick and some money. The Grizz who are struggling and need some help with point guard are like "Hell Yeah we'll give this guy a shot!" So now Memphis has a new 31 year old point guard who is coming off of knee surgery. Merry Chirstmas Steve Francis, you might need it for your mental well-being.
So the Houston Rockets traded Steve Francis to the Memphis Grizzlies. Fhis complete his full-circle career path. Remember, Francis forced a trade from the Grizz to the Rockets before he ever played a game. The Grizz were in Vancouver at the time though. But the more interesting part of this trade was The Grizzlies gave up a conditional second-round pick in 2011, and the Rockets gave the Grizzlies a second-round pick this year and enough money to pay off the rest of his salary for the year. So its pretty wierd but it seems like The Rockets were like we don't want him SO MUCH that we'll give you your second round pick and some money. The Grizz who are struggling and need some help with point guard are like "Hell Yeah we'll give this guy a shot!" So now Memphis has a new 31 year old point guard who is coming off of knee surgery. Merry Chirstmas Steve Francis, you might need it for your mental well-being.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Rob Parker = Attention Whore?
So I get it, Rob Parker made a bad joke when he asked Rod Marinelli if he wished his daughter married a better defensive coordinator. Yeah, I chuckled when I heard it. I thought it was funny. It was definitely in poor taste but it was still funny. It got better when Marinelli didn't accept his apology, telling at the reporters to "bring it." It was funny when he called the press conference room a "room of stink". I feel bad for Marinelli, not only does he have to deal with having the worst team of all time, he has to deal with giant bag o' douche Rob Parker.
I'm not a big fan of Parker's and don't understand why he's been able to move up the media ladder. He had a column and his own radio show nightly, now he's a frequent guest on ESPN's first and 10 where he debates Skip Bayless and he is also on ESPN radio 1050 in New York. But I am now coming to my main point of this post.
HE IS AN ATTENTION WHORE!!
Please, check his wikipedia page. Don't you find it peculiar that he has had 5 controversies in 9 months. And those aren't even all of the controversies. There was the time he falsely reported that Manny Harris was caught in a drug house in Detroit. Guess what? Just a grab at some more attention. Then, last season he said Mario Manningham was going to be suspended for the whole season because of some altercations. Well, Manningham was never suspended.
Parker, I know you'll probably read this because you're looking for all the attention you can get.
Please, stop your shenanigans and just be a normal journalist who reports stuff that is true and someone who doesn't become the story.
I'm not a big fan of Parker's and don't understand why he's been able to move up the media ladder. He had a column and his own radio show nightly, now he's a frequent guest on ESPN's first and 10 where he debates Skip Bayless and he is also on ESPN radio 1050 in New York. But I am now coming to my main point of this post.
HE IS AN ATTENTION WHORE!!
Please, check his wikipedia page. Don't you find it peculiar that he has had 5 controversies in 9 months. And those aren't even all of the controversies. There was the time he falsely reported that Manny Harris was caught in a drug house in Detroit. Guess what? Just a grab at some more attention. Then, last season he said Mario Manningham was going to be suspended for the whole season because of some altercations. Well, Manningham was never suspended.
Parker, I know you'll probably read this because you're looking for all the attention you can get.
Please, stop your shenanigans and just be a normal journalist who reports stuff that is true and someone who doesn't become the story.
Hypothetical situation.
Say you were watching a bowl game that was tied in the fourth quarter with 25 seconds left. The ball is near the 50 yard line. It is 3rd and 10 and the team runs a play that gets them 47 yards from the goal-line and it will be 4th down. The coach lets the clock run down without ever letting the Qarterback leave the field and calls a time-out with 4 seconds left. What are you going to assume?
A. The team is going to like up and try a field goal that would be the 6th longest of all-time in NCAA and would be longer than the current NFL record.
B. The team is going to line up and try and throw a pass into the end-zone.
Personallly, I think the obvious answer is B. But Eric Collins the play-by-play guy for last night's Southern Miss v. Troy game thought the answer was A. He showed Gus Johnson-like excitement in saying "Are they gonna attempt a field goal here Shaun?" It was an epic-fail once Shaun King said no and nothing else.
This is why I am trying to be a sports broadcaster. I can't do much worse than these guys.
A. The team is going to like up and try a field goal that would be the 6th longest of all-time in NCAA and would be longer than the current NFL record.
B. The team is going to line up and try and throw a pass into the end-zone.
Personallly, I think the obvious answer is B. But Eric Collins the play-by-play guy for last night's Southern Miss v. Troy game thought the answer was A. He showed Gus Johnson-like excitement in saying "Are they gonna attempt a field goal here Shaun?" It was an epic-fail once Shaun King said no and nothing else.
This is why I am trying to be a sports broadcaster. I can't do much worse than these guys.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Start looking at your draft boards people.
If it wasn't certain, well now its official, the Lions have clinched the number one pick in the draft. Somehow, they couldn't find a way to screw this up. The last few times they had a shot at the #1 pick, they screwed it up. They won a couple of games towards the end of the year in 2001, to end up with the #3 pick and the lovable, huggable Joey "BlueSkies" Harrington. In 2006 they decided to go to Dallas and beat the Cowboys the last week of the season. Thank God, because the lions could have had another bust at QB in JaMarcus Russell and instead we got one of the only worthwhile pieces in Calvin Johnson.
Okay, so instead of listing what the Lions need, I will list what they don't.
-Wide Receiver, I am happy with Calvin, Keary Colbert, and Standeford.
-Kicker, assuming Jason Hanson comes back for an 18th season
-Punter, Nick Harris is just fine
-Running Back, Kevin Smith is looking good.
-Tight End, Gaines, Campbell, Fitzsimmons are good enough for me.
Everyone seems to think the Lions need a Quarterback. I agree they need a QB, but the first pick of the draft is not the place to do it. The Falcons succeded with a rookie QB this year because they had a good line around them, note they have in the top of rushing stats for the last couple of years. Joe Flacco was able to succeed because they had a decent, if not good line around him already. The Lions on the other hand, have an inconsistent, mediocre offensive line. They should be drafting on the O-line. Whoever comes in needs to see that Jeff Backus and his league lead in holding penalties (it seems like it at least) is not the answer at the left Tackle spot. Andre Smith from Alabama seems like he could be a good fit in Detroit. I don't want Matthew Stafford because most of his positives are just his size and body type, not his consistency and accuracy. I don't want Graham Harrell or Sam Bradford because they have come from a typically Spread offensein college and probably will need some time developing before they can be plugged into an NFL offense. This year's draft needs to be one where they can solidify the o-line and d-line and a couple of other holes so next year they can focus on using a first round draft pick on a QB.
Okay, so instead of listing what the Lions need, I will list what they don't.
-Wide Receiver, I am happy with Calvin, Keary Colbert, and Standeford.
-Kicker, assuming Jason Hanson comes back for an 18th season
-Punter, Nick Harris is just fine
-Running Back, Kevin Smith is looking good.
-Tight End, Gaines, Campbell, Fitzsimmons are good enough for me.
Everyone seems to think the Lions need a Quarterback. I agree they need a QB, but the first pick of the draft is not the place to do it. The Falcons succeded with a rookie QB this year because they had a good line around them, note they have in the top of rushing stats for the last couple of years. Joe Flacco was able to succeed because they had a decent, if not good line around him already. The Lions on the other hand, have an inconsistent, mediocre offensive line. They should be drafting on the O-line. Whoever comes in needs to see that Jeff Backus and his league lead in holding penalties (it seems like it at least) is not the answer at the left Tackle spot. Andre Smith from Alabama seems like he could be a good fit in Detroit. I don't want Matthew Stafford because most of his positives are just his size and body type, not his consistency and accuracy. I don't want Graham Harrell or Sam Bradford because they have come from a typically Spread offensein college and probably will need some time developing before they can be plugged into an NFL offense. This year's draft needs to be one where they can solidify the o-line and d-line and a couple of other holes so next year they can focus on using a first round draft pick on a QB.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
College BBall
What a big day for college basketball. 5 games with ranked teams going against each other.
#6 Duke crushed #7 Xavier 82-64.
IT was never close as the dukies jumped out to a big lead and never looked back.
#2 UConn beat #7 Gonzaga 88-83 in OT.
UConn was able to battle bak even with their big man fouled out. It was a back and forth game and the Zags were up early in the second half by 15.
(by the way i realize that gonzaga and xavier are both #7, that's how espn has them labeled.)
#22 Michigan State beat #5 Texas 67-63
MSU led 2-0 and then fell behind for awhile but the furthest they were back was 7 points. A big three by Durrell Summers in the last 20 seconds gave MSU the lead.
#18 Purdue beat #20 Davison 76-58
Stephen Curry could never catch fire at Conseco Fieldhouse and shot 3-14 in the first half and 5-26 overall. Purdue got their first win this year over a ranked team and look to keep rolling with sure wins over IPFW and Valpo going into their Big 10 schedule.
#11 Syracuse beat #21 Memphis 72-65
Syracuse was shorthanded with the suspension of Eric Devendorf, but the first game back for Jonny Flynn has been a big one. He scored 24 points, dished out 6 assists and grabbed 4 rebounds.
The biggest story of the day was #9 Louisville losing to unranked Minnesota 70-64. It will be interested when there is talk come tournament time and finally no one says the Big 10 is one of the worst BCS conferences.
#6 Duke crushed #7 Xavier 82-64.
IT was never close as the dukies jumped out to a big lead and never looked back.
#2 UConn beat #7 Gonzaga 88-83 in OT.
UConn was able to battle bak even with their big man fouled out. It was a back and forth game and the Zags were up early in the second half by 15.
(by the way i realize that gonzaga and xavier are both #7, that's how espn has them labeled.)
#22 Michigan State beat #5 Texas 67-63
MSU led 2-0 and then fell behind for awhile but the furthest they were back was 7 points. A big three by Durrell Summers in the last 20 seconds gave MSU the lead.
#18 Purdue beat #20 Davison 76-58
Stephen Curry could never catch fire at Conseco Fieldhouse and shot 3-14 in the first half and 5-26 overall. Purdue got their first win this year over a ranked team and look to keep rolling with sure wins over IPFW and Valpo going into their Big 10 schedule.
#11 Syracuse beat #21 Memphis 72-65
Syracuse was shorthanded with the suspension of Eric Devendorf, but the first game back for Jonny Flynn has been a big one. He scored 24 points, dished out 6 assists and grabbed 4 rebounds.
The biggest story of the day was #9 Louisville losing to unranked Minnesota 70-64. It will be interested when there is talk come tournament time and finally no one says the Big 10 is one of the worst BCS conferences.
Hey ESPN
I'm not sure how i thought of this but when its the first-ever of something like the magicJack St. Petersburg bowl, don't put a stat on the bottom line saying it is both teams first appearance in that specific bowl game. Please just don't do it.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Bowl Pick 'em
34 Bowls is a lot. Only 51 teams did not make a bowl game. if you fielded a team you had nearly a 60 percent chance of making a bowl game.
EagleBank Bowl
Dec. 20 / 11 a.m.. ET Washington, D.C.
Wake Forest vs. Navy
Well, the Eagle in not a good animal to represent these teams. Wake ran the ball 100 more times than they passed and Navy threw the ball less than 100 times while running over 650 times. Navy beat Wake earlier this year at Wake. I'm going with Navy.
Navy 24, Wake 10.
New Mexico Bowl
Dec. 20/12:30 p.m. Albuquerque, N.M. ESPN
Colorado State vs. Fresno State
Fresno was this years hot non-BCS team when the season started and especially after they beat rutgers. Once they lost to Wisconsin they kinda gave up. Colorado state, I have no clue what they do and I don't feel like researching. I'm going with the familiar side.
Fresno 28, CSU 24
Pioneer Las Vegas Bowl
Dec. 20 / 8 p.m. ET Las Vegas, Nev. ESPN
BYU vs. Arizona
BYU was all set for a BCS game until they lost to TCU and then they were supposed to stop Utah from being a BCS-buster. Well, they failed and now they are in snowy Las Vegas taking on the David Hasselhoff-inspired Wildcats. BYU beat two Pac-10 teams. I think they will make it three in a romp.
BYU 42, Arizona 17
magicJack St. Petersburg Bowl
Dec. 20 / 9 p.m. ET St. Petersburg, Fl.
South Florida vs. Memphis
I don't know much about these two teams. I know South Florida still has Matt Groethe. He's pretty good. Memphis on the other hand, they have.....
South Florida 35, Memphis 14
R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
Dec. 21 / 8 p.m. ET New Orleans, La. ESPN
Troy vs. Southern Miss
The sun belt conference is my specialty..... NOT. At this point, I am just picking games out of the air.
So. Miss 24, Troy 7
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Dec. 23 / 8 p.m. ET San Diego, Calif. ESPN
TCU vs. Boise State
Boise State got a semi-raw deal from the BCS. TCU is a really good football team, but not good enough.
Boise St. 28, TCU 21
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Dec. 24 / 8 p.m. ET Honolulu, Hawaii ESPN
Notre Dame vs. Hawaii
I've gone back and forth on this game many times. I don't like Notre Dame, but can they really be that bad? In the few games I watched Hawaii they still needed a little Colt Brennan and June Jones.
Hawaii 35, Notre Dame 31
Motor City Bowl
Dec. 26 / 7:30 p.m. ET Detroit, Mich. ESPN
Florida Atlantic vs. Central Michigan
This is where rooting interests come in to play. Dan Lefevour and CMU's offense is good but the defense has been inversely bad. FAU like to throw the ball. CMU likes to let other teams complete a record number of passes (still a little bitter over the loss to EMU). Can you say SHOOTOUT? Go Fire Up Chips!!
CMU 48, FAU 38
Champs Sports Bowl
Dec. 27 / 4:30 p.m. ET Orlando, Fla. ESPN
Florida State vs. Wisconsin
Wisconsin has been a creappy team this year (See: L @Michigan). Florida State hasn't been a world beater either. Mediocre team from ACC > Mediocre at best team from Big 10.
FSU 35, Wisconsin 10
Emerald Bowl
Dec. 27 / 8:30 p.m. ET San Francisco, Calif. ESPN
Miami vs. California
Miami will be missing their hotshot freshman QB Robert Marve. Cal will be missing Marshawn Lynch and DeSean Jackson.
Cal 21, Miami 10
Meineke Car Care Bowl
Dec. 27 / 1 p.m. ET Charlotte, N.C. ESPN
North Carolina vs. West Virginia
West Va. has been a major disappointment. UNC has been a slight surprise. UNC can't stop the run. WVU has Pat White.
WVU 24, UNC 14
PapaJohn’s.com Bowl
Dec. 29 / 3 p.m. ET Birmingham, Ala. ESPN2
Rutgers vs. NC State
Rutgers is an intriguing team. But I think NC State is more interesting. Losing to South Carolina 34-0 to open the season and then running off 4 straight wins (3 against other bowl teams: Wake, UNC, Miami) to be bowl eligible. That couple weeks off is gonna hurt 'em
Rutgers 21 NC State 17
Independence Bowl
Dec. 28 / 8 p.m. ET Shreveport, La. ESPN
Louisiana Tech vs. Northern Illinois
A super-mediocre team from the MAC against a barely mediocre team from the WAC. I like NIU but not that much.
LTU 28, NIU 10
Alamo Bowl
Dec. 29 / 8 p.m. ET San Antonio, Texas ESPN
Northwestern vs. Missouri
A battle between two of the non-perennial powers in the Big 10 and Big 12. Northwestern is a fluke. Mizzou not so much.
Missouri 35, Northwestern 7
Texas Bowl
Dec. 30 / 8 p.m. Houston, Texas NFL Network
Western Michigan vs. Rice
I thought Central can throw the ball well, Rice has an All-American at WR in Jared Dillard. He's good. WMU secondary is OK.
Rice 24, WMU 21
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
Dec. 30 / 8 p.m. ET San Diego, Calif. ESPN
Oklahoma State vs. Oregon
Everyone has been on their knees praising the Big 12 this year. I, for no good reason other than Oregon hung 65 on Oregon State, am picking the Ducks
Oregon 27, OSU 20
Roady’s Humanitarian Bowl
Dec. 30/4:30 p.m. Boise, Idaho ESPN
Maryland vs. Nevada
Maryland has been a good member of the ACC and has been mediocre like the rest of them. Nevada hasn't been impressive but they have Colin Kaepernick and the pistol offense. I'm rollin with the pack.
Nevada 21, Maryland 14
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
Dec. 31 / 12 p.m. ET Fort Worth, Texas ESPN
Air Force vs. Houston
These teams couldn't be more different. Air Force runs the vaunted triple option. Houston runs a spread offense that rivals Texas Tech.
Houston 42, Air Force 24
Sun Bowl
Dec. 31 / 2 p.m. ET. El Paso, Texas CBS
Pitt vs. Oregon State
Two of the best young running backs in the country are in this game. JacQuizz Rodgers is slightly better than Lesean McCoy. Lets go Beavers.
Oregon State 24, Pitt 20
Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl
Dec. 31 / 3:30 p.m. ET Nashville, Tenn. ESPN
Boston College vs. Vanderbilt
Vandy started off hot but the colled down tremendously. BC just can't beat Viginia Tech in the ACC championship game but they handle Vandy just fine.
BC 35, Vandy 7
Chick-fil-A Bowl
Dec. 31 / 7:30 p.m. ET Atlanta, Ga. ESPN
Georgia Tech vs. LSU
Georaia Tech got Paul Johnson and has been succesful with their Option attack all year. LSU has been a major disappointment. They will continue to disappoint.
Georgia Tech 28, LSU 10
Insight Bowl
Dec. 31 / 5:30 ET Tempe, Ariz. NFL Network
Minnesota vs. Kansas
Any team in the Big 10 that lost to Michigan is bad in my book. Minnesota is another one of those. Kansas hasn't been able to recreate the magic they had last year. But the Fighting Manginos will get it done.
Kansas 38, Minnesota 10
Outback Bowl
Jan. 1 / 11 a.m. ET Tampa, Fla. ESPN
Iowa vs. South Carolina
Shonn Greene is really good. South Carolina has Chris Smelley leading the Cocks. Smelley + Cocks = comedy gold. The team has been just as funny.
Iowa 24, South Carolina 10
Konica Minolta Gator Bowl
Jan. 1 / 1 p.m. ET Jacksonville, Fla. CBS
Clemson vs. Nebraska
Clemson has been a major disappointment, I've heard they had two NFL ready running backs all year, and i totally agree. The rest of the team has struggled. Nebraska is rebuilding and trying to get out of Tom Osborne's shadow but they will definitely be in the dark for this game.
Clemson 27, Nebraska 13
Capital One Bowl
Jan. 1 / 1 p.m. Orlando, Fla. ABC
Michigan State vs. Georgia
I want to pick MSU, I really do. Javon Ringer will do all he can do, but Knowshon Moreno and Matt Stafford will be too much. Brian Hoyer just isn't good enough to win a bowl game.
Georgia 27, MSU 20
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Jan. 2 / 5:00 p.m. ET Memphis, Tenn. ESPN
East Carolina vs. Kentucky
ECU was gonna be the first non-BCS team to play in the championship game, or at least i thought so. Then they stumbled a couple times down the way and now they find themselves playing an over-matched Kentucky team. I think they will bring their record to 3-2 against BCS teams.
ECU 21, Kentucky 7
AT&T Cotton Bowl
Jan. 2 / 2 p.m. ET Dallas, Texas FOX
Texas Tech vs. Ole Miss
Texas Tech was a media darling for a couple of weeks and i didn't even dream it up. Oh, i crack myself up. But Jevan Snead is a really good young QB for Ole MIss. I knod fo want to pick Ole Miss but I can't bring myself to do it.
TTU 35, Ole Miss 31
International Bowl
Jan. 3 / 12 p.m. ET Toronto, Canada ESPN2
Connecticut vs. Buffalo
Buffalo is in its first bowl EVER. UConn has a NCAA-leading runner. He continues to run he may run for a mile in this game.
UConn 38, Buffalo 17.
GMAC Bowl
Jan. 6 / 8 p.m. ET Mobile, Ala. ESPN
Tulsa vs. Ball State
Tulsa is an explosive offense. They can turn the ball over with the best of them too. Ball State is really good and when they turn it over they lose. I hope the weather is good in Mobile otherwise this is going to be an awful game.
Ball State 45, Tulsa 42
BCS GAMES
Rose Bowl presented by Citi
Jan. 1 / 5:10 p.m. ET Pasadena, Calif. ABC
USC vs. Penn State
There is NO love for the Big 10 this year. USC is favored by 10 in this game. I don't think they will win by more than 10 but I can't bring myself to pick against USC in Pasadena.
USC 17, Penn St 14
FedEx Orange Bowl
Jan. 1 / 8 p.m. Miami Gardens, Fla. FOX
Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati
This is the least interesting of the BCS games. I don't like either team that much but I am going with the familiar quantity in Brian Kelly. The Bearcats will barely pull this one off.
Cinci 21, Va. Tech 20
Allstate Sugar Bowl
Jan. 2 / 8:30 p.m. ET New Orleans, La. FOX
Alabama vs. Utah
Alabama loses to Florida instead of playin in the championship, they are trying to show why non-BCS schools shouldn't be in the National Championship discussion. This Utah team isn't like the Hawaii team from last year. I may be off my rocker, but I am going to take Utah in a major upset.
Utah 27, BAMA 20
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
Jan. 5 / 8 p.m. Phoenix, Ariz. FOX
Texas vs. Ohio State
One more case where there is no love for the Big 10. Texas favored by 10 in this one. The difference is I think this one is justified.
Texas 35, OSU 24
FedEx BCS National Championship
Jan. 8 / 8 p.m. Miami Gardens, Fla. FOX
Oklahoma vs. Florida
Man, do I hate Tim Tebow. But gosh darnit I respect him. Just not enough to give him a national championship. O yea, hey Tim enjoy being a fullback in the NFL.
Oklahoma 42, Florida 24
EagleBank Bowl
Dec. 20 / 11 a.m.. ET Washington, D.C.
Wake Forest vs. Navy
Well, the Eagle in not a good animal to represent these teams. Wake ran the ball 100 more times than they passed and Navy threw the ball less than 100 times while running over 650 times. Navy beat Wake earlier this year at Wake. I'm going with Navy.
Navy 24, Wake 10.
New Mexico Bowl
Dec. 20/12:30 p.m. Albuquerque, N.M. ESPN
Colorado State vs. Fresno State
Fresno was this years hot non-BCS team when the season started and especially after they beat rutgers. Once they lost to Wisconsin they kinda gave up. Colorado state, I have no clue what they do and I don't feel like researching. I'm going with the familiar side.
Fresno 28, CSU 24
Pioneer Las Vegas Bowl
Dec. 20 / 8 p.m. ET Las Vegas, Nev. ESPN
BYU vs. Arizona
BYU was all set for a BCS game until they lost to TCU and then they were supposed to stop Utah from being a BCS-buster. Well, they failed and now they are in snowy Las Vegas taking on the David Hasselhoff-inspired Wildcats. BYU beat two Pac-10 teams. I think they will make it three in a romp.
BYU 42, Arizona 17
magicJack St. Petersburg Bowl
Dec. 20 / 9 p.m. ET St. Petersburg, Fl.
South Florida vs. Memphis
I don't know much about these two teams. I know South Florida still has Matt Groethe. He's pretty good. Memphis on the other hand, they have.....
South Florida 35, Memphis 14
R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
Dec. 21 / 8 p.m. ET New Orleans, La. ESPN
Troy vs. Southern Miss
The sun belt conference is my specialty..... NOT. At this point, I am just picking games out of the air.
So. Miss 24, Troy 7
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Dec. 23 / 8 p.m. ET San Diego, Calif. ESPN
TCU vs. Boise State
Boise State got a semi-raw deal from the BCS. TCU is a really good football team, but not good enough.
Boise St. 28, TCU 21
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Dec. 24 / 8 p.m. ET Honolulu, Hawaii ESPN
Notre Dame vs. Hawaii
I've gone back and forth on this game many times. I don't like Notre Dame, but can they really be that bad? In the few games I watched Hawaii they still needed a little Colt Brennan and June Jones.
Hawaii 35, Notre Dame 31
Motor City Bowl
Dec. 26 / 7:30 p.m. ET Detroit, Mich. ESPN
Florida Atlantic vs. Central Michigan
This is where rooting interests come in to play. Dan Lefevour and CMU's offense is good but the defense has been inversely bad. FAU like to throw the ball. CMU likes to let other teams complete a record number of passes (still a little bitter over the loss to EMU). Can you say SHOOTOUT? Go Fire Up Chips!!
CMU 48, FAU 38
Champs Sports Bowl
Dec. 27 / 4:30 p.m. ET Orlando, Fla. ESPN
Florida State vs. Wisconsin
Wisconsin has been a creappy team this year (See: L @Michigan). Florida State hasn't been a world beater either. Mediocre team from ACC > Mediocre at best team from Big 10.
FSU 35, Wisconsin 10
Emerald Bowl
Dec. 27 / 8:30 p.m. ET San Francisco, Calif. ESPN
Miami vs. California
Miami will be missing their hotshot freshman QB Robert Marve. Cal will be missing Marshawn Lynch and DeSean Jackson.
Cal 21, Miami 10
Meineke Car Care Bowl
Dec. 27 / 1 p.m. ET Charlotte, N.C. ESPN
North Carolina vs. West Virginia
West Va. has been a major disappointment. UNC has been a slight surprise. UNC can't stop the run. WVU has Pat White.
WVU 24, UNC 14
PapaJohn’s.com Bowl
Dec. 29 / 3 p.m. ET Birmingham, Ala. ESPN2
Rutgers vs. NC State
Rutgers is an intriguing team. But I think NC State is more interesting. Losing to South Carolina 34-0 to open the season and then running off 4 straight wins (3 against other bowl teams: Wake, UNC, Miami) to be bowl eligible. That couple weeks off is gonna hurt 'em
Rutgers 21 NC State 17
Independence Bowl
Dec. 28 / 8 p.m. ET Shreveport, La. ESPN
Louisiana Tech vs. Northern Illinois
A super-mediocre team from the MAC against a barely mediocre team from the WAC. I like NIU but not that much.
LTU 28, NIU 10
Alamo Bowl
Dec. 29 / 8 p.m. ET San Antonio, Texas ESPN
Northwestern vs. Missouri
A battle between two of the non-perennial powers in the Big 10 and Big 12. Northwestern is a fluke. Mizzou not so much.
Missouri 35, Northwestern 7
Texas Bowl
Dec. 30 / 8 p.m. Houston, Texas NFL Network
Western Michigan vs. Rice
I thought Central can throw the ball well, Rice has an All-American at WR in Jared Dillard. He's good. WMU secondary is OK.
Rice 24, WMU 21
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
Dec. 30 / 8 p.m. ET San Diego, Calif. ESPN
Oklahoma State vs. Oregon
Everyone has been on their knees praising the Big 12 this year. I, for no good reason other than Oregon hung 65 on Oregon State, am picking the Ducks
Oregon 27, OSU 20
Roady’s Humanitarian Bowl
Dec. 30/4:30 p.m. Boise, Idaho ESPN
Maryland vs. Nevada
Maryland has been a good member of the ACC and has been mediocre like the rest of them. Nevada hasn't been impressive but they have Colin Kaepernick and the pistol offense. I'm rollin with the pack.
Nevada 21, Maryland 14
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
Dec. 31 / 12 p.m. ET Fort Worth, Texas ESPN
Air Force vs. Houston
These teams couldn't be more different. Air Force runs the vaunted triple option. Houston runs a spread offense that rivals Texas Tech.
Houston 42, Air Force 24
Sun Bowl
Dec. 31 / 2 p.m. ET. El Paso, Texas CBS
Pitt vs. Oregon State
Two of the best young running backs in the country are in this game. JacQuizz Rodgers is slightly better than Lesean McCoy. Lets go Beavers.
Oregon State 24, Pitt 20
Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl
Dec. 31 / 3:30 p.m. ET Nashville, Tenn. ESPN
Boston College vs. Vanderbilt
Vandy started off hot but the colled down tremendously. BC just can't beat Viginia Tech in the ACC championship game but they handle Vandy just fine.
BC 35, Vandy 7
Chick-fil-A Bowl
Dec. 31 / 7:30 p.m. ET Atlanta, Ga. ESPN
Georgia Tech vs. LSU
Georaia Tech got Paul Johnson and has been succesful with their Option attack all year. LSU has been a major disappointment. They will continue to disappoint.
Georgia Tech 28, LSU 10
Insight Bowl
Dec. 31 / 5:30 ET Tempe, Ariz. NFL Network
Minnesota vs. Kansas
Any team in the Big 10 that lost to Michigan is bad in my book. Minnesota is another one of those. Kansas hasn't been able to recreate the magic they had last year. But the Fighting Manginos will get it done.
Kansas 38, Minnesota 10
Outback Bowl
Jan. 1 / 11 a.m. ET Tampa, Fla. ESPN
Iowa vs. South Carolina
Shonn Greene is really good. South Carolina has Chris Smelley leading the Cocks. Smelley + Cocks = comedy gold. The team has been just as funny.
Iowa 24, South Carolina 10
Konica Minolta Gator Bowl
Jan. 1 / 1 p.m. ET Jacksonville, Fla. CBS
Clemson vs. Nebraska
Clemson has been a major disappointment, I've heard they had two NFL ready running backs all year, and i totally agree. The rest of the team has struggled. Nebraska is rebuilding and trying to get out of Tom Osborne's shadow but they will definitely be in the dark for this game.
Clemson 27, Nebraska 13
Capital One Bowl
Jan. 1 / 1 p.m. Orlando, Fla. ABC
Michigan State vs. Georgia
I want to pick MSU, I really do. Javon Ringer will do all he can do, but Knowshon Moreno and Matt Stafford will be too much. Brian Hoyer just isn't good enough to win a bowl game.
Georgia 27, MSU 20
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Jan. 2 / 5:00 p.m. ET Memphis, Tenn. ESPN
East Carolina vs. Kentucky
ECU was gonna be the first non-BCS team to play in the championship game, or at least i thought so. Then they stumbled a couple times down the way and now they find themselves playing an over-matched Kentucky team. I think they will bring their record to 3-2 against BCS teams.
ECU 21, Kentucky 7
AT&T Cotton Bowl
Jan. 2 / 2 p.m. ET Dallas, Texas FOX
Texas Tech vs. Ole Miss
Texas Tech was a media darling for a couple of weeks and i didn't even dream it up. Oh, i crack myself up. But Jevan Snead is a really good young QB for Ole MIss. I knod fo want to pick Ole Miss but I can't bring myself to do it.
TTU 35, Ole Miss 31
International Bowl
Jan. 3 / 12 p.m. ET Toronto, Canada ESPN2
Connecticut vs. Buffalo
Buffalo is in its first bowl EVER. UConn has a NCAA-leading runner. He continues to run he may run for a mile in this game.
UConn 38, Buffalo 17.
GMAC Bowl
Jan. 6 / 8 p.m. ET Mobile, Ala. ESPN
Tulsa vs. Ball State
Tulsa is an explosive offense. They can turn the ball over with the best of them too. Ball State is really good and when they turn it over they lose. I hope the weather is good in Mobile otherwise this is going to be an awful game.
Ball State 45, Tulsa 42
BCS GAMES
Rose Bowl presented by Citi
Jan. 1 / 5:10 p.m. ET Pasadena, Calif. ABC
USC vs. Penn State
There is NO love for the Big 10 this year. USC is favored by 10 in this game. I don't think they will win by more than 10 but I can't bring myself to pick against USC in Pasadena.
USC 17, Penn St 14
FedEx Orange Bowl
Jan. 1 / 8 p.m. Miami Gardens, Fla. FOX
Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati
This is the least interesting of the BCS games. I don't like either team that much but I am going with the familiar quantity in Brian Kelly. The Bearcats will barely pull this one off.
Cinci 21, Va. Tech 20
Allstate Sugar Bowl
Jan. 2 / 8:30 p.m. ET New Orleans, La. FOX
Alabama vs. Utah
Alabama loses to Florida instead of playin in the championship, they are trying to show why non-BCS schools shouldn't be in the National Championship discussion. This Utah team isn't like the Hawaii team from last year. I may be off my rocker, but I am going to take Utah in a major upset.
Utah 27, BAMA 20
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
Jan. 5 / 8 p.m. Phoenix, Ariz. FOX
Texas vs. Ohio State
One more case where there is no love for the Big 10. Texas favored by 10 in this one. The difference is I think this one is justified.
Texas 35, OSU 24
FedEx BCS National Championship
Jan. 8 / 8 p.m. Miami Gardens, Fla. FOX
Oklahoma vs. Florida
Man, do I hate Tim Tebow. But gosh darnit I respect him. Just not enough to give him a national championship. O yea, hey Tim enjoy being a fullback in the NFL.
Oklahoma 42, Florida 24
Thursday, December 18, 2008
In the past 59 days....
-I have made 0 posts.
-I have deleted 5 drafts that were actually somewhat substantial.
-My computer has frozen almost every time I try to open an internet browser plus it won't charge.
-The Pistons traded for Allen Iverson after starting out 4-0.
-The Pistons have since been 10-9.
-The Tigers have added two mediocre catchers to their roster in Gerald Laird and Matt Treanor.
-The more noteworthy move was the Tigers trading away the promising Matt Joyce for a flame throwing young arm in Edwin Jackson.
-The Red Wings started their season by losing to my Toronto Maple Leafs.
-The Leafs have since been mediocre AT BEST (but at least their better than Ottawa).
-The Wings are the third best team in hockey and just walloped the best team tonight 6-0.
-The Lions STILL haven't won a game and the over/under on their XFL wins is falling fast.
-The Lions have started four different quarterbacks and played five, who woulda thought Drew Henson would get ANY playing time on any NFL team this year?
-One of my eight predicted division winners is leading their division. Thank you Minnesota.
-Three of my picks are in last place in their division.
I am going to make a conscious effort to update this guy every day for the next week. Then I am not sure what I will be able to do since I am not sure what computer I am going to use.
-I have deleted 5 drafts that were actually somewhat substantial.
-My computer has frozen almost every time I try to open an internet browser plus it won't charge.
-The Pistons traded for Allen Iverson after starting out 4-0.
-The Pistons have since been 10-9.
-The Tigers have added two mediocre catchers to their roster in Gerald Laird and Matt Treanor.
-The more noteworthy move was the Tigers trading away the promising Matt Joyce for a flame throwing young arm in Edwin Jackson.
-The Red Wings started their season by losing to my Toronto Maple Leafs.
-The Leafs have since been mediocre AT BEST (but at least their better than Ottawa).
-The Wings are the third best team in hockey and just walloped the best team tonight 6-0.
-The Lions STILL haven't won a game and the over/under on their XFL wins is falling fast.
-The Lions have started four different quarterbacks and played five, who woulda thought Drew Henson would get ANY playing time on any NFL team this year?
-One of my eight predicted division winners is leading their division. Thank you Minnesota.
-Three of my picks are in last place in their division.
I am going to make a conscious effort to update this guy every day for the next week. Then I am not sure what I will be able to do since I am not sure what computer I am going to use.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Random Thought
Over/Under
The 2008 Detroit Lions would win 5.5 games if they participated in the inaugural and only season of the XFL in 2001.
The 2008 Detroit Lions would win 5.5 games if they participated in the inaugural and only season of the XFL in 2001.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Sad time for detroit
This is definitely one of the worst times for a sportsfan in Detroit. Here are the reasons why.
-The Tigers have officially been eliminated from playoff contention and need to win 12 of the last 15 games to finish at .500. I don't know how many times I can write this but this is the MOST disappointing team in Detroit sports history, and its right up there with all-time disappointments.
-The Lions are being merciful with fans this season. Instead of jumping out and winning a couple of games the first few weeks, the Lions decided that they will just start being horrible from the get-go. Once Drew Stanton is healthy, the Lions should be starting him, because they are out of playoff contention RIGHT NOW. Plus, the Lions will need to figure out who they are gonna select with the No.1 overall pick.
- The Red Wings don't start up for another 3 weeks and the Pistons don't start up for another month and a half. This forces fans to watch the crappy Lions, the baffling Tigers, the learning Wolverines, and the never fail to disappoint Spartans.
-O yeah, the economy sucks too.
-The Tigers have officially been eliminated from playoff contention and need to win 12 of the last 15 games to finish at .500. I don't know how many times I can write this but this is the MOST disappointing team in Detroit sports history, and its right up there with all-time disappointments.
-The Lions are being merciful with fans this season. Instead of jumping out and winning a couple of games the first few weeks, the Lions decided that they will just start being horrible from the get-go. Once Drew Stanton is healthy, the Lions should be starting him, because they are out of playoff contention RIGHT NOW. Plus, the Lions will need to figure out who they are gonna select with the No.1 overall pick.
- The Red Wings don't start up for another 3 weeks and the Pistons don't start up for another month and a half. This forces fans to watch the crappy Lions, the baffling Tigers, the learning Wolverines, and the never fail to disappoint Spartans.
-O yeah, the economy sucks too.
Friday, September 5, 2008
While sitting and reviewing my old posts I cam across this , I rally want to revisit it and figure out what exactly went wrong with the 2008 Detroit Tigers. Right Now they are 67-72 and it seems more and mroe like they won't make a charge for .500 . I am going to randomly select some stats that may make the season look bad, like it is.
Runs Scored 704
This actually the Stat that makes the tigers look good. Only 4 teams in the AL have scored more runs that the Tigers (Red Sox, Orioles, Rangers, Twins). Scoring that many runs is great but it don't mean a thing if you can't stop the other teams.
Runs Allowed 709
There are only 2 teams in the AL (Baltimore and Texas) that have given up less runs than the Tigers, but we spent so much money on pitching. Twenty Million dollars that WAS spent on the rotation (Bonderman, Robertson, Willis) are noticeably absent. The Bullpen who have all been G-A-R-bage, are not making much money at all, Todd Jones is the only one making multiple millions and he did so while dreaming of a nice retirement after this year.Luckily our ace with a record of 10-15 was only making $1.5 million this year.
BBs per game (by our pitchers) 3.9
When you are putting 4 guys on base a game its no doubt that one or two of them are going to score. Its like you are playing connect four and for every 3 checkers you drop you let the other guy drop 4. Sooner or later that is gonna come back and nip you in the behind. Combine that stat with haveng the 3rd least amount of strikeouts in the AL, and its a recipe for disaster.
Errors 103
Thats only better than one other team (Guess who??? TEXAS). I only have that one stupid metaphor, so I can't explain this one with connect four or checkers. I can't look at these number anymore, they are making me nauseated. I don't want to throw up before b sleep either.
Runs Scored 704
This actually the Stat that makes the tigers look good. Only 4 teams in the AL have scored more runs that the Tigers (Red Sox, Orioles, Rangers, Twins). Scoring that many runs is great but it don't mean a thing if you can't stop the other teams.
Runs Allowed 709
There are only 2 teams in the AL (Baltimore and Texas) that have given up less runs than the Tigers, but we spent so much money on pitching. Twenty Million dollars that WAS spent on the rotation (Bonderman, Robertson, Willis) are noticeably absent. The Bullpen who have all been G-A-R-bage, are not making much money at all, Todd Jones is the only one making multiple millions and he did so while dreaming of a nice retirement after this year.Luckily our ace with a record of 10-15 was only making $1.5 million this year.
BBs per game (by our pitchers) 3.9
When you are putting 4 guys on base a game its no doubt that one or two of them are going to score. Its like you are playing connect four and for every 3 checkers you drop you let the other guy drop 4. Sooner or later that is gonna come back and nip you in the behind. Combine that stat with haveng the 3rd least amount of strikeouts in the AL, and its a recipe for disaster.
Errors 103
Thats only better than one other team (Guess who??? TEXAS). I only have that one stupid metaphor, so I can't explain this one with connect four or checkers. I can't look at these number anymore, they are making me nauseated. I don't want to throw up before b sleep either.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
NFL Predictions All together now!!
Since my first try at this subject was an EPIC fail, I am gonna give this an abbreviated shot at this. I am just gonna give my top to bottom look at each division, pick out my wild card teams, and then roll on to the Super Bowl.
AFC:
South
Jacksonville, Indy, Tennessee, Houston
North
Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Baltimore
East
New England, Buffalo, NY Jets, Miami
West
San Diego, Oakland, Denver, Kansas City
Wild Cards: Indy, Pittsburgh
NFC:
South
New Orleans, Tampa Bay, Carolina, Atlanta
North
Minnesota, Green Bay, Detroit Chicago
East
Dallas, Philadelphia, NY Giants, Washington
West
St. Louis, Seattle Arizona, San Francisco
Wild Cards:
Green Bay, Seattle
Playoffs:
AFC NFC
Wild Card Weekend
Indy over Cleveland Green Bay over St. Louis
Jacksonville over Pittsburgh New Orleans over Seattle
Divisional Playoffs
Indy over San Diego Minnesota over New Orleans
Jacksonville over New England Dallas over Green Bay
Conference Championships
Jacksonville over Indy Dallas over Minnesota
Super Bowl
Dallas over Jacksonville
I know Jacksonville in the Super Bowl seems like a crazy pick, but something about them just screams to me.
AFC:
South
Jacksonville, Indy, Tennessee, Houston
North
Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Baltimore
East
New England, Buffalo, NY Jets, Miami
West
San Diego, Oakland, Denver, Kansas City
Wild Cards: Indy, Pittsburgh
NFC:
South
New Orleans, Tampa Bay, Carolina, Atlanta
North
Minnesota, Green Bay, Detroit Chicago
East
Dallas, Philadelphia, NY Giants, Washington
West
St. Louis, Seattle Arizona, San Francisco
Wild Cards:
Green Bay, Seattle
Playoffs:
AFC NFC
Wild Card Weekend
Indy over Cleveland Green Bay over St. Louis
Jacksonville over Pittsburgh New Orleans over Seattle
Divisional Playoffs
Indy over San Diego Minnesota over New Orleans
Jacksonville over New England Dallas over Green Bay
Conference Championships
Jacksonville over Indy Dallas over Minnesota
Super Bowl
Dallas over Jacksonville
I know Jacksonville in the Super Bowl seems like a crazy pick, but something about them just screams to me.
Monday, July 28, 2008
The Seven Heavenly Jerseys
Since I did the 7 worst, I was told I must do my 7 favorite jerseys. So here they are.
7. Detroit Lions, Barry Sanders.
This jersey looked awesome on Barry Sanders. Did it look good on Scott Mitchell? NO. James Stewart? NO. Herman Moore? Kinda. But really it only looked good on Barry.
6. Milwakee Brewers, 80s.
You know what I love? goofy-ass color schemes(GASC). Baby blue, royal blue and Yellow. F'in yellow. Awesome part number two, its like a T-shirt jersey already.
5. Orlando Magic, 90s.
The blue and white pinstripes are OK, but what I love about this jersey is the font that looks like it is handwritten. Also, not shown here, but the shorts were awesome. The stars on the side were what sold it for me.
4. St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, 80s and 90s.
Most people didn't like these jerseys. I love 'em because of the Ram's horns on the sleeves. Those were awesome because it made Jerome Bettis look like a charging ram when he was trucking people in his first few years in the league.
3. Montreal Canadiens. 03-07 third jersey.
The stripe across the middle is what was awesome. One thing I love more than goofy-ass color schemes is the Red, White, and Blue color scheme. I know this is a Canadiens jersey, but hell "this is America, if you don't like it you can git out!"
2. Oakland Athletics, 90s third jersey.
This is the only time GACS (Goofy-Ass Color Scheme) trumps red, white, and blue. There is something about the awesome duckiness of this jersey.
1. Washington Capitals, 1970s -1990s
Red,White and Blue? Check.
Stars? Check.
Clever logo? Check.
This jersey is so awesome, I wish every team wore it.
7. Detroit Lions, Barry Sanders.This jersey looked awesome on Barry Sanders. Did it look good on Scott Mitchell? NO. James Stewart? NO. Herman Moore? Kinda. But really it only looked good on Barry.
6. Milwakee Brewers, 80s.
You know what I love? goofy-ass color schemes(GASC). Baby blue, royal blue and Yellow. F'in yellow. Awesome part number two, its like a T-shirt jersey already.
5. Orlando Magic, 90s.
The blue and white pinstripes are OK, but what I love about this jersey is the font that looks like it is handwritten. Also, not shown here, but the shorts were awesome. The stars on the side were what sold it for me.
4. St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, 80s and 90s.Most people didn't like these jerseys. I love 'em because of the Ram's horns on the sleeves. Those were awesome because it made Jerome Bettis look like a charging ram when he was trucking people in his first few years in the league.
3. Montreal Canadiens. 03-07 third jersey.The stripe across the middle is what was awesome. One thing I love more than goofy-ass color schemes is the Red, White, and Blue color scheme. I know this is a Canadiens jersey, but hell "this is America, if you don't like it you can git out!"
2. Oakland Athletics, 90s third jersey.This is the only time GACS (Goofy-Ass Color Scheme) trumps red, white, and blue. There is something about the awesome duckiness of this jersey.
1. Washington Capitals, 1970s -1990sRed,White and Blue? Check.
Stars? Check.
Clever logo? Check.
This jersey is so awesome, I wish every team wore it.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Seven Deadly Jerseys
Since I am lazy and only like to post once evey two weeks. Here is another list. This time the list consists of my ugliest professional jerseys.
7. San Diego Padres, Third Jersey 2000s.
This jersey is supposed to be a nod to the men and women who serve our country. Its a good gesture because the second largest U.S. Navy base in the world is in San Diego. If it wasn't supposed to honor the troops, it would be lower on the list.Please, just put a flag on the uniform, don't make me look at a baby vomit uniform.
6. Philadelphia Eagles, Team Sweden Edition, 2007
Maybe I have a slight negative reaction because the one time the Eagles wore these jerseys they trashed the Detroit Lions 56-21. But I am still trying to understand exactly why teams like to wear throwbacks from before 1945. Really, who is going to remember those jerseys? More importantly, who WANTS to remember these jerseys?
5 Atlanta Hawks, 1970s
This is where the acid done during the 70s comes into play in jersey design. I can't believe anyone who wasn't on drugs who said these jersey's were a good idea. Blue and Green are not a bad mix. The Hartford Whalers had something good going. Maybe that was because they decided NEON green wasn't the shade they wanted.
4. Vancouver Canucks, Late 70s - Early80s
This a hockey sweater that Bill Cosby would wear. It has everything: Loud colors, multiple stripes, and a zig-zagish design. I kind of think of it as the grandfather of roller hockey jerseys. Those are ugly, but that deserves its own post.
3. Houston Astros, 1980s
Is the color scheme of this jersey the problem? No, contrasting with some complimentary colors can look good. Are the stripes themselves the problem? Somewhat. Is the way the stripes continue onto the sleeves the problem? YES!!! It is very sad to me that Nolan Ryan had to wear these jerseys for a decent portion of his career.
2. Denver Nuggets, 80s - Mid 90s
Yea, I get that Denver, the "mile-high city", is in the rocky mountains. But that silhouette of the city with a backdrop of mountains is absolutely hideous. That rainbow strip through the middle doesn't help the jersey's cause either.
1. New York Islanders, Mid 90s
Ugly Logo featuring the Gorton's fisherman. Check.
Weird striping/piping at the bottom. Check.
Weird number font caused by striping. Check.
Weird names caused by striping. Check.
This jersey is the ultimate ugly jersey. Thank god that fans and Gorton's had a problem with the logo, otherwise this jersey may still be here today. This is the jersey that every designer strives to not create.
7. San Diego Padres, Third Jersey 2000s.This jersey is supposed to be a nod to the men and women who serve our country. Its a good gesture because the second largest U.S. Navy base in the world is in San Diego. If it wasn't supposed to honor the troops, it would be lower on the list.Please, just put a flag on the uniform, don't make me look at a baby vomit uniform.
6. Philadelphia Eagles, Team Sweden Edition, 2007
Maybe I have a slight negative reaction because the one time the Eagles wore these jerseys they trashed the Detroit Lions 56-21. But I am still trying to understand exactly why teams like to wear throwbacks from before 1945. Really, who is going to remember those jerseys? More importantly, who WANTS to remember these jerseys?
5 Atlanta Hawks, 1970sThis is where the acid done during the 70s comes into play in jersey design. I can't believe anyone who wasn't on drugs who said these jersey's were a good idea. Blue and Green are not a bad mix. The Hartford Whalers had something good going. Maybe that was because they decided NEON green wasn't the shade they wanted.
4. Vancouver Canucks, Late 70s - Early80sThis a hockey sweater that Bill Cosby would wear. It has everything: Loud colors, multiple stripes, and a zig-zagish design. I kind of think of it as the grandfather of roller hockey jerseys. Those are ugly, but that deserves its own post.
3. Houston Astros, 1980sIs the color scheme of this jersey the problem? No, contrasting with some complimentary colors can look good. Are the stripes themselves the problem? Somewhat. Is the way the stripes continue onto the sleeves the problem? YES!!! It is very sad to me that Nolan Ryan had to wear these jerseys for a decent portion of his career.
2. Denver Nuggets, 80s - Mid 90sYea, I get that Denver, the "mile-high city", is in the rocky mountains. But that silhouette of the city with a backdrop of mountains is absolutely hideous. That rainbow strip through the middle doesn't help the jersey's cause either.
1. New York Islanders, Mid 90sUgly Logo featuring the Gorton's fisherman. Check.
Weird striping/piping at the bottom. Check.
Weird number font caused by striping. Check.
Weird names caused by striping. Check.
This jersey is the ultimate ugly jersey. Thank god that fans and Gorton's had a problem with the logo, otherwise this jersey may still be here today. This is the jersey that every designer strives to not create.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Who doesn't like a good list?
In the most uninspired way to style a post, I have decided to make a list of my top 15 video games of all time. Granted these will be games I have played, so Gamecube and Xbox games won't be populating much of this list.
15. Crazy Taxi (Dreamcast)
This game is awesome because of the frantic action and the great soundtrack. I can still remember playing and jamming out to the couple of Offspring songs that were on the game.
14. Gears of War (Xbox 360)
A game that had a very immersive storyline, once I picked up the controller, I couldn't put it down, no matter how frustrating it got.13. TMNT 2 (NES)
This game had me hooked as a little kid because it had the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The first game had me hooked too, but it was so damn hard that I never got past the first level. The second game was a huge improvement in gameplay, difficulty, and style. That's why this is up here.
12. Sonic and Knuckles (Genesis)
Sonic and Knuckles is on this list because it was kind of like having 3 different games in one. If you had sonic 2 and/or sonic 3 you could plug those into the cartridge and play it, but now you would have the choice of playing as Knuckles the Echinda. It was also a plus the Sonic and Knuckles portion of the game was so graphically stunning at the time.
11. NFL 2k2 (Dreamcast)
This is the last good NFL game the 2k sports team came out with. This game set the bar for what Madden football games have to compete with.
10. Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64)
This game is up here because it is an extension of a classic series that made a seamless transition into 3D. It also has a great storyline and I love that it keeps you jumping in between Adult Link and Kid Link. It is one of the first Zelda games to be really dark and edgy.
9. Shadow of the Colossus (PS2)
This game was a unique challenge. The only thing that you faced were 16 colossi, nothing else. All of the colossi were unique, massive, and impressive. With every colossi that was defeated, I felt like I was hunting a rare animal. I was happy to have beaten it, yet it saddened me that I had killed it, because I made a certain connection with it by hunting it down.8. Mega Man 3 (NES)
To this day this is the only Mega Man game I have beaten. The bosses were so memorable, shadow man, snake man, magnet man, they were all awesome in their own way.
7. Goldeneye (N64)
This game is the one that revolutionized the 1st person shooter genre for me. I probably would not have this game up here if the multiplayer gameplay were not a part of this game.
6. Portal (Xbox 360)
This game is short, but it changed the way I thought about video games. This game has platforming elements, puzzle elements, and it was one of the most addicting games I had ever played. Also, this game has the best closing credits song ever.
5. God of War 2 (PS2)
This game is a frantically paced hack and slash game. What differentiates from other games like it is that you get the chance to kill greek gods.God of War was such an original and awesome game. I was a little worried that God of War 2 would not be anywhere near as good, but it lived up to expectations and more. This game left it open for a 3rd game and personally, I will probably buy a PS3 just for that game.
4. Mario Kart 64 (N64)
I wasted a whole summer playing this game. I still go back and play this game every once in a while. This game has not lost anything since the day it came out. Its one of the only N64 games where everything seemed smooth instead of polygonal.
3.
This game is a cult classic. This is the golden standard for all of the 16-bit sports games that came out. People have even set up leagues online for versions of this game.
2. Banjo Kazooie(N64)
This is one the weirdest games I have could've ever imagined. A Bear with a Bird in his backpack go on an adventure trying to save the bear's sister from a witch. Yeah, I would've never thought of that.
1. Super Mario 3 (NES)
Of course, Mario is number one in my book. This game was a staple of my childhood. It was so easy to get to the last stage, but once you got there, the game was nearly impossible to beat. All Mario games eventually get compared to this one.
Thats it for my list. I know I have left out a couple of games. But these games are the ones that make me think about video games the way I do.Sunday, July 6, 2008
My case for the people are stupid theory.
I hate people. People sometimes amaze me with the stupid things that they say or do. I am in no way saying that I have never done and or said stupid things because I have been a part of my fair share. Here are just 3 pieces of my case.
Exhibit A:
Fred
Fred is an ongoing series on youtube about
Exhibit B:
I was lucky to have seen a good deal of douchebag youth softball coaches this weekend while keeping score for the MASA JO State softball tournament. Some of these guys are awful and have inspired me to write this.
Today we salute you, Mr. Youth Softball Coach. You feel the need to coach your 14 year old girls with the intensity of a major league manager. Ridiculing your kids because they made a mistake, sometimes bringing them to tears. Then, responding by saying "that's not my problem, she's just gotta suck it up and deal with it." It's 14 year old girl's softball. Why are you here? Couldn't have a son? How about you sit down, shut the fuck up and worry about flex positions and designated players, please.
Exhibit C:
I am definitely not letting the girls of the hook just yet. After this weekend, I have come to the conclusion that teams should get one or two chants per run they score. This rule would only matter in age groups from 14 and below because the older age groups don't chant. Chatter would be perfectly allowable though. There is a HUGE difference between chatter and chants.
With chatter, you would hear different people saying different things on the bench, like "Let's go now kid" and "Get a hit 1 - 5".
I draw the line with chants because everyone on the team will throw out gems like:
" Come On 2 - 7 , You'll go to heaven, if you hit the ball, over the wall." or
" We want a single, just a little double, T-R-I-P-L-E, homer, homer. homer."
Chants like that happened after every pitch. EVERY PITCH. This really puts a strain on anyone who is wathing the game and really the players too. There was also another cheer that went :
"ball, ball, ball, GOOD EYE, ball, ball, ball, GOOD EYE, good eye, good eye, good eye, BALL..." and so on.
This weekend there was an occasion where this cheer was started when the pitch was a strike. The umpires were saying strike loud enough all weekend. So this leads me to my final point. If the girls are realy staring chants with reckless abandon and aren't paying attention to the game, is it really all about the softball game or is it a glorified cheerleading competition.
Exhibit A:
Fred
Fred is an ongoing series on youtube about
"A 6-year-old with anger management issues and an alcoholic mom who's not supposed to be using her video camera to post videos".Sure, these aren't the worst videos I have ever seen on the internet, but honestly they suck. Does this series really deserve to be have the 4th most subscriptions on all of youtube? Come on people, really....... reallllly? you're gonna do that? are you happy with yourself?
Exhibit B:
I was lucky to have seen a good deal of douchebag youth softball coaches this weekend while keeping score for the MASA JO State softball tournament. Some of these guys are awful and have inspired me to write this.
Today we salute you, Mr. Youth Softball Coach. You feel the need to coach your 14 year old girls with the intensity of a major league manager. Ridiculing your kids because they made a mistake, sometimes bringing them to tears. Then, responding by saying "that's not my problem, she's just gotta suck it up and deal with it." It's 14 year old girl's softball. Why are you here? Couldn't have a son? How about you sit down, shut the fuck up and worry about flex positions and designated players, please.
Exhibit C:
I am definitely not letting the girls of the hook just yet. After this weekend, I have come to the conclusion that teams should get one or two chants per run they score. This rule would only matter in age groups from 14 and below because the older age groups don't chant. Chatter would be perfectly allowable though. There is a HUGE difference between chatter and chants.
With chatter, you would hear different people saying different things on the bench, like "Let's go now kid" and "Get a hit 1 - 5".
I draw the line with chants because everyone on the team will throw out gems like:
" Come On 2 - 7 , You'll go to heaven, if you hit the ball, over the wall." or
" We want a single, just a little double, T-R-I-P-L-E, homer, homer. homer."
Chants like that happened after every pitch. EVERY PITCH. This really puts a strain on anyone who is wathing the game and really the players too. There was also another cheer that went :
"ball, ball, ball, GOOD EYE, ball, ball, ball, GOOD EYE, good eye, good eye, good eye, BALL..." and so on.
This weekend there was an occasion where this cheer was started when the pitch was a strike. The umpires were saying strike loud enough all weekend. So this leads me to my final point. If the girls are realy staring chants with reckless abandon and aren't paying attention to the game, is it really all about the softball game or is it a glorified cheerleading competition.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Am I a little ashamed? yeah.
Today, I had many things to think about and a whole lot of time. So I am going to compare some of my eating achievements to recent Detroit sporting moments.
#1
When I was in 5th grade, the high school attached to my elementary school had a fundraiser at Buddy's pizza in Detroit. It was all you can eat pizza for 10 dollars. With me always being a bigger child/man, I decided you know what, I will eat all I can eat. I ate 12 pieces of pizza (the equivalent of a large and a half).
Buddy's AYCE day = Chris Shelton's start to the 2006 season
Everyone in Detroit remembers Chris Shelton's start to the '06 campaign, hitting 9 HRs in the first 13 games of the season. Shelton then hit 7 over his next 102 games until he was optioned to Triple-A to make room for Sean Casey. Then he spent the rest of the year in Triple-A and was in AAA until his recent appearance with the Texas Rangers. He was designated for assingnment meaning he has to be traded, released, or out-righted to the minors in 10 days. The up- and-comer finally making an impression and then fading quickly and making a tiny comeback. That's my story of buddy's pizza/ Chris Shelton
#2
In part of the moving out process of my last apartment, we needed to get rid of all of our food and what-not. Well, there was a little more than half of a bottle of Kroger brand LIGHT maple syrup. My roommates dares me to chug it. my natural response was "for how much?" Then started the fundraisiing portion of the night. It ended up being like 15 bucks in cash and a 12 dollars on a gift card to pizza hut. Obviously, it went down. They gave me 2 minutes to drink it, I think I was done in a little over a minute. It was interesting but not as impressive and satisfying as everyone made it to be.
Light Maple Chug = 2006 playoffs for the Detroit Tigers
The Tigers postseason started off well getting rid of the Yankees and Athletics by going 7-1 in the two series. It went down smooth and easy playing good defense and hitting really well. Then in the end, it seemed like it was all smoke and mirrors because in the World Series the defense and the hitting disappeared. That left much of the fan base not so satisfied with what seemed like was going to be an impressive cakewalk to a World Series Championship.
#3
A couple of years ago, my roommates and friends bet me that I couldn't (or wouldn't) order a 9 patty burger from Wendy's VALUE MEAL and eat it. Well, not only did I order it, I accidentally ordered it biggie sized. They had to place the burger on a salad plate and wrap it with plastic wrap because none of the foil wrappers could cover it. Well, it took a while for me to eat it( a little over an hour). It was greasy, but it had to be conquered.
9 patty burger from Wendy's = Brawl at the Palace
The brawl at the Palace between the Pacers and Pistons was one of the most memorable things that happened for the Detroit sports scene in the past 5 years. And the sports world won't let Detroit forget it. Every time I see Jermaine O'Neal, which has been a lot this week because of his trade, I think of him flying in and throwing that punch at that one guy. completely knocked him out. I head Howard Cosell saying "DOWN GOES RANDOM FAN!! DOWN GOES RANDOM FAN!!" As the sports world won't let Detroit forget the Brawl, I won't let my friends forget the 9 patty burger.
#1
When I was in 5th grade, the high school attached to my elementary school had a fundraiser at Buddy's pizza in Detroit. It was all you can eat pizza for 10 dollars. With me always being a bigger child/man, I decided you know what, I will eat all I can eat. I ate 12 pieces of pizza (the equivalent of a large and a half).
Buddy's AYCE day = Chris Shelton's start to the 2006 season
Everyone in Detroit remembers Chris Shelton's start to the '06 campaign, hitting 9 HRs in the first 13 games of the season. Shelton then hit 7 over his next 102 games until he was optioned to Triple-A to make room for Sean Casey. Then he spent the rest of the year in Triple-A and was in AAA until his recent appearance with the Texas Rangers. He was designated for assingnment meaning he has to be traded, released, or out-righted to the minors in 10 days. The up- and-comer finally making an impression and then fading quickly and making a tiny comeback. That's my story of buddy's pizza/ Chris Shelton
#2
In part of the moving out process of my last apartment, we needed to get rid of all of our food and what-not. Well, there was a little more than half of a bottle of Kroger brand LIGHT maple syrup. My roommates dares me to chug it. my natural response was "for how much?" Then started the fundraisiing portion of the night. It ended up being like 15 bucks in cash and a 12 dollars on a gift card to pizza hut. Obviously, it went down. They gave me 2 minutes to drink it, I think I was done in a little over a minute. It was interesting but not as impressive and satisfying as everyone made it to be.
Light Maple Chug = 2006 playoffs for the Detroit Tigers
The Tigers postseason started off well getting rid of the Yankees and Athletics by going 7-1 in the two series. It went down smooth and easy playing good defense and hitting really well. Then in the end, it seemed like it was all smoke and mirrors because in the World Series the defense and the hitting disappeared. That left much of the fan base not so satisfied with what seemed like was going to be an impressive cakewalk to a World Series Championship.
#3
A couple of years ago, my roommates and friends bet me that I couldn't (or wouldn't) order a 9 patty burger from Wendy's VALUE MEAL and eat it. Well, not only did I order it, I accidentally ordered it biggie sized. They had to place the burger on a salad plate and wrap it with plastic wrap because none of the foil wrappers could cover it. Well, it took a while for me to eat it( a little over an hour). It was greasy, but it had to be conquered.
9 patty burger from Wendy's = Brawl at the Palace
The brawl at the Palace between the Pacers and Pistons was one of the most memorable things that happened for the Detroit sports scene in the past 5 years. And the sports world won't let Detroit forget it. Every time I see Jermaine O'Neal, which has been a lot this week because of his trade, I think of him flying in and throwing that punch at that one guy. completely knocked him out. I head Howard Cosell saying "DOWN GOES RANDOM FAN!! DOWN GOES RANDOM FAN!!" As the sports world won't let Detroit forget the Brawl, I won't let my friends forget the 9 patty burger.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
The Tigers:More or Less Frustrating Than '94 to '05?
As I start this, the Tigers have lost their 4th game via a walk-off of some sorts on this road trip. Maybe they take a gem by the starter and not score a run for him(May 26 @ LAA Angels).Maybe they will take an early lead and then not get any more runs over the next 8 innings(May 27th @ LAA Angels). When they are not losing in walk-off fashion, they will win a game by scoring 7 runs in the top of the first inning, not score anymore, then nearly blow the lead over the rest of the nine innings. Then they will follow up that effort by getting two-hit and keep the scoreless streak going 'til it hits the 17 inning mark. (May 29th,30th @ Seattle)
These are a lot of the same things that happened to the Tigers during their stretch of 12 losing seasons from '94 to '05.
-Then, the tigers were throwing out lineups with greats such as Shane Halter, Joe Randa, Robert Fick, and Wendell Magee. Payroll around 40 million dollars
-Now, The tigers are throwing out an All-Star at almost every position. Payroll around 140 million dollars
-Then, the tigers lose a game in extra innings, 5-4, by a walkoff infield single and it was cute because they shouldn't have even been that close. And really, do you expect Deivi Cruz to make EVERY play?
-Now, the tigers lose a game in extras,5-4, on an infield single and its frustrating because the Tigers walked 10 batters and they left 15 runners on base(including 9 in scoring position).
-Then, the tigers would lose a game 7-0 and their ace is the starter that day. Come on now, Brian Moehler, you can do better than that.
-Now, the tigers lose a game 7-0 and their ace is on the mound. Justin Verlander, Cy-Young runner up, gave up those runs on 6 hits. And the All Star offense didn't get a hit off of GAVIN FLOYD until the 8th inning.
-Then, the tigers win a game 19-6, Tony clark went 4-4 with two HRs, and you were happy that Justin Thompson, Doug Brocail, and Matt Anderson were able to limit the other team to 6 runs. The next night the team loses 3-0 and people are saying that that is the Tigers they know and love.
-Now, the tigers win a game 19-6, and everyone is starting to feel that the tigers are starting to turn a corner, then they lose 14 of the next 21 and people are don't know the tigers team that they love.
Its not cute anymore, Detroit Tigers.The payroll is up between 90 and 100 million dollars, which makes every loss 90 to 100 million times as fristrating.
This sounds like a panic attack entry, and IT IS. When do people stop saying "its early in the season just give them time"? Its 58 games into the season. There is still 104 games left. But the tigers are now 24-34. I am not confident enough that the Tigers can go 66-38 to finish with 90 wins and a realistic shot at a playoff berth at the end of the season.
These are a lot of the same things that happened to the Tigers during their stretch of 12 losing seasons from '94 to '05.
-Then, the tigers were throwing out lineups with greats such as Shane Halter, Joe Randa, Robert Fick, and Wendell Magee. Payroll around 40 million dollars
-Now, The tigers are throwing out an All-Star at almost every position. Payroll around 140 million dollars
-Then, the tigers lose a game in extra innings, 5-4, by a walkoff infield single and it was cute because they shouldn't have even been that close. And really, do you expect Deivi Cruz to make EVERY play?
-Now, the tigers lose a game in extras,5-4, on an infield single and its frustrating because the Tigers walked 10 batters and they left 15 runners on base(including 9 in scoring position).
-Then, the tigers would lose a game 7-0 and their ace is the starter that day. Come on now, Brian Moehler, you can do better than that.
-Now, the tigers lose a game 7-0 and their ace is on the mound. Justin Verlander, Cy-Young runner up, gave up those runs on 6 hits. And the All Star offense didn't get a hit off of GAVIN FLOYD until the 8th inning.
-Then, the tigers win a game 19-6, Tony clark went 4-4 with two HRs, and you were happy that Justin Thompson, Doug Brocail, and Matt Anderson were able to limit the other team to 6 runs. The next night the team loses 3-0 and people are saying that that is the Tigers they know and love.
-Now, the tigers win a game 19-6, and everyone is starting to feel that the tigers are starting to turn a corner, then they lose 14 of the next 21 and people are don't know the tigers team that they love.
Its not cute anymore, Detroit Tigers.The payroll is up between 90 and 100 million dollars, which makes every loss 90 to 100 million times as fristrating.
This sounds like a panic attack entry, and IT IS. When do people stop saying "its early in the season just give them time"? Its 58 games into the season. There is still 104 games left. But the tigers are now 24-34. I am not confident enough that the Tigers can go 66-38 to finish with 90 wins and a realistic shot at a playoff berth at the end of the season.
The Witch Hunt Begins
The Pistons lost to Boston in 6 games. This marks the third straight year the pistons have lost in the Eastern Conference Finals in 6 games. People don't try to make it to the conference finals every year, they try to lift that Larry O'Brien trophy at the end of the year. Its the 1st time they lost the series in which they did not have home court advantage. So naturally, let the shake up begin.
Today the Pistons announced Flip Saunders will not be returning as head coach and Michael Curry has been tabbed as his successor by some media members. I think this might be a record of sorts if he takes the job though. Curry was a starter on the 2002-03 team (the first of the 6 straight trips to the East. Con. Finals) to the head coach of the 08-09 Pistons team. He could be coaching three teammates he had (Rip hamilton, Chauncey Billups, Tayshaun Prince).
If Curry gets the job, expect current assistant Terry Porter to find work elsewhere (maybe Phoenix?), because the Pistons will have passed over a guy with head coaching experience that lead his team to the playoffs in a year they weren't supposed to for a guy who has been an assistant for 2 years.
It can't only be the coaches' fault though, and Joe Dumars said today that "Everyone is in play" when it comes to trade talks. The Pistons need to add a threat on the post because Rasheed Wallace has made it his prerogative to wander around the three-point line for 95 percent of every game. Maybe, the 'stones can start to rely on Amir Johnson and Jason Maxiell a little bit more. They both have great athletic ability and good potential to learn to be a reliable post presence on both sides of the floor.
The Pistons will also probably look to get rid of one of the trio of Billups, Prince, and Hamilton. I don't think the pistons can get rid of Prince, he's too young and has been billed as the future for about four years now. The only way I like getting rid of Billups is somehow trading him to Miami for the no.2 pick so they can take beasley or rose. Other than that the guy that needs to go is Hamilton. That way stuckey can get more playing time and the pistons will be able to play two "combo" guards in Chauncey and Rodney Stuckey and still have a defensive stopper in Tayshaun.
This summer should be a summer of moving and shaking for the Pistons because they have shown that they just don't have whatever it is to get over that hump and into the finals for a chance for that nice and shiny trophy.
Today the Pistons announced Flip Saunders will not be returning as head coach and Michael Curry has been tabbed as his successor by some media members. I think this might be a record of sorts if he takes the job though. Curry was a starter on the 2002-03 team (the first of the 6 straight trips to the East. Con. Finals) to the head coach of the 08-09 Pistons team. He could be coaching three teammates he had (Rip hamilton, Chauncey Billups, Tayshaun Prince).
If Curry gets the job, expect current assistant Terry Porter to find work elsewhere (maybe Phoenix?), because the Pistons will have passed over a guy with head coaching experience that lead his team to the playoffs in a year they weren't supposed to for a guy who has been an assistant for 2 years.
It can't only be the coaches' fault though, and Joe Dumars said today that "Everyone is in play" when it comes to trade talks. The Pistons need to add a threat on the post because Rasheed Wallace has made it his prerogative to wander around the three-point line for 95 percent of every game. Maybe, the 'stones can start to rely on Amir Johnson and Jason Maxiell a little bit more. They both have great athletic ability and good potential to learn to be a reliable post presence on both sides of the floor.
The Pistons will also probably look to get rid of one of the trio of Billups, Prince, and Hamilton. I don't think the pistons can get rid of Prince, he's too young and has been billed as the future for about four years now. The only way I like getting rid of Billups is somehow trading him to Miami for the no.2 pick so they can take beasley or rose. Other than that the guy that needs to go is Hamilton. That way stuckey can get more playing time and the pistons will be able to play two "combo" guards in Chauncey and Rodney Stuckey and still have a defensive stopper in Tayshaun.
This summer should be a summer of moving and shaking for the Pistons because they have shown that they just don't have whatever it is to get over that hump and into the finals for a chance for that nice and shiny trophy.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Big Week
-The Pistons split games in Boston with the Celtics. The first game was close and the Pistons couldn't close out the deal. But in the game two, a barrage of threes in the third helped the 'stones go on a run to take the lead and keep in for good. I expect the 'stones to split at home this weekend. I can see at the end of a game, the pistons not sure of who is going to step up, giving the ball to guys who won't be able to close out the game. The celts have been going to paul pierce, and he's been pretty good. The teams are so evenly matched, that I think this is definitely going to a game 7.
-The Bulls got the #1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. I've heard all the arguments for Michael Beasley and Derek Rose.I say Michael Beasley, the next Derrick Coleman is the way to go. While Derek Rose may have a slight bit more upside, I don't know about bringing him back home , because as we've seen with a couple athletes, the people they have grown up with have been less than stellar and teams may not want to deal with that.
-The Tigers swept the Mariners scoring 30 runs in 3 games after scoring 12 runs in the 6 previous. Was this triggered by the Jim Leyland explosion on Monday? Was it just because the Tigers were at home? I think it was because the Tigers weren't down early by multiple runs. the were able to relax coming out of the gate and able to hit the ball.This is how good this team can be when they are clicking. I think they could keep and rolling and definitely take two of three from the twins. and creep closer to .500
- The Stanley Cup finals start this week and I was half right on my prediction. Unfortunately the Sharks weren't able the get past the Stars. So we have the Red Wings against the Penguins in the Finals. These teams are pretty evenly matched. The Pens have 2 high quality scoring lines. The Wings have their #1's (datsyuk, zetterberg, Holmstrom) and a bunch of good #2's. The Wings have an advantage on the blueline even though the Pens have a strong defensive corps. Marc-Andre Fleury has been playing out of his mind with strong defense in front of him all playoffs. Chris Osgood has been very solid with strong defense that is allowing about 20 shots a game. Shots will at a premium in this series. I am taking the Pens in 7 with at least 3 games going into OT at either 1-1 or 0-0.
-The Bulls got the #1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. I've heard all the arguments for Michael Beasley and Derek Rose.I say Michael Beasley, the next Derrick Coleman is the way to go. While Derek Rose may have a slight bit more upside, I don't know about bringing him back home , because as we've seen with a couple athletes, the people they have grown up with have been less than stellar and teams may not want to deal with that.
-The Tigers swept the Mariners scoring 30 runs in 3 games after scoring 12 runs in the 6 previous. Was this triggered by the Jim Leyland explosion on Monday? Was it just because the Tigers were at home? I think it was because the Tigers weren't down early by multiple runs. the were able to relax coming out of the gate and able to hit the ball.This is how good this team can be when they are clicking. I think they could keep and rolling and definitely take two of three from the twins. and creep closer to .500
- The Stanley Cup finals start this week and I was half right on my prediction. Unfortunately the Sharks weren't able the get past the Stars. So we have the Red Wings against the Penguins in the Finals. These teams are pretty evenly matched. The Pens have 2 high quality scoring lines. The Wings have their #1's (datsyuk, zetterberg, Holmstrom) and a bunch of good #2's. The Wings have an advantage on the blueline even though the Pens have a strong defensive corps. Marc-Andre Fleury has been playing out of his mind with strong defense in front of him all playoffs. Chris Osgood has been very solid with strong defense that is allowing about 20 shots a game. Shots will at a premium in this series. I am taking the Pens in 7 with at least 3 games going into OT at either 1-1 or 0-0.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Lions Preview part deux
I've been waiting to publish this post for a while now. Best Buy and their lovely geek squad can be thanked for that.
Now that we got offensive skill positions out of the way, its time to look at the worst parts of the team the O-line and D-Line.
O-Line
C:Dominic Raiola
He's the only center on the roster as of right now. He's been here for 8 years, and it seems like he's struggled every second he's been here. Reports have said he's taken on the leadership role on the Offensive Line and that's fine because with as mediocre as he has been, he's been one of the more consistent lineman the Lions have had in a long time.
C Grade:C-
G:Frank Davis, Edwin Mulitalo, Corey Hulsey, Steven Peterman, Manny Ramirez (He takes time off from the Red Sox outfield to play the O-Line in Detroit), Ben Noll
Edwin Mulitalo was one of the surprises last season on the offensive line ending the season at left guard. Frank Davis was solid in 2006, his rookie campaign, at the left guard spot. Stephen Peterman has ended the last two season at right guard and has been decent at best. Manny Ramirez spent his rookie year as a backup at the guard spots. Ben Noll was a practice squad player last year, so I have nothing more to say about him.
G Grade:D
T:Jeff Backus, George Foster, Jonathan Scott, Godser Cherilus, Chris Patrick
Jeff Backus has been consistenetly mediocre at Left Tackle for the past 7 years. George Foster looked to take over the Right Tackle spot that Damian Woody departed from until the Lions drafted that guy from Boston College, Godser Cherilus. Jonathan Scott ended his rookie campaign in 2006 at the Right Tackle position when Damian Woody was injured. The Lions have added Ithaca, Michigan's favorite son, Chris Patrick. He hasn't done much in the league, but he could ba a solid member of the practice squad this year. Overall, a somewhat experienced group that could definitely improve, a lot.
T Grade:C-
OL Grade (total):C-
Defensive Line
DE: Ikaika Alama-Francis(Hard to say and hard to type),DeWayne White, Corey Smith, Jared Devries, Rudolph Hardie, Victor DeGrate, Cliff Avril
Now that we got offensive skill positions out of the way, its time to look at the worst parts of the team the O-line and D-Line.
O-Line
C:Dominic Raiola
He's the only center on the roster as of right now. He's been here for 8 years, and it seems like he's struggled every second he's been here. Reports have said he's taken on the leadership role on the Offensive Line and that's fine because with as mediocre as he has been, he's been one of the more consistent lineman the Lions have had in a long time.
C Grade:C-
G:Frank Davis, Edwin Mulitalo, Corey Hulsey, Steven Peterman, Manny Ramirez (He takes time off from the Red Sox outfield to play the O-Line in Detroit), Ben Noll
Edwin Mulitalo was one of the surprises last season on the offensive line ending the season at left guard. Frank Davis was solid in 2006, his rookie campaign, at the left guard spot. Stephen Peterman has ended the last two season at right guard and has been decent at best. Manny Ramirez spent his rookie year as a backup at the guard spots. Ben Noll was a practice squad player last year, so I have nothing more to say about him.
G Grade:D
T:Jeff Backus, George Foster, Jonathan Scott, Godser Cherilus, Chris Patrick
Jeff Backus has been consistenetly mediocre at Left Tackle for the past 7 years. George Foster looked to take over the Right Tackle spot that Damian Woody departed from until the Lions drafted that guy from Boston College, Godser Cherilus. Jonathan Scott ended his rookie campaign in 2006 at the Right Tackle position when Damian Woody was injured. The Lions have added Ithaca, Michigan's favorite son, Chris Patrick. He hasn't done much in the league, but he could ba a solid member of the practice squad this year. Overall, a somewhat experienced group that could definitely improve, a lot.
T Grade:C-
OL Grade (total):C-
Defensive Line
DE: Ikaika Alama-Francis(Hard to say and hard to type),DeWayne White, Corey Smith, Jared Devries, Rudolph Hardie, Victor DeGrate, Cliff Avril
DeWayne White had a pretty good first go around with the Lions. He and Jared Devries had 6.5 sacks each, the top marks of the defensive ends. Corey Smith, if he could do it again, i think he would do it the same. In backup duty in 16 games, Smith had 2.5 sacks. Francis only played in 6 games, didn't have any sacks, but contributed to 6 tackles, while making 11 of his own. Rudolph Hurdle, Victor DeGrate, and Cliff Avril are all rookies that have been added for some depth and its anyone's bets as to who might make the team. This group isn't exactly the strong point of the team, but really there is no strong point on this team, if you haven't figured that out yet.
DE Grade : C
DT: Cory Redding, Shaun Cody, Langston Moore, Chuck Darby, Landon Cohen, Andre Fluellen, Jonathon Lewis
DT is a position that isn't best defined by stats like DE is. Cory Redding, the highest paid DT in the league, did what DT's do. clog the line. But in the 4-3 alignment the lions use he needs a good partner, he had one in Shaun Rogers even though Rogers only tried 15-20 plays a game. Is Shaun Cody good enough to play full time? I think not. The Lions have definitely made a commitment to the D-Line because they drafted Cohen and Fluellen and brought in Darby from Tampa Bay. Marinelli seems to be transporting the young pieces of the Tampa line that he coached that weren't good enough for tampa to keep.
DT Grade: C-
D-Line Grade:C-
Check in and one of these days there will be a whole new post probably about the stanley cup finals.
DE Grade : C
DT: Cory Redding, Shaun Cody, Langston Moore, Chuck Darby, Landon Cohen, Andre Fluellen, Jonathon Lewis
DT is a position that isn't best defined by stats like DE is. Cory Redding, the highest paid DT in the league, did what DT's do. clog the line. But in the 4-3 alignment the lions use he needs a good partner, he had one in Shaun Rogers even though Rogers only tried 15-20 plays a game. Is Shaun Cody good enough to play full time? I think not. The Lions have definitely made a commitment to the D-Line because they drafted Cohen and Fluellen and brought in Darby from Tampa Bay. Marinelli seems to be transporting the young pieces of the Tampa line that he coached that weren't good enough for tampa to keep.
DT Grade: C-
D-Line Grade:C-
Check in and one of these days there will be a whole new post probably about the stanley cup finals.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Detroit Lions Season/Draft Preview
While there are so many good things going on in sports right now, I would like to take a look a one thing that has always left a little hole in my heart, Lions football. The Lions have not had a winning season in 8 years and with some of the moves they are making it looks like they might be able to stretch it to 9, hell chances look so good I'll settle for another less than 10 loss season. While Rod Marinelli believes he can get another five years to build through the draft, it looks like he might be out before then. Before I get too down on the Lions and start looking for a cliff to jump off of let's take a look at the Lions position by position roundup.
Today, Its offensive skill players.
QB: Jon Kitna,Dan Orlovsky, Drew Stanton
Relatively one of the stronger units on the team. You've got an aging starter who's got God on his side. A back-up who's biggest accomplishment in his pro career is leading his team to the 3-yard line and not scoring. A third-stringer touted as the future, even though at the Senior Bowl couldn't throw a spiral. I expect Kitna to play 12 games, but because of age and the Offensive Line (we'll get to that later) he'll get knocked around too much to remember at least what will add up to one whole game. No one has seen enough of Orlovsky or Stanton to really give them a grade, but we'll go with they would be no worse than JP Losman if they were forced to start.
QB Grade:B-
RB:Tatum Bell, Brian Calhoun, Aveion Cason, Jon Bradley
The lions running back corps is looking for more people to throw into the rotation as they got rid of the two most productive backs they have had in the past 3 years(T.J. Duckett and Kevin Jones). After demanding a trade and then seeing his competition gone, he is back to carry the load he should've after the trade from the broncos last year. Brian Calhoun is one fast little guy, at least that's what I know from Madden football. No one else knows because he hasn't been on the field enough in his two seasons as he has only been on the active roster for 11 of 32 games.
This is definitely and area that will need to be addressed during the draft because the Lions have taken a couple of swings and misses on the free agent market.
RB Grade:C-
WR:Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson, Mike Furrey, Shaun McDonald, Reggie Ball, Ron Bellamy, Brandon Middleton, John Standeford
The Lions love them some Wide Receivers, don't they? With an expected and unreasonable shift towards the running game this season, look for all of these guys to have down years. I wouldn't be surprised if somehow Matt Millen decides to get rid of one of these guys for a couple of Draft Picks, help in the trenches, or a RB. I really can't say anything bad about this WR corps. They don't drop that many passes, it just seems like they only drop them when a win is on the line.
WR Grade:B+
TE:Dan Campbell, Casey Fitzsimmons, Michael Gaines, Sean McHugh, John Owens, Clark Harris
The Lions brought in Michael Gaines this year as a probable blocking tight end. These guys haven't gotten much action the past couple of years with Mike Martz at the helm. Noe that Jim Coletto is here, get ready for a couple of small breakout seasons form Gaines and Fitzsimmons. They won't be elite tight ends, but they will be good targets on play action fakes that the lions will need to run.
TE Grade:C
In the next edition: The Trenches and Special Teams
Today, Its offensive skill players.
QB: Jon Kitna,Dan Orlovsky, Drew Stanton
Relatively one of the stronger units on the team. You've got an aging starter who's got God on his side. A back-up who's biggest accomplishment in his pro career is leading his team to the 3-yard line and not scoring. A third-stringer touted as the future, even though at the Senior Bowl couldn't throw a spiral. I expect Kitna to play 12 games, but because of age and the Offensive Line (we'll get to that later) he'll get knocked around too much to remember at least what will add up to one whole game. No one has seen enough of Orlovsky or Stanton to really give them a grade, but we'll go with they would be no worse than JP Losman if they were forced to start.
QB Grade:B-
RB:Tatum Bell, Brian Calhoun, Aveion Cason, Jon Bradley
The lions running back corps is looking for more people to throw into the rotation as they got rid of the two most productive backs they have had in the past 3 years(T.J. Duckett and Kevin Jones). After demanding a trade and then seeing his competition gone, he is back to carry the load he should've after the trade from the broncos last year. Brian Calhoun is one fast little guy, at least that's what I know from Madden football. No one else knows because he hasn't been on the field enough in his two seasons as he has only been on the active roster for 11 of 32 games.
This is definitely and area that will need to be addressed during the draft because the Lions have taken a couple of swings and misses on the free agent market.
RB Grade:C-
WR:Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson, Mike Furrey, Shaun McDonald, Reggie Ball, Ron Bellamy, Brandon Middleton, John Standeford
The Lions love them some Wide Receivers, don't they? With an expected and unreasonable shift towards the running game this season, look for all of these guys to have down years. I wouldn't be surprised if somehow Matt Millen decides to get rid of one of these guys for a couple of Draft Picks, help in the trenches, or a RB. I really can't say anything bad about this WR corps. They don't drop that many passes, it just seems like they only drop them when a win is on the line.
WR Grade:B+
TE:Dan Campbell, Casey Fitzsimmons, Michael Gaines, Sean McHugh, John Owens, Clark Harris
The Lions brought in Michael Gaines this year as a probable blocking tight end. These guys haven't gotten much action the past couple of years with Mike Martz at the helm. Noe that Jim Coletto is here, get ready for a couple of small breakout seasons form Gaines and Fitzsimmons. They won't be elite tight ends, but they will be good targets on play action fakes that the lions will need to run.
TE Grade:C
In the next edition: The Trenches and Special Teams
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Lots of stuff happened.
Its been about a month since I last posted and a lot of things have happened:
-CMU baseball has started to win games. They've won 9 of the last 14 including a win over No. 22 Michigan.
-CMU softball won 6 0f 9 with one of those losses being to No. 6 Michigan 4-3.
-The NCAA tournament was awesome. The first weekend was chock full o' upsets. The second weekend was still good, even though the three of the one seeds moved through fairly easily. The NCAA pulled some great scheduling techniques to make Davidson vs. Kansas the last game of that weekend. The two Final Four games last Saturday weren't extremely exciting. But, The final was one of the best I've seen in my lifetime. My question coming out of that game is "Is Mario Chalmers the next Miles Simon?"
- The Baseball season has started. The Orioles are atop the AL East. The Marlins are atop the NL East. The White Sox and Royals are tied atop the AL Central. The Tigers are 0-7. Too much emphasis is placed on the first week of games. I can almost guarantee that none of those teams will come close to winning their divisions. Just the same way the Tigers won't set the new record for most losses in a season with 162. Its a young season and the Tigers are missing one huge component of their offense and a couple of key cogs from their bullpen. When Granderson comes back and is healthy, and Rodney first, then Zumaya come back to the bullpen, the Tigs shouldn't lose any series.
My main motivation for posting is the NHL playoffs. For me, this is definitely the best time of the year. Go from NCAA tournament to Opening Day to the Stanley Cup playoffs. The best teams lie out in the Western Conference while arguably the best individual talents are out in the East.
My favorite to come out of the West is San Jose. With my dark horse (5-8 seed to make it all the way) being the Flames. Now I know both teams are playing each other in the first round. But for calgary to beat the sharks, its going to take a hot Miika Kiprusoff. If he can stay hot after that, the Flames would be the toughest team to beat in the NHL. Out of the East, my favorite is the Pittsburgh Penguins. I have no dark horse out of the East. The only team I give a shot to win their 1st round series is Philly, but I don't think they will be able to beat anyone else.
That's all I got for now, I'll leave you with a good link
Best defense ever: "This is how I chill, ma'am"
-CMU baseball has started to win games. They've won 9 of the last 14 including a win over No. 22 Michigan.
-CMU softball won 6 0f 9 with one of those losses being to No. 6 Michigan 4-3.
-The NCAA tournament was awesome. The first weekend was chock full o' upsets. The second weekend was still good, even though the three of the one seeds moved through fairly easily. The NCAA pulled some great scheduling techniques to make Davidson vs. Kansas the last game of that weekend. The two Final Four games last Saturday weren't extremely exciting. But, The final was one of the best I've seen in my lifetime. My question coming out of that game is "Is Mario Chalmers the next Miles Simon?"
- The Baseball season has started. The Orioles are atop the AL East. The Marlins are atop the NL East. The White Sox and Royals are tied atop the AL Central. The Tigers are 0-7. Too much emphasis is placed on the first week of games. I can almost guarantee that none of those teams will come close to winning their divisions. Just the same way the Tigers won't set the new record for most losses in a season with 162. Its a young season and the Tigers are missing one huge component of their offense and a couple of key cogs from their bullpen. When Granderson comes back and is healthy, and Rodney first, then Zumaya come back to the bullpen, the Tigs shouldn't lose any series.
My main motivation for posting is the NHL playoffs. For me, this is definitely the best time of the year. Go from NCAA tournament to Opening Day to the Stanley Cup playoffs. The best teams lie out in the Western Conference while arguably the best individual talents are out in the East.
My favorite to come out of the West is San Jose. With my dark horse (5-8 seed to make it all the way) being the Flames. Now I know both teams are playing each other in the first round. But for calgary to beat the sharks, its going to take a hot Miika Kiprusoff. If he can stay hot after that, the Flames would be the toughest team to beat in the NHL. Out of the East, my favorite is the Pittsburgh Penguins. I have no dark horse out of the East. The only team I give a shot to win their 1st round series is Philly, but I don't think they will be able to beat anyone else.
That's all I got for now, I'll leave you with a good link
Best defense ever: "This is how I chill, ma'am"
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Basketball Rolls on in Ohio
The Men's team rolled over the Huskies from NIU today by a score of 83-71. The Chippewas had five guys in double figures. Giordan Watson led the team with 20 points, hitting 5 of 7 shots from behind the arc. Robbie Harmon also shot well making 4 of 6 from long range. Harmon had a total of 16 points. Marko Spica had 13. Chris Kellerman and Jordan Bitzer both added 11. At one point in the second half the Chips led by 22 points. The team shot a superb 52% from the field. They also shot 52% from behind the 3 point line. The team still struggled some from the charity stripe only making 65.4% from the line. The Chips advance to play the Akron Zips. The game is Thursday afternoon at 2:30pm. Its time to take a closer look at Akron
Akron
Previous meeting aginst CMU: Jan. 26 at CMU Central won 65-64
Points per game : 72.9 (1st in the MAC)
Points Allowed per game : 61.0 (2nd)
Field Goal Percentage : 45.0 (4th)
3 Point Percentage : 39.4 (1st)
Free Throw Percentage : 71.1 (5th)
Rebounds per game : 32.4 (9th)
Assists per game : 14.1 (2nd)
Steal per game : 6.9 (6th)
Turnovers per game : 13.6 (3rd lowest in MAC)
Central is going to have their hands full against the Zips. Central was able to beat the Zips on Jan. 26th because Central shot 50% (6 percent above their average) and held Akron to 39%. Central also forced Akron into 20 Turnovers and held them to only 9 assists. I don't think Central's hot shooting from the NIU game will carry over into the contest on Thursday afternoon. Central will also have to hold Akron under their averages in the same way they did in their only meeting this year. As much as I would like to give the Chips a chance, I really don't think they will be able to pull out a win. I see the game probably ending up 82-75 Akron. I really do hope the Chips will pull one out so I have more to write on their season after tomorrow night.
Akron
Previous meeting aginst CMU: Jan. 26 at CMU Central won 65-64
Points per game : 72.9 (1st in the MAC)
Points Allowed per game : 61.0 (2nd)
Field Goal Percentage : 45.0 (4th)
3 Point Percentage : 39.4 (1st)
Free Throw Percentage : 71.1 (5th)
Rebounds per game : 32.4 (9th)
Assists per game : 14.1 (2nd)
Steal per game : 6.9 (6th)
Turnovers per game : 13.6 (3rd lowest in MAC)
Central is going to have their hands full against the Zips. Central was able to beat the Zips on Jan. 26th because Central shot 50% (6 percent above their average) and held Akron to 39%. Central also forced Akron into 20 Turnovers and held them to only 9 assists. I don't think Central's hot shooting from the NIU game will carry over into the contest on Thursday afternoon. Central will also have to hold Akron under their averages in the same way they did in their only meeting this year. As much as I would like to give the Chips a chance, I really don't think they will be able to pull out a win. I see the game probably ending up 82-75 Akron. I really do hope the Chips will pull one out so I have more to write on their season after tomorrow night.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Baseball and Softball Recaps Plus Hockey Thoughts
The CMU baseball team has continued to struggle in Florida. They have been 2-3 since the last update on the team. They were swept by Stetson on Tuesday. They were able to get 2 wins by beating Fairfield and Eastern Kentucky. Then they got smothered by Vermont 14-1 on Sunday. The bats have been lively this season as they have a .293 batting average. The team's pitching hasn't been bad, but a 5.13 ERA is definitely not good. The main thing that has hindered the Chips in Florida is their gloves. As a team, they've committed 24 Errors, 16 more than teams have committed while playing against Central.If the Chippewas can limit their fielding errors during MAC play, I think they will be a serious contender for a MAC title. Central has a weekend series in Evansville,In. They will play 3 games in 3 days against 3 different teams.
Softball
Softball has been 3-4 since the last update on Tuesday. They swept the MAane black Bears and then they struggled at the USF Under Armour Invitational. They lost the first 4 games of the event and then they left the event with one win against Villanova. The team has been solid and is now 7-9. With the competition that they faced so far, they look to be a formidable team in the MAC.
Other Stuff
Now its time for me to take my stand for the week. The NHL points system is flawed. When you Win you get 2 points. When you lose in overtime you get one point. So a game that goes into OT suddenly is worth 3 points (one team gets 2, the other gets 1). I think that the NHL should work on making all games worth 3 points. Teams that are able to put away teams in regulation would get 3 points. If you're able to win in OT or the shootout, you get 2 points. Those teams that lose in OT is 1 point. The team that loses in regulation still gets nothing. The reason I think this would work is because it would the last 5 minutes of regulation in a tie game that much more exciting. It would make teams press harder during those minutes to get that extra point. This would blow point totals out of proportion, so the records of the past that pertain to most points in a season would have some protection. When the overtime loss stat was thrown in the standing in the 99-00 season, people complained that it made the Standings that much more difficult to read. That may be a problem for the average fan still, but it would make sure every game is of the same importance.
With that being said, I believe it is really exciting for hockey to see that with 11-13 games left for all teams, only 2 teams are mathematically eliminated. But, I don't see the playoff picture changing much in the western conference as Vancouver and Calgary (#8 and #6 respectively) have 2 games in hand over the 9th team, Nashville. I don't see Colorado losing enough to get the Predators into the playoffs.
In the Eastern Conference, its actually much more interesting as the 6th place team and the 12th place team are separated by 10 points. The 6,7, and 8 teams all have a game in hand over the 9-12 teams, so as of this second the teams that are in won't change at all in my mind. The seeding of those teams, on the other hand, will almost definitely be shaken up at some point during the next couple of weeks.
Softball
Softball has been 3-4 since the last update on Tuesday. They swept the MAane black Bears and then they struggled at the USF Under Armour Invitational. They lost the first 4 games of the event and then they left the event with one win against Villanova. The team has been solid and is now 7-9. With the competition that they faced so far, they look to be a formidable team in the MAC.
Other Stuff
Now its time for me to take my stand for the week. The NHL points system is flawed. When you Win you get 2 points. When you lose in overtime you get one point. So a game that goes into OT suddenly is worth 3 points (one team gets 2, the other gets 1). I think that the NHL should work on making all games worth 3 points. Teams that are able to put away teams in regulation would get 3 points. If you're able to win in OT or the shootout, you get 2 points. Those teams that lose in OT is 1 point. The team that loses in regulation still gets nothing. The reason I think this would work is because it would the last 5 minutes of regulation in a tie game that much more exciting. It would make teams press harder during those minutes to get that extra point. This would blow point totals out of proportion, so the records of the past that pertain to most points in a season would have some protection. When the overtime loss stat was thrown in the standing in the 99-00 season, people complained that it made the Standings that much more difficult to read. That may be a problem for the average fan still, but it would make sure every game is of the same importance.
With that being said, I believe it is really exciting for hockey to see that with 11-13 games left for all teams, only 2 teams are mathematically eliminated. But, I don't see the playoff picture changing much in the western conference as Vancouver and Calgary (#8 and #6 respectively) have 2 games in hand over the 9th team, Nashville. I don't see Colorado losing enough to get the Predators into the playoffs.
In the Eastern Conference, its actually much more interesting as the 6th place team and the 12th place team are separated by 10 points. The 6,7, and 8 teams all have a game in hand over the 9-12 teams, so as of this second the teams that are in won't change at all in my mind. The seeding of those teams, on the other hand, will almost definitely be shaken up at some point during the next couple of weeks.
No.2 CMU Wrestling Wins 7th straight MAC title
CMU's Wrestling team has been solid all season. They beat their MAC competition by a combined score of 165-27 in 5 duels. They then went into Kent State over the weekend and cleaned up at the MAC Championships. They won 7 individual titles and the other 3 wrestlers finished in the top 4. Only 1 wrestler missed out on qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. Wynn Michalak made history, becoming one of four wrestlers in MAC history to claim four individual titles. The national championships start Thursday, March 20th in St. Louis.
Men's Basketball
On Sunday Afternoon, the basketball team faced off against the Toledo Rockets and they lost in OT 90-83. CMU's well-documented free-throw shooting woes continued as they shot a paltry 48% (13-27). Central was able to come back from 15 down to take the lead in the last few minutes of regulation. Marco Spica missed a free throw that could push the lead to three in the last 13 seconds. Then Giordan Watson stepped to the line with three seconds left with the score tied to shoot two free throws. Even though he's one of the better FT shooters on the team at 75%, he missed them both. Central, after the loss, will head into the MAC tourney as the 6 seed. They will play NIU Wednesday at 3pm. If they win they will go onto face the Akron Zips, who the Chips were able to beat at Rose Arena on Jan. 26th by the score of 66-64. Overall, the road to the MAC final isn't that bad as CMU wouldn't face heavy favorite Kent State until the finals.
Women's Basketball
The women's team can start looking towards next year as they lost to the Ohio Bobcats 68-65 on Sunday. The team ended the season on a four-game slide that brought their record to 6-23. Soph. Britni Houghton, who led the team in scoring on Sunday with 22 points, was the only player on the team get any accolades so far. Houghton was named to 3rd team All-MAC. She averaged 13.1 points and 5.8 rebounds for the year. The team looks fairly promising for next year as they will return their top 2 scorers and 6 of their top 8 scorers.
There will be an update at some point later today, detailing Baseball and Softball's Spring Training Travels. I might even talk a little bit about my feelings about the playoff chase in the NHL and the NBA.
Men's Basketball
On Sunday Afternoon, the basketball team faced off against the Toledo Rockets and they lost in OT 90-83. CMU's well-documented free-throw shooting woes continued as they shot a paltry 48% (13-27). Central was able to come back from 15 down to take the lead in the last few minutes of regulation. Marco Spica missed a free throw that could push the lead to three in the last 13 seconds. Then Giordan Watson stepped to the line with three seconds left with the score tied to shoot two free throws. Even though he's one of the better FT shooters on the team at 75%, he missed them both. Central, after the loss, will head into the MAC tourney as the 6 seed. They will play NIU Wednesday at 3pm. If they win they will go onto face the Akron Zips, who the Chips were able to beat at Rose Arena on Jan. 26th by the score of 66-64. Overall, the road to the MAC final isn't that bad as CMU wouldn't face heavy favorite Kent State until the finals.
Women's Basketball
The women's team can start looking towards next year as they lost to the Ohio Bobcats 68-65 on Sunday. The team ended the season on a four-game slide that brought their record to 6-23. Soph. Britni Houghton, who led the team in scoring on Sunday with 22 points, was the only player on the team get any accolades so far. Houghton was named to 3rd team All-MAC. She averaged 13.1 points and 5.8 rebounds for the year. The team looks fairly promising for next year as they will return their top 2 scorers and 6 of their top 8 scorers.
There will be an update at some point later today, detailing Baseball and Softball's Spring Training Travels. I might even talk a little bit about my feelings about the playoff chase in the NHL and the NBA.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Big Wins For Everybody
Central was able to come away with a huge victory against Western Tuesday nightby a score of 72-68. Robbie Harmon went 5 of 7 from 3 point land. CMU kept the same starting lineup that they used against NIU on Saturday and enjoyed the same success. CMU's problems at the charity stripe were still apparent in today's game. Central only shot 64 % from the free throw line. You would like to see that number rise up to about the 75 to 80 percent mark. When you miss too many free throws, you will fall behind in games early and often. Especially, when you have a player like Marcus Van who is going to go up on the Offensive glass get you a couple of rebounds and go back for the putback and get fouled. He He was only 2 of 6 from the line. Overall though, Central played to their averages in just about every offensive category. Central was able to force the Broncos into making 17 Turnovers(3 above their season average) while holding them to only 5 assists(6 below their season average).
One last note: I hope central has scheduled more than 11 home games(the number they have this year) next year. Right now, with one more home game to go, Central's home record stands at 8-2. They're only 5-13 away from Rose Arena.
The main thing I wanted to write about was the Pistons game I went to. The first quarter was a little disheartening as a Pistons fan. It was almost sickening to see how much faster and with so much more heart that the Sonics were playing with in that first 12 minutes. The Sonics put up 41 points in the 1st quarter. 41!! I would have trouble doing that in a video game. If I am a basketball fan in the Oklahoma City area, I am extremely happy to be getting this team next year. Imagine a team of Earl Watson (who showed me a lot tonight), Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, Chris Wilcox (who also showed me a lot tonight), and a long, quick 7-footer from Texas A&M, DeAndre Jordan (if Espn's NBA Lottery mock Draft is right). That would be one of the most athletic and long lineups I've seen in awhile. They could run with the best teams in the West. They may not be able to beat them, but it would definitely be exciting seeing the team go back and forth at breakneck speed. In the second quarter, Pj Carlismo went with a much more pedestrian lineup resting Watson, Wilcox, and Durant for most of the quarter. That let the Pistons erase the deficit that was created by the Sonics NBA Jam-like first quarter. At the end of the night, the pistons showed why they are near the top in the east and made big stops in the last 3 minutes to put the sonics away.
One last note: I hope central has scheduled more than 11 home games(the number they have this year) next year. Right now, with one more home game to go, Central's home record stands at 8-2. They're only 5-13 away from Rose Arena.
The main thing I wanted to write about was the Pistons game I went to. The first quarter was a little disheartening as a Pistons fan. It was almost sickening to see how much faster and with so much more heart that the Sonics were playing with in that first 12 minutes. The Sonics put up 41 points in the 1st quarter. 41!! I would have trouble doing that in a video game. If I am a basketball fan in the Oklahoma City area, I am extremely happy to be getting this team next year. Imagine a team of Earl Watson (who showed me a lot tonight), Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, Chris Wilcox (who also showed me a lot tonight), and a long, quick 7-footer from Texas A&M, DeAndre Jordan (if Espn's NBA Lottery mock Draft is right). That would be one of the most athletic and long lineups I've seen in awhile. They could run with the best teams in the West. They may not be able to beat them, but it would definitely be exciting seeing the team go back and forth at breakneck speed. In the second quarter, Pj Carlismo went with a much more pedestrian lineup resting Watson, Wilcox, and Durant for most of the quarter. That let the Pistons erase the deficit that was created by the Sonics NBA Jam-like first quarter. At the end of the night, the pistons showed why they are near the top in the east and made big stops in the last 3 minutes to put the sonics away.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
In here for the real thing
Tonight is a big night for the Chips. The Men's basketball team squares off against Western at Rose Arena Tonight. The Chips (12-15, 7-7 MAC) look to get even with the Broncos (18-10, 11-3 MAC) after a 20 point loss in Kalamazoo on Jan. 22. As the records indicate, this matchup tonight does not look good for the Chips, even though the home team has won 14 of the last 18 games in the series. We'll see whether or not the CMU will use its 18th different starting lineup this year, which in my mind is one of the bigger probems with this year's team. Sure, you may need to send a message to a player or the team once or twice and injuries happen, but something has to be said for continuity. When on a game to game basis you don't know what your role is, its gonna be more difficult to perform.
It will be interesting to see whether or not CMU can finish the season strong with a couple of home victories and put a stranglehold on 2nd place in the MAC west. If they can finish with 2 wins they would have a good shot a locking up a first round bye in the MAC tournament.
Women's Basketball
The women continue their long, tough season with a game at the always packed Convocation Center at Eastern Michigan University. The Eagles(16-11, 10-5 MAC) are sharing their perch atop the MAC West with the BSU Cardinals. CMU(6-21, 2-12 MAC) looks to wrap up the regular season on a positive note as they are locked in the basement of the MAC West and are headed for a showdown with Ohio in MAC tournament this Sunday.
Baseball
CMU continues on their spring training tour in Florida today as they take on the Hatters from Stetson tonight at 7pm. The chips are 1-5 so far on their extended trip down south to start the season. Central has had a problem scoring runs and keeping the other team from scoring, but they haven't had those problems at the same time yet. They've scored 8 runs in the opening game against Southern Utah but couldn't help but give up 12 runs. Their lone win came as Steve Teno threw a complete game against UNLV and won 3-2. Teno scattered nine hits and only walked one UNLV hitter all game. The chips don't return up north until March 14-17 when they will be in the state on Indiana, playing 4 games in 4 days. The chips will then be in Mount Pleasant on Wed. Mar.19th to take on Wayne State and will open MAC play that Saturday against Ohio.
Softball
The softball team has had a little more luck putting together wins during a couple of trips down south. Their record stands at 4-5 while they look to get a couple more victories today against the Maine Black Bears. Arter the two today the team will be taking on a rough schedule of 6 games in 4 days at the USF Under Amour Invitational They won't return home until Mar. 26 to take on Valparaiso.
Detroit Sports
This may bot be completely detroit sports news but Brett Favre retired today after 17 seasons of NFL excellency. As a Lions fan seeing him throw 54 of his NFL record 442 touchdown passes against the guys in Honolulu Blue and Silver, I'm glad to see him go. He's had a great career its kind of sad to see his last pass be an interception that kept him from going to the Super Bowl. It will be interesting to see Aaron Rodgers step in and try to step in his shoes. The Packers have a pretty solid O-Line, a solid WR corps, and a good RB corps. Its not like he's stepping into a team thats devoid of playmakers. I fully expect any shortcomings the Packers might have this year to come from problems on the defensive side of the ball.
The 43-16 Pistons square off tonight against the 16-43 ?Seattle? Sonics tonight. I will be in attendance. So I may report tomorrow with some observations. This is most likely the only Pistons game I am going to all year.
The Wings look to continue a one-game winning streak tomorrow against the St. Louis Blues.
That's the end of the first update on CMU and Detroit sports. Many more are on the way.
It will be interesting to see whether or not CMU can finish the season strong with a couple of home victories and put a stranglehold on 2nd place in the MAC west. If they can finish with 2 wins they would have a good shot a locking up a first round bye in the MAC tournament.
Women's Basketball
The women continue their long, tough season with a game at the always packed Convocation Center at Eastern Michigan University. The Eagles(16-11, 10-5 MAC) are sharing their perch atop the MAC West with the BSU Cardinals. CMU(6-21, 2-12 MAC) looks to wrap up the regular season on a positive note as they are locked in the basement of the MAC West and are headed for a showdown with Ohio in MAC tournament this Sunday.
Baseball
CMU continues on their spring training tour in Florida today as they take on the Hatters from Stetson tonight at 7pm. The chips are 1-5 so far on their extended trip down south to start the season. Central has had a problem scoring runs and keeping the other team from scoring, but they haven't had those problems at the same time yet. They've scored 8 runs in the opening game against Southern Utah but couldn't help but give up 12 runs. Their lone win came as Steve Teno threw a complete game against UNLV and won 3-2. Teno scattered nine hits and only walked one UNLV hitter all game. The chips don't return up north until March 14-17 when they will be in the state on Indiana, playing 4 games in 4 days. The chips will then be in Mount Pleasant on Wed. Mar.19th to take on Wayne State and will open MAC play that Saturday against Ohio.
Softball
The softball team has had a little more luck putting together wins during a couple of trips down south. Their record stands at 4-5 while they look to get a couple more victories today against the Maine Black Bears. Arter the two today the team will be taking on a rough schedule of 6 games in 4 days at the USF Under Amour Invitational They won't return home until Mar. 26 to take on Valparaiso.
Detroit Sports
This may bot be completely detroit sports news but Brett Favre retired today after 17 seasons of NFL excellency. As a Lions fan seeing him throw 54 of his NFL record 442 touchdown passes against the guys in Honolulu Blue and Silver, I'm glad to see him go. He's had a great career its kind of sad to see his last pass be an interception that kept him from going to the Super Bowl. It will be interesting to see Aaron Rodgers step in and try to step in his shoes. The Packers have a pretty solid O-Line, a solid WR corps, and a good RB corps. Its not like he's stepping into a team thats devoid of playmakers. I fully expect any shortcomings the Packers might have this year to come from problems on the defensive side of the ball.
The 43-16 Pistons square off tonight against the 16-43 ?Seattle? Sonics tonight. I will be in attendance. So I may report tomorrow with some observations. This is most likely the only Pistons game I am going to all year.
The Wings look to continue a one-game winning streak tomorrow against the St. Louis Blues.
That's the end of the first update on CMU and Detroit sports. Many more are on the way.
A Fresh Start for Everyone
I'm a little apprehensive starting this blog, but we'll give it a shot. Since I am a student at Central Michigan University, I will cover what I know best CMU sports. This blog won't be limited to CMU sports, it will probably delve into some issues that develop on campus as well as Sports throughout the state. I hope someone will eventually read this but mostly I am doing this to build a portfolio when I go out into the real world and get a job in the broadcast journalism industry. I will try and update this weekly if not bi-weekly because I have a lot of free time to rant about CMU and its sports.
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