His velocity was unmatched. His control was unpredictable. His accomplishments were unprecedented. I’m talking about Nolan Ryan.
Nolan Ryan was drafted by the New York Mets in 1966. The 19 year old made his debut that year, fittingly at the Astrodome. He only lasted an inning, however. The young right-handed pitcher was a slow starter in the Big Apple. No one was predicting a future Hall Of Fame career nor were the Mets’ brass impressed with his lack of control on the mound. Ryan was a boy from Texas who never fit in with the New York Mets. In 1968, Gil Hodges started the flamethrower on Easter Sunday. He fared much better in this start, striking out seven of the first ten men he faced.
Even though he contributed to the 1969 Championship team and spent five years a member of their pitching staff, it was clear he was not the ace. Gary Gentry, Jerry Koosman and Tom Seaver were all more promising pitching prospects. 1969 was Ryan’s only winning season as a Metropolitan. Nolan came in during the NLCS in a relief role for Gentry to help the Mets win the pennant. In Game 3 of the World Series, he sealed the save by relieving Gentry again. He did miss a portion of the year due to recurring injuries.
The California Angels acquired Nolan in early December, 1971. In California, Ryan pitched double the innings he did in New York. This was the start of the real Ryan.
Ryan finished 1972 with a 19-16 record and led the league in strikeouts and walks. His 2.28 ERA was also among league leaders. During the 1970s, it was rare to track a pitcher’s count. Nolan probably threw close to 200 pitches during a game. Ryan tossed a no hitter against the Kansas City Royals on May 15, 1973. It was the first of his record seven no-hitters. People would swing at anything just to get out of the batter’s box. Ryan sometimes didn’t even know where is his pitches would conclude.
Standing at the plate facing Ryan in those days must have been scary. Hitters were lucky to see the ball long enough for their hands to react to the pitch. The mere fear of knowing who they were facing was enough to have a hitter clam up. Ryan could combat with any type of changeup, curveball or devastating fastball. His lack of control was the most defining and maybe most endearing quality of watching the Express roll over batter after batter. Even coming out of the dugout, players would cringe and duck in fear.
Ryan is an imposing symbol of greatness in baseball. I have more Nolan Ryan baseball cards than any other player in my small collection. I loved the guy. I think the main reason was because it was always extreme with Ryan. You had no idea where the ball was going half the time and other times he was just so on his game and focused it was brilliant to witness. Ryan fooled other players with his carefully crafted location of tosses. Pitches could literally drop out at the last minute when looking like a meatball. I can’t think of any player today to compare him to. There are not any pitchers in today’s game who would throw as many pitches or have as many complete games and innings as Ryan. The game has changed. Pitchers no longer have the fortitude to endure long stretches of consistency. I often think if Ryan pitched today, he would be pulled early in games just like today’s stars. Coaches and managers coddle young pitchers too much. What are they saving their arms for?
I remember watching a wild Nolan Ryan knock hitters down. The batter could do nothing about it and was only left confused as to whether the pitcher meant it or not. The Express threw his signature fastball at over 100 mph as if it were as routine as washing his hair everyday.
Rickey Henderson was Ryan’s 500th strikeout victim. That is remarkable in itself. It happened in 1989. He missed out on two more no hitters in the ninth inning in 1989 also. The following year, July 1990, Nolan notched his 300th win. Ryan is the strikeout leader with 5,714. Trailing far behind him is Steve Carlton with 1,578. I doubt it will ever be broken by a major league pitcher.
Lynn Nolan Ryan was well known by the time I started looking up to him. As a pitcher myself, I admired Ryan. I remember him most with the Astros and Rangers. Everybody in my elementary classes knew who Nolan Ryan was even if they hadn’t a clue why. They heard the name at least. It was wonderful watching The Express in the Astrodome. He always seemed so old to me when he took the ball for Houston and Texas. In my mind, he is this veteran pitcher who I never knew as a young player. He is a father figure in his retro Astros jersey, lifting his left leg in my 1990 Topps baseball card. His white high top cleats are new, his hat is perfectly aligned atop his head, and his glove holds his true gift to the game.
I would have loved to see Ryan’s 773 games started, but unfortunately he pitched some of his better games before my time. With 324 careers wins and 61 shutouts, it’s no wonder the Express is a legend of the game. I was rooting for the Mets in 1986 I think, but I remember the Game 2 loss at the Astrodome by Houston. Number 34 battled back in Game 5 with eight strikeouts of the first twelve he faced. The Mets won the game in the bottom of the 12th inning. By that time, Ryan had already revolutionize the game of baseball. He was delightful to see pick off base runners. Nolan was the oldest pitcher to throw a no hitter and stockpiled 24 seasons with over 100 strikeouts. He paved the way for so many of today’s pitchers.
Only now can I truly appreciate the charismatic, celebrated current coach of the Texas Rangers. Ryan played in the pre-ESPN era and most of his accomplishments went under-appreciated. Nolan had nemesis’ chasing his fastballs for three decades. Most remember him for his smoke but he also had an accurate and solid curveball too. Any boy aspiring to be a major league pitcher should watch old games where Ryan pitched.
In the ever-changing environment of baseball, The Express is enduring and eternal. He never changes because history cannot be altered.
Parting points: “Going back to Houston, do the hot dog dance, Going back to Houston to get me some pants” -Beck’s “Lord Only Knows”
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Steve Sax vs. Steve Sanders
I’m going to skip the Thursday Take-twos today and instead do a compare and contrast on two alliteration-friendly names. Steve Sax is a real former baseball player. Steve Sanders is an imaginary character on the popular TV show, Beverly Hills, 90210. The inspiration for this idea came from SI.com. Ironically, today is Steve Sax’s birthday. 90210 and the Yankees are two of my favorite things in the world. Sax played for the Yankees in the 1980’s and Sanders appeared in every 90210 episode during the 1990’s. So here we go…
Both Steves have curly hair. Sax is a brunette with cute curls and Sanders has a hair of sun bleached blonde ones. Both grew up in California but only Sax was born in the Golden State. His birthplace is Sacramento. Sanders was adopted and born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sanders learned his real mother was Karen Brown, not the movie star, Samantha Sanders.
Sax guest-starred on the Simpsons. Sanders acts like Bart Simpson and drank beer as often as Homer during his college years. Sax made his major league debut at second base for the L.A. Dodgers. Sanders made his 90210 debut by getting wasted at a high school party. Sax has been seen riding his Harley. Sanders drove a black corvette for most of the show. Sax said goodbye to the Dodgers in 1988 after their World Series victory. Sax went to the Yankees. Sanders said goodbye in 1998 to his best friend, Brandon Walsh, after Walsh was offered a job in Washington. Sax once called The House That Ruth Built his home. Sanders once called Casa Walsh his home.
Sax has spent time working on a sports networking website after is baseball career was over. Sanders toyed with the idea of becoming a sports agent after graduation California University. Sanders remained married the series character, Janet. Sax was married once but eventually got a divorce. Sax was known for careless throws, errors and having defensive lapses at second base. Sanders was known for his carelessness, poor judgment and academic errors. Sax was awarded NL Rookie of the Year in 1982. Sanders was awarded the Beverly Hills High legacy key his senior year. Sanders frequented the Beverly Hills Peach Pit and ran the night club, The After Dark. Sax owned a night club and restaurant in the 1990’s name Twin Palms. Sax ran for California State Assembly in 1996. Sanders helped run his fraternity in 1996.
Today, Sax manages a securities firm and wrote a book about finance. Last time we saw Sanders, he was running a tabloid newspaper and writing gossip articles. Sax had fans wearing helmets in the stands to comically protect themselves from his throws. Sanders’ friends always had to protect him from himself. He was always going after all the girls on the show too. Sax missed the batting title one year by two points. Sanders didn’t miss the half court shot at an L.A. Lakers basketball game.
Sax was a higher-up in the Baseball Players’ Association. Sanders was a higher-up in the KEG Frat House. Sax and his older brother, Dave, played minor league ball together. They also both played for the Dodgers. Sanders had two younger step-brothers he did not want to share anything with. Sax went to James Marshall High School. Sanders attended West Beverly High. Sax was a great base stealer. Sanders only stole an opposing team’s mascot in college. He did, however, cheat. Sanders actually cheated on a math placement test as a incoming CU freshmen. Sanders spent one day working at the Peach Pit. Sax spent only one season playing in Oakland. Sax wore pinstripes. Sanders sported tank tops. Sax was scrawny and scrappy. Sanders was solid, thick and muscular.
So there you have it.
Parting points: Song of the day- Santeria by Sublime
Both Steves have curly hair. Sax is a brunette with cute curls and Sanders has a hair of sun bleached blonde ones. Both grew up in California but only Sax was born in the Golden State. His birthplace is Sacramento. Sanders was adopted and born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sanders learned his real mother was Karen Brown, not the movie star, Samantha Sanders.
Sax guest-starred on the Simpsons. Sanders acts like Bart Simpson and drank beer as often as Homer during his college years. Sax made his major league debut at second base for the L.A. Dodgers. Sanders made his 90210 debut by getting wasted at a high school party. Sax has been seen riding his Harley. Sanders drove a black corvette for most of the show. Sax said goodbye to the Dodgers in 1988 after their World Series victory. Sax went to the Yankees. Sanders said goodbye in 1998 to his best friend, Brandon Walsh, after Walsh was offered a job in Washington. Sax once called The House That Ruth Built his home. Sanders once called Casa Walsh his home.
Sax has spent time working on a sports networking website after is baseball career was over. Sanders toyed with the idea of becoming a sports agent after graduation California University. Sanders remained married the series character, Janet. Sax was married once but eventually got a divorce. Sax was known for careless throws, errors and having defensive lapses at second base. Sanders was known for his carelessness, poor judgment and academic errors. Sax was awarded NL Rookie of the Year in 1982. Sanders was awarded the Beverly Hills High legacy key his senior year. Sanders frequented the Beverly Hills Peach Pit and ran the night club, The After Dark. Sax owned a night club and restaurant in the 1990’s name Twin Palms. Sax ran for California State Assembly in 1996. Sanders helped run his fraternity in 1996.
Today, Sax manages a securities firm and wrote a book about finance. Last time we saw Sanders, he was running a tabloid newspaper and writing gossip articles. Sax had fans wearing helmets in the stands to comically protect themselves from his throws. Sanders’ friends always had to protect him from himself. He was always going after all the girls on the show too. Sax missed the batting title one year by two points. Sanders didn’t miss the half court shot at an L.A. Lakers basketball game.
Sax was a higher-up in the Baseball Players’ Association. Sanders was a higher-up in the KEG Frat House. Sax and his older brother, Dave, played minor league ball together. They also both played for the Dodgers. Sanders had two younger step-brothers he did not want to share anything with. Sax went to James Marshall High School. Sanders attended West Beverly High. Sax was a great base stealer. Sanders only stole an opposing team’s mascot in college. He did, however, cheat. Sanders actually cheated on a math placement test as a incoming CU freshmen. Sanders spent one day working at the Peach Pit. Sax spent only one season playing in Oakland. Sax wore pinstripes. Sanders sported tank tops. Sax was scrawny and scrappy. Sanders was solid, thick and muscular.
So there you have it.
Parting points: Song of the day- Santeria by Sublime
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Casting Chamberlain
The drama of Joba Chamberlain is already starting to unfold and unravel in the Yankee theater. Joba will probably take the stage and begin his 2009 campaign as a designated starting pitcher. The great debate is whether Chamberlain should be used solely as a starter or pulled purposely from the pen.
The Yankee rotation is a good one. The Bombers resigned veteran lefty, Andy Pettitte, and added two bonifide performers in C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Last season’s ace, Chien-Ming Wang, returns to the rotation in a lesser role as a healed hauler. The health of the staff is going to be the main question in ultimately deciding if Chamberlain is chained to start games. I think with Joba as the fourth starter, ahead of Pettitte, the Yankees have a solidified backend rotation. Andy as the fifth starter only makes him better. Chamberlain’s presence and move to the starting front would take pressure off Pettitte to perform at high levels. He fumbled down the stretch in 2008, but now the focus will be shifted to the big three and the evolution of Joba. Chamberlain will evolve as long as he keeps a consistent schedule and can contain his emotions on the mound. He is equipped to be a starter but his emotional makeup as a reliever concerns many fans. He was so successful in the role of reliever fans wonder why Brian Cashman would mess with what works. But Joba has all the goods to deliver a variety of quality starting stuff.
Phil Hughes is coming off a mediocre first season in which the expectations failed to produce a lock in the starring role. Hughes is efficient and can be a go-to arm every fifth game but he also could use some time to work out the kinks in his mechanics. Meanwhile, Joba would have the chance to prove himself and show us more. The Yankees will know quickly if moving Joba into the rotation or back to the bullpen is the right choice. Hughes or Alfredo Aceves could replace him in the rotation if the choice to keep him as a reliever is made.
It’s true Joba would ensure a dynamic duo if given the opportunity to be the 8th inning pitcher. Mariano Rivera remains the team closer, but he is coming off shoulder surgery. Number 42 could start slow coming out this Spring and Chamberlain could help close games early in the season. However, that role would mean Joba using only two pitches. If the Yankees relegated the righty to a starting position, he would need to mix in malicious alternatives. I would hate to miss out on seeing Joba work the count on hitters with his devastating curve and cool changeup.
The good part about the Yankees being somewhat undecided (even though Cashman told Joba and insists he will start) is they have enough pitching to be flexible and have a trial and error period. However, the organization cannot hesitate or wait it out too long to decide the fate of Joba. One way or another, Joba deserves an convincing answer. He commands respect in either role because of his ability and resourcefulness as a pitcher. It is likely one of the current pegged starting pitchers will suffer an ailment at some point in 2009. That is just the nature of the long baseball year. A guaranteed Joba would grant a gifted gamer and shutdown solution against opponents. The bullpen is weaker without Joba but the starting rotation also suffers without his talent on display. He is built to start and accustomed to being in there. Imagine opposing teams with the fear factor instilled before the first pitch is thrown instead of the final inning leading up to his entrance.
Parting points: The Devils are still on a roll in hockey land. I see few weaknesses in this team but they are probably going to let me down come playoff time anyway.
The Yankee rotation is a good one. The Bombers resigned veteran lefty, Andy Pettitte, and added two bonifide performers in C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Last season’s ace, Chien-Ming Wang, returns to the rotation in a lesser role as a healed hauler. The health of the staff is going to be the main question in ultimately deciding if Chamberlain is chained to start games. I think with Joba as the fourth starter, ahead of Pettitte, the Yankees have a solidified backend rotation. Andy as the fifth starter only makes him better. Chamberlain’s presence and move to the starting front would take pressure off Pettitte to perform at high levels. He fumbled down the stretch in 2008, but now the focus will be shifted to the big three and the evolution of Joba. Chamberlain will evolve as long as he keeps a consistent schedule and can contain his emotions on the mound. He is equipped to be a starter but his emotional makeup as a reliever concerns many fans. He was so successful in the role of reliever fans wonder why Brian Cashman would mess with what works. But Joba has all the goods to deliver a variety of quality starting stuff.
Phil Hughes is coming off a mediocre first season in which the expectations failed to produce a lock in the starring role. Hughes is efficient and can be a go-to arm every fifth game but he also could use some time to work out the kinks in his mechanics. Meanwhile, Joba would have the chance to prove himself and show us more. The Yankees will know quickly if moving Joba into the rotation or back to the bullpen is the right choice. Hughes or Alfredo Aceves could replace him in the rotation if the choice to keep him as a reliever is made.
It’s true Joba would ensure a dynamic duo if given the opportunity to be the 8th inning pitcher. Mariano Rivera remains the team closer, but he is coming off shoulder surgery. Number 42 could start slow coming out this Spring and Chamberlain could help close games early in the season. However, that role would mean Joba using only two pitches. If the Yankees relegated the righty to a starting position, he would need to mix in malicious alternatives. I would hate to miss out on seeing Joba work the count on hitters with his devastating curve and cool changeup.
The good part about the Yankees being somewhat undecided (even though Cashman told Joba and insists he will start) is they have enough pitching to be flexible and have a trial and error period. However, the organization cannot hesitate or wait it out too long to decide the fate of Joba. One way or another, Joba deserves an convincing answer. He commands respect in either role because of his ability and resourcefulness as a pitcher. It is likely one of the current pegged starting pitchers will suffer an ailment at some point in 2009. That is just the nature of the long baseball year. A guaranteed Joba would grant a gifted gamer and shutdown solution against opponents. The bullpen is weaker without Joba but the starting rotation also suffers without his talent on display. He is built to start and accustomed to being in there. Imagine opposing teams with the fear factor instilled before the first pitch is thrown instead of the final inning leading up to his entrance.
Parting points: The Devils are still on a roll in hockey land. I see few weaknesses in this team but they are probably going to let me down come playoff time anyway.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Great Gretzky
There are very few athletes who define, embody and enlighten their sport. Michael Jordan is basketball. Babe Ruth is baseball. Wayne Gretzky is hockey. Today the Great One, number 99, celebrates his birthday. I can’t think of a greater or more gifted athlete in my lifetime than Gretzky. What began in Edmonton in 1978 and ended in 1999 with the New York Rangers was a dominant, stellar and impressive professional career. The Canadian currently calls the Coyotes his team because he is a part-owner and head coach for the upstart Phoenix franchise.
Wayne was born in Ontario and dubbed “the Great Gretzky” at the ripe young age of 6. As a first-grader, Gretzky glowed on the ice. He played alongside 10 year-olds and skated his way up the amateur hockey ranks. By age 13, the teenage phenom notched 1,000 goals as a peewee player. Gretzky didn’t even have a license to drive a car but the Ontario Hockey Association came calling for him to drive their league. Sticks, skates and all, Wayne requested the number 9 jersey. The number was previously worn by Gretzky’s hero, Gordie Howe. Nine wasn’t available so Wayne settled for 99.
The true greatness of Gretzky was just beginning to show glimpses Wayne whipped his way through the World Hockey Association, compiling records and awards by the glove-full. He was considered the smartest player on the ice most games. Gretzky could skate with surefire speed, read defenses, trick the toughest goalies and handle the puck with prominent precision and accuracy. He adapted to all his opponents and essentially changed the game as a young star. He played with the Edmonton Oilers in his first NHL game. In 1983, Wayne’s 51 game consecutive scoring streak stood at everybody’s attention. The four time Stanley Cup winning Oilers were a force in the NHL thanks to the great number 99. Wayne’s passing ability advanced his status. He became an elite worldwide player and proved himself a national hero by helping his team win the 1987 Canada Cup. Wayne cemented himself a true legend in hockey lore when he joined the L.A.Kings.
I became a Kings fan in part because of the classy way Wayne looked in his uniform. When he went to L.A., the Great One helped them to the 1993 Stanley Cup finals. I remember the seven game series leading to the finals. L.A. beat Toronto in that brutal and crucial series. They were let down when Montreal defeated them for the Stanley Cup but those games defined my devotion to Gretzky. He was, in my mind, the best athlete I had ever seen in a single sport. He was better than Jordan in my eyes. Gretzky carried the Kings on his back and handled the pressure of the spotlight. He had to learn how to deal with adversity and being the center of attention from a young age. I compare what Wayne probably dealt with to what Lebron James is going through now. Wayne was pegged to be a megastar before he even was one. As a teenager, the expectations were so enormous and the potential unlimited. He lived up to all those expectations. Gretzky has more points and assists than any player in history. The nine time MVP won more annual trophies than any athlete in a team sport. Today, he has a lot to celebrate and to be proud of.
Parting points: I read the first book written by Tom Verducci and Joe Torre after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series. I am looking forward to Joe’s highly-touted new book coming out next week too.
Wayne was born in Ontario and dubbed “the Great Gretzky” at the ripe young age of 6. As a first-grader, Gretzky glowed on the ice. He played alongside 10 year-olds and skated his way up the amateur hockey ranks. By age 13, the teenage phenom notched 1,000 goals as a peewee player. Gretzky didn’t even have a license to drive a car but the Ontario Hockey Association came calling for him to drive their league. Sticks, skates and all, Wayne requested the number 9 jersey. The number was previously worn by Gretzky’s hero, Gordie Howe. Nine wasn’t available so Wayne settled for 99.
The true greatness of Gretzky was just beginning to show glimpses Wayne whipped his way through the World Hockey Association, compiling records and awards by the glove-full. He was considered the smartest player on the ice most games. Gretzky could skate with surefire speed, read defenses, trick the toughest goalies and handle the puck with prominent precision and accuracy. He adapted to all his opponents and essentially changed the game as a young star. He played with the Edmonton Oilers in his first NHL game. In 1983, Wayne’s 51 game consecutive scoring streak stood at everybody’s attention. The four time Stanley Cup winning Oilers were a force in the NHL thanks to the great number 99. Wayne’s passing ability advanced his status. He became an elite worldwide player and proved himself a national hero by helping his team win the 1987 Canada Cup. Wayne cemented himself a true legend in hockey lore when he joined the L.A.Kings.
I became a Kings fan in part because of the classy way Wayne looked in his uniform. When he went to L.A., the Great One helped them to the 1993 Stanley Cup finals. I remember the seven game series leading to the finals. L.A. beat Toronto in that brutal and crucial series. They were let down when Montreal defeated them for the Stanley Cup but those games defined my devotion to Gretzky. He was, in my mind, the best athlete I had ever seen in a single sport. He was better than Jordan in my eyes. Gretzky carried the Kings on his back and handled the pressure of the spotlight. He had to learn how to deal with adversity and being the center of attention from a young age. I compare what Wayne probably dealt with to what Lebron James is going through now. Wayne was pegged to be a megastar before he even was one. As a teenager, the expectations were so enormous and the potential unlimited. He lived up to all those expectations. Gretzky has more points and assists than any player in history. The nine time MVP won more annual trophies than any athlete in a team sport. Today, he has a lot to celebrate and to be proud of.
Parting points: I read the first book written by Tom Verducci and Joe Torre after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series. I am looking forward to Joe’s highly-touted new book coming out next week too.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Arizona Allstars
The ballots are cast and the votes in for the 2009 NBA All-star game in Phoenix Arizona. The game is set for February 15th, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Love is being shown for the following starters:
Eastern Conference- Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Lebron James, Allen Iverson
Western Conference- Kobe Bryant, Amar’e Stoudemire, Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Yao Ming
The U.S. Airways Center plays host to the annual allstar game. The week-long festivities are always fame-filled frenzies. This year is sure to be another memorable one. Eastern guards, Allen Iverson and Dwyane Wade are all-around fearless shooters. The Detroit star Iverson is playing in his 10th Allstar game in hist 13th year in the NBA. AI has led the league in scoring four times. His explosive and scorching ball handling will be on display next month for sure. Wade has a less flamboyant and less cocky approach, but is still an aggressive player than Iverson. He is without a doubt the leader for Miami’s potent offense. He is also a better defensive player than AI. Wade, in his 5th Allstar appearance, will be an asset in assists and rebounds for the East. Center, Dwight Howard, received the most Allstar votes this year. The Magic Olympic medal winner is a very physical post player. He brings a winning attitude and formula every game in Orlando and is well deserving as an Allstar leader. Forwards Lebron James and Kevin Garnett round out the conference starting five. James needs no introduction. He is the front runner for this year’s MVP and has developed into one of the greatest to play the game. Lebron’s versatility combined with Garnett’s experience and selfless style will be worth watching. KG is in his 14th year and consistently leads the league in field goal percentage and rebounding. He was the best player on the championship Celtics last year and was MVP during the 2003 Allstar game.
The Western conference perennially boasts as better all around but I am sure the East will not rollover. Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul are arguably the two best guards in the NBA. Wade and Iverson are great but Kobe and Chris have the raw talent to be considered the better duo. Bryant and AI both have at least 20,000 career points, joining Shaquille O’Neal as the only active players with that amount. Kobe is a two-time MVP in Allstar games and brings his complete game to this year’s match. Paul is notably one of the best young players today and definitely the best to come out of Wake Forest. Number three is exciting and excels in steals and assists. Paul challenged Kobe for the league MVP last season, and his Hornets will be playoff contenders as long as he carries the ball there. Tim Duncan court presence and leadership represent the best forward in the league. He is a hard to defend, great at protecting the ball and a big man on the court whenever he appears. Duncan has four NBA titles with the Spurs and all the fundamental skills to produce another one in San Antonio with a little help from his teammates and great coaching. Amar’e Stoudemire joins Duncan at forward for the Western team. In his third Allstar selection Stoudemire’s power and strength are hard to counter. The former rookie of the year is often overlooked but his statistics don’t lie. He knows how to bring it. Center, Yao Ming, rounds out the West with his massive 6 ft 7 frame. The popular Houston Rocket is often injured but when he is healthy, can shoot free throws with the best of them. A true blocking center, Ming is a number one draft pick and future Hall of Fame candidate.
The outcome of the game really does not matter. I like seeing the stars come out to play. The game is more about showing off than actual basketball usually. Unlike other Allstar games, the NBA’s version of the best is more about the players and celebrities s than the fans.
Parting points: I am still reading “The Beautiful and the Damned” by F.Scott Fitzgerald. I am glued to it now that I am almost done. The book took a strange turn late.
Eastern Conference- Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Lebron James, Allen Iverson
Western Conference- Kobe Bryant, Amar’e Stoudemire, Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Yao Ming
The U.S. Airways Center plays host to the annual allstar game. The week-long festivities are always fame-filled frenzies. This year is sure to be another memorable one. Eastern guards, Allen Iverson and Dwyane Wade are all-around fearless shooters. The Detroit star Iverson is playing in his 10th Allstar game in hist 13th year in the NBA. AI has led the league in scoring four times. His explosive and scorching ball handling will be on display next month for sure. Wade has a less flamboyant and less cocky approach, but is still an aggressive player than Iverson. He is without a doubt the leader for Miami’s potent offense. He is also a better defensive player than AI. Wade, in his 5th Allstar appearance, will be an asset in assists and rebounds for the East. Center, Dwight Howard, received the most Allstar votes this year. The Magic Olympic medal winner is a very physical post player. He brings a winning attitude and formula every game in Orlando and is well deserving as an Allstar leader. Forwards Lebron James and Kevin Garnett round out the conference starting five. James needs no introduction. He is the front runner for this year’s MVP and has developed into one of the greatest to play the game. Lebron’s versatility combined with Garnett’s experience and selfless style will be worth watching. KG is in his 14th year and consistently leads the league in field goal percentage and rebounding. He was the best player on the championship Celtics last year and was MVP during the 2003 Allstar game.
The Western conference perennially boasts as better all around but I am sure the East will not rollover. Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul are arguably the two best guards in the NBA. Wade and Iverson are great but Kobe and Chris have the raw talent to be considered the better duo. Bryant and AI both have at least 20,000 career points, joining Shaquille O’Neal as the only active players with that amount. Kobe is a two-time MVP in Allstar games and brings his complete game to this year’s match. Paul is notably one of the best young players today and definitely the best to come out of Wake Forest. Number three is exciting and excels in steals and assists. Paul challenged Kobe for the league MVP last season, and his Hornets will be playoff contenders as long as he carries the ball there. Tim Duncan court presence and leadership represent the best forward in the league. He is a hard to defend, great at protecting the ball and a big man on the court whenever he appears. Duncan has four NBA titles with the Spurs and all the fundamental skills to produce another one in San Antonio with a little help from his teammates and great coaching. Amar’e Stoudemire joins Duncan at forward for the Western team. In his third Allstar selection Stoudemire’s power and strength are hard to counter. The former rookie of the year is often overlooked but his statistics don’t lie. He knows how to bring it. Center, Yao Ming, rounds out the West with his massive 6 ft 7 frame. The popular Houston Rocket is often injured but when he is healthy, can shoot free throws with the best of them. A true blocking center, Ming is a number one draft pick and future Hall of Fame candidate.
The outcome of the game really does not matter. I like seeing the stars come out to play. The game is more about showing off than actual basketball usually. Unlike other Allstar games, the NBA’s version of the best is more about the players and celebrities s than the fans.
Parting points: I am still reading “The Beautiful and the Damned” by F.Scott Fitzgerald. I am glued to it now that I am almost done. The book took a strange turn late.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Bring Beautiful Baseball
It’s roughly 20 days until pitchers and catchers report according to MLB.com. Here are 20 reasons to tune into baseball in 2009:
20) The MLB Network debut. If you have access to the channel, I can’t see any real drawbacks to being able to see games from around the league everyday.
19) The Rays’ David Price’s first full season as a starting pitcher. This guy is going to set the league on fire down in Tampa.
18) Ozzie Guillen is always a charismatic character to cry and complain in Chitown. I am sure we’ll be hearing from him in no time once again, especially now that President Obama is the number one White Sox fan.
17) Dontrelle Willis is off the DL and healthy again in Detroit. Look for him to bounce back and get his high leg kick in gear for the underachieving Tigers.
16) How will Chipper Jones hit when he visits New York? He practically owned Shea Stadium and the new CitiField is supposed to be even more hitter-friendly. Speaking of the tomahawks, they have a promising prospect with potential in pitcher, Tommy Hansen. Hansen might be in their rotation as soon as this Spring.
15) Can the Chicago Cubs break their post-season curse? Probably not this year.
14) How soon before the Mets fans start referring to their new relief pitcher J.J. as simply “Putz” (in the literal sense)?
13) Manny being Manny again---somewhere.
12) Who will be the first manager canned? Better yet, who will have more wins, the Pirates, Royals or Nationals?
11) How will Michael Young like the transition from SS to 3B? Maybe he will put up Arod numbers. Let’s just hope he can hit in the clutch and won’t start dating Madonna.
10) Were the 2008 Rays just a fluke? They dropped the Devil and I think they are for real.
9) John Smoltz’s debut for the Red Sox against the Yankees will be fun.
8) How many pitchers will win 20 games? Roy Halladay will and he will still fly under the radar in Toronto.
7) The use of instant replay will probably be employed often.
6) Krod’s New York debut
5) New stadiums in New York. Which sluggers will hit the first homeruns in the new parks?
4) Can the Phillies repeat as World Champions?
3) You have to keep an eye on the Mets late in the season. Will they avoid another collapse or can they go for a third straight falling out?
2) C.C., A.J. and Tex in pinstripes. Enough said.
1) Baseball is America’s pastime and always will be.
3 more reasons:
3) Pre-season games
2) Regular season games
1) Post-season games
Parting points: Today’s celebrity birthdays of note:
Tiffani-Amber Theissen- The Buffalo bad girl Valerie Malone of 90210 fame and caring, Kelly Kapowski of Saved By the Bell
Tony Lucca- former Mickey Mouse Club member and singer
William Cunningam of the Box Tops (I love the song “The Letter”)
Humphrey Bogart- it may or may not be his actual birthday. Check out the controversy here: www.snopes.com/movies/actors/bogartbirthday.asp
In honor of Tiffani, here is my favorite Valerie Malone quote: “These people are such avocado heads.”
20) The MLB Network debut. If you have access to the channel, I can’t see any real drawbacks to being able to see games from around the league everyday.
19) The Rays’ David Price’s first full season as a starting pitcher. This guy is going to set the league on fire down in Tampa.
18) Ozzie Guillen is always a charismatic character to cry and complain in Chitown. I am sure we’ll be hearing from him in no time once again, especially now that President Obama is the number one White Sox fan.
17) Dontrelle Willis is off the DL and healthy again in Detroit. Look for him to bounce back and get his high leg kick in gear for the underachieving Tigers.
16) How will Chipper Jones hit when he visits New York? He practically owned Shea Stadium and the new CitiField is supposed to be even more hitter-friendly. Speaking of the tomahawks, they have a promising prospect with potential in pitcher, Tommy Hansen. Hansen might be in their rotation as soon as this Spring.
15) Can the Chicago Cubs break their post-season curse? Probably not this year.
14) How soon before the Mets fans start referring to their new relief pitcher J.J. as simply “Putz” (in the literal sense)?
13) Manny being Manny again---somewhere.
12) Who will be the first manager canned? Better yet, who will have more wins, the Pirates, Royals or Nationals?
11) How will Michael Young like the transition from SS to 3B? Maybe he will put up Arod numbers. Let’s just hope he can hit in the clutch and won’t start dating Madonna.
10) Were the 2008 Rays just a fluke? They dropped the Devil and I think they are for real.
9) John Smoltz’s debut for the Red Sox against the Yankees will be fun.
8) How many pitchers will win 20 games? Roy Halladay will and he will still fly under the radar in Toronto.
7) The use of instant replay will probably be employed often.
6) Krod’s New York debut
5) New stadiums in New York. Which sluggers will hit the first homeruns in the new parks?
4) Can the Phillies repeat as World Champions?
3) You have to keep an eye on the Mets late in the season. Will they avoid another collapse or can they go for a third straight falling out?
2) C.C., A.J. and Tex in pinstripes. Enough said.
1) Baseball is America’s pastime and always will be.
3 more reasons:
3) Pre-season games
2) Regular season games
1) Post-season games
Parting points: Today’s celebrity birthdays of note:
Tiffani-Amber Theissen- The Buffalo bad girl Valerie Malone of 90210 fame and caring, Kelly Kapowski of Saved By the Bell
Tony Lucca- former Mickey Mouse Club member and singer
William Cunningam of the Box Tops (I love the song “The Letter”)
Humphrey Bogart- it may or may not be his actual birthday. Check out the controversy here: www.snopes.com/movies/actors/bogartbirthday.asp
In honor of Tiffani, here is my favorite Valerie Malone quote: “These people are such avocado heads.”
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday Take Twos
After the exciting NFC and AFC Championship weekend, there haven’t been many sports stories since. In New York, Gang Green hired their next head coach. Rex Ryan, former defensive coordinator in Baltimore, will replace Eric Mangini. Ryan will call plays for the Jets but it’s still unknown whether or not Brett Favre will be back. My opinion is to look elsewhere for a quarterback. Ryan needs to start his head coaching career with a clean slate. Favre’s future figures to fix the flailing Jets, but his gun slinging gambles clearly don’t make the cut with the current crop of players. New York should focus on building and solidifying the defense, especially up front. A strong tackling and pass rushing defense would lay the foundation and perhaps the Jets could acquire someone in free agency like a Ray Lewis. As for the quarterback, the draft might be the best option if there aren’t any decent available trade options. The Jets have a legitimate running back, Thomas Jones. They also have a playmaker in Leon Washington. Favre is too selfish a star to be the signal-caller. The AFC East is New York’s for the taking if Tom Brady sits out another year in New England.
What are the Mets waiting for? Sign Manny Ramirez for two years please. If it doesn’t work out, there are no long-term obligations. If Manny succeeds and the team wakes up to make the playoffs, the move would be a huge payoff for Omar Minaya. Maybe Ramirez would remain in Queens for the remainder of his Hall of Fame career. He is a New York native and the flair the Mets desperately need.
Jeff Kent announced his retirement from baseball yesterday.
The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have battled it out this week for first place but it is the Devils who head into the all-star break as number one.
Venus Williams fell victim to the 46th ranked Spanish player down under today.
Wake Forest lost a heartbreaker at home to Virginia Tech 78-71 for their first loss of the season.
The Islanders a rumored to be moving to Kansas City in the future but they finally notched their first game of 2009.
And finally, some team out there actually wants Stephon Marbury. The belligerent baldheaded basketball player could be shipped to a team in Greece.
What are the Mets waiting for? Sign Manny Ramirez for two years please. If it doesn’t work out, there are no long-term obligations. If Manny succeeds and the team wakes up to make the playoffs, the move would be a huge payoff for Omar Minaya. Maybe Ramirez would remain in Queens for the remainder of his Hall of Fame career. He is a New York native and the flair the Mets desperately need.
Jeff Kent announced his retirement from baseball yesterday.
The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have battled it out this week for first place but it is the Devils who head into the all-star break as number one.
Venus Williams fell victim to the 46th ranked Spanish player down under today.
Wake Forest lost a heartbreaker at home to Virginia Tech 78-71 for their first loss of the season.
The Islanders a rumored to be moving to Kansas City in the future but they finally notched their first game of 2009.
And finally, some team out there actually wants Stephon Marbury. The belligerent baldheaded basketball player could be shipped to a team in Greece.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Troy Takes Tenacious Team to Tampa with Timely Touchdown
Troy Polamalu outplayed Ed Reed. Yes, the Steelers’ star safety scrambled for a 40 yard interception return for a touchdown Sunday to carry Pittsburgh to the promised land. Reed was the highly touted safety in the game but the Raven was overshadowed by his nemesis on the other end. Hines and Holmes had their highlights, Ben proved pocket-perfect and Tomlin typified terrible towel tradition. But the real hero, Polamalu, is the reason Pittsburgh will be in their 7th Superbowl.
Peppy Pittsburgh tackled well and harassed the rookie quarterback from Baltimore. The Steelers won the Superbowl three years ago and some of the same players remain. They are no strangers to the big game but it will be a different feel for Roethlisberger. He did not have an outstanding Superbowl and now will have a chance to redeem himself with a mismatch against Arizona.
The 23-14 win was a battle of pure defense during championship Sunday. Joe Flacco had three costly interceptions for Baltimore. Ben had zero. Roethlisberger’s maturity and apparent experience in these situations was an important factor last week and will help determine the team’s outcome in two weeks. The chances are good he will step up again. He’s been through the elements of playoff football. Ben’s 65 yard pass to wideout, Santonio Holmes, allowed the Steelers a two-score lead in the second quarter. The defense was exceptional, holding the Ravens scoreless in two quarters. Willis McGahee, the Ravens running back, had two touchdowns but was knocked out of the game on a brutal Ryan Clarke hit late in the game. Clarke had 8 tackles for Pittsburgh. James Farrior had 6 tackles and Lamar Woodley had two sacks as 65,000 plus fans waved their terrible towels in snowy Heinz Field.
The scene is set and the game should be a nice finish to the season. Go Steelers!
Parting points: I was sad to see Leyton Hewitt already knocked out of the Australian Open. I know he’s coming off an injury, but it would have been nice to see him advance a little farther in his homeland.
Peppy Pittsburgh tackled well and harassed the rookie quarterback from Baltimore. The Steelers won the Superbowl three years ago and some of the same players remain. They are no strangers to the big game but it will be a different feel for Roethlisberger. He did not have an outstanding Superbowl and now will have a chance to redeem himself with a mismatch against Arizona.
The 23-14 win was a battle of pure defense during championship Sunday. Joe Flacco had three costly interceptions for Baltimore. Ben had zero. Roethlisberger’s maturity and apparent experience in these situations was an important factor last week and will help determine the team’s outcome in two weeks. The chances are good he will step up again. He’s been through the elements of playoff football. Ben’s 65 yard pass to wideout, Santonio Holmes, allowed the Steelers a two-score lead in the second quarter. The defense was exceptional, holding the Ravens scoreless in two quarters. Willis McGahee, the Ravens running back, had two touchdowns but was knocked out of the game on a brutal Ryan Clarke hit late in the game. Clarke had 8 tackles for Pittsburgh. James Farrior had 6 tackles and Lamar Woodley had two sacks as 65,000 plus fans waved their terrible towels in snowy Heinz Field.
The scene is set and the game should be a nice finish to the season. Go Steelers!
Parting points: I was sad to see Leyton Hewitt already knocked out of the Australian Open. I know he’s coming off an injury, but it would have been nice to see him advance a little farther in his homeland.
Wiley Wisenhunt Wins With Wise Warner
The 37 year old former grocery clerk and NY Giants castaway, Kurt Warner, is going to another Superbowl. Warner’s accuracy and fourth quarter comeback ability enabled the Arizona redbirds to punch a ticket to Tampa. Ken Whisenhunt, the rookie Cardinal coach, credits his team’s capacity to gel at the right time as the reason they will be one of two teams playing February football.
Arizona’s defense has stepped up this post-season. Knocked all season long, they exposed Donovan McNabb and contained the hot, Brian Westbrook, in Sunday’s game. McNabb had three touchdowns for the Eaglesa and still put up impressive numbers in the second half. But the formerly coy Cardinals came through when the pressure was on the defense late in the game. Much of the victory can be attributed to Todd Haley’s potent offense, led by the veteran Warner. Warner completed four touchdown passes for 279 yards in the Philly win. Wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, was the recipient of three of those. The former University of Pittsburgh player had nine total receptions for 162 yards. His 419 receiving yards in the post-season means a new single-season record. Jerry Rice can no longer lay claim to that remarkable feat.
The Eagles disappointed defensively and Jim Johnson was out coached. Philly came into the championship game with the top defense in the league. Credit Arizona for being able to control the pounded presented to them all game long. The Eagles offense collapsed in the first half and McNabb was horrendous. When he finally was able to put something together, it was too little, too late. The Cards surrendered 18 unanswered points by the 4th quarter and it looked like Philadelphia might fly away with a late miracle. The Eagles had a 25-24 lead when Warner wasted no time in displaying his determination to drive his team down the field. Tailback, Tim Hightower, put Arizona back on top with a touchdown pass from his smart quarterback Kurt. The Cardinals punter, Ben Graham, should take a bow also for sealing the deal by pinning Philly deep in their own territory. The Eagles last attempt failed as DeSean Jackson lateraled to Westbrook, who fumbled to end the game. McNabb did have on last rally with under three minutes to make the Eagles NFC champs. But, on 4th and 10 from at the Arizona 47, his pass to Kevin Curtis was ruled incomplete. It appeared to be defensive passer interference, but the referees did not make the call and there was no challenge. Curtis had four receptions for 122 yards. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, scored two touchdowns as well.
I am happy for the Cardinals. The franchise has had tough luck through the years. It will be interesting to see Russ Grim and Whisenhunt match up with their former Pittsburgh team in two weeks.
Arizona’s defense has stepped up this post-season. Knocked all season long, they exposed Donovan McNabb and contained the hot, Brian Westbrook, in Sunday’s game. McNabb had three touchdowns for the Eaglesa and still put up impressive numbers in the second half. But the formerly coy Cardinals came through when the pressure was on the defense late in the game. Much of the victory can be attributed to Todd Haley’s potent offense, led by the veteran Warner. Warner completed four touchdown passes for 279 yards in the Philly win. Wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, was the recipient of three of those. The former University of Pittsburgh player had nine total receptions for 162 yards. His 419 receiving yards in the post-season means a new single-season record. Jerry Rice can no longer lay claim to that remarkable feat.
The Eagles disappointed defensively and Jim Johnson was out coached. Philly came into the championship game with the top defense in the league. Credit Arizona for being able to control the pounded presented to them all game long. The Eagles offense collapsed in the first half and McNabb was horrendous. When he finally was able to put something together, it was too little, too late. The Cards surrendered 18 unanswered points by the 4th quarter and it looked like Philadelphia might fly away with a late miracle. The Eagles had a 25-24 lead when Warner wasted no time in displaying his determination to drive his team down the field. Tailback, Tim Hightower, put Arizona back on top with a touchdown pass from his smart quarterback Kurt. The Cardinals punter, Ben Graham, should take a bow also for sealing the deal by pinning Philly deep in their own territory. The Eagles last attempt failed as DeSean Jackson lateraled to Westbrook, who fumbled to end the game. McNabb did have on last rally with under three minutes to make the Eagles NFC champs. But, on 4th and 10 from at the Arizona 47, his pass to Kevin Curtis was ruled incomplete. It appeared to be defensive passer interference, but the referees did not make the call and there was no challenge. Curtis had four receptions for 122 yards. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, scored two touchdowns as well.
I am happy for the Cardinals. The franchise has had tough luck through the years. It will be interesting to see Russ Grim and Whisenhunt match up with their former Pittsburgh team in two weeks.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Amateur Author Archives
I was going through some old journal entries I wrote when I was younger. I came across one I wrote after the Yankees won the 1996 World Series. Then, I found another entry recalling the night the Bronx Bombers became world champions. I think I wrote the second piece a few years later. Here are the two writings from yours truly. I like to think my journaling has improved since then, but I will let you be the judge.
Recalling the 1996 World Series
On October 26, 1996, I sat on my living room couch. The World Series of 1996 was on television. The New York Yankees were playing the Atlanta Braves at Yankee Stadium. The Braves had defeated the Yankees in the first two games. The Yankees had a major three game comeback thanks to the heroics of Paul O’Neill, Jim Leyritz and David Cone.
It was the bottom of the ninth inning. The Yankees were in the field. John Wetteland, relief pitcher, was on the mound. Mark Lemke was awaiting the pitch that would end the season for his Braves. Wetteland winded up and threw a fastball to Lemke. The ball swirled in the air over third baseman Charlie Hayes’s head. He reached his glove into the air and secured the World Series in the Bronx Bombers’ hands.
Tino Martinez, Mariano Duncan, Derek Jeter, Joe Girardi, Charlie Hayes, Darryl Strawberry, Bernie Williams and Paul O’Neill all rushed to the mound and piled on top of each other in a joyous celebration. My radio soared with the announcer screaming, “The Yankees win, theeeeeee Yankees win!”
The second entry…I guess I was always a little dramatic, huh?
I’ve experienced many things in my life. Not one was as heartwarming as viewing the 1996 World Series. I remember it like it was yesterday. I’ll never forget the way I felt and what I felt like doing. What makes a hero? To me, a hero is someone with courage and heart. They have to be able to touch you in some way. The 1996 Yankees displayed a vast amount of courage and heart. Their determination, talent, consideration and goals reached out to me. To me, heroes are the New York Yankees.
There were two strikes on Mark Lempke as I sat, spine-chilling, on my living room couch. The drama brought me to the edge of my seat. I whispered prayers in my head as John Wetteland took his windup. Mark Lempke lifted his front leg slightly and swung his two arms past his neck slowly. The baseball turned up into the air near the Braves dugout where it had previously landed. I stood on my two feet and clutched my two fists. Charlie Hayes stumbled to the front row of the stands, watched and forced the ball into his black glove. I froze as a tear came into my eye and the Yankees into my heart. I’ve always been a Yankee fan, but after this World Series experience, I was addicted and a fan for life. When Charlie Hayes secured the ball, I, along with the players (or so I imagined) realized what it was all about. Suddenly fame and salaries seemed pointless. I realized the important thing was completing what they were sent to finish. As I watched memories being made, I had a knot in my throat. My tongue was tied as veteran, Wage Boggs, rode a horse and Mariano Rivera exchanged hugs with pitcher, Andy Pettitte. As Wetteland held up his one finger and Paul O’Neill jumped on top of the pile of players, I suddenly didn’t care what time it was or the fact I had school the next morning. All I wanted to do was cry. I felt I had seen the best thing in the whole entire world. For once in my life, I felt a part of the heroism that took place on the memorable October 26, 1996.
Parting points: My favorite album in 1996 was Beck‘s “Odelay”, released June 18th.
I received it for Christmas and just starting reading it--”War as they knew it. Woody Hayes, Bo Schembechler, and America in a time of unrest” by Michael Rosenberg
Recalling the 1996 World Series
On October 26, 1996, I sat on my living room couch. The World Series of 1996 was on television. The New York Yankees were playing the Atlanta Braves at Yankee Stadium. The Braves had defeated the Yankees in the first two games. The Yankees had a major three game comeback thanks to the heroics of Paul O’Neill, Jim Leyritz and David Cone.
It was the bottom of the ninth inning. The Yankees were in the field. John Wetteland, relief pitcher, was on the mound. Mark Lemke was awaiting the pitch that would end the season for his Braves. Wetteland winded up and threw a fastball to Lemke. The ball swirled in the air over third baseman Charlie Hayes’s head. He reached his glove into the air and secured the World Series in the Bronx Bombers’ hands.
Tino Martinez, Mariano Duncan, Derek Jeter, Joe Girardi, Charlie Hayes, Darryl Strawberry, Bernie Williams and Paul O’Neill all rushed to the mound and piled on top of each other in a joyous celebration. My radio soared with the announcer screaming, “The Yankees win, theeeeeee Yankees win!”
The second entry…I guess I was always a little dramatic, huh?
I’ve experienced many things in my life. Not one was as heartwarming as viewing the 1996 World Series. I remember it like it was yesterday. I’ll never forget the way I felt and what I felt like doing. What makes a hero? To me, a hero is someone with courage and heart. They have to be able to touch you in some way. The 1996 Yankees displayed a vast amount of courage and heart. Their determination, talent, consideration and goals reached out to me. To me, heroes are the New York Yankees.
There were two strikes on Mark Lempke as I sat, spine-chilling, on my living room couch. The drama brought me to the edge of my seat. I whispered prayers in my head as John Wetteland took his windup. Mark Lempke lifted his front leg slightly and swung his two arms past his neck slowly. The baseball turned up into the air near the Braves dugout where it had previously landed. I stood on my two feet and clutched my two fists. Charlie Hayes stumbled to the front row of the stands, watched and forced the ball into his black glove. I froze as a tear came into my eye and the Yankees into my heart. I’ve always been a Yankee fan, but after this World Series experience, I was addicted and a fan for life. When Charlie Hayes secured the ball, I, along with the players (or so I imagined) realized what it was all about. Suddenly fame and salaries seemed pointless. I realized the important thing was completing what they were sent to finish. As I watched memories being made, I had a knot in my throat. My tongue was tied as veteran, Wage Boggs, rode a horse and Mariano Rivera exchanged hugs with pitcher, Andy Pettitte. As Wetteland held up his one finger and Paul O’Neill jumped on top of the pile of players, I suddenly didn’t care what time it was or the fact I had school the next morning. All I wanted to do was cry. I felt I had seen the best thing in the whole entire world. For once in my life, I felt a part of the heroism that took place on the memorable October 26, 1996.
Parting points: My favorite album in 1996 was Beck‘s “Odelay”, released June 18th.
I received it for Christmas and just starting reading it--”War as they knew it. Woody Hayes, Bo Schembechler, and America in a time of unrest” by Michael Rosenberg
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Thursday Take Twos
Another weekend of wild and wacky powerful pigskin playoffs goes by the wayside. All birds were fluttering feathers and flying high. The Cardinals walloped the turnover tossing Panthers, the Eagles lashed a lewd landing in windy New York, and the Ravens rallied to rough up the revolting Titans in Tennessee. Neither Pittsburgh nor San Diego can claim a winged mascot but the Steelers scoured in Sunday’s final game by winning at home.
I like the chances of an all-Pennsylvania Superbowl. You cannot undermine the Baltimore defense or the Arizona air game. Both teams are capable of pulling off the upsets, even though Arizona is the higher seed in their game on Sunday. The Ravens’ Ed Reed and Cardinals’ Larry Fitzgerald are arguably the two best players remaining in the playoffs. The game changers are threats to keep an eye on during the two grudge matches before Super Sunday. Unflappable quarterbacks are the story in chilly Pittsburgh, while the time-tested, been-there-done-that drama defines the quarterbacks in the desert. I think it will be a high-scoring affair in the early game between the NFC birds. The second game will definitely deliver a thrilling, but low-scoring, defensive gem.
In baseball news, Derek Lowe made headlines by signing a deal to pitch for Bobby Cox in Atlanta. The Mets were after him but now they will have to face him plenty of times this season. Lowe should do well there as their ace. The Red Sox acquired former tomahawk hauler, John Smoltz. It will be interesting to see how Terry Francona uses the veteran and future Hall of Famer. Boston also added Rocco Baldelli for outfield assistance. Baldelli is a gamer and will make an immediate impact to improve the Boston outfield. The Mets made minor moves with their acquiring starter, Tim Redding and utility man, Alex Cora. Cora will see time at second when Luis Castillo decides his knee needs a nap.
The Baseball Hall Of Fame announces this year’s inductees. The duo, Ricky Henderson and Jim Rice will be elected in the summer. Both are deserving. Slick and speedy Ricky made the Hall on his first year of eligibility. Rice, on the other hand, finally was voted in during his last year.
The Australian Open seeds are set for the upcoming Grand Slam. It is probably my least favorite of the four slams, but I still get reeled in to watching each year.
The college basketball season is starting to take shape now and I like what I see from Pittsburgh. The Panthers are the number one team. It’s great to see a Big East team reign supreme. To me, UNC is overrated and Duke will be outclassed by some less-renowned programs Wake Forest, Uconn and Oklahoma.
Add these players to the list of those declaring for the NFL draft and leaving college early: Ohio State’s WR, Brian Hartline and Wisconsin and Pittsburgh running backs P.J. Hill and LeSean McCoy, respectively. Oklahoma Heisman winner, Sam Bradford, is coming back for his final year.
Parting points: Want to learn how to pedal perfectly on your bike? Check this out:
http://www.bicycling.com/article/0,6610,s1-4-41-18172-1,00.html
I like the chances of an all-Pennsylvania Superbowl. You cannot undermine the Baltimore defense or the Arizona air game. Both teams are capable of pulling off the upsets, even though Arizona is the higher seed in their game on Sunday. The Ravens’ Ed Reed and Cardinals’ Larry Fitzgerald are arguably the two best players remaining in the playoffs. The game changers are threats to keep an eye on during the two grudge matches before Super Sunday. Unflappable quarterbacks are the story in chilly Pittsburgh, while the time-tested, been-there-done-that drama defines the quarterbacks in the desert. I think it will be a high-scoring affair in the early game between the NFC birds. The second game will definitely deliver a thrilling, but low-scoring, defensive gem.
In baseball news, Derek Lowe made headlines by signing a deal to pitch for Bobby Cox in Atlanta. The Mets were after him but now they will have to face him plenty of times this season. Lowe should do well there as their ace. The Red Sox acquired former tomahawk hauler, John Smoltz. It will be interesting to see how Terry Francona uses the veteran and future Hall of Famer. Boston also added Rocco Baldelli for outfield assistance. Baldelli is a gamer and will make an immediate impact to improve the Boston outfield. The Mets made minor moves with their acquiring starter, Tim Redding and utility man, Alex Cora. Cora will see time at second when Luis Castillo decides his knee needs a nap.
The Baseball Hall Of Fame announces this year’s inductees. The duo, Ricky Henderson and Jim Rice will be elected in the summer. Both are deserving. Slick and speedy Ricky made the Hall on his first year of eligibility. Rice, on the other hand, finally was voted in during his last year.
The Australian Open seeds are set for the upcoming Grand Slam. It is probably my least favorite of the four slams, but I still get reeled in to watching each year.
The college basketball season is starting to take shape now and I like what I see from Pittsburgh. The Panthers are the number one team. It’s great to see a Big East team reign supreme. To me, UNC is overrated and Duke will be outclassed by some less-renowned programs Wake Forest, Uconn and Oklahoma.
Add these players to the list of those declaring for the NFL draft and leaving college early: Ohio State’s WR, Brian Hartline and Wisconsin and Pittsburgh running backs P.J. Hill and LeSean McCoy, respectively. Oklahoma Heisman winner, Sam Bradford, is coming back for his final year.
Parting points: Want to learn how to pedal perfectly on your bike? Check this out:
http://www.bicycling.com/article/0,6610,s1-4-41-18172-1,00.html
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Decisive Difference
Pile on the points with patience
Pick the perfect place to pry
Pounce poignantly and pretentiously like a prince
Position your pursuit as you ply
Decisiveness is the difference
Between a dictating dominator
And a defeated decadence
Being shown the door
If you want to win in the game of tennis
Here’s one trait to take to heart
Be decisive and play the menace
You will see a difference only when you start
Pick the perfect place to pry
Pounce poignantly and pretentiously like a prince
Position your pursuit as you ply
Decisiveness is the difference
Between a dictating dominator
And a defeated decadence
Being shown the door
If you want to win in the game of tennis
Here’s one trait to take to heart
Be decisive and play the menace
You will see a difference only when you start
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Wishful Whims
Today’s NFL ticket calls for two grudge matches in the making. The Pittsburgh Steelers host the San Diego Chargers in the late game and the Philadelphia Eagles land a third installment against New York at Giants Stadium.
I am looking forward to the feature matchups because I am a fan of Pittsburgh and New York. I want both to meet in Tampa for the Superbowl on February 1st. Is it wishful thinking to have both home teams advance to the conference championships games next weekend? Perhaps.
Take a look at Pittsburgh. Their quarterback is on the mend after suffering another concussion two weeks ago. Nobody expects him to ride the bench this afternoon, but how healthy is he? The Steelers need a strong offensive line to protect Ben or the Chargers will administer an authentic annexation. The line play for Pittsburgh is the team’s evident weakness. No matter how much the defense contains the Chargers and Phillip Rivers’ arm, the Steelers have to hold on to the ball long enough to compete. They have the home field advantage, and I am sure the weather in the Steel City does not favor the visiting warm weather team. As long as Mike Tomlin’s offense can carry the load, Pittsburgh should win this game. They are the better team despite the talent on San Diego. The Steelers beat the Chargers in a memorable 11-10 game earlier in the season. The game was close, but the Steelers were able to hold the ball longer, and that seemed to be the real difference. Say what you want about the momentum and charging Chargers. They were hot last week in putting Peyton’s Colts to shame. San Diego’s defense deserves a lot of credit for being able to stop the Indy attack. However, the Colts are not the Steelers. They have a lackluster running game. The Steelers are more effective rushing if Willie Parker sees touches. I think he will with the forecast and the fact Ben has been somewhat unstable. Rivers is a scary quarterback when he starts to throw downfield and he is very capable of the long-sustained drives. Long drives are what the Steelers should focus on for themselves in order to prevail. I think this game will be close in the first half. The Chargers may even hold a steady lead. But the Steelers will win this one handedly after all is said and done. They will be Superbowl bound again.
As for the showdown at the Meadowlands in the snow covered blue seats, it will be a battle. No if, ands or buts, this game will be a three point victory for one of the NFC teams. I am just unsure which one. I am rooting hard for Big Blue, but the Eagles make me nervous. I think they are the only team stopping New York from earning a second Superbowl appearance. Donovan McNab is a veteran and will come to play. New York seems to be concentrating solely on stopping Brian Westbrook. Westbrook is a big time runner when given room to pace downfield. Justin Tuck and Antonio Pierce have to be on their game and not allow Westbrook to gain yards. The Giants are not playing well when stopping third down attempts on defense as of late. Tom Coughlin’s team must improve quickly if they hope to make this a game. McNab can scramble out of the pocket and has the protection to find receivers. Defensively, Philadelphia ranks among the league’s best. Eli Manning I believe will have a big game. Brandon Jacobs running the ball is crucial, but no more than Manning passing effectively. If Manning can manage the game like rookie, Joe Flacco, did for Baltimore yesterday, the Giants have the upper-hand. If, however, he makes mistakes and shows the carelessness Jake Delhomme displayed last night, the Eagles will win a close one. Westbrook is not the Giants’ only concern. They need to remember the Eagles have other ways to beat teams and will be looking to put points on the board from the defense. I want to say the Giants will win but I can’t say for sure. I am pretty confident this won’t be a blowout either way though.
Parting points: “I’m the king of wishful thinking”.
I am looking forward to the feature matchups because I am a fan of Pittsburgh and New York. I want both to meet in Tampa for the Superbowl on February 1st. Is it wishful thinking to have both home teams advance to the conference championships games next weekend? Perhaps.
Take a look at Pittsburgh. Their quarterback is on the mend after suffering another concussion two weeks ago. Nobody expects him to ride the bench this afternoon, but how healthy is he? The Steelers need a strong offensive line to protect Ben or the Chargers will administer an authentic annexation. The line play for Pittsburgh is the team’s evident weakness. No matter how much the defense contains the Chargers and Phillip Rivers’ arm, the Steelers have to hold on to the ball long enough to compete. They have the home field advantage, and I am sure the weather in the Steel City does not favor the visiting warm weather team. As long as Mike Tomlin’s offense can carry the load, Pittsburgh should win this game. They are the better team despite the talent on San Diego. The Steelers beat the Chargers in a memorable 11-10 game earlier in the season. The game was close, but the Steelers were able to hold the ball longer, and that seemed to be the real difference. Say what you want about the momentum and charging Chargers. They were hot last week in putting Peyton’s Colts to shame. San Diego’s defense deserves a lot of credit for being able to stop the Indy attack. However, the Colts are not the Steelers. They have a lackluster running game. The Steelers are more effective rushing if Willie Parker sees touches. I think he will with the forecast and the fact Ben has been somewhat unstable. Rivers is a scary quarterback when he starts to throw downfield and he is very capable of the long-sustained drives. Long drives are what the Steelers should focus on for themselves in order to prevail. I think this game will be close in the first half. The Chargers may even hold a steady lead. But the Steelers will win this one handedly after all is said and done. They will be Superbowl bound again.
As for the showdown at the Meadowlands in the snow covered blue seats, it will be a battle. No if, ands or buts, this game will be a three point victory for one of the NFC teams. I am just unsure which one. I am rooting hard for Big Blue, but the Eagles make me nervous. I think they are the only team stopping New York from earning a second Superbowl appearance. Donovan McNab is a veteran and will come to play. New York seems to be concentrating solely on stopping Brian Westbrook. Westbrook is a big time runner when given room to pace downfield. Justin Tuck and Antonio Pierce have to be on their game and not allow Westbrook to gain yards. The Giants are not playing well when stopping third down attempts on defense as of late. Tom Coughlin’s team must improve quickly if they hope to make this a game. McNab can scramble out of the pocket and has the protection to find receivers. Defensively, Philadelphia ranks among the league’s best. Eli Manning I believe will have a big game. Brandon Jacobs running the ball is crucial, but no more than Manning passing effectively. If Manning can manage the game like rookie, Joe Flacco, did for Baltimore yesterday, the Giants have the upper-hand. If, however, he makes mistakes and shows the carelessness Jake Delhomme displayed last night, the Eagles will win a close one. Westbrook is not the Giants’ only concern. They need to remember the Eagles have other ways to beat teams and will be looking to put points on the board from the defense. I want to say the Giants will win but I can’t say for sure. I am pretty confident this won’t be a blowout either way though.
Parting points: “I’m the king of wishful thinking”.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
G.U.T.S. & Gladiators
Two of my favorite semi-sports related shows as a child were Nickelodeon’s GUTS and American Gladiators. Both programs provided physical engagements in enthralling, exaggerated and emphatic exercise. GUTS showcased kids individually challenging one another in a variety of obstacle-course like situations. The American Gladiators were a group of faux superhero athletes with creative names like Nitro and Thunder. Gladiators competed against real people who hoped to beat the actors at their own game.
I remember coming home from school and propping myself in front of the television, tuning into Nickelodeon. The network had the best game shows back in the 90’s. GUTS was my favorite because I loved obstacle courses. In gym, whenever we had to do the obstacle course, I was in 7th heaven. As an athlete, I loved the idea of different events set up. The same could be said for when our school held “Field Days”. I usually won at least two events in the categories I entered each year. Enough tooting my own horn though. What made GUTS an awesome show was the simple concept. The events varied each show, but it always ended in the same fashion, with the climbing of the gigantic wall/crag. The winner would stand holding his or her trophy in the end. I admired the winner and secretly pictured myself wearing one of those strange outfits.
American Gladiators aired on the USA network, usually during the day. I have memories of sick days and snow days staying at home watching back-to-back-to-back episodes. It never got old to me. If I was home ill from school, my mother would make me a slushy to sip as I stretched in an unstylish manner on her bed. I’d watch wondrously and the contestants collided in rolling oval globes or threw objects from behind walls as objects were being thrown at them. Multi-tasking was important for all competing. My favorite part of the show was the climatic finish, where once again, there was an obstacle course. It began with running up a treadmill track and ended with gambling on which “door” to run through. A Gladiator was behind one of the doors and was the last heap before the finish line. On snow days, all the kids in the house would gather gazing at the gigantic Gladiators on the TV. We all had our favorites and rooted with proud, piping pleasure.
It would be great to see these shows again. I know they tried to revive the American Gladiators and GUTS can now be seen on the Old School Nick Network. My innuendo is there should be more sports type TV shows. I would tune in to watch real people try to play sports. The human element is often lost when we watch professional athletes play their games. It is sometimes nice to see everyday people compete against each other and challenge themselves to accomplish simple goals.
Parting points: I get to catch two of my teams in actions tonight. The Devils play the Kings out on the ice in L.A. and the Knicks face off against the Rockets on the court.
Song of the day: Mariah Carey’s “Emotions”.
I remember coming home from school and propping myself in front of the television, tuning into Nickelodeon. The network had the best game shows back in the 90’s. GUTS was my favorite because I loved obstacle courses. In gym, whenever we had to do the obstacle course, I was in 7th heaven. As an athlete, I loved the idea of different events set up. The same could be said for when our school held “Field Days”. I usually won at least two events in the categories I entered each year. Enough tooting my own horn though. What made GUTS an awesome show was the simple concept. The events varied each show, but it always ended in the same fashion, with the climbing of the gigantic wall/crag. The winner would stand holding his or her trophy in the end. I admired the winner and secretly pictured myself wearing one of those strange outfits.
American Gladiators aired on the USA network, usually during the day. I have memories of sick days and snow days staying at home watching back-to-back-to-back episodes. It never got old to me. If I was home ill from school, my mother would make me a slushy to sip as I stretched in an unstylish manner on her bed. I’d watch wondrously and the contestants collided in rolling oval globes or threw objects from behind walls as objects were being thrown at them. Multi-tasking was important for all competing. My favorite part of the show was the climatic finish, where once again, there was an obstacle course. It began with running up a treadmill track and ended with gambling on which “door” to run through. A Gladiator was behind one of the doors and was the last heap before the finish line. On snow days, all the kids in the house would gather gazing at the gigantic Gladiators on the TV. We all had our favorites and rooted with proud, piping pleasure.
It would be great to see these shows again. I know they tried to revive the American Gladiators and GUTS can now be seen on the Old School Nick Network. My innuendo is there should be more sports type TV shows. I would tune in to watch real people try to play sports. The human element is often lost when we watch professional athletes play their games. It is sometimes nice to see everyday people compete against each other and challenge themselves to accomplish simple goals.
Parting points: I get to catch two of my teams in actions tonight. The Devils play the Kings out on the ice in L.A. and the Knicks face off against the Rockets on the court.
Song of the day: Mariah Carey’s “Emotions”.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Thursday Take Twos
We’re officially one week into the New Year. I’ve decided to begin a weekly sports round-up column. Each Thursday, I will recap the week’s top stories and infiltrate my intake and opinions on the sporting news.
The Giants-eagles hype is where I will start this week. Sunday’s playoff game leads off because the game has incredible intrigue. What more can be said about the impending rivalry showdown? The 1pm kickoff is sure to create enough juice to stir up both teams’ cities, and then some. Fans with tickets to this beastly battle between the Birds and the Blue are guaranteed a gem. I pray nobody gets hurt if Philadelphia fans snagged or scalped tickets on their way to New York.
The Eagles arrive literally flying sky high after mauling Minnesota. Brian Westbrook roughed up the Vikings defense with his breakaway scurries and scuttles stinging the secondary. Minnesota’s post-season hopes were killed and spoiled thanks to the speedster last week. Donovan McNab arrives as an aspiring, rejuvenated quarterback to the Meadowlands. Six weeks from being a benched bum, number five has the Eagles soaring. They earned the sixth seed by roughing up Dallas in their final regular season contest. Philadelphia has looked better and better each week since the benching of their quarterback. Defensive coordinator, Jimmie Johnson, knows how to handle the ground game, as proven last week against league leader rusher, Adrian Petersen.
The Giants were stuffed and stifled December 7th when they last lashed it out with the birds. Big Blue, however, played that day without Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs returns Sunday, albeit less than 100 percent, in what could be the difference in the rubber game. The Eagles are being given a ton of credit for a team that looked all but finished two months ago. I think the game will live up to the hype it’s receiving, but the Giants are the more powerful and smarter football team.
This week, the college football season wrapped up the bowl games with some mediocre melees and some sound skirmishes. The Rose Bowl was a predictable USC rout of Penn State, while the Fiesta surprisingly satisfied. Utah finished with a perfect record. The malcontent Utes made their avowal as the country’s top dog, although nobody seems to care. People were more concerned about expressing displeasure with the fact Florida and Oklahoma were not facing USC for the title game. Tonight is the aforementioned BCS championship. I predict a Gator win and am taking a gamble Tim Tebow will outplay Heisman winner, Sam Bradford. I can see the Sooner Sam sporting a Detroit Lions jersey next year by being the number one selection in April’s draft. Speaking of the draft, Chris Wells of Ohio State finally made up his mind to forego his senior year for the NFL. Good for “Beanie”. Two other standout collegians are headed to the pros as well. Quarterback, Matthew Stafford and running back, Knoeshawn Moreno from Georgia are leaving the game early and will be ripe for NFL scout picking. Both are top ten picks and Stafford may be the best quarterback available.
Eric Mangini must be an impressive interview. I was shocked to read he was hired a week after the Jet firing. Back to the Browns he goes, where he will inherit a promising Notre Dame alum in Brady Quinn. Mangini and former Browns coach, Romeo Crennel, are both Bill Belichik protégés. I don’t really see how Eric is going to make Cleveland a playoff contender, but I guess anything is possible. With the right staff, the Browns can put together a nice season I am sure.
It was nice to see Bill Cowher turn down the Jets offer to become head coach. Cowher showed his dignity by politely declining the opportunity and I think that was the right decision. Mike Shanahan seems to me to be the best fit for New York, but won’t happen either.
The Boston Celtics suddenly can’t find the chemistry that had them rolling in the beginning of the NBA season. They were virtually unstoppable. Now they are reeling, losing to the Knicks of all teams. Those same Knicks were demoralized by an overwrought Thunder team with a grand total of three wins. The inordinate amount of wins Boston was compiling was soon to dwindle down, but I cannot figure out where they went wrong so suddenly.
The Giants-eagles hype is where I will start this week. Sunday’s playoff game leads off because the game has incredible intrigue. What more can be said about the impending rivalry showdown? The 1pm kickoff is sure to create enough juice to stir up both teams’ cities, and then some. Fans with tickets to this beastly battle between the Birds and the Blue are guaranteed a gem. I pray nobody gets hurt if Philadelphia fans snagged or scalped tickets on their way to New York.
The Eagles arrive literally flying sky high after mauling Minnesota. Brian Westbrook roughed up the Vikings defense with his breakaway scurries and scuttles stinging the secondary. Minnesota’s post-season hopes were killed and spoiled thanks to the speedster last week. Donovan McNab arrives as an aspiring, rejuvenated quarterback to the Meadowlands. Six weeks from being a benched bum, number five has the Eagles soaring. They earned the sixth seed by roughing up Dallas in their final regular season contest. Philadelphia has looked better and better each week since the benching of their quarterback. Defensive coordinator, Jimmie Johnson, knows how to handle the ground game, as proven last week against league leader rusher, Adrian Petersen.
The Giants were stuffed and stifled December 7th when they last lashed it out with the birds. Big Blue, however, played that day without Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs returns Sunday, albeit less than 100 percent, in what could be the difference in the rubber game. The Eagles are being given a ton of credit for a team that looked all but finished two months ago. I think the game will live up to the hype it’s receiving, but the Giants are the more powerful and smarter football team.
This week, the college football season wrapped up the bowl games with some mediocre melees and some sound skirmishes. The Rose Bowl was a predictable USC rout of Penn State, while the Fiesta surprisingly satisfied. Utah finished with a perfect record. The malcontent Utes made their avowal as the country’s top dog, although nobody seems to care. People were more concerned about expressing displeasure with the fact Florida and Oklahoma were not facing USC for the title game. Tonight is the aforementioned BCS championship. I predict a Gator win and am taking a gamble Tim Tebow will outplay Heisman winner, Sam Bradford. I can see the Sooner Sam sporting a Detroit Lions jersey next year by being the number one selection in April’s draft. Speaking of the draft, Chris Wells of Ohio State finally made up his mind to forego his senior year for the NFL. Good for “Beanie”. Two other standout collegians are headed to the pros as well. Quarterback, Matthew Stafford and running back, Knoeshawn Moreno from Georgia are leaving the game early and will be ripe for NFL scout picking. Both are top ten picks and Stafford may be the best quarterback available.
Eric Mangini must be an impressive interview. I was shocked to read he was hired a week after the Jet firing. Back to the Browns he goes, where he will inherit a promising Notre Dame alum in Brady Quinn. Mangini and former Browns coach, Romeo Crennel, are both Bill Belichik protégés. I don’t really see how Eric is going to make Cleveland a playoff contender, but I guess anything is possible. With the right staff, the Browns can put together a nice season I am sure.
It was nice to see Bill Cowher turn down the Jets offer to become head coach. Cowher showed his dignity by politely declining the opportunity and I think that was the right decision. Mike Shanahan seems to me to be the best fit for New York, but won’t happen either.
The Boston Celtics suddenly can’t find the chemistry that had them rolling in the beginning of the NBA season. They were virtually unstoppable. Now they are reeling, losing to the Knicks of all teams. Those same Knicks were demoralized by an overwrought Thunder team with a grand total of three wins. The inordinate amount of wins Boston was compiling was soon to dwindle down, but I cannot figure out where they went wrong so suddenly.
Parting points: Looking for some “adventure”? Try reading “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”, watching the underrated 80’s flick, “Adventures in Babysitting” or listening to R.E.M.’s “New Adventures in Hi-Fi” CD.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Perturbed Petulance
Colt, Cosby Coolly Cover Cap & Claim Championship
Dominant defense defines and dictates drives in championship football teams. The 2009 Fiesta foes, Texas and Ohio State, had their signature snubs starting the game. Texas was supposed to play in the BCS title game. Ohio State was supposed to be offered a non-BCS bid and ousted from the higher ranks. However the two commenced to clash last night, it was a respectable game all around.
The first half figures featured the OSU defense blitzing half the time. Facing the best defense all season, the Longhorns were forced to mix up their offensive plays. One final Buckeye blitz with 16 ticks creeping off the clock corralled the Columbus invitees. On the final drive, Texas quarterback, Colt McCoy, delivered the deciding blow. An open Quan Cosby snared a 26-yard bullet to seal a surprising 24-21 Texas toppling. Cosby finished his final college game with 171 yards, 14 receptions and two scores. McCoy passed for just under 200 yards in the first quarter but his number three Longhorns were still trailing 6-3 at the half. I give the Buckeye tremendous kudos for their containment of Colt. It’s too bad they were on the losing end and beaten on the final drive. Texas head coach, Mack Brown, adjusted his game plan just in time.
It was a bit of Buckeye bliss in the first half, with Chris “Beanie” Wells breaking loose accordingly. Wells ran for 106 yards to lead all rushers. He left the game early and was not factored much into the second half. I doubt it would have made a big difference. OSU was still able to fend off the high-octane offense from Texas. They were held to their lowest point total all year.
The quarterbacking for 10-3 Ohio State was flawless. Todd Boeckman was handed the ball to start the game and he and Terrell Pryor alternated snaps in the second half. Neither were picked off and combined for 176 total yards. The senior Boeckman completed 5 of 11 passes, including a 5 yard touchdown to the rookie, Pryor, with 7:26 remaining in the game. The 80-yard drive failed to produce a 2-point conversion, but the Buckeye running game bounced back and answered the call on their next possession. Dan “Boom” Herron, replacing Wells, rushed for 15 yards and another six points. Another failed 2 point attempt ensued however. It was encouraging to see Ohio State make a comeback and punter A.J. Trapasso was terrific. His four punts were all pinned inside the 20 yard line. OSU wideout, Brian Robiskie was efficient with 116 receiving yards. Safety, Anderson Russell, caught a lob from McCoy in the game’s only interception.
The Buckeyes could not stop McCoy’s Longhorns with one minute left. They held the offense to 24 points but it wasn’t enough. McCoy really stepped up to earn his second place Heismann Trophy finish. He stamped his name in Texas lore as the Buckeyes vanished on fourth down. Texas vehemently and vigorously vaulted to victory after converting.
Cosby and Texas receiver, Jordan Shipley, were the difference for the Longhorns offensively. Shipley’s 82 yards on kick returns gave him an average of 20.5 for the Bowl. He amassed 78 receiving yards and 10 catches. Cosby’s last 11 yards were the ones offering an obtrusive overturning.
McCoy had an instant impact in the second half when he scored on a rushing touchdown. I think it shifted momentum the Texas way. The way McCoy caught Malcom Jenkins snoozing was a game changer. Jenkins missed and misread McCoy, ultimately miffed in the end.
Texas was 3 of 4 on 4th downs and 35% on 3rd. Each team endured three sacks for close to the same amount of yards lost. Penalties were more of a problem for the Longhorns (8 for 83 yards) than the Bucks (7 for 67 yards). But the Buckeyes were affected emphatically by penalties. Thaddeus Gibson’s two roughing-the-passer penalties were unacceptable punishments. The time of possession for each team was practically even. OSU held the ball for 30:13 to Texas’ 29:47. Perhaps these stats are indicative of the game’s closeness.
So Ohio State loses its 3rd straight BCS bowl. I wonder if they have overstayed their welcome now. I am sure the hopes of scarlet and gray backers were lifted when it appeared James Kirkendoll’s 4th and 3 spot was short of the first down. It looked as though team Tressel had Texas’ number and the Big 10 could put to rest some of this season’s naysayers. There were some missed opportunities for both teams. When McCoy was picked off near the end of the second quarter, Texas missed the chance to at least score a field goal. The teams would have headed into the locker rooms tied 6-6.
Football is a game of hit or miss sometimes. Even though the Bucks hit their spots most of the time last night, the few misses were too much to overcome.
Parting points: Welcome to the Yankees #25.
Dominant defense defines and dictates drives in championship football teams. The 2009 Fiesta foes, Texas and Ohio State, had their signature snubs starting the game. Texas was supposed to play in the BCS title game. Ohio State was supposed to be offered a non-BCS bid and ousted from the higher ranks. However the two commenced to clash last night, it was a respectable game all around.
The first half figures featured the OSU defense blitzing half the time. Facing the best defense all season, the Longhorns were forced to mix up their offensive plays. One final Buckeye blitz with 16 ticks creeping off the clock corralled the Columbus invitees. On the final drive, Texas quarterback, Colt McCoy, delivered the deciding blow. An open Quan Cosby snared a 26-yard bullet to seal a surprising 24-21 Texas toppling. Cosby finished his final college game with 171 yards, 14 receptions and two scores. McCoy passed for just under 200 yards in the first quarter but his number three Longhorns were still trailing 6-3 at the half. I give the Buckeye tremendous kudos for their containment of Colt. It’s too bad they were on the losing end and beaten on the final drive. Texas head coach, Mack Brown, adjusted his game plan just in time.
It was a bit of Buckeye bliss in the first half, with Chris “Beanie” Wells breaking loose accordingly. Wells ran for 106 yards to lead all rushers. He left the game early and was not factored much into the second half. I doubt it would have made a big difference. OSU was still able to fend off the high-octane offense from Texas. They were held to their lowest point total all year.
The quarterbacking for 10-3 Ohio State was flawless. Todd Boeckman was handed the ball to start the game and he and Terrell Pryor alternated snaps in the second half. Neither were picked off and combined for 176 total yards. The senior Boeckman completed 5 of 11 passes, including a 5 yard touchdown to the rookie, Pryor, with 7:26 remaining in the game. The 80-yard drive failed to produce a 2-point conversion, but the Buckeye running game bounced back and answered the call on their next possession. Dan “Boom” Herron, replacing Wells, rushed for 15 yards and another six points. Another failed 2 point attempt ensued however. It was encouraging to see Ohio State make a comeback and punter A.J. Trapasso was terrific. His four punts were all pinned inside the 20 yard line. OSU wideout, Brian Robiskie was efficient with 116 receiving yards. Safety, Anderson Russell, caught a lob from McCoy in the game’s only interception.
The Buckeyes could not stop McCoy’s Longhorns with one minute left. They held the offense to 24 points but it wasn’t enough. McCoy really stepped up to earn his second place Heismann Trophy finish. He stamped his name in Texas lore as the Buckeyes vanished on fourth down. Texas vehemently and vigorously vaulted to victory after converting.
Cosby and Texas receiver, Jordan Shipley, were the difference for the Longhorns offensively. Shipley’s 82 yards on kick returns gave him an average of 20.5 for the Bowl. He amassed 78 receiving yards and 10 catches. Cosby’s last 11 yards were the ones offering an obtrusive overturning.
McCoy had an instant impact in the second half when he scored on a rushing touchdown. I think it shifted momentum the Texas way. The way McCoy caught Malcom Jenkins snoozing was a game changer. Jenkins missed and misread McCoy, ultimately miffed in the end.
Texas was 3 of 4 on 4th downs and 35% on 3rd. Each team endured three sacks for close to the same amount of yards lost. Penalties were more of a problem for the Longhorns (8 for 83 yards) than the Bucks (7 for 67 yards). But the Buckeyes were affected emphatically by penalties. Thaddeus Gibson’s two roughing-the-passer penalties were unacceptable punishments. The time of possession for each team was practically even. OSU held the ball for 30:13 to Texas’ 29:47. Perhaps these stats are indicative of the game’s closeness.
So Ohio State loses its 3rd straight BCS bowl. I wonder if they have overstayed their welcome now. I am sure the hopes of scarlet and gray backers were lifted when it appeared James Kirkendoll’s 4th and 3 spot was short of the first down. It looked as though team Tressel had Texas’ number and the Big 10 could put to rest some of this season’s naysayers. There were some missed opportunities for both teams. When McCoy was picked off near the end of the second quarter, Texas missed the chance to at least score a field goal. The teams would have headed into the locker rooms tied 6-6.
Football is a game of hit or miss sometimes. Even though the Bucks hit their spots most of the time last night, the few misses were too much to overcome.
Parting points: Welcome to the Yankees #25.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Indoor Insanity
I am having a bad case of cabin fever already this month. New Year’s Eve we had a snowstorm in New York and it’s been way too cold and windy to go out and about anywhere. Times like these make me long for hazy summer afternoons, seated poolside with a book tanning in the sun. I miss walking and wandering the meandering mazes of my town’s lengthy lanes. Trail riding and street biking seem to gnaw at me as I look outside and watch flurries galore pile up. I really need to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, but since the cold has me locked up inside, I decided to write about indoor sports.
The NHL started a tradition not long ago of playing an outdoor hockey game on the first of the year. The game was played at Wrigley Field between the Blackhawks and Red Wings this year. Most fans enjoy the climate and rawness of the annual competition. It makes me wonder why more games aren’t scheduled outdoors. People probably would not want to endure the temperatures and conditions I am sure. But sports are meant to be played outside in my opinion. Arena league football and NFL games played in domed stadiums do not have the same appeal as their outdoor counterparts. I especially think playing baseball inside has a negative affect. If I wanted to go to a sauna, I’d drive to the local health club. I wouldn’t buy a ticket to a summer ball game and sit inside eating my hot dog. Baseball has to be an outdoor affair. The smell of fresh grass and sounds of the game are meant for open air. Football in the middle of November and December outdoors adds to the roughness and toughness of the sport’s physical nature. Some of the most memorable games in NFL history were played in snow, ice, and subzero temperatures. Why else would there be proud franchises in Buffalo, New York and Green Bay, Wisconsin?
Tennis is a sport I definitely cannot stand swinging and sliding inside. It’s hard enough to see because of the poor lighting but when you start to sweat, it just sticks to you in an indoor venue. I could do without the wind outside, but some say that’s part of the game. Much like the winds in football, tennis winds can be both an advantage and disadvantage. Learning to serve with a glaring sun, hit an overhead in wacky winds and use the spacious sideline alleys is actually fun. I always hated playing tournaments in high school and college because it meant having to suffer through a monotonous indoor match. I would much rather see the outdoors and capture a true tennis playing experience in the crisp Fall air.
Many sports are just more suitable for indoors, such as basketball and racquetball. It’s very hard to play both outdoors, although not impossible. Basketball outside doesn’t feature squeaky sneakers or bleacher cheers. Chained basketball hoops are not as good as real indoor nets with backboards. But it is intriguing to catch a pickup game on a concrete court outside. Nothing against hot, stuffy gymnasiums, but again, being outside participating in sports really is better. I never played racquetball outdoors, but the game is meant to be an indoor sport. It’s probably the one sport I do not mind being played in a box. Being in the box beckons boredom on most occasions, but not in racquetball.
I understand games like the Superbowl need to be inside in a warm weather city due to all the publicity and money involved. You simply cannot have a rainout or Superbowl postponed due to snow. But it would be awesome for once if the Superbowl were played in Giants Stadium or Gillette Stadium in Foxboro. Imagine the fans bundled up in parks, mittens and scarves. Imagine the players sipping hot cocoa on the sidelines instead of Gatorade.
For the record, swimming, soccer and lacrosse are all better outside. And, hitting and fielding softballs indoors is about as sad as it gets.
I think my cabin fever is starting to wear off. I want to be out riding my bike right now. Stationary indoor bicycles are worthwhile exercise machines, but actually moving and seeing different scenes is more appealing.
Parting points: Thank goodness for football Sundays. Time to tune into the second installment of this weekend’s playoffs. I am 0-2 so far. Yesterday I was surprised by both winning teams.
The NHL started a tradition not long ago of playing an outdoor hockey game on the first of the year. The game was played at Wrigley Field between the Blackhawks and Red Wings this year. Most fans enjoy the climate and rawness of the annual competition. It makes me wonder why more games aren’t scheduled outdoors. People probably would not want to endure the temperatures and conditions I am sure. But sports are meant to be played outside in my opinion. Arena league football and NFL games played in domed stadiums do not have the same appeal as their outdoor counterparts. I especially think playing baseball inside has a negative affect. If I wanted to go to a sauna, I’d drive to the local health club. I wouldn’t buy a ticket to a summer ball game and sit inside eating my hot dog. Baseball has to be an outdoor affair. The smell of fresh grass and sounds of the game are meant for open air. Football in the middle of November and December outdoors adds to the roughness and toughness of the sport’s physical nature. Some of the most memorable games in NFL history were played in snow, ice, and subzero temperatures. Why else would there be proud franchises in Buffalo, New York and Green Bay, Wisconsin?
Tennis is a sport I definitely cannot stand swinging and sliding inside. It’s hard enough to see because of the poor lighting but when you start to sweat, it just sticks to you in an indoor venue. I could do without the wind outside, but some say that’s part of the game. Much like the winds in football, tennis winds can be both an advantage and disadvantage. Learning to serve with a glaring sun, hit an overhead in wacky winds and use the spacious sideline alleys is actually fun. I always hated playing tournaments in high school and college because it meant having to suffer through a monotonous indoor match. I would much rather see the outdoors and capture a true tennis playing experience in the crisp Fall air.
Many sports are just more suitable for indoors, such as basketball and racquetball. It’s very hard to play both outdoors, although not impossible. Basketball outside doesn’t feature squeaky sneakers or bleacher cheers. Chained basketball hoops are not as good as real indoor nets with backboards. But it is intriguing to catch a pickup game on a concrete court outside. Nothing against hot, stuffy gymnasiums, but again, being outside participating in sports really is better. I never played racquetball outdoors, but the game is meant to be an indoor sport. It’s probably the one sport I do not mind being played in a box. Being in the box beckons boredom on most occasions, but not in racquetball.
I understand games like the Superbowl need to be inside in a warm weather city due to all the publicity and money involved. You simply cannot have a rainout or Superbowl postponed due to snow. But it would be awesome for once if the Superbowl were played in Giants Stadium or Gillette Stadium in Foxboro. Imagine the fans bundled up in parks, mittens and scarves. Imagine the players sipping hot cocoa on the sidelines instead of Gatorade.
For the record, swimming, soccer and lacrosse are all better outside. And, hitting and fielding softballs indoors is about as sad as it gets.
I think my cabin fever is starting to wear off. I want to be out riding my bike right now. Stationary indoor bicycles are worthwhile exercise machines, but actually moving and seeing different scenes is more appealing.
Parting points: Thank goodness for football Sundays. Time to tune into the second installment of this weekend’s playoffs. I am 0-2 so far. Yesterday I was surprised by both winning teams.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Fiesta Flashback
It was January 3, 2003…
Maurice Hall, wearing the white #28 Buckeye jersey, stood ready to receive the kickoff to the Fiesta Bowl in Sun Devil Stadium. Quarterback, Craig Krenzel, took the huddle at his 15 yard line after an opening penalty. The senior handed the football off to star running back, Maurice Clarett, number 13. On second down, Krenzel scrambled for a gain before being tackled by a Miami defenseman. Jim Tressel shouted plays from the sideline as Krenzel was pressured by a strong defense. The Hurricane secondary covered OSU effectively enough to enable Craig to throw the ball away. The Buckeyes defense yielded to the punting unit after a three and out.
At the 20 yard line, Miami began their quest for the title. Will Smith knocked Miami quarterback, Ken Dorsey, to the turf. Sack number one. On second down, OSU forced another loss of yards and the Canes quickly faced a third and long situation. The Tempe, Arizona crowd just started to get into the national championship game. Scarlet and gray clad fans stood waving their arms against green, orange and white flashes of cheers. Simultaneous screams erupted from the stands. 11:39 into the game and finally a first down. It was from Miami but the Hurricanes failed to score on the first drive either. They did succeed on special teams as the Buckeyes were pinned on their own one yard line to start drive number two. Another three and out for the Ohio State offense. Back to the punt and back to the huddle for Ken Dorsey’s Hurricanes. Always patient in the pocket, Dorsey finds Kellen Winslow, Jr. with plenty of time wide open on second down. The Buckeye tackles continue to consume Dorsey though and sack him again. Miami takes a time out for the second time in the first quarter. Head Coach for Miami, Larry Coker, couldn’t communicate with his quarterback. The timeout proved worthwhile for Miami because Dorsey hooked up with the speedy Roscoe Parrish on a perfectly executed route. Five plays for 52 yards.
I figured immediately this game had “Hurricane hammering” written all over it when former Redskin, the late Sean Taylor, athletically picked off Krenzel on a deflection to his receiver. Oh, how wrong I was! The 2003 Fiesta Bowl turned out to be the best college football game I’ve ever seen. The game was loaded with suspense, excitement and a nerve-racking back and forth overtime, never before matched thriller. Future NFL stars were everyone in this game, from freshmen Nick Mangold and AJ Hawk, Mike Nugent, Will Smith, Chris Gamble and Michael Doss for OSU. On the Miami side, Willis McGahee, Kellen Winslow, Jr., Sean Taylor, Roscoe Parrish and Andre Johnson manned the sidelines. I was a sophomore in college that winter and had just been named Sports Editor for the newspaper. I remember I couldn’t wait to pin up photos of the Ohio State championship team on the wall behind my editor’s desk. I wanted to write all about how the game was won and what heart the Buckeyes showed. The spectacular defense held Miami in check all day and they made enough plays offensively to turn it into a win. I remember I liked Ohio State but after they defeated Miami that year, I fell in love. I didn’t think my passion could run as deep for a team as it had for my beloved Yankees. But, I was wrong. Today I am a true Ohio State Buckeye fan. I live and die with this football team. Six years later, the Buckeyes are returning to the Fiesta Bowl to face a Texas team many argue should be playing in the BCS Title game. Not many are giving my Bucks a chance. I will believe in them and cheer them on no matter what the game’s outcome. That January 3rd game meant something to me and I never forgot. I just had to pull out my old DVD of it and watch it again and again. The players get older and move on but winning the way they did in 2003…that never gets old.
Parting points: This is my 80th post. Just thought that was significant for some reason.
Maurice Hall, wearing the white #28 Buckeye jersey, stood ready to receive the kickoff to the Fiesta Bowl in Sun Devil Stadium. Quarterback, Craig Krenzel, took the huddle at his 15 yard line after an opening penalty. The senior handed the football off to star running back, Maurice Clarett, number 13. On second down, Krenzel scrambled for a gain before being tackled by a Miami defenseman. Jim Tressel shouted plays from the sideline as Krenzel was pressured by a strong defense. The Hurricane secondary covered OSU effectively enough to enable Craig to throw the ball away. The Buckeyes defense yielded to the punting unit after a three and out.
At the 20 yard line, Miami began their quest for the title. Will Smith knocked Miami quarterback, Ken Dorsey, to the turf. Sack number one. On second down, OSU forced another loss of yards and the Canes quickly faced a third and long situation. The Tempe, Arizona crowd just started to get into the national championship game. Scarlet and gray clad fans stood waving their arms against green, orange and white flashes of cheers. Simultaneous screams erupted from the stands. 11:39 into the game and finally a first down. It was from Miami but the Hurricanes failed to score on the first drive either. They did succeed on special teams as the Buckeyes were pinned on their own one yard line to start drive number two. Another three and out for the Ohio State offense. Back to the punt and back to the huddle for Ken Dorsey’s Hurricanes. Always patient in the pocket, Dorsey finds Kellen Winslow, Jr. with plenty of time wide open on second down. The Buckeye tackles continue to consume Dorsey though and sack him again. Miami takes a time out for the second time in the first quarter. Head Coach for Miami, Larry Coker, couldn’t communicate with his quarterback. The timeout proved worthwhile for Miami because Dorsey hooked up with the speedy Roscoe Parrish on a perfectly executed route. Five plays for 52 yards.
I figured immediately this game had “Hurricane hammering” written all over it when former Redskin, the late Sean Taylor, athletically picked off Krenzel on a deflection to his receiver. Oh, how wrong I was! The 2003 Fiesta Bowl turned out to be the best college football game I’ve ever seen. The game was loaded with suspense, excitement and a nerve-racking back and forth overtime, never before matched thriller. Future NFL stars were everyone in this game, from freshmen Nick Mangold and AJ Hawk, Mike Nugent, Will Smith, Chris Gamble and Michael Doss for OSU. On the Miami side, Willis McGahee, Kellen Winslow, Jr., Sean Taylor, Roscoe Parrish and Andre Johnson manned the sidelines. I was a sophomore in college that winter and had just been named Sports Editor for the newspaper. I remember I couldn’t wait to pin up photos of the Ohio State championship team on the wall behind my editor’s desk. I wanted to write all about how the game was won and what heart the Buckeyes showed. The spectacular defense held Miami in check all day and they made enough plays offensively to turn it into a win. I remember I liked Ohio State but after they defeated Miami that year, I fell in love. I didn’t think my passion could run as deep for a team as it had for my beloved Yankees. But, I was wrong. Today I am a true Ohio State Buckeye fan. I live and die with this football team. Six years later, the Buckeyes are returning to the Fiesta Bowl to face a Texas team many argue should be playing in the BCS Title game. Not many are giving my Bucks a chance. I will believe in them and cheer them on no matter what the game’s outcome. That January 3rd game meant something to me and I never forgot. I just had to pull out my old DVD of it and watch it again and again. The players get older and move on but winning the way they did in 2003…that never gets old.
Parting points: This is my 80th post. Just thought that was significant for some reason.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Wildcard Weekend
Four playoff football games are scheduled for this weekend in what is known as “Wildcard Weekend”. I think for the first time in history all four road teams are favored. Being a home underdog in the playoffs is sometimes an advantage. The games should be close and the conditions competitive. Here are my humble hunches:
Miami Dolphins vs. Baltimore Ravens
Both teams enter the weekend on the upside, having clinched a post-season seed during the NFL’s final week. The Dolphins host the visiting birds because they won the AFC East. Baltimore comes to Miami as a strong wildcard team with a rookie quarterback and head coach. Led by a glowing defense and hardcore secondary, the Ravens are not an easy out. The Delaware quarterback, Joe Flacco, manages a good game for a first year starter. Ray Lewis is the team leader on defense and if the Baltimore defense blitzes Chad Pennington with any success, Miami won’t be reaching the end zone very often. However, I am still picking the Dolphins to win. I like what I saw all season for Tony Sparano’s underrated offense. Ted Ginn, Jr. has come into his own finally and with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams splitting time in the backfield, the Dolphins are capable of sneaking out a win. They have found ways to be victorious all year long. Speaking of Long, the first overall draft pick, Jake Long, has been quiet this season. I would love to see something from him during the post-season. Pennington is the comeback player of the year and the Dolphins have all the momentum in the world right now. I think that counts for a lot more than people think. Chad will use his wildcat formation to confuse the Ravens. Give the Ravens credit though. No one expected Flacco to step up and lead this team into the playoffs. The game will be tight nonetheless.
Indianapolis Colts vs. San Diego Chargers
The two AFC foes always play each other hard. For some reason, Peyton Manning has a difficult time against San Diego. The Chargers are the hosts because they won their division, but this is not the same team from years’ past. Clearly, San Diego has underachieved all year. The team suffered perhaps more injuries than any other in the league. They still managed to clinch the division after demolishing Denver last week in what probably cost Mike Shanahan his job. Quarterback Phillip Rivers is a stand-out player for the bolts. Because of his consistent and careful play, the Chargers redeemed themselves during the second half. Rivers will have to be lights-out again this weekend for his team to have a chance to advance. You could argue San Diego is the hottest team going into the playoffs if it wasn’t for their nine-straight winning opponent, the Colts. Indianapolis has experience at quarterback and head coach. Tony Dungy knows how to win road playoff games and you better believe Peyton Manning does as well. Manning will probably win the MVP of the league this year. I think the Colts are too strong defensively to allow the Chargers a win. San Diego’s secondary is their weakest spot and the Colts have receivers to exploit the hole. Look for a convincing Colts win. If the Colts win, they head to Pittsburgh in which will be one of the games I am most looking forward to.
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Minnesota Vikings
If this game was being played in Philadelphia, I wouldn’t give the Vikings any chance. I am giving them half a chance only because the game is in mighty Minnesota. The Vikings are lucky to be in the playoffs. They lack a primetime quarterback and have virtually no offensive line or deep threats. They do have a top-ranked rush defense led by the injured lineman, Pat Williams. Adrian Petersen is the gifted running back and if Minnesota has a prayer against the Eagles defense, they need him to run, run, run. Petersen has fumbled five times in the last four games for Minnesota, so keeping a tight grip is crucial against the league’s fourth best rush defense. The conditions will probably favor the Vikings running game but Philadelphia has an equally stellar runner in Brian Westbrook. If Westbrook is good to go, Donovan McNabb will use him. McNabb does have some better than average receivers and he will use them to set up the run. The Eagles are well-coached by Andy Reid and Jimmie Johnson. The advantage for both teams is familiarity. The teams know each other pretty well. McNabb is an all-star and will outshine Tavaris Jackson behind center. The Vikings’ Bernard Berrian is legitimate and being at home will pump up the mediocre Minnesota offense. I can’t see the Vikings escaping with a win, especially because they have no deep threats. Nothing gives me the impression they are a playoff team. Last week, they struggled against a Giants team fielding mostly backups. The Vikings finished 2008 with a better overall record (10-6) but the Eagles are the better team.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Arizona Cardinals
When a veteran quarterback and one of the best receiving teams host a stranger to the post-season, you would tend to favor the former. The 9-7 Cardinals are the division winners and hosts to the offensive rookie of the year, Matt Ryan, and the Falcons. The Falcons overachieved and have come out of nowhere to be a contender this playoff season. Kurt Warner is the experienced veteran leader of Arizona but the Cardinals are not playing well as of late. If the trend continues, Arizona will not win. Ryan comes into his first post-season with nothing to lose. Playing at Arizona in the first round is his best bet in winning at all in the playoffs. Arizona poses an unthreatening defense. He will have time to throw and the Falcons can run the ball well. Atlanta will need a prepared plan for the Arizona offense. The Falcons’ secondary is key to winning the games because of the incredible Fitzgerald, Breaston and Boldin. The Falcons are a proven team when it comes to stopping teams in the red zone. I’ve been surprised Michael Turner has had the season of his life. He ran for close to 1,700 during the regular season. With Turner, the Falcons can manufacturer the points necessary to defeat Arizona in probably another very close contest. The Cardinals will make more mistakes and that is the prime reason for a Falcon flourishing.
Parting Points: Surprised to like this song: “Ulysses” by Franz Ferdinand
Miami Dolphins vs. Baltimore Ravens
Both teams enter the weekend on the upside, having clinched a post-season seed during the NFL’s final week. The Dolphins host the visiting birds because they won the AFC East. Baltimore comes to Miami as a strong wildcard team with a rookie quarterback and head coach. Led by a glowing defense and hardcore secondary, the Ravens are not an easy out. The Delaware quarterback, Joe Flacco, manages a good game for a first year starter. Ray Lewis is the team leader on defense and if the Baltimore defense blitzes Chad Pennington with any success, Miami won’t be reaching the end zone very often. However, I am still picking the Dolphins to win. I like what I saw all season for Tony Sparano’s underrated offense. Ted Ginn, Jr. has come into his own finally and with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams splitting time in the backfield, the Dolphins are capable of sneaking out a win. They have found ways to be victorious all year long. Speaking of Long, the first overall draft pick, Jake Long, has been quiet this season. I would love to see something from him during the post-season. Pennington is the comeback player of the year and the Dolphins have all the momentum in the world right now. I think that counts for a lot more than people think. Chad will use his wildcat formation to confuse the Ravens. Give the Ravens credit though. No one expected Flacco to step up and lead this team into the playoffs. The game will be tight nonetheless.
Indianapolis Colts vs. San Diego Chargers
The two AFC foes always play each other hard. For some reason, Peyton Manning has a difficult time against San Diego. The Chargers are the hosts because they won their division, but this is not the same team from years’ past. Clearly, San Diego has underachieved all year. The team suffered perhaps more injuries than any other in the league. They still managed to clinch the division after demolishing Denver last week in what probably cost Mike Shanahan his job. Quarterback Phillip Rivers is a stand-out player for the bolts. Because of his consistent and careful play, the Chargers redeemed themselves during the second half. Rivers will have to be lights-out again this weekend for his team to have a chance to advance. You could argue San Diego is the hottest team going into the playoffs if it wasn’t for their nine-straight winning opponent, the Colts. Indianapolis has experience at quarterback and head coach. Tony Dungy knows how to win road playoff games and you better believe Peyton Manning does as well. Manning will probably win the MVP of the league this year. I think the Colts are too strong defensively to allow the Chargers a win. San Diego’s secondary is their weakest spot and the Colts have receivers to exploit the hole. Look for a convincing Colts win. If the Colts win, they head to Pittsburgh in which will be one of the games I am most looking forward to.
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Minnesota Vikings
If this game was being played in Philadelphia, I wouldn’t give the Vikings any chance. I am giving them half a chance only because the game is in mighty Minnesota. The Vikings are lucky to be in the playoffs. They lack a primetime quarterback and have virtually no offensive line or deep threats. They do have a top-ranked rush defense led by the injured lineman, Pat Williams. Adrian Petersen is the gifted running back and if Minnesota has a prayer against the Eagles defense, they need him to run, run, run. Petersen has fumbled five times in the last four games for Minnesota, so keeping a tight grip is crucial against the league’s fourth best rush defense. The conditions will probably favor the Vikings running game but Philadelphia has an equally stellar runner in Brian Westbrook. If Westbrook is good to go, Donovan McNabb will use him. McNabb does have some better than average receivers and he will use them to set up the run. The Eagles are well-coached by Andy Reid and Jimmie Johnson. The advantage for both teams is familiarity. The teams know each other pretty well. McNabb is an all-star and will outshine Tavaris Jackson behind center. The Vikings’ Bernard Berrian is legitimate and being at home will pump up the mediocre Minnesota offense. I can’t see the Vikings escaping with a win, especially because they have no deep threats. Nothing gives me the impression they are a playoff team. Last week, they struggled against a Giants team fielding mostly backups. The Vikings finished 2008 with a better overall record (10-6) but the Eagles are the better team.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Arizona Cardinals
When a veteran quarterback and one of the best receiving teams host a stranger to the post-season, you would tend to favor the former. The 9-7 Cardinals are the division winners and hosts to the offensive rookie of the year, Matt Ryan, and the Falcons. The Falcons overachieved and have come out of nowhere to be a contender this playoff season. Kurt Warner is the experienced veteran leader of Arizona but the Cardinals are not playing well as of late. If the trend continues, Arizona will not win. Ryan comes into his first post-season with nothing to lose. Playing at Arizona in the first round is his best bet in winning at all in the playoffs. Arizona poses an unthreatening defense. He will have time to throw and the Falcons can run the ball well. Atlanta will need a prepared plan for the Arizona offense. The Falcons’ secondary is key to winning the games because of the incredible Fitzgerald, Breaston and Boldin. The Falcons are a proven team when it comes to stopping teams in the red zone. I’ve been surprised Michael Turner has had the season of his life. He ran for close to 1,700 during the regular season. With Turner, the Falcons can manufacturer the points necessary to defeat Arizona in probably another very close contest. The Cardinals will make more mistakes and that is the prime reason for a Falcon flourishing.
Parting Points: Surprised to like this song: “Ulysses” by Franz Ferdinand
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