My brackets are all but shot to hell.
Kudos to anyone who went straight chalk on their bracket. At least you’ve got all four Final Four squads.
I’ve still got 3 out of 4 alive (although I’ve hyped up Memphis all year long, I decided to pick Texas. Uggggh. Oh well)
My hopes now lie in my pick of UNC in the blind draw at work. Nice pick, huh?
First pitch in the new Nationals park is just moments away, so we’ll keep this short and sweet.
Memphis over UCLA – Two words: Derrick Rose. Could/should be the first pick in the draft.
UNC over Kansas – I said a long time ago I wasn’t impressed with Kansas. Still not. And no one wills their team to victory like Tyler Hansborough. Frankly, I think UNC wins pretty easily (I’ll call a 12-point win).
Well, I said it before and I’ll say it again. I’ve seen a lot of different teams play this year, and no one impresses me like those Tigers from Memphis.
Plus, Roy Williams is a chop.
Sadly, it appears my blind draw pick could be all for not.
Memphis over UNC.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Play Ball!
What a great day.
The Elite Eight becomes the Final Four.
Oh, and it’s Opening Day!!!!
So what if there’s only one game on the schedule… it’s still Opening Day!
Gotta love it.
Not gonna lie – planning for a wedding basically means no time to blog. I look forward to my triumphant regularly scheduled return sometime after August 16.
Mark your calendars.
But for now, a quick sampling of MLB predictions…
First things first – baseball. Here are my humble predictions for the 2008 MLB Season:
AL East - Yankees
AL West - Mariners
AL Central - Tigers
AL WC - Indians
NL East - Mets
NL West - Arizona
NL Central - Cubbies!!!
NL WC - Phillies
NL Champ - Mets
AL Champ - Tigers
2008 WS Champ - Mets
AL MVP - Alex Rodriguez
NL MVP - David Wright
AL CY - Erik Bedard
NL CY - Johan Santana
AL ROY - Erick Aybar
NL ROY - Fukodome
AL Manager of Year - John McLaren
NL Manager of Year - Sweet Lou
AL Comeback - Rich Harden
NL Comeback - Kerry Wood
AL Breakout Player - Josh Hamilton
NL Breakout Player - Michael Bourn
AL Breakout Team - Mariners
NL Breakout Team - Astros
AL Bust - Dontrelle
NL Bust - $18 million Andruw
AL HR Leader - ARod
NL HR Leader - Ryan Howard
Prop Bets:
Lead Leaguer in Blown Saves - Lidge
First Manager to be Fired - Bochy
First Season Ending Injury - Pujols
More Wins: Pedro or Pettite - Pedro
Most Starts: Schilling or Joba - Joba
More: Liriano Wins OR Wood Saves - Wood
Sori: More HR + RBI or K's - Ks
Will Cust Break The K Record? No
More K's Braun or Manny? Manny
Oh by the way, it's the 100 year anniversary of the last time the Cubs were world champs. Yes, 100 years.
Feels like a special year. What better way to celebrate a painful anniversary!
GO CUBS GO!!!!
The Elite Eight becomes the Final Four.
Oh, and it’s Opening Day!!!!
So what if there’s only one game on the schedule… it’s still Opening Day!
Gotta love it.
Not gonna lie – planning for a wedding basically means no time to blog. I look forward to my triumphant regularly scheduled return sometime after August 16.
Mark your calendars.
But for now, a quick sampling of MLB predictions…
First things first – baseball. Here are my humble predictions for the 2008 MLB Season:
AL East - Yankees
AL West - Mariners
AL Central - Tigers
AL WC - Indians
NL East - Mets
NL West - Arizona
NL Central - Cubbies!!!
NL WC - Phillies
NL Champ - Mets
AL Champ - Tigers
2008 WS Champ - Mets
AL MVP - Alex Rodriguez
NL MVP - David Wright
AL CY - Erik Bedard
NL CY - Johan Santana
AL ROY - Erick Aybar
NL ROY - Fukodome
AL Manager of Year - John McLaren
NL Manager of Year - Sweet Lou
AL Comeback - Rich Harden
NL Comeback - Kerry Wood
AL Breakout Player - Josh Hamilton
NL Breakout Player - Michael Bourn
AL Breakout Team - Mariners
NL Breakout Team - Astros
AL Bust - Dontrelle
NL Bust - $18 million Andruw
AL HR Leader - ARod
NL HR Leader - Ryan Howard
Prop Bets:
Lead Leaguer in Blown Saves - Lidge
First Manager to be Fired - Bochy
First Season Ending Injury - Pujols
More Wins: Pedro or Pettite - Pedro
Most Starts: Schilling or Joba - Joba
More: Liriano Wins OR Wood Saves - Wood
Sori: More HR + RBI or K's - Ks
Will Cust Break The K Record? No
More K's Braun or Manny? Manny
Oh by the way, it's the 100 year anniversary of the last time the Cubs were world champs. Yes, 100 years.
Feels like a special year. What better way to celebrate a painful anniversary!
GO CUBS GO!!!!
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Better Late Than Never
The dog ate my homework.
My alarm didn’t go off.
I had to save the world from alien invasion.
They say excuses are like people’s hind quarters -- everyone has ‘em and most of them stink.
With that being said, I won’t tell you why I my first post of 2008 comes with just six days left in January. It sucks. I miss it. I miss you. And go ahead and say it, you miss me.
So, much in the vein of taking your girl out to a nice dinner after an argument that was your fault, I’ll try to make this one good to make sure you love me again.
So as the coffee is brewing and the world is still quiet, here’s what is percolating in my brain on a Saturday morning...
EYE OF THE TIGERS - I haven’t watched as much college hoops this year as I normally do. I’ll be the first to admit it. However, as the ides of March draw near, my interest (and my attention span) is piquing once again and I find myself tuning in just for the heck of it.
Because of that, I can only say what I know… and more precisely, what I’ve seen. I’ve watched Memphis play a few times this year. They’re good. I know, real bold statement about the undefeated #1 team in the country. But trust me, they’re good.
Better than the brief stints of UNC I’ve seen. Better then Kansas. Better than UCLA.
Joey Dorsey is a beast. He’s like a mini-Ben Wallace (when he was actually good) with a better offensive awareness. In fact, he wears #3 in honor of Bbbbben. This guy will be a legit banger in the Association when it’s all said and done.
Chris Douglas-Roberts – what can you really say about a guy with three first names? Solid all around.
The Ghost of Elliot Perry – Ok so he hasn’t played there in almost two decades. But I’m watching their game on ESPN against Gonzaga and they just showed Perry’s jersey hanging in the Pyramid’s rafters. I enjoyed the blast from the past, so figured you would too. Who can forget the man affectionately dubbed “Socks”?!? If it doesn’t ring a bell, I’m disappointed. But since I’m here for you, CLICK HERE for a refresher.
And of course, the difference maker is super frosh Derrick Rose, whose game is now in full bloom as the team’s floor general.
I like Coach Cal too (sorry John Cheaney).
This will be a real tough team come tourney time – regardless if they run the table in the regular season or not… frankly, who cares. Sure it looks nice on paper, but that and a quarter won’t even get you a phone call. Plan on seeing the Tigers hanging around come March, and for the other 15 teams who fall in their bracket, I suggest praying for a quick death and may the God of college hoops have mercy on your souls.
THE CATS MEOW – The other team I’ve had the pleasure of watching several times this year is of course my beloved Arizona Wildcats. My opinion has run the gamut this year – from Best Team We’ve Seen In Awhile to Lucky To Get Out Of The First Round. But as the season has progressed, the former position is becoming more realistic.
Don’t bother looking at their 13-6 record, it will just lead you astray. As they do year in and year out, the Cats have had a brutal schedule thus far – and it’s all by choice. Lute knows how to get a team ready for tourney time (and yes, I know Lute ain’t there this year, but it wasn’t Kevin O’Neill who drew up the schedule before the season started).
While some teams are padding their stats and their records with games against Northeast Saskatchewan State and Cupcake U, the Cats are going up against the likes of Illinois, Texas A&M, Kansas, Virginia and the aforementioned Memphis Tigers. They’ve won some. They’ve lost some. But testing yourself against that caliber of opponent early on (often in enemy territory) can only bode well come March.
Chase Buddinger is one of the top 10 players in the country... when he wants to be. Unfortunately, all-out effort for a full 48 doesn’t seem to be his thing. Chase, if you want to be great, I mean truly great, it needs to be.
Jordan Hill is a beast inside. For a guy who hasn’t been playing basketball for many years, his instinct on the defensive end is uncanny. Forget year to year, Hill is evolving game to game. He is a legitimate low post presence (something Cat fans haven’t seen too often). He can board and block with the best of ‘em. His only problem is avoiding the unnecessary fouls. If he can figure out a way to stay on the court, he completely changes the makeup of this team.
And if you want to know what will make or break this team , look no further than super duper frosh Jerryd Bayless. This guy is THE difference maker for the Cats. End of story. He’s been bitten by the injury bug a bit this year, and when he’s not in the game, we’re just not the same. The only thing that scares me about Bayless – is that he’s so good, I wonder how long he’ll be around. Players don’t leave Lute after one year… leaving Kevin O’Neill could be another thing altogether. Let’s hope not.
An Elite 8 run is definitely in this team’s grasp, and maybe more... if they want it.
HERE COME THE SPURS – Sadly my attention to college hoops isn’t the only sports facet to take a hit this season, as I also haven’t been able to watch much NBA either. Truth be told, beyond my fantasy team, my interest in the NBA this time of year is slime to none. Then again, that’s one of the luxuries of being a Spurs fan. Let’s face it, it just doesn’t matter what happens for another four months. We’ll be in the playoffs. And really, who cares about seeding. Sure I’d like home court against Dallas or Phoenix, but neither team will beat us in a series. They haven’t yet. No reason to think that will change now.
So while I’ll admit, I take it for granted, I just haven’t needed to sweat out the first 40 games with 40 more to go. But I will say this… I finally got to sit down and watch the Spurs on back-to-back nights against the Lakers and Heat, respectively. Love what I see. Duncan looks as good as he has in a long, long time.
Watching us rip the Lakers heart out with an impressive third quarter run was also great to watch for one reason – Bruce Bowen. Honestly, I’m not sure I’ve ever sat and just watched BB do his thing for 48 minutes. But watching him D up Kobe was a thing of beauty. Sure Kobe got his points, but he had to work for every single one. Bowen’s footwork on the defensive end is truly a thing of beauty and it should be required learning for all high school players. Move your feet. Stay in front of your opponent. Simple as that.
Oh, and if you haven’t had the pleasure of watching San Antonio play yet this year, let me also be the first to introduce you to our new secret weapon – Ime Udoka. Dude can play the 2, 3 or 4. Solid on the ball defender and great from the perimeter. When we make our run in the playoffs, just remember you heard it here first. He’ll be a big part of it.
PLAY BALL… ALMOST – At the time I’m writing this, there is exactly 18 days, 20 hours, 33 minutes and 28 seconds until pitchers and catchers report. Thank you MLB.com for the countdown. I have absolutely no clue what to expect from the Cubbies this year. I could see first place. I could see a long year. No clue. Either way, Fukodome figures to play a deciding factor. Looking forward to a season of butchering his name. Cannot wait!
HOLLYWOOD ‘SUPER’ MAN – Working for “Access Hollywood” has its fair share of perks. Get to see a few celebs here and there. Shelly and I get to give the scoop to all our friends’ wives (you’re welcome Holly and Danielle). And now, after four years, finally a perk worth bragging about – I’m headed to the Super Bowl!
Ok, so maybe I don’t have credentials or a ticket to get into the game itself. But I will be inside all of the celebrity parties in Phoenix the week leading up to the big game.
Maxim. ESPN. Victoria’s Secret. Playboy. All of ‘em… and then some.
Should be quite interesting, to say the least. So if anyone else out there is headed out to ‘Zona to watch the Pats squeak by the GMen (NE 37, NYG 27 is the call), look me up. I’ll be the guy standing next to Eva Longoria, Peyton Manning, Brian Urlacher, Paris Hilton and the rest of the pretty people.
Man I love my job.
My alarm didn’t go off.
I had to save the world from alien invasion.
They say excuses are like people’s hind quarters -- everyone has ‘em and most of them stink.
With that being said, I won’t tell you why I my first post of 2008 comes with just six days left in January. It sucks. I miss it. I miss you. And go ahead and say it, you miss me.
So, much in the vein of taking your girl out to a nice dinner after an argument that was your fault, I’ll try to make this one good to make sure you love me again.
So as the coffee is brewing and the world is still quiet, here’s what is percolating in my brain on a Saturday morning...
EYE OF THE TIGERS - I haven’t watched as much college hoops this year as I normally do. I’ll be the first to admit it. However, as the ides of March draw near, my interest (and my attention span) is piquing once again and I find myself tuning in just for the heck of it.
Because of that, I can only say what I know… and more precisely, what I’ve seen. I’ve watched Memphis play a few times this year. They’re good. I know, real bold statement about the undefeated #1 team in the country. But trust me, they’re good.
Better than the brief stints of UNC I’ve seen. Better then Kansas. Better than UCLA.
Joey Dorsey is a beast. He’s like a mini-Ben Wallace (when he was actually good) with a better offensive awareness. In fact, he wears #3 in honor of Bbbbben. This guy will be a legit banger in the Association when it’s all said and done.
Chris Douglas-Roberts – what can you really say about a guy with three first names? Solid all around.
The Ghost of Elliot Perry – Ok so he hasn’t played there in almost two decades. But I’m watching their game on ESPN against Gonzaga and they just showed Perry’s jersey hanging in the Pyramid’s rafters. I enjoyed the blast from the past, so figured you would too. Who can forget the man affectionately dubbed “Socks”?!? If it doesn’t ring a bell, I’m disappointed. But since I’m here for you, CLICK HERE for a refresher.
And of course, the difference maker is super frosh Derrick Rose, whose game is now in full bloom as the team’s floor general.
I like Coach Cal too (sorry John Cheaney).
This will be a real tough team come tourney time – regardless if they run the table in the regular season or not… frankly, who cares. Sure it looks nice on paper, but that and a quarter won’t even get you a phone call. Plan on seeing the Tigers hanging around come March, and for the other 15 teams who fall in their bracket, I suggest praying for a quick death and may the God of college hoops have mercy on your souls.
THE CATS MEOW – The other team I’ve had the pleasure of watching several times this year is of course my beloved Arizona Wildcats. My opinion has run the gamut this year – from Best Team We’ve Seen In Awhile to Lucky To Get Out Of The First Round. But as the season has progressed, the former position is becoming more realistic.
Don’t bother looking at their 13-6 record, it will just lead you astray. As they do year in and year out, the Cats have had a brutal schedule thus far – and it’s all by choice. Lute knows how to get a team ready for tourney time (and yes, I know Lute ain’t there this year, but it wasn’t Kevin O’Neill who drew up the schedule before the season started).
While some teams are padding their stats and their records with games against Northeast Saskatchewan State and Cupcake U, the Cats are going up against the likes of Illinois, Texas A&M, Kansas, Virginia and the aforementioned Memphis Tigers. They’ve won some. They’ve lost some. But testing yourself against that caliber of opponent early on (often in enemy territory) can only bode well come March.
Chase Buddinger is one of the top 10 players in the country... when he wants to be. Unfortunately, all-out effort for a full 48 doesn’t seem to be his thing. Chase, if you want to be great, I mean truly great, it needs to be.
Jordan Hill is a beast inside. For a guy who hasn’t been playing basketball for many years, his instinct on the defensive end is uncanny. Forget year to year, Hill is evolving game to game. He is a legitimate low post presence (something Cat fans haven’t seen too often). He can board and block with the best of ‘em. His only problem is avoiding the unnecessary fouls. If he can figure out a way to stay on the court, he completely changes the makeup of this team.
And if you want to know what will make or break this team , look no further than super duper frosh Jerryd Bayless. This guy is THE difference maker for the Cats. End of story. He’s been bitten by the injury bug a bit this year, and when he’s not in the game, we’re just not the same. The only thing that scares me about Bayless – is that he’s so good, I wonder how long he’ll be around. Players don’t leave Lute after one year… leaving Kevin O’Neill could be another thing altogether. Let’s hope not.
An Elite 8 run is definitely in this team’s grasp, and maybe more... if they want it.
HERE COME THE SPURS – Sadly my attention to college hoops isn’t the only sports facet to take a hit this season, as I also haven’t been able to watch much NBA either. Truth be told, beyond my fantasy team, my interest in the NBA this time of year is slime to none. Then again, that’s one of the luxuries of being a Spurs fan. Let’s face it, it just doesn’t matter what happens for another four months. We’ll be in the playoffs. And really, who cares about seeding. Sure I’d like home court against Dallas or Phoenix, but neither team will beat us in a series. They haven’t yet. No reason to think that will change now.
So while I’ll admit, I take it for granted, I just haven’t needed to sweat out the first 40 games with 40 more to go. But I will say this… I finally got to sit down and watch the Spurs on back-to-back nights against the Lakers and Heat, respectively. Love what I see. Duncan looks as good as he has in a long, long time.
Watching us rip the Lakers heart out with an impressive third quarter run was also great to watch for one reason – Bruce Bowen. Honestly, I’m not sure I’ve ever sat and just watched BB do his thing for 48 minutes. But watching him D up Kobe was a thing of beauty. Sure Kobe got his points, but he had to work for every single one. Bowen’s footwork on the defensive end is truly a thing of beauty and it should be required learning for all high school players. Move your feet. Stay in front of your opponent. Simple as that.
Oh, and if you haven’t had the pleasure of watching San Antonio play yet this year, let me also be the first to introduce you to our new secret weapon – Ime Udoka. Dude can play the 2, 3 or 4. Solid on the ball defender and great from the perimeter. When we make our run in the playoffs, just remember you heard it here first. He’ll be a big part of it.
PLAY BALL… ALMOST – At the time I’m writing this, there is exactly 18 days, 20 hours, 33 minutes and 28 seconds until pitchers and catchers report. Thank you MLB.com for the countdown. I have absolutely no clue what to expect from the Cubbies this year. I could see first place. I could see a long year. No clue. Either way, Fukodome figures to play a deciding factor. Looking forward to a season of butchering his name. Cannot wait!
HOLLYWOOD ‘SUPER’ MAN – Working for “Access Hollywood” has its fair share of perks. Get to see a few celebs here and there. Shelly and I get to give the scoop to all our friends’ wives (you’re welcome Holly and Danielle). And now, after four years, finally a perk worth bragging about – I’m headed to the Super Bowl!
Ok, so maybe I don’t have credentials or a ticket to get into the game itself. But I will be inside all of the celebrity parties in Phoenix the week leading up to the big game.
Maxim. ESPN. Victoria’s Secret. Playboy. All of ‘em… and then some.
Should be quite interesting, to say the least. So if anyone else out there is headed out to ‘Zona to watch the Pats squeak by the GMen (NE 37, NYG 27 is the call), look me up. I’ll be the guy standing next to Eva Longoria, Peyton Manning, Brian Urlacher, Paris Hilton and the rest of the pretty people.
Man I love my job.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
NFL Prediction Battle: The Last Stand
Yea, yea I know I’ve missed a few weeks of picks. What can ya do?
But I might as well finish what I started with one final go around of regular season picks. And what a week to come back into the mix – because teams have already clinched, been eliminated, etc, the lines are all out of whack.
But considering I didn’t have much luck with legit lines, I can’t imagine it will matter much.
So here we go… one last go around…
BILLS at Eagles (-9)
Panthers (-3) at BUCCANEERS
Bengals (-2.5) at DOLPHINS
COWBOYS at Redskins (-9)
Lions at PACKERS (-3.5)
JAGUARS at Texans (-7)
Saints at BEARS (Pick ‘Em)
STEELERSteelers (-3) at Ravens
SEAHAWKS (-2) at Falcons
49ers at BROWNS (-11.5)
TITANS (-4.5) at Colts
Vikings (-3) at BRONCOS
CHARGERS (-9) at Raiders
RAMS at Cards (-6)
Chiefs at JETS (-5.5)
LOCK OF THE WEEK: BROWNS
But I might as well finish what I started with one final go around of regular season picks. And what a week to come back into the mix – because teams have already clinched, been eliminated, etc, the lines are all out of whack.
But considering I didn’t have much luck with legit lines, I can’t imagine it will matter much.
So here we go… one last go around…
BILLS at Eagles (-9)
Panthers (-3) at BUCCANEERS
Bengals (-2.5) at DOLPHINS
COWBOYS at Redskins (-9)
Lions at PACKERS (-3.5)
JAGUARS at Texans (-7)
Saints at BEARS (Pick ‘Em)
STEELERSteelers (-3) at Ravens
SEAHAWKS (-2) at Falcons
49ers at BROWNS (-11.5)
TITANS (-4.5) at Colts
Vikings (-3) at BRONCOS
CHARGERS (-9) at Raiders
RAMS at Cards (-6)
Chiefs at JETS (-5.5)
LOCK OF THE WEEK: BROWNS
Saturday, December 29, 2007
The Perfect Pats
Well hey y’all. Nice to see all of you again.
So much has happened since we last spoke.
Hannukah came and went. The ghosts of Christmas past, present and future all paid their yearly visits. Jamie Lynn Spears went from the least messed up Spears to battling Britney for the Crown of Craziness (although if you ask me, mom Lynne takes the cake).
Oh, and the New England Patriots just capped off a perfect season.
Because they were bludgeoning people so badly along the way, I’m not entirely sure this feat is receiving the merit it deserves.
This may be one of those accomplishments that sets in with sports nation as a day or two passes.
Usually when something this big in sports happens, the text messages between my sports brethren and myself begin to fly around, filling our living rooms with beeps, fight songs, catchy 80s tunes or just a simple vibration – depending on your ring tone pleasure.
But other than my buddy Seth “I Switched My Allegiance From The Red Sox To The Cardinals When I Moved To St. Louis But I’m Still A Pats Fan Cuz Let’s Be Honest Who Could Really Root For The Rams” Doria of The Left Calf fame, I heard nothing from nobody.
Then again, it’s the holidays. Or at least it was the holidays. Does New Years count when you say “the holiday season”? I’ve never been able to figure that one out. It’s certainly festive, but is it really a holiday?
Anyhoo, I digress… back to the subject at hand – the Patriots of New England.
They just went 16-0. First team ever.
Even the “legendary” Dolphins didn’t win 16. They only played 14 games back then. I’m not saying one team is better than the other (***cough***Pats would’ve beat the Phins by 30***cough***)… I’m just sayin’.
By the way, now that their hallowed record has fallen, do the members of the ’72 Dolphins still drink the champagne they save until each unbeaten falls year after year?
Actually, this might be the best reason they’ve had to drink in three decades. Again, I’m just sayin’.
But back to the game.
I was actually rooting for the Giants at the outset. Was watching the beginning of the game while on the treadmill at the gym (yes you read that right, I was at the gym. Trust me, it’s as weird for me to say as it is for you to hear).
And clearly, I wasn’t the only one. When Plaxico Burress caught the deep ball over the middle over Ellis Hobbs, a few roars emerged from the churning exercise bikes, treadmills and weird gliding machines.
And as the Giants built an impressive 12-lead with a quarter to play, it became more possible than preposterous that the Pats were about to meet their match for the first time this season.
Then the slow self-destruction of the Giants slowly unfolded. If you’re a Giants fan, I feel for you. It was painful to watch.
And as the Pats began to entrench their name atop the NFL record books, I was actually pretty happy for them. Not from a fair-weather mentality, but more from a realization that if they were going to fall short of the record, I wanted to see a team play a perfect game to beat them, and that certainly is not what the Giants were doing down the stretch.
So hats off to Tom Brady and crew. Regardless of who you’re rooting for, it’s always cool to witness history.
But before we put a bow on this puppy (keeping with the holiday theme), a few thoughts on the game and the Pats season:
- As soon as the Patriots took the lead in the fourth quarter it was over. Why? Since 2001, the Pats have had the lead 85 times in the fourth quarter. They’ve lost once. Once! They’re now 84-1 in those games. Remarkable.
- In a league where upsets happen week in and week out (after all, as Boomer says “This is why they play the games’) not once did the Pats fall prey to an underdog. Even the league’s worst teams are made up of some of the best athletes in the world. To face 16 hungry opponents and beat them all is truly amazing.
- It’s long been said bad teams beat themselves. It’s true. Well the Pats aren’t a bad team and they definitely don’t beat themselves. In fact, they’ve won 48 straight games when they’ve won the turnover battle. Again, amazing.
- I hate Randy Moss. I don’t care what records he breaks, he’s a bum. You get paid way too much to EVER take a play off.
- Speaking of #81…. If you take away all of his 23 TDs this year from Tom Brady, Brady would still have tossed a respectable 27 TDs this season. That’s still more than all but 5 other NFL QBs. Pretty good.
- Lastly, if those aforementioned Dolphins are looking for someone to send hate mail to, may I suggest Jets coach Eric Mangini. Think the whole “Spygate” crap had anything to do with the Pats’ blow ‘em out at all costs mentality this season? Nahhhh, couldn’t be. Nice job genius.
Well, that's all I've got. I know it was long, but it's been awhile so thanks for bearing with me.
Hope the holidays were as great for you as they were for me. And if anyone doesn't have any New Year's plans yet, feel free to join my beautiful fiancee and I at The Lobster on Santa Monica Pier followed by a Guitar Hero marathon back at the house.
LONG LIVE THE AVOCADOS! (ask me later, I'll explain).
HAPPY NEW YEARS!
So much has happened since we last spoke.
Hannukah came and went. The ghosts of Christmas past, present and future all paid their yearly visits. Jamie Lynn Spears went from the least messed up Spears to battling Britney for the Crown of Craziness (although if you ask me, mom Lynne takes the cake).
Oh, and the New England Patriots just capped off a perfect season.
Because they were bludgeoning people so badly along the way, I’m not entirely sure this feat is receiving the merit it deserves.
This may be one of those accomplishments that sets in with sports nation as a day or two passes.
Usually when something this big in sports happens, the text messages between my sports brethren and myself begin to fly around, filling our living rooms with beeps, fight songs, catchy 80s tunes or just a simple vibration – depending on your ring tone pleasure.
But other than my buddy Seth “I Switched My Allegiance From The Red Sox To The Cardinals When I Moved To St. Louis But I’m Still A Pats Fan Cuz Let’s Be Honest Who Could Really Root For The Rams” Doria of The Left Calf fame, I heard nothing from nobody.
Then again, it’s the holidays. Or at least it was the holidays. Does New Years count when you say “the holiday season”? I’ve never been able to figure that one out. It’s certainly festive, but is it really a holiday?
Anyhoo, I digress… back to the subject at hand – the Patriots of New England.
They just went 16-0. First team ever.
Even the “legendary” Dolphins didn’t win 16. They only played 14 games back then. I’m not saying one team is better than the other (***cough***Pats would’ve beat the Phins by 30***cough***)… I’m just sayin’.
By the way, now that their hallowed record has fallen, do the members of the ’72 Dolphins still drink the champagne they save until each unbeaten falls year after year?
Actually, this might be the best reason they’ve had to drink in three decades. Again, I’m just sayin’.
But back to the game.
I was actually rooting for the Giants at the outset. Was watching the beginning of the game while on the treadmill at the gym (yes you read that right, I was at the gym. Trust me, it’s as weird for me to say as it is for you to hear).
And clearly, I wasn’t the only one. When Plaxico Burress caught the deep ball over the middle over Ellis Hobbs, a few roars emerged from the churning exercise bikes, treadmills and weird gliding machines.
And as the Giants built an impressive 12-lead with a quarter to play, it became more possible than preposterous that the Pats were about to meet their match for the first time this season.
Then the slow self-destruction of the Giants slowly unfolded. If you’re a Giants fan, I feel for you. It was painful to watch.
And as the Pats began to entrench their name atop the NFL record books, I was actually pretty happy for them. Not from a fair-weather mentality, but more from a realization that if they were going to fall short of the record, I wanted to see a team play a perfect game to beat them, and that certainly is not what the Giants were doing down the stretch.
So hats off to Tom Brady and crew. Regardless of who you’re rooting for, it’s always cool to witness history.
But before we put a bow on this puppy (keeping with the holiday theme), a few thoughts on the game and the Pats season:
- As soon as the Patriots took the lead in the fourth quarter it was over. Why? Since 2001, the Pats have had the lead 85 times in the fourth quarter. They’ve lost once. Once! They’re now 84-1 in those games. Remarkable.
- In a league where upsets happen week in and week out (after all, as Boomer says “This is why they play the games’) not once did the Pats fall prey to an underdog. Even the league’s worst teams are made up of some of the best athletes in the world. To face 16 hungry opponents and beat them all is truly amazing.
- It’s long been said bad teams beat themselves. It’s true. Well the Pats aren’t a bad team and they definitely don’t beat themselves. In fact, they’ve won 48 straight games when they’ve won the turnover battle. Again, amazing.
- I hate Randy Moss. I don’t care what records he breaks, he’s a bum. You get paid way too much to EVER take a play off.
- Speaking of #81…. If you take away all of his 23 TDs this year from Tom Brady, Brady would still have tossed a respectable 27 TDs this season. That’s still more than all but 5 other NFL QBs. Pretty good.
- Lastly, if those aforementioned Dolphins are looking for someone to send hate mail to, may I suggest Jets coach Eric Mangini. Think the whole “Spygate” crap had anything to do with the Pats’ blow ‘em out at all costs mentality this season? Nahhhh, couldn’t be. Nice job genius.
Well, that's all I've got. I know it was long, but it's been awhile so thanks for bearing with me.
Hope the holidays were as great for you as they were for me. And if anyone doesn't have any New Year's plans yet, feel free to join my beautiful fiancee and I at The Lobster on Santa Monica Pier followed by a Guitar Hero marathon back at the house.
LONG LIVE THE AVOCADOS! (ask me later, I'll explain).
HAPPY NEW YEARS!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
NFL Prediction Battle: A Centennial Affair (Week 14 Picks)
Welcome to my 100th entry at That’s What HE Said everyone.
Was planning something grand and glorious for my 100th post, as a literary milestone of sorts.
Sadly, I got nothing right now.
So in the famous words of “Caddyshack’s” Judge Smails, “You’ll get nothing and like it.”
Well, nothing except for my Week 14 picks.
Enjoy. Pick in all caps…
BEARS at Redskins (-3)
Panthers at JAGUARS (-10.5)
COWBOYS (-11) at Lions
Dolphins at BILLS (-7)
GIANTS at Eagles (-2.5)
Raiders at PACKERS (-10.5)
STEELERS at Patriots (-10.5)
Chargers (-1) at TITANS
Rams at BENGALS (-9)
TAMPA BAY (-3) at Texans
Cardinals at SEAHAWKS (-7)
VIKINGS (-8.5) at Niners
BROWNS (-3.5) at Jets
CHIEFS at Broncos (-6.5)
Colts (-9) at RAVENS
Saints (-3.5) at FALCONS
Was planning something grand and glorious for my 100th post, as a literary milestone of sorts.
Sadly, I got nothing right now.
So in the famous words of “Caddyshack’s” Judge Smails, “You’ll get nothing and like it.”
Well, nothing except for my Week 14 picks.
Enjoy. Pick in all caps…
BEARS at Redskins (-3)
Panthers at JAGUARS (-10.5)
COWBOYS (-11) at Lions
Dolphins at BILLS (-7)
GIANTS at Eagles (-2.5)
Raiders at PACKERS (-10.5)
STEELERS at Patriots (-10.5)
Chargers (-1) at TITANS
Rams at BENGALS (-9)
TAMPA BAY (-3) at Texans
Cardinals at SEAHAWKS (-7)
VIKINGS (-8.5) at Niners
BROWNS (-3.5) at Jets
CHIEFS at Broncos (-6.5)
Colts (-9) at RAVENS
Saints (-3.5) at FALCONS
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Lute Leaves; Bears Can Hibernate Now & The Idiot Of The Week
It’s been awhile since I’ve posted anything that wasn’t my NFL picks.
I could list a thousand reasons why I haven’t had time, but does it really matter? Truth is, it sucks not having time to write.
I take pride in the words that appear on this blog and I treasure all of you who take a moment out of your days to stop and read. So for that, thank you.
But you’re not here for me to get all sappy on you, so let’s talk some sports shall we?
Here are the thoughts in my mind dying to be channeled via the keyboard...
Just heard Arizona hoops coach Lute Olson will not return to the bench this year, taking the rest of the season off to deal with what’s been described as personal matters.
Not sure what’s going on with Lute, but this is one man you’ll never hear me (or anyone who truly knows their college sports) say a disparaging word about.
If he needs the time, I’m sure there is a reason. And while selfishly as a fan, I certainly wish he’d come back, I wish nothing but the best for Lute and whatever issues he may be facing.
Thoughts and prayers to the Silver Fox. Come back next year and bless another group of kids with your wisdom and grace.
...
Stick a fork in the Chicago Bears. Our season is over.
With a deflating loss to the Redskins on Thursday night, for all intents and purposes, you can officially close the book on the 2007 chapter of Chicago Bears football.
To make matters worse, we just got beat by Todd Collins. Oh by the way, he hadn't taken a snap in a game in three years. Nice.
We could win out and go 8-8 and have a heck of a chance at a Wild Card spot in the lowly NFC. Truth is, I want no part of it. I really can’t take it.
Makes it a whole lot easier without getting my hopes up every week that this is the game that turns our season around. I can stop wishing now.
A myriad of things could catch the brunt of the blame for the Bears ineptitude this year. Injuries. Bad offseason moves. More injuries. But it just doesn’t matter. The one thing this Bears team does more than any other I’ve ever watched is simple – miss tackles.
I’ve never seen a defense miss so many tackles game after game after game. At the line. In the hole. Down the field. It really is sickening to watch.
But of all the folks that deserve blame, I hate to break it to all you haters out there, but Rex Grossman isn’t one of them. Yes, he played awful at the start of the season before he was benched. But when he took the job back from I’ve-been-a-backup-all-my-life Brian Griese, Rexy played well, yet was plagued by a QB’s two worst enemies: dropped passes and absolute lack of a running attack.
Rex went down hard on Thursday and his leg bent as no leg should. Not surprised if he doesn’t play again this season and it’s unfortunate. He likely wasn’t going to be wearing the Bears uniform next year, and was essentially auditioning for a free agent contract. But that may have come to an end at RFK. And that’s a shame.
We won’t win with Brian Griese. We just won’t.
And while Cedric Benson certainly wasn’t lighting the world on fire, Adrian Peterson hasn’t been much better. I’d like to see a steady dose of Greg Olsen, Devin Hester and Garret Wolfe down the stretch. It’s these three that make up the future of the Bears offense. Might as well see what they can do.
Maybe next year we stay healthy, get a QB that can stay on the field without making mistakes and our defense returns to form. If so, I’ll take our chances any day in the NFC.
...
ESPN just reported some doosh bag (I don’t know his name and don’t care) bought Michael Vick’s property for $450,000. After owning the place for just over three weeks, he now plans to auction off the property (cages, leashes, chains and all) and says he won’t take anything less than $1 million.
This is the same property where Vick bred, trained, fought and executed countless number of dogs.
I’m all for seizing the opportunities that come your way, but I hope this guy gets a serious dose of karma up the ass. He deserves it for trying to make a buck off of this atrocity.
...
Tim Tebow deserves the Heisman. There’s no argument to be made. Truthfully, if I had a vote (and God willing one day I will) I’d put Darren McFadden second, Chase Daniel third and Colt “I torch Nevada State for 500 yards” Brennan fourth. System, shmystem.
...
Would you spend $16 million/year on a guy who hit .222 with 26 HRs, 94 RBI, 83 runs… and 138 Ks?
Me neither.
Dodgers did on Andruw Jones. Have fun with that one.
Cubs need a center fielder. Was praying for Torii Hunter, dreading Andruw Jones and willing to settle for Aaron Rowand.
Let’s hope I’m forced to settle with A-Row at this point. We cut bait on three-fifths of our outfield. We had to have something in mind… didn’t we?
...
Idiot of the Week Award goes to Steelers safety Anthony Smith. I’ve never heard of you before, and chances are most of your teammates hadn’t either before this week. After your moronic guarantee of a win over the Patriots, I would venture to guess most of the Steelers wish they still never knew who you were.
But hey, nice job. A team that has to be rattled after two close calls against sub-par teams just got exactly what they needed to regain their focus.
Nice job dude. Nice job.
I could list a thousand reasons why I haven’t had time, but does it really matter? Truth is, it sucks not having time to write.
I take pride in the words that appear on this blog and I treasure all of you who take a moment out of your days to stop and read. So for that, thank you.
But you’re not here for me to get all sappy on you, so let’s talk some sports shall we?
Here are the thoughts in my mind dying to be channeled via the keyboard...
Just heard Arizona hoops coach Lute Olson will not return to the bench this year, taking the rest of the season off to deal with what’s been described as personal matters.
Not sure what’s going on with Lute, but this is one man you’ll never hear me (or anyone who truly knows their college sports) say a disparaging word about.
If he needs the time, I’m sure there is a reason. And while selfishly as a fan, I certainly wish he’d come back, I wish nothing but the best for Lute and whatever issues he may be facing.
Thoughts and prayers to the Silver Fox. Come back next year and bless another group of kids with your wisdom and grace.
...
Stick a fork in the Chicago Bears. Our season is over.
With a deflating loss to the Redskins on Thursday night, for all intents and purposes, you can officially close the book on the 2007 chapter of Chicago Bears football.
To make matters worse, we just got beat by Todd Collins. Oh by the way, he hadn't taken a snap in a game in three years. Nice.
We could win out and go 8-8 and have a heck of a chance at a Wild Card spot in the lowly NFC. Truth is, I want no part of it. I really can’t take it.
Makes it a whole lot easier without getting my hopes up every week that this is the game that turns our season around. I can stop wishing now.
A myriad of things could catch the brunt of the blame for the Bears ineptitude this year. Injuries. Bad offseason moves. More injuries. But it just doesn’t matter. The one thing this Bears team does more than any other I’ve ever watched is simple – miss tackles.
I’ve never seen a defense miss so many tackles game after game after game. At the line. In the hole. Down the field. It really is sickening to watch.
But of all the folks that deserve blame, I hate to break it to all you haters out there, but Rex Grossman isn’t one of them. Yes, he played awful at the start of the season before he was benched. But when he took the job back from I’ve-been-a-backup-all-my-life Brian Griese, Rexy played well, yet was plagued by a QB’s two worst enemies: dropped passes and absolute lack of a running attack.
Rex went down hard on Thursday and his leg bent as no leg should. Not surprised if he doesn’t play again this season and it’s unfortunate. He likely wasn’t going to be wearing the Bears uniform next year, and was essentially auditioning for a free agent contract. But that may have come to an end at RFK. And that’s a shame.
We won’t win with Brian Griese. We just won’t.
And while Cedric Benson certainly wasn’t lighting the world on fire, Adrian Peterson hasn’t been much better. I’d like to see a steady dose of Greg Olsen, Devin Hester and Garret Wolfe down the stretch. It’s these three that make up the future of the Bears offense. Might as well see what they can do.
Maybe next year we stay healthy, get a QB that can stay on the field without making mistakes and our defense returns to form. If so, I’ll take our chances any day in the NFC.
...
ESPN just reported some doosh bag (I don’t know his name and don’t care) bought Michael Vick’s property for $450,000. After owning the place for just over three weeks, he now plans to auction off the property (cages, leashes, chains and all) and says he won’t take anything less than $1 million.
This is the same property where Vick bred, trained, fought and executed countless number of dogs.
I’m all for seizing the opportunities that come your way, but I hope this guy gets a serious dose of karma up the ass. He deserves it for trying to make a buck off of this atrocity.
...
Tim Tebow deserves the Heisman. There’s no argument to be made. Truthfully, if I had a vote (and God willing one day I will) I’d put Darren McFadden second, Chase Daniel third and Colt “I torch Nevada State for 500 yards” Brennan fourth. System, shmystem.
...
Would you spend $16 million/year on a guy who hit .222 with 26 HRs, 94 RBI, 83 runs… and 138 Ks?
Me neither.
Dodgers did on Andruw Jones. Have fun with that one.
Cubs need a center fielder. Was praying for Torii Hunter, dreading Andruw Jones and willing to settle for Aaron Rowand.
Let’s hope I’m forced to settle with A-Row at this point. We cut bait on three-fifths of our outfield. We had to have something in mind… didn’t we?
...
Idiot of the Week Award goes to Steelers safety Anthony Smith. I’ve never heard of you before, and chances are most of your teammates hadn’t either before this week. After your moronic guarantee of a win over the Patriots, I would venture to guess most of the Steelers wish they still never knew who you were.
But hey, nice job. A team that has to be rattled after two close calls against sub-par teams just got exactly what they needed to regain their focus.
Nice job dude. Nice job.
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