“Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,
And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.”
Dennis Dixon tried to be the difference-maker he once was for the Oregon Ducks. The third-string quarterback filled in for injured Ben Roethlisberger in Sunday night’s Steelers game in Baltimore. Pittsburgh also played without star safety, Troy Polamalu in the game at M&T Bank Stadium. The Ravens needed an overtime 29 yard field goal by Billy Cundiff to outlast and defeat the Steelers 20-17.
Second round pick, Paul Kruger, changed the game for Baltimore by intercepting a Dixon pass in the extra session. Kruger’s first career pick with under seven minutes left set up the game-winning kick. The Ravens ended a three game losing streak in topping their AFC North rivals. The teams entertain matching records as they head into December football. Baltimore kept their playoffs hopes alive thanks to the overtime rally and a flurry of unseasoned stars stepping up.
The Ravens scored their first first-half touchdown since October 4th last night. Baltimore signal caller, Joe Flacco, completed 23 of 35 passes for 289 yards and one touchdown. Flacco drove the Ravens 73 yards in nine plays on their first possession by completing all five of his tosses. The promising passer smartly spread the ball around. He hit Mark Clayton twice and hooked up with Kelley Washington during the opening drive. Willis McGahee lead a successful Ravens ground game. He provided the 7-0 lead in the first quarter on a two yard run after Ray Rice broke a 19 yard run. McGahee, the former Miami and Fiesta Bowl running back, had 88 of the team’s 132 rushing yards.
The Steelers opened up their offense in the second quarter. Santonio Holmes put Pittsburgh on the board with a 33 yard touchdown pass from Dixon. Holmes finished with 74 yards on six receptions and scored for the first time since week one. Sunday’s touchdown reception also marked the six straight time Holmes has scored against the Ravens. Baltimore answered with seven of their own on their final possession of the first half. Flacco found wideout, Derrrick Mason, in the end zone following a 54 yard toss to Clayton. Mason beat Ike Taylor in the left side of the end zone to lift the Ravens to a 14-7 halftime advantage.
Steelers kicker, Jeff Reed, trimmed the Baltimore lead to 14-10 with a third quarter boot from 44 yards. Rashard Mendenhall turned a short Dixon pass into a 20 yard gain before Reed’s field goal. The Steelers back was five shot of a 100 yard rushing night. Mendenhall carried the ball 24 times for Pittsburgh, as the Steelers tried to drive the ball home on the ground. Quarterback accuracy wasn’t a problem for Dixon. It was the receiving that became a problem late. Rookie receiver, Mike Wallace, missed tying the game when he dropped a pass in the end zone. The Steelers settled for three. Dixon finished with 145 yards and went 12 for 26.
Flacco was stripped of the ball for Baltimore’s second turnover of the half and the number one defense in the AFC sacked him on three plays. It was the third sack that sent the Ravens back eight yards as Flacco fumbled. Lawrence Timmons knocked the ball out of Flacco’s hands and Brett Keisel recovered for the visitors. Following a pair of penalties by each team, Mendenhall scrambled up the middle for 24 yards. Dixon put the Steelers ahead for the first time with a bootleg touchdown run on the next play. The novice quarterback went untouched into the end zone for the fourth-longest run allowed by the stingy Ravens this season.
Baltimore converted a fourth-and-five from their own 46 yard line and settled for a tying field goal from Cundiff to send the game into overtime. Dixon’s pass intended for Holmes resulted in his lone interception. Kruger snagged Dixon’s pass and returned it for 26 yards the other way. Cundiff hammered home the winning three points to hand the defending Superbowl champs their fifth loss of 2009. The game was an important rebound one for Flacco and the Ravens. The intense rivalry game was a step in the right direction for Baltimore. Flacco hasn’t played well against the Steelers in his last three starts. The Pittsburgh defense hounded the passer with ferocity. The current Steelers defense has allowed a fourth quarter lead to slip away in four of their five losses. Dixon gave his team a chance to win, but the defense did not hold the lead. Willie Parker and Mendenhall helped Dixon heat up and the quarterback appeared authoritative through the air. The Steelers secondary was whipped by Flacco’s receivers. Dick LeBeau’s defense should have been able to capitalize on Dixon attacking the Ravens for 17 points. Ray Rice ran through the big defenders with ease. Rice beat tackle after tackle to set up the field goal in the final quarter and erase the only Pittsburgh lead of the game. The Steelers picked off Flacco five times in their previous two meetings. They were a more unified defense then. Last night, the same club looked troubled from the ends to the insides to the corners. They allowed the Ravens receivers to pull down passes for huge gains. In doing so, the Steelers gained didn’t gain anything of their own, except another loss.
Parting Points: Poem for the day- Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven”.
Did anyone not deem Charlie Weis was accountable for Notre Dame’s dismal 2009? He didn’t come close to a championship level in South Bend.
Happy Cyber Monday!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Swamp Sinks Seminoles
Legend's Last Lace-up
The SEC Championship game rematch between Florida and Alabama is set for next Saturday after the Gators’ 37-10 drubbing of in-state rivals, FSU. The Seminoles sunk in the swamp in Gator quarterback, Tim Tebow’s, home finale. Tebow accounted for five touchdown flings to complete Florida’s perfect 12-0 regular season. Florida State fell to 6-6, dropping their second contest in the last six in what could be longtime coach, Bobby Bowden’s last game. Both schools will represent the Sunshine State in NCAA bowls this winter. The Seminoles locked up a spot last week against Maryland for their 28th straight season. Urban Meyer’s Gators are poised to return to the championship game and extended the nation’s longest winning streak to 22 games at home on Saturday. Florida needs a win over the Crimson Tide for a trip to the big game.
There aren’t enough accolades to describe Florida’s senior signal caller. Tebow solidified his candidacy for another Heisman Trophy season in 2009. Yesterday, he passed for 221 yards and threw for three touchdowns. Tebow also scored a pair of touchdowns on 15 carries and 90 rushing yards. The Gators quarterback finished an efficient 17-of-21 against Bowden’s dreadful defense. The Seminoles trailed 30-0 before opting to kick a third quarter field goal. Dustin Hopkins completed FSU’s 11 play drive with a 20 yarder through the uprights as time expired in the third quarter. Hopkins missed a field goal from 41 yards earlier in the quarter. Tomahawk freshman quarterback, EJ Manuel, was picked off two times and pressured throughout the game in the 27 point loss. Meyer’s diligent defense harassed State’s offensive line and held the young passer to just 18% on third down tries. Manuel finished with 186 yards, and was additionally the team’s leading rusher in a very frustrating day for the visiting Seminoles. It was Manuel’s third start ever. He completed 19 of 31 passes, finally firing a touchdown in the final quarter. Jarmon Fortson’s acrobatic catch in the end zone provided FSU a nine yard score with six minutes remaining.
Tebow connected with Aaron Hernandez twice in Florida’s sixth straight win over FSU. Hernandez grabbed the first touchdown of the day, an 18 yard shovel pass offering from Tebow with less than seven minutes in the first quarter. The receiver hauled in another, for 37 yards, just before halftime. Caleb Sturgis booted a 37 yard field goal and Tebow surged for an 18 yard touchdown to begin the second quarter. The Gators continued to find the end zone following a 24-0 halftime advantage. Riley Cooper commenced the second half with a 39 yard Tebow toss. Cooper had three receptions for 62 yards in the game. Running back, Jeffrey Demps, raced for 106 rushing yards for the unbeaten Gators. Tebow’s one yard scramble in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter finished Florida’s scoring, giving them a more than comfortable 37-3 lead.
Top-ranked Florida was dazzling in Tebow’s farewell. The Gators racked up 545 total yards on Senior Day. Florida caught the Seminoles off guard and the Gator receivers eluded FSU defenders. It was never even a game for Bowden’s bunch. The Gators jogged untouched into the end zone, much to the delight of a sold out Swamp. The Seminoles were embarrassed in the first half. Florida outgained FSU 291-55 and dominated time of possession, holding the ball for over ten minutes. The Seminole starters were pulled in the third quarter after ending their first seven possessions with five punts and a turnover. The only thing being turned over now will be another page in Florida Gators history. Tebow is a legend in Gainesville and if Meyer wins another title, a dynasty will be a guaranteed chapter in the school’s book.
Parting Points: Toss-up artist for Sunday- Toni Braxton or Jimmy Eat World?
I don’t know what’s worse: The media hounding Tiger Woods about his accident or Brian Kelly going on about his future job possibilities to the press. Or, the fact that Lawrence Frank ‘s job is not one of their concerns at all.
The SEC Championship game rematch between Florida and Alabama is set for next Saturday after the Gators’ 37-10 drubbing of in-state rivals, FSU. The Seminoles sunk in the swamp in Gator quarterback, Tim Tebow’s, home finale. Tebow accounted for five touchdown flings to complete Florida’s perfect 12-0 regular season. Florida State fell to 6-6, dropping their second contest in the last six in what could be longtime coach, Bobby Bowden’s last game. Both schools will represent the Sunshine State in NCAA bowls this winter. The Seminoles locked up a spot last week against Maryland for their 28th straight season. Urban Meyer’s Gators are poised to return to the championship game and extended the nation’s longest winning streak to 22 games at home on Saturday. Florida needs a win over the Crimson Tide for a trip to the big game.
There aren’t enough accolades to describe Florida’s senior signal caller. Tebow solidified his candidacy for another Heisman Trophy season in 2009. Yesterday, he passed for 221 yards and threw for three touchdowns. Tebow also scored a pair of touchdowns on 15 carries and 90 rushing yards. The Gators quarterback finished an efficient 17-of-21 against Bowden’s dreadful defense. The Seminoles trailed 30-0 before opting to kick a third quarter field goal. Dustin Hopkins completed FSU’s 11 play drive with a 20 yarder through the uprights as time expired in the third quarter. Hopkins missed a field goal from 41 yards earlier in the quarter. Tomahawk freshman quarterback, EJ Manuel, was picked off two times and pressured throughout the game in the 27 point loss. Meyer’s diligent defense harassed State’s offensive line and held the young passer to just 18% on third down tries. Manuel finished with 186 yards, and was additionally the team’s leading rusher in a very frustrating day for the visiting Seminoles. It was Manuel’s third start ever. He completed 19 of 31 passes, finally firing a touchdown in the final quarter. Jarmon Fortson’s acrobatic catch in the end zone provided FSU a nine yard score with six minutes remaining.
Tebow connected with Aaron Hernandez twice in Florida’s sixth straight win over FSU. Hernandez grabbed the first touchdown of the day, an 18 yard shovel pass offering from Tebow with less than seven minutes in the first quarter. The receiver hauled in another, for 37 yards, just before halftime. Caleb Sturgis booted a 37 yard field goal and Tebow surged for an 18 yard touchdown to begin the second quarter. The Gators continued to find the end zone following a 24-0 halftime advantage. Riley Cooper commenced the second half with a 39 yard Tebow toss. Cooper had three receptions for 62 yards in the game. Running back, Jeffrey Demps, raced for 106 rushing yards for the unbeaten Gators. Tebow’s one yard scramble in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter finished Florida’s scoring, giving them a more than comfortable 37-3 lead.
Top-ranked Florida was dazzling in Tebow’s farewell. The Gators racked up 545 total yards on Senior Day. Florida caught the Seminoles off guard and the Gator receivers eluded FSU defenders. It was never even a game for Bowden’s bunch. The Gators jogged untouched into the end zone, much to the delight of a sold out Swamp. The Seminoles were embarrassed in the first half. Florida outgained FSU 291-55 and dominated time of possession, holding the ball for over ten minutes. The Seminole starters were pulled in the third quarter after ending their first seven possessions with five punts and a turnover. The only thing being turned over now will be another page in Florida Gators history. Tebow is a legend in Gainesville and if Meyer wins another title, a dynasty will be a guaranteed chapter in the school’s book.
Parting Points: Toss-up artist for Sunday- Toni Braxton or Jimmy Eat World?
I don’t know what’s worse: The media hounding Tiger Woods about his accident or Brian Kelly going on about his future job possibilities to the press. Or, the fact that Lawrence Frank ‘s job is not one of their concerns at all.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Brodeur Breaks Boston
Black Friday in Boston saw the snap of the Bruins season-high four game winning streak. History was also made in the New Jersey Devils 2-1 win over Boston in a shootout. New Jersy goalie, Martin Brodeur surpassed Hall of Famer Patrick Roy for the most minutes played in breaking Boston’s streak. The 37 year old eclipsed the 60,235 minutes record in the opening of the third period. New Jersey outshot the Bruins 37-33, but the goaltending was the story of the game for both teams. Something was always going on during the contest. The Bruins matched New Jersey’s electricity from the second the puck dropped at TD Garden.
The Devils earned their 16th victory of the season behind two Zach Parise goals. Parise was the lone Devil to score in regulation when he forced the puck into the net in the second period. Matt Halischuk was credited with his first assist of the year on the play. Parise extended his point streak to a career high nine games with the shot past Tuuka Rask. The Boston netminder allowed only Parise’s goal during regulation and was otherwise brilliant. Brodeur was a bit more fantastic in net and saved the game in the shootout. Blake Wheeler scored for Boston in regulation and in the shootout. Wheeler fired the tying shot 12 seconds into the third period to end Brodeur’s record shutout bid. The puck caromed off the glass, allowing Byron Bitz to set up Wheeler’s shot off Brodeur’s block. The Devils goalie needs one more shutout to tie Terry Sawchuk’s NHL record with 103.
Boston forced the Devils to play heads-up hockey and skate deep in their own zone throughout the game. New Jersey winger, David Clarkson took a wicked shot off his ankle from Zdeno Chara 2:30 in the opening period. Clarkson left the game and did not return for the already deterred by injuries Devils. Brodeur helped keep it a tie game instead of putting a damper on the Devils night. He made a quick stop on Marc Savard’s wrister from the slot in the closing seconds of regulation. Andy Greene has been piloting the Devils defense with the Paul Martin and Johnny Oduya on the sidelines. The Devils put up zeros on three power play opportunities. The Bruins did likewise. But, Boston brought a balanced attack and managed to send the game into overtime. The Devils were steady in the extra session to push the game into the deciding shootout. Patrice Bergeron failed on a forehand stuff for Boston. Patrik Elias couldn’t connect off Rask to give the Devils a point. After Wheeler whacked the puck past Brodeur in the second round, Parise notched his second goal. Parise answered Boston’s temporary lead with a deke just beyond Rask’s reach. David Krejci’s shootout shot was cut down with a Brodeur pad stop. Jamie Langenbrunner had a chance to seal the deal for the Devils. The 34 year old right winger skated in and jammed the game winner past Rask in the third round for the 2-1 dramatic Devils defeat. The team is now 4-1 in shootouts this season. New Jersey last conquered the Bruins at TD Garden on October 29th. Head coach, Jacques Lemaire, sent Yann Davis to the net in that win. Lemaire went with Brodeur last night, and it paid off for New Jersey. For Boston, it was a continuation of scoring woes. The Bruins were not without scoring opportunities against the Devils last night. In four of their last six games the Bruins have mustered one goal during regulation. Despite the disengaged offense, goalies Rask and Tim Thomas have kept Boston a winning hockey team.
I just have to continue my Parise praise. The former first round draft pick is always amazing me. The kid can play hockey. He is one of the most relentless and determined players in the NHL. Parise’s wrist shot Friday night was nothing short of spectacular. He just kept grinding his way to the puck until he had a chance to drive the loose object into the goal. Parise is the Devils’ most persistent and consistent scorer. New Jersey can count on Parise to get his minutes and his goals.
Parting Points: Congrats to WVU on taking this year’s Backyard Brawl.
Song of the day- “Sometime Around Midnight” by Airborne Toxic Event
The Devils earned their 16th victory of the season behind two Zach Parise goals. Parise was the lone Devil to score in regulation when he forced the puck into the net in the second period. Matt Halischuk was credited with his first assist of the year on the play. Parise extended his point streak to a career high nine games with the shot past Tuuka Rask. The Boston netminder allowed only Parise’s goal during regulation and was otherwise brilliant. Brodeur was a bit more fantastic in net and saved the game in the shootout. Blake Wheeler scored for Boston in regulation and in the shootout. Wheeler fired the tying shot 12 seconds into the third period to end Brodeur’s record shutout bid. The puck caromed off the glass, allowing Byron Bitz to set up Wheeler’s shot off Brodeur’s block. The Devils goalie needs one more shutout to tie Terry Sawchuk’s NHL record with 103.
Boston forced the Devils to play heads-up hockey and skate deep in their own zone throughout the game. New Jersey winger, David Clarkson took a wicked shot off his ankle from Zdeno Chara 2:30 in the opening period. Clarkson left the game and did not return for the already deterred by injuries Devils. Brodeur helped keep it a tie game instead of putting a damper on the Devils night. He made a quick stop on Marc Savard’s wrister from the slot in the closing seconds of regulation. Andy Greene has been piloting the Devils defense with the Paul Martin and Johnny Oduya on the sidelines. The Devils put up zeros on three power play opportunities. The Bruins did likewise. But, Boston brought a balanced attack and managed to send the game into overtime. The Devils were steady in the extra session to push the game into the deciding shootout. Patrice Bergeron failed on a forehand stuff for Boston. Patrik Elias couldn’t connect off Rask to give the Devils a point. After Wheeler whacked the puck past Brodeur in the second round, Parise notched his second goal. Parise answered Boston’s temporary lead with a deke just beyond Rask’s reach. David Krejci’s shootout shot was cut down with a Brodeur pad stop. Jamie Langenbrunner had a chance to seal the deal for the Devils. The 34 year old right winger skated in and jammed the game winner past Rask in the third round for the 2-1 dramatic Devils defeat. The team is now 4-1 in shootouts this season. New Jersey last conquered the Bruins at TD Garden on October 29th. Head coach, Jacques Lemaire, sent Yann Davis to the net in that win. Lemaire went with Brodeur last night, and it paid off for New Jersey. For Boston, it was a continuation of scoring woes. The Bruins were not without scoring opportunities against the Devils last night. In four of their last six games the Bruins have mustered one goal during regulation. Despite the disengaged offense, goalies Rask and Tim Thomas have kept Boston a winning hockey team.
I just have to continue my Parise praise. The former first round draft pick is always amazing me. The kid can play hockey. He is one of the most relentless and determined players in the NHL. Parise’s wrist shot Friday night was nothing short of spectacular. He just kept grinding his way to the puck until he had a chance to drive the loose object into the goal. Parise is the Devils’ most persistent and consistent scorer. New Jersey can count on Parise to get his minutes and his goals.
Parting Points: Congrats to WVU on taking this year’s Backyard Brawl.
Song of the day- “Sometime Around Midnight” by Airborne Toxic Event
Friday, November 27, 2009
Leftover Loss
The choppy, sloppy New York Giants were stuffed on Thanksgiving night in Denver. Luckily for the fans, the unappetizing 26-6 loss occurred after the Turkey Day meal. The Broncos improved to 7-4 by carving up the Giants in rushing yards, turnovers and time of possession. New York lost their fifth game in six tries after beginning a promising 5-0. The Giants failed to score before the third quarter. In fact, Big Blue didn’t even cross into opposing territory in the opening thirty minutes of the game. It was the first time since 2006 New York was held scoreless before halftime.
Denver settled for three field goals in the first half. Matt Prater kicked three of his four during the first two quarters and running back, Knowshon Moreno scored a one yard touchdown to give the Broncos a 16-0 lead at the half. Denver’s pass rush harassed Eli Manning and the Giants offense the entire night. Manning went without a touchdown pass and was sacked three times. The Big Blue signal caller threw an interception, one of three Denver takeaways. New York’s offense generated just two second-half field goals as the team dropped to 6-5. The Broncos, propelled by Purdue product, Kyle Orton’s six scoring drives, pulled within a half game of AFC West leader, San Diego. The Giants defense, looked upon as depleted all season, played effectually so last night. They were aggravated by the Broncos and were exceedingly sluggish. Denver heated up New York as if they were Thanksgiving leftovers.
Orton was 18 for 28 with 245 yards and a touchdown. Brandon Stokley basted Big Blue in the fourth quarter on a 17 yard pass from Orton. Prater connected from 24 yards out with five minutes in the game to seal the win for Denver. New York managed 38 yards on offense in the first half, thanks in part to a riveting and physical Denver defense. Backup runner, Danny Ware, filled in for the injured, Ahmad Bradshaw. The shaky Giants rusher fumbled on his third carry of the game in the second quarter following an offsides penalty. Safety, Brian Dawkins tumbled on the football to recover the fumble for Denver. Broncos maligned receiver, Brandon Marshall, caught a 28 yard pass from Orton to set up Moreno’s touchdown run. Dawkins stymied New York’s offense with eight tackles. Elvis Dumervil, NFL sack leader, had his way with Manning. Dumervil sacked Manning in the fourth quarter and dislodged the ball for another Giants turnover. Dumervil dumped Manning twice during the Thursday trouncing.
Cornerback, Terrell Thomas, picked off Orton in the third quarter to give the Giants an opportunity to surmount their first half struggles. The Giants could only turn the interception into a field goal as running back, Brandon Jacobs, was tackled for two losses. Jacobs was slow-footed and did little to help the Giants on Thursday night. Jacobs was feeble in picking up blitzes, and the New York receivers barely escaped the clutches of Denver’s defensive backs to get open. Lawrence Tynes nailed a 39 yard field goal eight minutes into the third quarter to finally put New York on the scoreboard. Tynes drilled a 52 yarder on the next New York possession to trim the Denver lead to ten. That was all the trimming New York would do on this Turkey Day. The defensive line continues to show their weaknesses with virtually no pass rush. The secondary had trouble in coverage, and allowed Stokley to put the game away in the final quarter. Marshall finished with 6 receptions for 86 yards. Moreno racked up 88 on the ground and 19 through the air for Denver. The Broncos snapped a four game slide after sailing through the gates 6-0. Manning passed for 230 yards, but the offense produced just 181 yards before an 86 yard drive in the final two minutes. The Giants played with little energy and failed to execute all night. They didn’t reach the Broncos side of the field until Manning found Mario Manningham following Thomas’ interception. Manningham ended with five grabs for 48 yards, and Hakeem Nicks set a Giants rookie record with a reception in his sixth straight game. Nicks hauled in four passes for 66 yards. Mediocre New York fell two games behind the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. The 8-3 Cowboys won out 24-7 as Tony Romo gobbled up his fourth consecutive Thanksgiving victory in Big D.
Parting Points: Colt McCoy shouldn’t surprise anyone. The Texas quarterback is a gifted athlete who has made a college career out of remarkable plays.
Denver settled for three field goals in the first half. Matt Prater kicked three of his four during the first two quarters and running back, Knowshon Moreno scored a one yard touchdown to give the Broncos a 16-0 lead at the half. Denver’s pass rush harassed Eli Manning and the Giants offense the entire night. Manning went without a touchdown pass and was sacked three times. The Big Blue signal caller threw an interception, one of three Denver takeaways. New York’s offense generated just two second-half field goals as the team dropped to 6-5. The Broncos, propelled by Purdue product, Kyle Orton’s six scoring drives, pulled within a half game of AFC West leader, San Diego. The Giants defense, looked upon as depleted all season, played effectually so last night. They were aggravated by the Broncos and were exceedingly sluggish. Denver heated up New York as if they were Thanksgiving leftovers.
Orton was 18 for 28 with 245 yards and a touchdown. Brandon Stokley basted Big Blue in the fourth quarter on a 17 yard pass from Orton. Prater connected from 24 yards out with five minutes in the game to seal the win for Denver. New York managed 38 yards on offense in the first half, thanks in part to a riveting and physical Denver defense. Backup runner, Danny Ware, filled in for the injured, Ahmad Bradshaw. The shaky Giants rusher fumbled on his third carry of the game in the second quarter following an offsides penalty. Safety, Brian Dawkins tumbled on the football to recover the fumble for Denver. Broncos maligned receiver, Brandon Marshall, caught a 28 yard pass from Orton to set up Moreno’s touchdown run. Dawkins stymied New York’s offense with eight tackles. Elvis Dumervil, NFL sack leader, had his way with Manning. Dumervil sacked Manning in the fourth quarter and dislodged the ball for another Giants turnover. Dumervil dumped Manning twice during the Thursday trouncing.
Cornerback, Terrell Thomas, picked off Orton in the third quarter to give the Giants an opportunity to surmount their first half struggles. The Giants could only turn the interception into a field goal as running back, Brandon Jacobs, was tackled for two losses. Jacobs was slow-footed and did little to help the Giants on Thursday night. Jacobs was feeble in picking up blitzes, and the New York receivers barely escaped the clutches of Denver’s defensive backs to get open. Lawrence Tynes nailed a 39 yard field goal eight minutes into the third quarter to finally put New York on the scoreboard. Tynes drilled a 52 yarder on the next New York possession to trim the Denver lead to ten. That was all the trimming New York would do on this Turkey Day. The defensive line continues to show their weaknesses with virtually no pass rush. The secondary had trouble in coverage, and allowed Stokley to put the game away in the final quarter. Marshall finished with 6 receptions for 86 yards. Moreno racked up 88 on the ground and 19 through the air for Denver. The Broncos snapped a four game slide after sailing through the gates 6-0. Manning passed for 230 yards, but the offense produced just 181 yards before an 86 yard drive in the final two minutes. The Giants played with little energy and failed to execute all night. They didn’t reach the Broncos side of the field until Manning found Mario Manningham following Thomas’ interception. Manningham ended with five grabs for 48 yards, and Hakeem Nicks set a Giants rookie record with a reception in his sixth straight game. Nicks hauled in four passes for 66 yards. Mediocre New York fell two games behind the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. The 8-3 Cowboys won out 24-7 as Tony Romo gobbled up his fourth consecutive Thanksgiving victory in Big D.
Parting Points: Colt McCoy shouldn’t surprise anyone. The Texas quarterback is a gifted athlete who has made a college career out of remarkable plays.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Rooting for Rivals
Naturally, football is one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions. I love seeing the Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions kickoff every Turkey Day. It doesn’t matter where the teams are in the standings. Records don’t signify the nostalgic meaning of the annual games. I hope Dallas and Detroit continue to host games on this day for many years to come.
There’s a reason rooting for a team doesn’t come with an owner’s manual. There are no written criteria for which opposing rivals you aren’t supposed to like. The instructions are up to the individual sports fan. I’m one of those rare fans who roots for both the Cowboys and the New York Giants. That makes being a football fan living in New York difficult at times. But, you would be surprised how many New Yorkers dig Big D as much as I do. I actually started out a New York Jets fans. Back when the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were all the rage, I rooted handedly for Gang Green. I finally woke up in 1989 when the NFL was introduced to UCLA quarterback, Troy Aikman. The Cowboys drafted terrific Troy when I was six years old. In the early 1990’s, anybody who was anybody in New York adored Bill Parcell’s Giants. If you didn’t reside in upstate New York, you cheered for the Giants to knock off the Buffalo Bills in the Superbowl. I remember taking a liking to Thurman Thomas and Jim Kelly, especially after Kelly returned from an injury to lead the Bills over Dan Marino’s Miami Dolphins in the ’90 playoffs. Thomas scored in the final quarter and Kelly drove downfield to finish it off with a pass to Andre Reed. The Bills annihilated and dominated the Raiders in the AFC Championship game to set up Superbowl XXV. I don’t remember muc h about the actual game. Unfortunately, I was much more concerned with what song the New Kids on the Block would perform at halftime. Apparently, I missed one of the best games in history. The Giants edged Buffalo 20-19 for the smallest margin of victory ever.
The Cowboys were my team from the moment Troy Aikman emerged to stardom in Dallas. With it came many wonderful moments and several heartbreaking ones. The Giants and Cowboys have had very memorable games throughout the years. Yankee Stadium hosted the first meeting between the rivals in December, 1960. Allie Sherman’s Giants faced Tom Landry’s underdog Cowboys. It was Dallas’ only non-loss that season. The game ended in a 31-31 tie. Thirty-four years later, Hall-of-fame tailback, number 22, Emmitt Smith, captured my heart by burying the Giants an overtime Meadowlands affair. The Cowboys repeated as Superbowl champs that year. I couldn’t believe there was anything as wonderful as the Cowboys when I was little. In almost every Thanksgiving picture I own, I am either wearing a Dallas sweatshirt or an Aikman jersey. No one in my family appreciated it, but they went along with my fanaticism anyway. The only time I really heard it from my relatives was when the Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers squared off. I’ll never forget Neil O’Donnell throwing mistakenly to Larry Brown in Superbowl XXX. The day after the game, there was only one thing to do. Create my own victory poster, plastering the names of every Cowboy on a poster hanging on my wall.
In the late 1990’s, my father took me to Albany, New York to see the Giants in a training camp game. I got on the field to score autographs from some key players. Jason Sehorn, the USC cornerback, was hands-down my new Aikman. I knew everything about number 31. It’s too bad his whiffle-waffle career wavered. The Giants were suddenly interesting because they were a solid team again. It was special to share each moment with my father because I was in the final two years of high school. I didn’t mind the Giants doing well. The ‘Boys were blazed by Big Blue for the division nine years ago when Tiki Barber scampered in for the go-ahead touchdown. They returned to the Superbowl in 2000, only to lose. The Giants were suddenly interesting because they were a solid team again. They returned to the Superbowl, only to lose out under Jim Fassel. In 2008, New York mastered the impossible to decking the Patriots in the Superbowl on the day of my grandmother’s funeral. I know the product on the field that February 3rd day was unimportant. But the victory helped to ease and heal my sad heart.
Today I am thankful for all the memories the Cowboys, Giants and every other sports team has brought. My life has been influenced by all of them in some way. I have a Giants pennant on my wall. On a shelf below sits my beloved Cowboys football. Someone once told me it wasn’t possible to be a fan of both the Giants and the Cowboys; the two do not coexist. I beg to differ. If it seems contradicting, I disagree. The answer is quite simple. The two can coexist because, for me, they do. I grew up fascinated by this game. I learned to appreciate it because of the Cowboys. I learned just how much the game could affect my life by rooting for the Giants. I’ll probably never go to Dallas and see the Cowboys play. I know I will never witness Aikman’s arm live in person. That doesn’t stop me from being a fan. I sought out the Cowboys on my own. With New York, I had some support and people on my side to cheer along with. We need both independence and dependence in our lives. The Giants are more accessible for me. They’re like a good friend, who will always be there. Dallas is like the person who will always have a piece of my heart. There is no need for an explanation when feelings come into play. I’m purely and simply thankful for both blessings in my life.
Parting Points: Turkey Day tune- “Thank You” by Boyz II Men
“I’ve always viewed myself as an achiever. I need to achieve for myself”- Troy Aikman
There’s a reason rooting for a team doesn’t come with an owner’s manual. There are no written criteria for which opposing rivals you aren’t supposed to like. The instructions are up to the individual sports fan. I’m one of those rare fans who roots for both the Cowboys and the New York Giants. That makes being a football fan living in New York difficult at times. But, you would be surprised how many New Yorkers dig Big D as much as I do. I actually started out a New York Jets fans. Back when the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were all the rage, I rooted handedly for Gang Green. I finally woke up in 1989 when the NFL was introduced to UCLA quarterback, Troy Aikman. The Cowboys drafted terrific Troy when I was six years old. In the early 1990’s, anybody who was anybody in New York adored Bill Parcell’s Giants. If you didn’t reside in upstate New York, you cheered for the Giants to knock off the Buffalo Bills in the Superbowl. I remember taking a liking to Thurman Thomas and Jim Kelly, especially after Kelly returned from an injury to lead the Bills over Dan Marino’s Miami Dolphins in the ’90 playoffs. Thomas scored in the final quarter and Kelly drove downfield to finish it off with a pass to Andre Reed. The Bills annihilated and dominated the Raiders in the AFC Championship game to set up Superbowl XXV. I don’t remember muc h about the actual game. Unfortunately, I was much more concerned with what song the New Kids on the Block would perform at halftime. Apparently, I missed one of the best games in history. The Giants edged Buffalo 20-19 for the smallest margin of victory ever.
The Cowboys were my team from the moment Troy Aikman emerged to stardom in Dallas. With it came many wonderful moments and several heartbreaking ones. The Giants and Cowboys have had very memorable games throughout the years. Yankee Stadium hosted the first meeting between the rivals in December, 1960. Allie Sherman’s Giants faced Tom Landry’s underdog Cowboys. It was Dallas’ only non-loss that season. The game ended in a 31-31 tie. Thirty-four years later, Hall-of-fame tailback, number 22, Emmitt Smith, captured my heart by burying the Giants an overtime Meadowlands affair. The Cowboys repeated as Superbowl champs that year. I couldn’t believe there was anything as wonderful as the Cowboys when I was little. In almost every Thanksgiving picture I own, I am either wearing a Dallas sweatshirt or an Aikman jersey. No one in my family appreciated it, but they went along with my fanaticism anyway. The only time I really heard it from my relatives was when the Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers squared off. I’ll never forget Neil O’Donnell throwing mistakenly to Larry Brown in Superbowl XXX. The day after the game, there was only one thing to do. Create my own victory poster, plastering the names of every Cowboy on a poster hanging on my wall.
In the late 1990’s, my father took me to Albany, New York to see the Giants in a training camp game. I got on the field to score autographs from some key players. Jason Sehorn, the USC cornerback, was hands-down my new Aikman. I knew everything about number 31. It’s too bad his whiffle-waffle career wavered. The Giants were suddenly interesting because they were a solid team again. It was special to share each moment with my father because I was in the final two years of high school. I didn’t mind the Giants doing well. The ‘Boys were blazed by Big Blue for the division nine years ago when Tiki Barber scampered in for the go-ahead touchdown. They returned to the Superbowl in 2000, only to lose. The Giants were suddenly interesting because they were a solid team again. They returned to the Superbowl, only to lose out under Jim Fassel. In 2008, New York mastered the impossible to decking the Patriots in the Superbowl on the day of my grandmother’s funeral. I know the product on the field that February 3rd day was unimportant. But the victory helped to ease and heal my sad heart.
Today I am thankful for all the memories the Cowboys, Giants and every other sports team has brought. My life has been influenced by all of them in some way. I have a Giants pennant on my wall. On a shelf below sits my beloved Cowboys football. Someone once told me it wasn’t possible to be a fan of both the Giants and the Cowboys; the two do not coexist. I beg to differ. If it seems contradicting, I disagree. The answer is quite simple. The two can coexist because, for me, they do. I grew up fascinated by this game. I learned to appreciate it because of the Cowboys. I learned just how much the game could affect my life by rooting for the Giants. I’ll probably never go to Dallas and see the Cowboys play. I know I will never witness Aikman’s arm live in person. That doesn’t stop me from being a fan. I sought out the Cowboys on my own. With New York, I had some support and people on my side to cheer along with. We need both independence and dependence in our lives. The Giants are more accessible for me. They’re like a good friend, who will always be there. Dallas is like the person who will always have a piece of my heart. There is no need for an explanation when feelings come into play. I’m purely and simply thankful for both blessings in my life.
Parting Points: Turkey Day tune- “Thank You” by Boyz II Men
“I’ve always viewed myself as an achiever. I need to achieve for myself”- Troy Aikman
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Size, Substitutes Storylines from Staples
The New York Knicks dropped the opener of a three-game West Coast swing Tuesday night at the Staples Center. The defending champion LA Lakers cruised past New York 100-90 for their fourth straight win. Ron Artest scored 17 points, and the Lakers scored likewise in the third quarter alone to avoid the shaky play of their reserve players. LA’s substitues played sloppy and the Knicks trimmed the lead to respectability by outscoring the Lakers in the fourth quarter. LA exploited a major size advantage and returned their starters to take command of the game. The 6’10” Lamar Odom grabbed 12 rebounds against the second worst defensive team in the NBA. Kobe Bryant finished with 34 points, five rebounds and four assists. Pau Gasol, playing in his third game, produced a double-double for the NBA champs.
Wilson Chandler and Nate Robinson tried to carry the Knicks. They both netted 15 points as the Knicks struggled and strained to get in the paint. The visitors folded in the third quarter when LA broke the game open. Following a ten point halftime lead, the Lakers went on to tally 17 unanswered points. The Knicks bucketed just 12 free throws and couldn’t get to the charity stripe as often as they wanted. New York was also grim from the outside, hitting only 11 of their 33 3-point attempts. Eddy Curry re-injured his knee when he bumped with Andrew Bynum in the first half. The seven foot center sat out the second half, and the 3-11 Knicks could be without him for their meeting with the Sacramento Kings tonight. The 26 year old eight year veteran missed all of last season with the same left knee ailment.
The Lakers’ outburst in the third quarter was a good sign for Phil Jackson’s team. LA is starting to hit their stride, with all five starters scoring in double digits. Bryant’s supporting cast has the size and talent to top every team in the league. Even when the Knicks clung to a one-point advantage early in the game, the Lakers answered with a 9-0 run. LA extended their lead by hitting threes and jumpers in an all-out domination of the Knicks. Winning is nothing new for Jackson and the Lakers. There will be challengers trying to knock Kobe and company from the NBA’s top spot. But with Gasol back in gear, the Lakers are fully ready to defend their title and take the west. Last night’s matchup between small forward Chandler and Gasol was completely in LA’s favor. Gasol and Bynum together add a new dimension for Jackson. The Lakers did not play very well offensively, but still edged the Knicks by ten points when the buzzer sounded. LA plays great, straight-forward basketball. It is not surprising they trounce opponents. They did their work against a weak Knicks team by pouring in points when New York sought to make it a respectable game. The lowly Knicks and polished Lakers are headed in opposite directions. While LA is busy schooling teams at the Staples Center, New York is trying to put together a legitimate team. Former Seminole, Toney Douglas, and Italian standout, Danilo Gallnari, chipped in a combined 31 points last night. The two young shooters are promising Knickerboxers, but aren’t enough to culminate a losing program into a championship-caliber club. The Knicks are playing better defense this season, and have executed effectively on offense. This team just doesn’t know how to counter a stronger club, especially one as established as the reigning champions.
Parting Points: Thanksgiving Eve song- “Just Breathe” by Pearl Jam
I wonder what the NJ Nets have to be thankful for this year...
Wilson Chandler and Nate Robinson tried to carry the Knicks. They both netted 15 points as the Knicks struggled and strained to get in the paint. The visitors folded in the third quarter when LA broke the game open. Following a ten point halftime lead, the Lakers went on to tally 17 unanswered points. The Knicks bucketed just 12 free throws and couldn’t get to the charity stripe as often as they wanted. New York was also grim from the outside, hitting only 11 of their 33 3-point attempts. Eddy Curry re-injured his knee when he bumped with Andrew Bynum in the first half. The seven foot center sat out the second half, and the 3-11 Knicks could be without him for their meeting with the Sacramento Kings tonight. The 26 year old eight year veteran missed all of last season with the same left knee ailment.
The Lakers’ outburst in the third quarter was a good sign for Phil Jackson’s team. LA is starting to hit their stride, with all five starters scoring in double digits. Bryant’s supporting cast has the size and talent to top every team in the league. Even when the Knicks clung to a one-point advantage early in the game, the Lakers answered with a 9-0 run. LA extended their lead by hitting threes and jumpers in an all-out domination of the Knicks. Winning is nothing new for Jackson and the Lakers. There will be challengers trying to knock Kobe and company from the NBA’s top spot. But with Gasol back in gear, the Lakers are fully ready to defend their title and take the west. Last night’s matchup between small forward Chandler and Gasol was completely in LA’s favor. Gasol and Bynum together add a new dimension for Jackson. The Lakers did not play very well offensively, but still edged the Knicks by ten points when the buzzer sounded. LA plays great, straight-forward basketball. It is not surprising they trounce opponents. They did their work against a weak Knicks team by pouring in points when New York sought to make it a respectable game. The lowly Knicks and polished Lakers are headed in opposite directions. While LA is busy schooling teams at the Staples Center, New York is trying to put together a legitimate team. Former Seminole, Toney Douglas, and Italian standout, Danilo Gallnari, chipped in a combined 31 points last night. The two young shooters are promising Knickerboxers, but aren’t enough to culminate a losing program into a championship-caliber club. The Knicks are playing better defense this season, and have executed effectively on offense. This team just doesn’t know how to counter a stronger club, especially one as established as the reigning champions.
Parting Points: Thanksgiving Eve song- “Just Breathe” by Pearl Jam
I wonder what the NJ Nets have to be thankful for this year...
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Morgantown Melee
Kickoff is still three days away, but it’s never too soon to begin discussing the annual Backyard Brawl. Morgantown’s Mountaineers host the Pittsburgh Panthers on Black Friday for the 102nd meeting between the Big East neighbors. West Virginia comes in to the game with a 7-3 record. The Panthers are 9-1 overall and boast one of the top offensive lines and strongest defenses in the conference. Pittsburgh is 5-0 in Big East play but will be playing the Backyard Brawl on enemy territory. Anytime the Mountaineers play in Morgantown, they have a chance to win. It will take a very solid West Virginia effort and possibly a few Pitt mistakes for the home team to escape victorious.
Pittsburgh prides itself pillaging yards and pitching their perplexed opponents for losses. The Panthers’ defensive front three account for nearly 75% of the team’s nation-leading sacks. The Mountaineers’ occasionally unyielding offense will be tested Friday. WVU running back, Noel Devine, is expected to be healthy for the game. Devine is capable of steamrolling defenses while leading the Mountaineers in yards. Devine is not at full strength for Bill Stewart’s squad. The Mountaineers will be forced to get by Pitt with their feature back dinged up. If the Panthers contain dashing Devine, the Mountaineers may have a tough time finding ways to score points. Pittsburgh is more powerful up front than any other defense West Virginia has faced this year. Their smash-mouth style has the edge over the inconsistent Mountaineer offensive line. West Virginia needs to be able to protect against the exceptional Pitt pass rush.
Dave Wannstedt built the Panthers around an unconventional power running game. Offensively, the Mountaineers use a spread-option system compared to Wannstedt’s more traditional pro-style. The offense will get a glimpse of WVU’s 3-5-3 defense. The Panthers haven’t seen anything like that defensively, save for Navy. But, it shouldn’t really be an issue for Wannstedt’s winners. Pitt has thrived with their decision to throw a pro-style offensive so far. There have been few low points for the Panthers since employing the flummoxing offense. The 8th ranked Panthers will try to avoid the road upset Friday and add to their two year winning streak against the Mountaineers. In 1997, Pittsburgh kept the then-number two Mountaineers from playing in the national title game. Miami Dolphins quarterback, Pat White and West Virginia suffered a 13-9 defeat in Morgantown that year. This year’s Mountaineer signal caller, Jarrett Brown, was on the sidelines hoping his team would cement a spot in the BCS title game. The underdog Panthers rose up to defend and stuff WVU’s dreams, but not before Brown entered the game. He replaced the injured White and provided a 6 yard touchdown run for the Mountaineers. Brown came into the 2007 Backyard Brawl with few expectations because he was essentially an unproven and unknown passer. Friday he has an opportunity to give the Mountaineers a ten-win season. Brown can create a confident boost to an otherwise disappointing season, where WVU fell short of expectations.
The Panthers have gone 18-5 and been a persistent presence in the top 25 since that turning point contest. Stewart’s squad is unranked this season. The Mountaineers will encounter a new face in freshman running back, Dion Lewis, on Friday. Lewis leads the Big East in rushing yards per game and is 38 yards shy of breaking LeSean McCoy’s rookie rushing mark. The speedy back is currently sixth in the nation in rushing. The game won’t affect the Panthers standing in the Big East. It could help decide how the Panthers finish in the final polls. Pittsburgh can lessen their chances of playing in an upper-tier bowl with a loss to WVU and Cincinnati on December 5th. It could also determine whether the Mountaineers complete an undefeated home record in 2009, however. West Virginia has not lost a game in Morgantown this year. This series demands a loud crowd, and none other than the one Friday in Morgantown will present an emotional atmosphere. The Panthers are equipped with explosive and exquisite athletes. I expect Pitt to take this year’s Black Friday Backyarder.
Parting Points: Kudos to Albert Pujols on claiming yet another NL MVP honor.
Is anyone in the NFL healthy for this week?
Listening to some Rod Stewart on the last Tuesday of November.
Pittsburgh prides itself pillaging yards and pitching their perplexed opponents for losses. The Panthers’ defensive front three account for nearly 75% of the team’s nation-leading sacks. The Mountaineers’ occasionally unyielding offense will be tested Friday. WVU running back, Noel Devine, is expected to be healthy for the game. Devine is capable of steamrolling defenses while leading the Mountaineers in yards. Devine is not at full strength for Bill Stewart’s squad. The Mountaineers will be forced to get by Pitt with their feature back dinged up. If the Panthers contain dashing Devine, the Mountaineers may have a tough time finding ways to score points. Pittsburgh is more powerful up front than any other defense West Virginia has faced this year. Their smash-mouth style has the edge over the inconsistent Mountaineer offensive line. West Virginia needs to be able to protect against the exceptional Pitt pass rush.
Dave Wannstedt built the Panthers around an unconventional power running game. Offensively, the Mountaineers use a spread-option system compared to Wannstedt’s more traditional pro-style. The offense will get a glimpse of WVU’s 3-5-3 defense. The Panthers haven’t seen anything like that defensively, save for Navy. But, it shouldn’t really be an issue for Wannstedt’s winners. Pitt has thrived with their decision to throw a pro-style offensive so far. There have been few low points for the Panthers since employing the flummoxing offense. The 8th ranked Panthers will try to avoid the road upset Friday and add to their two year winning streak against the Mountaineers. In 1997, Pittsburgh kept the then-number two Mountaineers from playing in the national title game. Miami Dolphins quarterback, Pat White and West Virginia suffered a 13-9 defeat in Morgantown that year. This year’s Mountaineer signal caller, Jarrett Brown, was on the sidelines hoping his team would cement a spot in the BCS title game. The underdog Panthers rose up to defend and stuff WVU’s dreams, but not before Brown entered the game. He replaced the injured White and provided a 6 yard touchdown run for the Mountaineers. Brown came into the 2007 Backyard Brawl with few expectations because he was essentially an unproven and unknown passer. Friday he has an opportunity to give the Mountaineers a ten-win season. Brown can create a confident boost to an otherwise disappointing season, where WVU fell short of expectations.
The Panthers have gone 18-5 and been a persistent presence in the top 25 since that turning point contest. Stewart’s squad is unranked this season. The Mountaineers will encounter a new face in freshman running back, Dion Lewis, on Friday. Lewis leads the Big East in rushing yards per game and is 38 yards shy of breaking LeSean McCoy’s rookie rushing mark. The speedy back is currently sixth in the nation in rushing. The game won’t affect the Panthers standing in the Big East. It could help decide how the Panthers finish in the final polls. Pittsburgh can lessen their chances of playing in an upper-tier bowl with a loss to WVU and Cincinnati on December 5th. It could also determine whether the Mountaineers complete an undefeated home record in 2009, however. West Virginia has not lost a game in Morgantown this year. This series demands a loud crowd, and none other than the one Friday in Morgantown will present an emotional atmosphere. The Panthers are equipped with explosive and exquisite athletes. I expect Pitt to take this year’s Black Friday Backyarder.
Parting Points: Kudos to Albert Pujols on claiming yet another NL MVP honor.
Is anyone in the NFL healthy for this week?
Listening to some Rod Stewart on the last Tuesday of November.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Squeeze Stops Skid
The New York football Giants improved to 6-4 and just barely ended a four game losing skid Sunday in East Rutherford. New York outlasted the Atlanta Falcons 34-31 in overtime after surrendering a 14 point lead with six minutes left in the fourth quarter. Lawrence Tynes’ game-winning 36 yard field goal helped squeeze out the Giants’ first win since October 11th.
Quarterback, Eli Manning, had a career day but the Giants didn’t charge out of their bye week in glorious fashion at home. Manning tossed an interception on New York’s opening drive after a false start penalty and quarterback sack. Brent Grimes grabbed the pick for the Falcons and returned it for nine yards. Manning endured his ninth career 300 yard passing day, but just his first in Giants Stadium. Atlanta’s Matt Ryan threw two touchdowns and completed 26 of 49 passes, but the Falcons went three-and-out on their initial possession. New York was the only team lighting up the scoreboard in the first. Tynes legged a 39 yard field goal to put the home team up by three. The Big Blue kicker shanked a 31 yarder in the second quarter, and Atlanta scored on a seven yard run by Jason Snelling. The Falcon fullback was filling in for running back, Michael Turner. Snelling finished with 76 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
New York made it a three point game again seven minutes before halftime. Rookie receiver, Hakeem Nicks, hauled in a 30 yard pass before tight end, Kevin Boss scored down the right sideline. The Giants increased their lead a few minutes later. Falcons kicker, Jason Elam, missed a field goal and Big Blue tackle, Justin Tuck forced a fumble. Osi Umenyiora recovered the fumble that gave the Giants the ball at the Atlanta 34 yard line with a minute remaining. It took six plays for Manning to find Boss in the end zone again. Boss’ second snag, this time from four yards out, provided the home team a ten point halftime advantage.
Atlanta opened the second half with another Snelling score. Domenik Hixon returned the kickoff 19 yards to the New York 26 yard line. Atlanta’s defense was called for holding and pass interference following Manning’s 51 yard toss to Steve Smith. Brandon Jacobs, the stocky running back, restored New York’s ten point lead by scoring from two yards off Atlanta’s right defensive end. Ryan orchestrated a seven minute Atlanta drive with his team down 24-14. The Falcons settled for three points when Ryan failed to connect with Michael Jenkins and Tony Gonzalez. Elam’s kick from 25 yards was good just before the final quarter. New York fullback, Madison Hedgecock, started the fourth quarter on the right foot. Hedgecock caught a three yard pass from Manning with 12:16 left in the game. The 31-17 Giants lead appeared to be secure, but without defensive captain Antonio Peirce in the game, New York couldn’t hold the high flying Falcons.
Ryan hauled a touchdown to Eric Weems on a second down from the Giants four yard line with just over six minutes in regulation. It was Weems’ only reception of the game. The second year signal caller then marched the Falcons 76 yards on 12 plays. The end result was a Gonzalez touchdown reception for 11 yards, and a tie ball game in front of a stunned and shivering Meadowlands crowd. The Giants went three-and-out with .28 ticks on the clock to send the game into overtime. After winning the coin toss, New York broke the 31-31 tie when Tynes notched the final field goal. The final drive was highlighted by Mario Manningham’s 29 yard catch. Manningham is making tremendous strides for Big Blue this season. The former Michigan standout has four touchdowns and close to 500 yards in his sophomore season. He lead all players with 126 yards Sunday. Boss had five receptions and two touchdowns with 76 yards for the Giants. Gonzalez finished with 86 yards and Jenkins topped 76 to lead Atlanta receivers. Jacobs pounded out under 40 yards on the ground, but scored one touchdown. The running back did hurt his knee during the contest. The Giants are going to need a healthy Jacobs if the hope to be an explosive team in December. Tom Coughlin wasn’t so committed to the run during the first half. The Giants passed 24 times and ran only 13 in the first two quarters. It was nice to see Aaron Ross and Chase Blackburn make their season debuts. The defense needs to step up big time without Pierce in the mix. Sunday was a huge game for New York. It was just as critical for the Falcons, who fell to 5-5. The Giants will need at least three to four wins in their final six games to have a chance at the playoffs. Manning needs to be a controlled and efficient passer in order for New York to turn their season around. He began Sunday what could be the start of something good for the 2009 Giants.
Parting Points: Monday music- Backstreet Boys’ “As Long As You Love Me”
The Cowboys SO did not deserve to win yesterday after the Redskins outplayed them the entire game.
Congrats to the near-unanimous AL MVP, Joe Mauer.
Quarterback, Eli Manning, had a career day but the Giants didn’t charge out of their bye week in glorious fashion at home. Manning tossed an interception on New York’s opening drive after a false start penalty and quarterback sack. Brent Grimes grabbed the pick for the Falcons and returned it for nine yards. Manning endured his ninth career 300 yard passing day, but just his first in Giants Stadium. Atlanta’s Matt Ryan threw two touchdowns and completed 26 of 49 passes, but the Falcons went three-and-out on their initial possession. New York was the only team lighting up the scoreboard in the first. Tynes legged a 39 yard field goal to put the home team up by three. The Big Blue kicker shanked a 31 yarder in the second quarter, and Atlanta scored on a seven yard run by Jason Snelling. The Falcon fullback was filling in for running back, Michael Turner. Snelling finished with 76 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
New York made it a three point game again seven minutes before halftime. Rookie receiver, Hakeem Nicks, hauled in a 30 yard pass before tight end, Kevin Boss scored down the right sideline. The Giants increased their lead a few minutes later. Falcons kicker, Jason Elam, missed a field goal and Big Blue tackle, Justin Tuck forced a fumble. Osi Umenyiora recovered the fumble that gave the Giants the ball at the Atlanta 34 yard line with a minute remaining. It took six plays for Manning to find Boss in the end zone again. Boss’ second snag, this time from four yards out, provided the home team a ten point halftime advantage.
Atlanta opened the second half with another Snelling score. Domenik Hixon returned the kickoff 19 yards to the New York 26 yard line. Atlanta’s defense was called for holding and pass interference following Manning’s 51 yard toss to Steve Smith. Brandon Jacobs, the stocky running back, restored New York’s ten point lead by scoring from two yards off Atlanta’s right defensive end. Ryan orchestrated a seven minute Atlanta drive with his team down 24-14. The Falcons settled for three points when Ryan failed to connect with Michael Jenkins and Tony Gonzalez. Elam’s kick from 25 yards was good just before the final quarter. New York fullback, Madison Hedgecock, started the fourth quarter on the right foot. Hedgecock caught a three yard pass from Manning with 12:16 left in the game. The 31-17 Giants lead appeared to be secure, but without defensive captain Antonio Peirce in the game, New York couldn’t hold the high flying Falcons.
Ryan hauled a touchdown to Eric Weems on a second down from the Giants four yard line with just over six minutes in regulation. It was Weems’ only reception of the game. The second year signal caller then marched the Falcons 76 yards on 12 plays. The end result was a Gonzalez touchdown reception for 11 yards, and a tie ball game in front of a stunned and shivering Meadowlands crowd. The Giants went three-and-out with .28 ticks on the clock to send the game into overtime. After winning the coin toss, New York broke the 31-31 tie when Tynes notched the final field goal. The final drive was highlighted by Mario Manningham’s 29 yard catch. Manningham is making tremendous strides for Big Blue this season. The former Michigan standout has four touchdowns and close to 500 yards in his sophomore season. He lead all players with 126 yards Sunday. Boss had five receptions and two touchdowns with 76 yards for the Giants. Gonzalez finished with 86 yards and Jenkins topped 76 to lead Atlanta receivers. Jacobs pounded out under 40 yards on the ground, but scored one touchdown. The running back did hurt his knee during the contest. The Giants are going to need a healthy Jacobs if the hope to be an explosive team in December. Tom Coughlin wasn’t so committed to the run during the first half. The Giants passed 24 times and ran only 13 in the first two quarters. It was nice to see Aaron Ross and Chase Blackburn make their season debuts. The defense needs to step up big time without Pierce in the mix. Sunday was a huge game for New York. It was just as critical for the Falcons, who fell to 5-5. The Giants will need at least three to four wins in their final six games to have a chance at the playoffs. Manning needs to be a controlled and efficient passer in order for New York to turn their season around. He began Sunday what could be the start of something good for the 2009 Giants.
Parting Points: Monday music- Backstreet Boys’ “As Long As You Love Me”
The Cowboys SO did not deserve to win yesterday after the Redskins outplayed them the entire game.
Congrats to the near-unanimous AL MVP, Joe Mauer.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Forcier's Final Fumbling Flop
The Michigan Wolverines are assured their second straight losing season. The Ohio State Buckeyes are assured a Big 10 Title and trip to the Rose Bowl. The greatest rivalry in college football went the Buckeye way for the sixth straight year. Thaddeus Gibson’s interception with 3:34 left at the Michigan 42 yard line sealed the deal for Tate Forcier and the 5-7 Wolverines. Forcier, a true freshman quarterback, was picked off four time in the 21-10 loss in Ann Arbor. The Buckeyes are headed to the Rose Bowl riding a five game winning streak and 10-2 record. The Wolverine fangs didn’t do the damage necessary to defeat OSU. It was a return to normalcy of sorts for Ohio State’s running game that distinguished doom for Rich Rodriguez and the school up north.
Forcier fumbled on his first drive. Pinned inside their own five yard line, the possession ended in disaster for Forcier and the Wolves. Ohio State defensive tackle, Cameron Hayward, recovered the fumble and scored the first touchdown of the day. The Buckeyes upped their lead to 14-3 following a mid- second quarter Michigan 46 yard field goal. Jason Olesnavage drilled it through the uprights, after an earlier miss from 24 yards. The Bucks’ backfield kicked it into high gear and quickly established the run, an enigma the Wolverines struggled to solve. Brandon Saine ended an 80 yard, 6 play OSU drive with a 29 yard surge into the end zone. The entire touchdown drive consisted of run plays. Jim Tressel’s offense must be centered on the backfield. Ohio State has proven for weeks now they are most effective when gearing up the ground game. Sophomore, Terrelle Pryor is a dual-threat quarterback with fast feet and the ability to make something out of nothing. His nine yard scramble in the second was followed by a 25 yard surge to set up Saine’s touchdown. Ohio State scored their fewest amount of points since September 19th against Michigan State. The Wolverines’ defense held the Buckeye receivers in check and kept this a game. As usual, Ohio State’s offense was extremely conservative. Tressel’s head-scratching play-calling is nothing new for OSU fans. The Buckeyes succeeded in Ann Arbor because they were able to control the clock and carry the ball for 251 rushing yards. The inexperienced UM quarterback made key costly errors and couldn’t complete the passes he needed to sustain drives. But, the Buckeyes offense did little with their first-half possessions and the Michigan defense did a good job at containing them.
Vincent Smith’s reception five minutes into the second half trimmed the Buckeye lead to four. Forcier hit his running back for an 18 yard pass. The score was set up by Pryor’s first turnover in four games. Ohio State responded immediately on their next possession. Pryor marched 89 yards after beginning the drive on the OSU 11 yard line. Dan Herron caught a 12 yard screen pass from Pryor to put the Buckeyes on top by 12. The Buckeyes capitalized on Michigan’s mistakes to extend their winning streak in this suddenly lopsided rivalry. Herron continued to stomp and pound it out against the Michigan defense. Saine, Herron and Pryor exchanged rushes in the fourth quarter to run out the clock on another murky Michigan season.
Pryor finished 9 of 17 for 67 yards. He also ran for 74 yards. That goes to show you how terrific Tressel’s team was at running the football yesterday. Herron added 96 yards on the ground with one touchdown. Saine broke free for 86 yards and a touchdown. DeVair Posey lead the OSU receiving core with a handful of catches for 38 of the Bucks’ 67 total yards. Senior safety, Kurt Coleman, snared a pair of picks in front of the 111,000 fan blend of maize, blue, scarlet and gray. Devon Torrence and Gibson hauled in the other two Ohio State interceptions. Freshman receiver, Roy Roundtree, grabbed a game-high 9 receptions for 116 yards for the losing team. Smith ate up just 32 yards on the ground with eight carries, and Forcier was 23 of 28 for 226 yards. He hadn’t thrown more than one pick in a game this season before facing the Buckeyes. Saturday was Tressel’s eighth win against hated Michigan in nine tries. The Buckeyes were nearly outgained in yardage by the Wolverines. The refined running game was the unique advantage. It was the net rushing yards that made the difference at the end of the day. Forcier is usually a play-maker, and he did show glimpses of greatness early Saturday. The Wolverines couldn’t put things together on big plays to make strides against their rivals. Now, the Buckeyes can rest easily and treasure their small “gold pants” charm. They’ve made headway since the shaky start this season. They downed their arch rival and earned another conference title. The Buckeyes were able to identify their strengths and exploit their opponents’ weaknesses. They converted turnovers and responded on every set of downs to restore their leads. The coveted Rose Bowl awaits in Pasadena. Pac-10 powerhouse Oregon is in line to play against them. That means it’s time to cover the Rose Bowl from soup to nuts. Hopefully, it will be the Bucknuts tasting some Duck Soup in January.
Parting Points: Is it too much to ask the Giants not to lose five games in a row?
Forcier fumbled on his first drive. Pinned inside their own five yard line, the possession ended in disaster for Forcier and the Wolves. Ohio State defensive tackle, Cameron Hayward, recovered the fumble and scored the first touchdown of the day. The Buckeyes upped their lead to 14-3 following a mid- second quarter Michigan 46 yard field goal. Jason Olesnavage drilled it through the uprights, after an earlier miss from 24 yards. The Bucks’ backfield kicked it into high gear and quickly established the run, an enigma the Wolverines struggled to solve. Brandon Saine ended an 80 yard, 6 play OSU drive with a 29 yard surge into the end zone. The entire touchdown drive consisted of run plays. Jim Tressel’s offense must be centered on the backfield. Ohio State has proven for weeks now they are most effective when gearing up the ground game. Sophomore, Terrelle Pryor is a dual-threat quarterback with fast feet and the ability to make something out of nothing. His nine yard scramble in the second was followed by a 25 yard surge to set up Saine’s touchdown. Ohio State scored their fewest amount of points since September 19th against Michigan State. The Wolverines’ defense held the Buckeye receivers in check and kept this a game. As usual, Ohio State’s offense was extremely conservative. Tressel’s head-scratching play-calling is nothing new for OSU fans. The Buckeyes succeeded in Ann Arbor because they were able to control the clock and carry the ball for 251 rushing yards. The inexperienced UM quarterback made key costly errors and couldn’t complete the passes he needed to sustain drives. But, the Buckeyes offense did little with their first-half possessions and the Michigan defense did a good job at containing them.
Vincent Smith’s reception five minutes into the second half trimmed the Buckeye lead to four. Forcier hit his running back for an 18 yard pass. The score was set up by Pryor’s first turnover in four games. Ohio State responded immediately on their next possession. Pryor marched 89 yards after beginning the drive on the OSU 11 yard line. Dan Herron caught a 12 yard screen pass from Pryor to put the Buckeyes on top by 12. The Buckeyes capitalized on Michigan’s mistakes to extend their winning streak in this suddenly lopsided rivalry. Herron continued to stomp and pound it out against the Michigan defense. Saine, Herron and Pryor exchanged rushes in the fourth quarter to run out the clock on another murky Michigan season.
Pryor finished 9 of 17 for 67 yards. He also ran for 74 yards. That goes to show you how terrific Tressel’s team was at running the football yesterday. Herron added 96 yards on the ground with one touchdown. Saine broke free for 86 yards and a touchdown. DeVair Posey lead the OSU receiving core with a handful of catches for 38 of the Bucks’ 67 total yards. Senior safety, Kurt Coleman, snared a pair of picks in front of the 111,000 fan blend of maize, blue, scarlet and gray. Devon Torrence and Gibson hauled in the other two Ohio State interceptions. Freshman receiver, Roy Roundtree, grabbed a game-high 9 receptions for 116 yards for the losing team. Smith ate up just 32 yards on the ground with eight carries, and Forcier was 23 of 28 for 226 yards. He hadn’t thrown more than one pick in a game this season before facing the Buckeyes. Saturday was Tressel’s eighth win against hated Michigan in nine tries. The Buckeyes were nearly outgained in yardage by the Wolverines. The refined running game was the unique advantage. It was the net rushing yards that made the difference at the end of the day. Forcier is usually a play-maker, and he did show glimpses of greatness early Saturday. The Wolverines couldn’t put things together on big plays to make strides against their rivals. Now, the Buckeyes can rest easily and treasure their small “gold pants” charm. They’ve made headway since the shaky start this season. They downed their arch rival and earned another conference title. The Buckeyes were able to identify their strengths and exploit their opponents’ weaknesses. They converted turnovers and responded on every set of downs to restore their leads. The coveted Rose Bowl awaits in Pasadena. Pac-10 powerhouse Oregon is in line to play against them. That means it’s time to cover the Rose Bowl from soup to nuts. Hopefully, it will be the Bucknuts tasting some Duck Soup in January.
Parting Points: Is it too much to ask the Giants not to lose five games in a row?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Aggies Agonized
Boise State is in BCS conference mode. The Broncos escaped unscathed again Friday night to extend their undefeated season and inch closer to a BCS bowl. In their last five games, Boise State has scored 45 points or more. Last week’s toil on the turf in Boise resulted in a 63 point outburst and shellacking of Idaho. Since stunning Rose Bowl hopeful Oregon by nine points in week one, the Broncos romped through the next ten weeks of their schedule with relative ease. The 11-0 Broncos are ranked sixth in the nation and have developed a knack for knocking off opponents. They continued to clip the competition last night with a 52-21 pounding in Logan over Utah State.
The Aggies were outgained 572 yards to 363 in their latest loss. WAC leaders, Boise State, started the scoring last night. The Broncos intercepted a tipped pass on Utah’s opening possession. Quarterback, Kellen Moore, pitched an eight yard touchdown pass to Tommy Gallarda in the first quarter. It was Moore’s only touchdown in the game. Boise State grinded up Utah on the ground after discovering the prolific passing attack wasn’t working as well as planned. Utah State prepared their defense against Moore, so the Broncos altered their strategy. Boise State coach Chris Petersen switched to a ground assault, with Doug Martin and Jeremy Avery carrying the load. Both running backs finished with over 100 yards and a combined six touchdowns.
Martin rushed for a 17 yard scoring in the second quarter, and followed it up with a two yard plunge with under five minutes left before halftime. Avery gave Boise State a two touchdown padding when he notched the next touchdown from nine yards. It was Martin again rushing for the final touchdown of the half with a one yard score to give the visitors an insurmountable 35-14 edge. The Broncos reached the endzone on their final four possessions of the half using their impressively effective ground game. Avery and Martin were the one-two punch scoring late in the second, and they continued to pound it in after the half.
Friday marked Avery’s third consecutive 100 yard effort. He scored six touchdowns while carrying the ball just 16 times. Martin grabbed his third 100 yard game of the season as he set a career high with 121 yards rushing. Even with the running burst, the Broncos didn’t desist the pass. Moore compiled 233 yards through the air. He was 15 for 29 for the Broncos, while Aggies quarterback, Diondre Borel threw one interception and finished without a touchdown pass. He kept the Aggies alive with his speed to avoid sacks, but lacked the necessary weapons to counter Boise State. Utah scored on Robert Turbin’s 24 yard run in the second quarter. Their other two touchdowns came from Michael Smith’s swift shoes. Smith scurried into the end zone on a first quarter, 22 yard rush, and again from 12 yards out in the third. Martin and Avery each added a touchdown after the half. The blistering Broncos backfield battered Utah for a season-high 323 yards.
Nevada and New Mexico State stand in the way of a perfect Broncos season. The 7-3 Wolfpack present an intriguing opponent next weekend. Nevada has one of the nation’s most aggressive running units. They’ve bounced back with seven straight victories after beginning with a hapless 0-3 record. The Wolfpack’s dialed up offense has cruised through the WAC with a 6-0 standing to lead the conference. The defense ranks first in the conference and 22nd in the nation, at stopping the run. Petersen may have to revert to Moore and the passing game against the Wolfpack. Nevada is a nuisance at running the clock with numbing rushing plays. It’s imperative Boise State gets ahead early in the contest, and institutes their own version of sustained drives. If they do so, they needn’t worry about their undefeated season. New Mexico State is a 3-7 team in the middle of a four game slide. They will most certainly have to elevate their game to beat Boise. The New Mexico Aggies, just like the Utah State ones, are a minuscule threat to the Broncos.
Parting Points: "You don't get hurt running straight ahead...three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust offense. I will pound you and pound you until you quit."- Woody Hayes
The Aggies were outgained 572 yards to 363 in their latest loss. WAC leaders, Boise State, started the scoring last night. The Broncos intercepted a tipped pass on Utah’s opening possession. Quarterback, Kellen Moore, pitched an eight yard touchdown pass to Tommy Gallarda in the first quarter. It was Moore’s only touchdown in the game. Boise State grinded up Utah on the ground after discovering the prolific passing attack wasn’t working as well as planned. Utah State prepared their defense against Moore, so the Broncos altered their strategy. Boise State coach Chris Petersen switched to a ground assault, with Doug Martin and Jeremy Avery carrying the load. Both running backs finished with over 100 yards and a combined six touchdowns.
Martin rushed for a 17 yard scoring in the second quarter, and followed it up with a two yard plunge with under five minutes left before halftime. Avery gave Boise State a two touchdown padding when he notched the next touchdown from nine yards. It was Martin again rushing for the final touchdown of the half with a one yard score to give the visitors an insurmountable 35-14 edge. The Broncos reached the endzone on their final four possessions of the half using their impressively effective ground game. Avery and Martin were the one-two punch scoring late in the second, and they continued to pound it in after the half.
Friday marked Avery’s third consecutive 100 yard effort. He scored six touchdowns while carrying the ball just 16 times. Martin grabbed his third 100 yard game of the season as he set a career high with 121 yards rushing. Even with the running burst, the Broncos didn’t desist the pass. Moore compiled 233 yards through the air. He was 15 for 29 for the Broncos, while Aggies quarterback, Diondre Borel threw one interception and finished without a touchdown pass. He kept the Aggies alive with his speed to avoid sacks, but lacked the necessary weapons to counter Boise State. Utah scored on Robert Turbin’s 24 yard run in the second quarter. Their other two touchdowns came from Michael Smith’s swift shoes. Smith scurried into the end zone on a first quarter, 22 yard rush, and again from 12 yards out in the third. Martin and Avery each added a touchdown after the half. The blistering Broncos backfield battered Utah for a season-high 323 yards.
Nevada and New Mexico State stand in the way of a perfect Broncos season. The 7-3 Wolfpack present an intriguing opponent next weekend. Nevada has one of the nation’s most aggressive running units. They’ve bounced back with seven straight victories after beginning with a hapless 0-3 record. The Wolfpack’s dialed up offense has cruised through the WAC with a 6-0 standing to lead the conference. The defense ranks first in the conference and 22nd in the nation, at stopping the run. Petersen may have to revert to Moore and the passing game against the Wolfpack. Nevada is a nuisance at running the clock with numbing rushing plays. It’s imperative Boise State gets ahead early in the contest, and institutes their own version of sustained drives. If they do so, they needn’t worry about their undefeated season. New Mexico State is a 3-7 team in the middle of a four game slide. They will most certainly have to elevate their game to beat Boise. The New Mexico Aggies, just like the Utah State ones, are a minuscule threat to the Broncos.
Parting Points: "You don't get hurt running straight ahead...three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust offense. I will pound you and pound you until you quit."- Woody Hayes
Friday, November 20, 2009
Chad Cools Clawless Carolina Cats
Ricky reliable replacement runner
The injury-riddled Miami Dolphins capped Carolina to climb back into the AFC playoff picture. The Fins fought off the Panthers in Charlotte 24-17 behind three Ricky Williams touchdowns. Running back Williams replaced the most important injured Dolphin, Ronnie Brown. The 32 year old was brilliant in leading Miami to their fourth win in six games. The desperate Dolphins sit at .500 with a 5-5 record after beginning the year 0-3. Williams, the 1998 Heisman Trophy winner, continued his NFL resurgence with a 119 yard rushing night and three touchdowns. He helped make a winner out of rookie quarterback, Chad Henne. Henne overcame injuries to his offensive line, including a missing center, to complete 17 of 29 passes for 172 yards. Henne outplayed the veteran Carolina quarterback in just his seventh career start.
The Dolphins’ first touchdown drive was set up by the wildcat formation. Henne launched a 14 yard pass to Williams to give the Fins a 7-3 lead. Williams scored from the one yard line with less than a minute remaining in the second quarter to increase Miami’s lead before the half. He got into the end zone ahead of Panthers linebacker, Jon Beason, for his second score of the evening. Carolina passer, Jake Delhomme, threw one interception and one touchdown in the loss. Delhomme struggled with completions despite passing for 227 yards through the air. He went just 19 for 42, thanks in part to a stingy Dolphins defense. Tony Sparano’s defense knocked down Delhomme passes and forced the Panthers to punt when it seemed like the home team might have a chance. All-Pro linebacker, Joey Porter, had seven tackles for the fine-tuned Fins. Porter swarmed the Panthers for two of the Dolphin’s three first-half sacks. Cornerback Nathan Jones ended a Carolina drive in the third quarter when he picked off Delhomme at the Miami four yard line. Delhomme is second in the NFL interceptions thrown. The Panthers didn’t score a touchdown until the final quarter. Steve Smith hauled in a spiral with five minutes left in the game to trim the Miami lead to three points. The Carolina receiver caught seven passes for 87 yards. The Panthers never got it back together. DeAngelo Williams compiled a 100-yard effort for crumbling and collapsing Carolina. But Delhomme’s offense got bogged down trying to implement a no-huddle offense. Williams put the game away in the fourth on a 46-yard scoring burst. His third touchdown of the game made it 24-14 Miami. Panthers’ kicker, John Kasey, legged his third field goal with 1:41 on the clock. Delhomme engineered one last drive to try for the tie. He succeeded in hooking up with Gary Barnidge for 29 and 17 yard passes and Panthers first downs. Delhomme passed incomplete to Dwayne Jarrett as time expired to send the Panthers home with a 4-6 record and crushing defeat. It’s going to take a lot to patch up the Panthers, who are pitifully falling apart at the seams.
Williams definitely showed he still has some juice left in his legs, but the Dolphins need to be more than a one-man, one-dimensional offense to be effective. In order to make the playoffs, Miami must utilized Davone Bess and Ted Ginn, Jr. Bess has six receptions Thursday night, including a diving grab in the first half. His grab in the final quarter set up Williams’ rushing touchdown. Ginn, Jr., the gifted former Ohio State receiver, collected four receptions for 32 yards. His Buckeye buddy, Brian Hartline, was the recipient of two for over 40 yards. I would like to see Henne use his receivers more often instead of averting them. The backfield is where the Fins thrive, but not every defense will play as loose as the Panthers did last night. The elite AFC teams will contain the rush, and Williams won’t always find holes to run effectively. Without critical offensive lineman, Henne has to be extra cautious. Miami’s undermanned offense will be overmatched against shredding defenses. Still, the Dolphins should shift the focus away from Williams and let Henne do his thing. It wouldn’t hurt to see what the former Michigan signal caller can do. If Henne show a third as much promise as the Fins’ ground attack, Miami will have one more way to win competitive contests. All this prattle about the wildcard is really unfounded in efficacy. If the formation were that useful, why have most NFL teams abandoned it?
Parting Points: Listening to the song “Whatcha Want” by the Beastie Boys
Tough loss for OSU basketball last night at MSG.
The injury-riddled Miami Dolphins capped Carolina to climb back into the AFC playoff picture. The Fins fought off the Panthers in Charlotte 24-17 behind three Ricky Williams touchdowns. Running back Williams replaced the most important injured Dolphin, Ronnie Brown. The 32 year old was brilliant in leading Miami to their fourth win in six games. The desperate Dolphins sit at .500 with a 5-5 record after beginning the year 0-3. Williams, the 1998 Heisman Trophy winner, continued his NFL resurgence with a 119 yard rushing night and three touchdowns. He helped make a winner out of rookie quarterback, Chad Henne. Henne overcame injuries to his offensive line, including a missing center, to complete 17 of 29 passes for 172 yards. Henne outplayed the veteran Carolina quarterback in just his seventh career start.
The Dolphins’ first touchdown drive was set up by the wildcat formation. Henne launched a 14 yard pass to Williams to give the Fins a 7-3 lead. Williams scored from the one yard line with less than a minute remaining in the second quarter to increase Miami’s lead before the half. He got into the end zone ahead of Panthers linebacker, Jon Beason, for his second score of the evening. Carolina passer, Jake Delhomme, threw one interception and one touchdown in the loss. Delhomme struggled with completions despite passing for 227 yards through the air. He went just 19 for 42, thanks in part to a stingy Dolphins defense. Tony Sparano’s defense knocked down Delhomme passes and forced the Panthers to punt when it seemed like the home team might have a chance. All-Pro linebacker, Joey Porter, had seven tackles for the fine-tuned Fins. Porter swarmed the Panthers for two of the Dolphin’s three first-half sacks. Cornerback Nathan Jones ended a Carolina drive in the third quarter when he picked off Delhomme at the Miami four yard line. Delhomme is second in the NFL interceptions thrown. The Panthers didn’t score a touchdown until the final quarter. Steve Smith hauled in a spiral with five minutes left in the game to trim the Miami lead to three points. The Carolina receiver caught seven passes for 87 yards. The Panthers never got it back together. DeAngelo Williams compiled a 100-yard effort for crumbling and collapsing Carolina. But Delhomme’s offense got bogged down trying to implement a no-huddle offense. Williams put the game away in the fourth on a 46-yard scoring burst. His third touchdown of the game made it 24-14 Miami. Panthers’ kicker, John Kasey, legged his third field goal with 1:41 on the clock. Delhomme engineered one last drive to try for the tie. He succeeded in hooking up with Gary Barnidge for 29 and 17 yard passes and Panthers first downs. Delhomme passed incomplete to Dwayne Jarrett as time expired to send the Panthers home with a 4-6 record and crushing defeat. It’s going to take a lot to patch up the Panthers, who are pitifully falling apart at the seams.
Williams definitely showed he still has some juice left in his legs, but the Dolphins need to be more than a one-man, one-dimensional offense to be effective. In order to make the playoffs, Miami must utilized Davone Bess and Ted Ginn, Jr. Bess has six receptions Thursday night, including a diving grab in the first half. His grab in the final quarter set up Williams’ rushing touchdown. Ginn, Jr., the gifted former Ohio State receiver, collected four receptions for 32 yards. His Buckeye buddy, Brian Hartline, was the recipient of two for over 40 yards. I would like to see Henne use his receivers more often instead of averting them. The backfield is where the Fins thrive, but not every defense will play as loose as the Panthers did last night. The elite AFC teams will contain the rush, and Williams won’t always find holes to run effectively. Without critical offensive lineman, Henne has to be extra cautious. Miami’s undermanned offense will be overmatched against shredding defenses. Still, the Dolphins should shift the focus away from Williams and let Henne do his thing. It wouldn’t hurt to see what the former Michigan signal caller can do. If Henne show a third as much promise as the Fins’ ground attack, Miami will have one more way to win competitive contests. All this prattle about the wildcard is really unfounded in efficacy. If the formation were that useful, why have most NFL teams abandoned it?
Parting Points: Listening to the song “Whatcha Want” by the Beastie Boys
Tough loss for OSU basketball last night at MSG.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday Take-Twos
There’s no debate about who the best rookie in the NBA is so far this year. He plays for the Bucks, and nearly broke Wilt Chamberlain’s rookie points-per-game record last Saturday. Milwaukee’s Brandon Jennings missed the 39 year old record by three points in just his seventh NBA game. He became the third Bucks player to score more than 50 points in a game, and joined Chamberlain, Earl Monroe, Elgin Baylor Ricky Barry as the only rookies to ever pocket 55 points. The 20-year old point guard who chose to forego college is not only the top first-year phenom, he’s also top ten in the league.
Jennings’ unconventional path to the NBA turned many heads and his draft stock fell because he chose to play overseas ball instead of going to college. It’s the rookie that has the last laugh now. Jennings was drafted 10th overall after shooting hoops in Italy for the Euroleague. His promising professional career places him in elite company already. Jennings is averaging 25 points per game and has revitalized Bucks basketball. The Bradley Center is no longer lifeless because of the Brandon buzz. The 6’1” guard registered 55 points against the Warriors, but shooting isn’t his only impressive skill. Jennings has an array of talents, including darting quickness and sound defense. The Bucks may have taken a risk on a player who barely made his mark in Italy. They now have peace of mind for gambling on a rookie who delivers.
The New York Knicks could use a shooter like Jennings. Actually, they could just use an identity. The floundering Knicks canned their cantankerous coach but are still struggling under Mike D’Antoni. The answer could be, well The Answer. Allen Iverson, the former ill-tempered MVP, wasn’t happy with his playing time or role in Memphis. He forced himself out after playing only three games for the Grizzlies and has a reputation for not practicing. Still, A.I. is one of the elite players in the NBA. The Knicks show of interest is intriguing, but would A.I. improve the dynamics in New York? Iverson moves the ball well and would automatically make the Knicks a better all-around team. The Knicks’ free-flowing offense does translate well for A.I. But he’s a selfish player who may not fit well in a big market. He thrived in Philadelphia despite many fighting exchanges with the head coach because he WAS the 76ers. He’ll get his minutes and the spotlight in New York too. But unless he tears it up on the court, New York fans won’t take to him as they do in other cities. The 34 year old is a marketable player but doesn’t necessarily bring a winning game to New York. He won’t make a marginal team like the Knicks a playoff contender. Iverson is not the type of player, at his age, to build a team around. If he came to New York, he would be allowed to do whatever he wants. A.I. would enjoy that, but at what expense to the Knicks? If this Iverson courting materializes, Knicks fans can “call him Al”.
The baseball post-season hardware continued to be handed out this week. Neither won a World Series, but the Angels’ Mike Scioscia and Rockies’ Jim Tracy won the Manager of the Year awards Wednesday. Scioscia was awarded his second AL Manager of the Year after guiding Los Angeles to their third consecutive division title. The fifty-one year old skipper received 15 first place votes and won out over Minnesota’s Ron Gardenhire. Tracy topped St. Louis Cardinals manager, Tony LaRussa, with 29 first place votes. LaRussa was a distant second with 55 overall points to Tracy’s 151. Tracy took over as head coach following Clint Hurdle’s firing. He was promoted from bench coach and lead the Rockies to an NL wild card. Colorado was 14 ½ games behind NL West leading Los Angeles when Tracy took over in late May. The extended the division race after going 74-42 the rest of the way but eventually fell to Philadelphia in the division series.
Kansas City Royals’ ace, Zack Greinke, took home the honor of AL CY Young. Greinke’s major league low ERA of 2.16 earned him 25 of the 28 first place votes. Seattle southpaw, Felix Hernandez, drew two first place votes to finish second. Greinke won just 16 games and played for a last place team. The 26 year old Kansas City hurler was exceptional all season, allowing just 11 homeruns. His CY Young was well-deserved. He pounced on batters all year and fielded his position as well as any pitcher in the league. The newly crowned NL CY Young winner belongs to the San Francisco Giants for the second straight season. Tim Lincecum won in convincing fashion over Arizona’s Brandon Webb in 2008. The 25 year old right-handed pitcher duplicated that feat this year. One of the ripest throwers in the game, Lincecum edged out the Cardinals’ Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Wainwright received the most third place votes, but finished third overall. Carpenter landed 94 overall points to Lincecum’s 100 in one of the closest ballots in history. Lincecum’s overpowering stuff made him the league leader in strikeouts, with 265 a year ago. This year, Lincecum went 15-7 with nearly as many fans (261). He pitched a workhorse-like 225 1/3 innings and started 32 games. Lincecum posted an ERA of 2.48 and is the only pitcher to win back-to-back CY Youngs in his first two full seasons. The wiry 5’7” hurler is also one of three pitchers in the NL to win the award in consecutive years.
Parting Points: Good song to sing in honor of A.I.- “You Can Call Me Al” by Paul Simon
Jennings’ unconventional path to the NBA turned many heads and his draft stock fell because he chose to play overseas ball instead of going to college. It’s the rookie that has the last laugh now. Jennings was drafted 10th overall after shooting hoops in Italy for the Euroleague. His promising professional career places him in elite company already. Jennings is averaging 25 points per game and has revitalized Bucks basketball. The Bradley Center is no longer lifeless because of the Brandon buzz. The 6’1” guard registered 55 points against the Warriors, but shooting isn’t his only impressive skill. Jennings has an array of talents, including darting quickness and sound defense. The Bucks may have taken a risk on a player who barely made his mark in Italy. They now have peace of mind for gambling on a rookie who delivers.
The New York Knicks could use a shooter like Jennings. Actually, they could just use an identity. The floundering Knicks canned their cantankerous coach but are still struggling under Mike D’Antoni. The answer could be, well The Answer. Allen Iverson, the former ill-tempered MVP, wasn’t happy with his playing time or role in Memphis. He forced himself out after playing only three games for the Grizzlies and has a reputation for not practicing. Still, A.I. is one of the elite players in the NBA. The Knicks show of interest is intriguing, but would A.I. improve the dynamics in New York? Iverson moves the ball well and would automatically make the Knicks a better all-around team. The Knicks’ free-flowing offense does translate well for A.I. But he’s a selfish player who may not fit well in a big market. He thrived in Philadelphia despite many fighting exchanges with the head coach because he WAS the 76ers. He’ll get his minutes and the spotlight in New York too. But unless he tears it up on the court, New York fans won’t take to him as they do in other cities. The 34 year old is a marketable player but doesn’t necessarily bring a winning game to New York. He won’t make a marginal team like the Knicks a playoff contender. Iverson is not the type of player, at his age, to build a team around. If he came to New York, he would be allowed to do whatever he wants. A.I. would enjoy that, but at what expense to the Knicks? If this Iverson courting materializes, Knicks fans can “call him Al”.
The baseball post-season hardware continued to be handed out this week. Neither won a World Series, but the Angels’ Mike Scioscia and Rockies’ Jim Tracy won the Manager of the Year awards Wednesday. Scioscia was awarded his second AL Manager of the Year after guiding Los Angeles to their third consecutive division title. The fifty-one year old skipper received 15 first place votes and won out over Minnesota’s Ron Gardenhire. Tracy topped St. Louis Cardinals manager, Tony LaRussa, with 29 first place votes. LaRussa was a distant second with 55 overall points to Tracy’s 151. Tracy took over as head coach following Clint Hurdle’s firing. He was promoted from bench coach and lead the Rockies to an NL wild card. Colorado was 14 ½ games behind NL West leading Los Angeles when Tracy took over in late May. The extended the division race after going 74-42 the rest of the way but eventually fell to Philadelphia in the division series.
Kansas City Royals’ ace, Zack Greinke, took home the honor of AL CY Young. Greinke’s major league low ERA of 2.16 earned him 25 of the 28 first place votes. Seattle southpaw, Felix Hernandez, drew two first place votes to finish second. Greinke won just 16 games and played for a last place team. The 26 year old Kansas City hurler was exceptional all season, allowing just 11 homeruns. His CY Young was well-deserved. He pounced on batters all year and fielded his position as well as any pitcher in the league. The newly crowned NL CY Young winner belongs to the San Francisco Giants for the second straight season. Tim Lincecum won in convincing fashion over Arizona’s Brandon Webb in 2008. The 25 year old right-handed pitcher duplicated that feat this year. One of the ripest throwers in the game, Lincecum edged out the Cardinals’ Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Wainwright received the most third place votes, but finished third overall. Carpenter landed 94 overall points to Lincecum’s 100 in one of the closest ballots in history. Lincecum’s overpowering stuff made him the league leader in strikeouts, with 265 a year ago. This year, Lincecum went 15-7 with nearly as many fans (261). He pitched a workhorse-like 225 1/3 innings and started 32 games. Lincecum posted an ERA of 2.48 and is the only pitcher to win back-to-back CY Youngs in his first two full seasons. The wiry 5’7” hurler is also one of three pitchers in the NL to win the award in consecutive years.
Parting Points: Good song to sing in honor of A.I.- “You Can Call Me Al” by Paul Simon
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Jayhawks Jostle & Jilt a Jaunty Jab
Kansas trimmed Memphis 57-55 in a rematch of the 2008 men’s Final Four championship last night in St. Louis. The Jayhawks narrowly escaped the Tigers when Elliot William’s three-pointer fell short of the basket and clanked off the rim as time expired. The Scotttrade Center showdown came down to the wire despite Kansas leading most of the game. These weren’t John Calipari’s Tigers, who performed wonderfully well in the clutch 18 months ago, but they did play exceptionally well until the end. The scrappy Tigers took full advantage of the sloppy Jayhawks’ 2 1 turnovers to hang with the number one ranked team until the final seconds.
The Tigers outscored Kansas in the second half, 35-31. Memphis kept the score low and was lead by Williams’ 21 points. Williams logged 39 minutes to lead all players in time and buckets. He was the lone Memphis shooter to score in double digits as the Tigers were woeful from three point range. The Tigers hit just 6 of 25 from the arc. Cole Aldrich compiled 18 points for Kansas with 11 rebounds and five blocked shots. Kansas’ leading scorer, Sherron Collins, added 12 points but left the game with a leg cramp. His exit helped Memphis rally, but Collins re-entered contest with just less than four minutes in regulation. Former Memphis recruit, Xavier Henry, perched 11 and Marcus Morris hung 10 for the Jayhawks.
Kansas dominated the first half by forcing shots and turnovers. KU maintained the lead, extending it to as many as six following a two-handed Aldrich slam off a rebound. Aldrich paced the Jayhawks with eight points and six rebounds in the first half. Collins nailed a shot at the buzzer to finish the first half on a positive note for the nation’s number one team. After the half, Bill Self’s Jayhawks opened the half by swirling the ball to Aldrich. The big man dunked an over-the-top pass from Tyshawn Taylor to jumpstart the Jayhawks. Taylor, a sophomore, was credited with a game high five assists. Kansas pushed their lead to ten on a Henry layup, and Aldrich dunked another dish from Collins to 52-45 with three minutes remaining. Memphis, playing for first year coach, Josh Pastner, came back to narrow the margin to three with a minute left. Memphis senior guard, Doneal Mack, bucketed a three pointer after Aldrich netted two from the charity stripe for Kansas. With just over 16 seconds on the clock, Williams hit falling-away three point shot to put the Tigers within one. Memphis was given one last chance because Collins missed one of two free throws with 15 ticks. Rebounding played a major role in the win for Kansas. The Jayhawks out-rebounded the Tigers the entire night, and it was the final one that eventually dispelled Memphis. Kansas secured the rebound on the Tiger’s final play to top Memphis, preserving the victory and an unblemished record.
Kansas goes into each game expecting to win. They won’t win every game unless all players chip in for Self’s Jayhawks. Aldrich and Collins are the two remaining players from the 2008 champions. The dynamic duo will rack up baskets but need their teammates to log a few themselves. Self’s longevity as a head coach has made Kansas a dangerous Division one dynasty. It won’t equate to championships unless all 12 men contribute. The Jayhawks hold the nation’s longest home winning streak with 42 victories. The Jayhawks barely escaped one in St. Louis on Tuesday. Perhaps the win will serve as a wakeup call that other teams aren’t going to lay down or let up against them this season. The Tigers came within inches of knocking off a number one team for the first time. Kansas’ depth and talent should have been more than enough to handedly defeat Memphis. Self struts a team with incredible balance and poise in the 2009 Jayhawks. The Tigers restrained their aplomb in the second half. It was an eye-opening game, and fortunately not a costly one for Kansas. But, Memphis justly joggled the Jayhawks last night.
Parting points: Song for midweek- “Here in your bedroom” by Goldfinger
Speaking of the Jayhawks, football coach, Mark Mangino , could be on his way out. A player complaint (not the first of an inappropriate conduct kind) may end the Mangino era in Kansas. An investigation is underway involving Mangino poking a senior linebacker in the chest.
Memo to the 0-11 New Jersey Nets- Scoring is kind of a requirement if you’re going to win games. Maybe it’s time for an overhaul so the Nets don’t keep getting obliterated.
The Tigers outscored Kansas in the second half, 35-31. Memphis kept the score low and was lead by Williams’ 21 points. Williams logged 39 minutes to lead all players in time and buckets. He was the lone Memphis shooter to score in double digits as the Tigers were woeful from three point range. The Tigers hit just 6 of 25 from the arc. Cole Aldrich compiled 18 points for Kansas with 11 rebounds and five blocked shots. Kansas’ leading scorer, Sherron Collins, added 12 points but left the game with a leg cramp. His exit helped Memphis rally, but Collins re-entered contest with just less than four minutes in regulation. Former Memphis recruit, Xavier Henry, perched 11 and Marcus Morris hung 10 for the Jayhawks.
Kansas dominated the first half by forcing shots and turnovers. KU maintained the lead, extending it to as many as six following a two-handed Aldrich slam off a rebound. Aldrich paced the Jayhawks with eight points and six rebounds in the first half. Collins nailed a shot at the buzzer to finish the first half on a positive note for the nation’s number one team. After the half, Bill Self’s Jayhawks opened the half by swirling the ball to Aldrich. The big man dunked an over-the-top pass from Tyshawn Taylor to jumpstart the Jayhawks. Taylor, a sophomore, was credited with a game high five assists. Kansas pushed their lead to ten on a Henry layup, and Aldrich dunked another dish from Collins to 52-45 with three minutes remaining. Memphis, playing for first year coach, Josh Pastner, came back to narrow the margin to three with a minute left. Memphis senior guard, Doneal Mack, bucketed a three pointer after Aldrich netted two from the charity stripe for Kansas. With just over 16 seconds on the clock, Williams hit falling-away three point shot to put the Tigers within one. Memphis was given one last chance because Collins missed one of two free throws with 15 ticks. Rebounding played a major role in the win for Kansas. The Jayhawks out-rebounded the Tigers the entire night, and it was the final one that eventually dispelled Memphis. Kansas secured the rebound on the Tiger’s final play to top Memphis, preserving the victory and an unblemished record.
Kansas goes into each game expecting to win. They won’t win every game unless all players chip in for Self’s Jayhawks. Aldrich and Collins are the two remaining players from the 2008 champions. The dynamic duo will rack up baskets but need their teammates to log a few themselves. Self’s longevity as a head coach has made Kansas a dangerous Division one dynasty. It won’t equate to championships unless all 12 men contribute. The Jayhawks hold the nation’s longest home winning streak with 42 victories. The Jayhawks barely escaped one in St. Louis on Tuesday. Perhaps the win will serve as a wakeup call that other teams aren’t going to lay down or let up against them this season. The Tigers came within inches of knocking off a number one team for the first time. Kansas’ depth and talent should have been more than enough to handedly defeat Memphis. Self struts a team with incredible balance and poise in the 2009 Jayhawks. The Tigers restrained their aplomb in the second half. It was an eye-opening game, and fortunately not a costly one for Kansas. But, Memphis justly joggled the Jayhawks last night.
Parting points: Song for midweek- “Here in your bedroom” by Goldfinger
Speaking of the Jayhawks, football coach, Mark Mangino , could be on his way out. A player complaint (not the first of an inappropriate conduct kind) may end the Mangino era in Kansas. An investigation is underway involving Mangino poking a senior linebacker in the chest.
Memo to the 0-11 New Jersey Nets- Scoring is kind of a requirement if you’re going to win games. Maybe it’s time for an overhaul so the Nets don’t keep getting obliterated.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Personal passages, personal promises
When you took my hand that day
You told me not to worry
When you took my hand that way
I told you to hurry
Inside I felt this was the end
You swore to me you’d stay
Inside I felt this heart could mend
I swore to you I’d play
The part I wanted to let go
You never saw in me
The part I wanted to say no
I never could let be
When I gave the best I could
You promised to fulfill me
When I gave the best I should
You promised me you’d see
It doesn’t matter how it goes
You always make me glad
It doesn’t matter who even knows
You always make the ending sad
A shattered dream and silent scream
Are all I have to remember the grind
The snapping sound and sandy ground
Are memories I succeeded in leaving behind
Around the horn in a uniform so worn
Are vivid images engulfed in my mind
Toeing the rubber plate in a concentrated state
Are parts of the controlled craft during my wind
An unforgettable win and the stiff hair on my skin
Are formulated feelings in another game I will not find
An arm turned iconic in a lifetime littered ironic
Are answers to the yearning in which I pined
To the frisky fellow who fires fastballs
You’re fine by me
File you under fantastic for forcing fear
Finely-honed and forged is your biting form
It’s a fact they’re fanatical in your face
To the giant behind the plate with glove and gauze
You’re great indeed
Gushing with grit and brimming with gear
Glued to the ground until your gum band stand
Those garments give way to your gift so grand
To the vicious vacuum at third that’s as swift as vapor
You’re victorious at worst
Vain in your venue and very vexing as a visitor
Varied vibes and verbose venting at the hot corner
They vote for you when you veer to their avail
To the star shortstop with slick skills and soiled shirt
You’re stupendous a spectacle
Sure-handed grace even in sloppy space
Sinewy and strong you support and subjugate
Their shots and strides significantly far from safe
To the second base player pinned to the perimeter
You’re perpetually pacing around
Parallel paths inside the lines and penetration ahead
Pouncing and piercing your proven plan prevails
A prideful protection planted up the middle
To the one and only on ordinary first base
You’re okay in your own way
Ominous is your offer and overture to bunt
Obeying officials you obscure their outlook
The observers oblige an ovation
To the writer so witty with wondrous words
You’re worthy of assignment
Wishfully wanting a win before wrapping-up column
Woeful when losing and wrong to wring when on top
They wiggle and writhe as your deadline passes about
Parting Points: I'm looking forward to picking up Leona Lewis' new album, ECHO. Her voice is fantastic.
You told me not to worry
When you took my hand that way
I told you to hurry
Inside I felt this was the end
You swore to me you’d stay
Inside I felt this heart could mend
I swore to you I’d play
The part I wanted to let go
You never saw in me
The part I wanted to say no
I never could let be
When I gave the best I could
You promised to fulfill me
When I gave the best I should
You promised me you’d see
It doesn’t matter how it goes
You always make me glad
It doesn’t matter who even knows
You always make the ending sad
A shattered dream and silent scream
Are all I have to remember the grind
The snapping sound and sandy ground
Are memories I succeeded in leaving behind
Around the horn in a uniform so worn
Are vivid images engulfed in my mind
Toeing the rubber plate in a concentrated state
Are parts of the controlled craft during my wind
An unforgettable win and the stiff hair on my skin
Are formulated feelings in another game I will not find
An arm turned iconic in a lifetime littered ironic
Are answers to the yearning in which I pined
To the frisky fellow who fires fastballs
You’re fine by me
File you under fantastic for forcing fear
Finely-honed and forged is your biting form
It’s a fact they’re fanatical in your face
To the giant behind the plate with glove and gauze
You’re great indeed
Gushing with grit and brimming with gear
Glued to the ground until your gum band stand
Those garments give way to your gift so grand
To the vicious vacuum at third that’s as swift as vapor
You’re victorious at worst
Vain in your venue and very vexing as a visitor
Varied vibes and verbose venting at the hot corner
They vote for you when you veer to their avail
To the star shortstop with slick skills and soiled shirt
You’re stupendous a spectacle
Sure-handed grace even in sloppy space
Sinewy and strong you support and subjugate
Their shots and strides significantly far from safe
To the second base player pinned to the perimeter
You’re perpetually pacing around
Parallel paths inside the lines and penetration ahead
Pouncing and piercing your proven plan prevails
A prideful protection planted up the middle
To the one and only on ordinary first base
You’re okay in your own way
Ominous is your offer and overture to bunt
Obeying officials you obscure their outlook
The observers oblige an ovation
To the writer so witty with wondrous words
You’re worthy of assignment
Wishfully wanting a win before wrapping-up column
Woeful when losing and wrong to wring when on top
They wiggle and writhe as your deadline passes about
Parting Points: I'm looking forward to picking up Leona Lewis' new album, ECHO. Her voice is fantastic.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Belichick's Baffling Blunder
Fourth and two on your own 28 yard line. Your team is winning by six points and the clock reads 2:08 remaining in the game. The opposing quarterback is future Hall-of-Fame passer, Peyton Manning. You’re punting the ball if you’re the head coach of any team, right? Not if you’re Bill Belichick.
The Patriots masterful head coach is the subject of scrutiny in the sports media today. There's a public outcry because the result did not work last night. Belichick cost his team a win against the rival Colts when he inexplicably chose to go for a fourth and two. New England failed on the stunning gamble in their own territory. Tom Brady’s completion to Kevin Faulk came up a yard short of the first down, and Belichick’s infamy became instantaneous. Melvin Bullitt, replacing the injured veteran, Bob Sanders, drove Faulk into the ground to stifle the Pats. The Colts, playing at home in a Sunday night AFC battle, took over on downs. It took Manning just two throws to take give his team the lead. The prolific passer connected with Reggie Wayne in the end zone with 13 seconds left to rally Indianapolis to a 35-34 win. The Colts remained undefeated, but the bigger story was the questionable decision by the championship coach on the opposing sideline.
The Lucas Oil Stadium crowd sensed the Colts’ chances slipping away along with the team’s 18 game regular season winning streak. Indianapolis trailed by 17 points in the fourth quarter before the improbable comeback. Manning’s two interceptions were close to as uncharacteristic as Belichick’s call in the fourth quarter. Joseph Addai hauled in a Manning spiral from 15 yards out to give the Colts an early advantage. New England running back, Laurence Maroney, poked into the end zone for a one yard touchdown to even the score before the first quarter ended. The Patriots and Colts were equally humble in the backfield, but both teams scored a rushing touchdown a piece. Addai scored on a four yard scramble following a six play Colts drive in the final quarter.
New England padded the lead in the second quarter after Stephen Gostkowski’s 31 yard field goal split the uprights. Brady found Randy Moss and Julian Edelman for 63 and 9 yard touchdown receptions, respectively. Wayne’s 20 yard heave from Manning before the half put the Colts within ten points. The receiver caught 10 passes for 126 yards and two touchdowns. Neither team scored in the third quarter. Manning was 28 for 44 on the night, with four touchdown passes. He threw two in the fourth, the first a rocket to Pierre Garcon from 29 yards. The second was the game-winning launch to Wayne. Brady totaled 375 yard and three touchdowns in this AFC shootout. The 2007 MVP found Moss in the end zone for the second time Sunday during the fourth quarter. Moss finished 21 yards shy of 200 yards, with nine receptions and a pair of touchdowns. Belichick’s aggressive game strategy has often made him a winner. Last night, he made a poor, unconventional choice. The Colts punted seven times on fourteen possessions. They weren’t playing their best and Belichick should have had more faith in his own men. The Patriots’ demoralized defense was an obvious scene when they came out to stop Manning from the 28 yard line. Sunday marked the first time the Pats lost when leading by at least 13 points in the final period in Belichick’s tenure as head coach. You can’t give Manning three timeouts and over a minute with the ball when all the All-Star needs is one touchdown to win. Jim Caldwell’s team has not lost and now lead the Patriots by three games. Belichick’s morose monotone is always the same, win or lose. This time, he needs to take the heat for putting his team in position to lose. Head coaches are supposed to put their teams in a position to win, but Belichick was unafraid to go for it on fourth down. His decision shows how little he thought of his own defense, and of Manning. The ridiculousness of the call is quite evident. Belichick is perhaps the only NFL coach to get away with it. The Belichick error doesn’t undermine the Patriots coughing up a 14 points lead in four minutes. The dubious decision can be dissected and discussed, however, because the Patriots outplayed the Colts for 56 minutes. Belichick believed Brady would come through, and his Bean town team would run out the clock. Not so. Not in Indianapolis. Not against an undefeated team. Sunday’s disconcerting one point loss will stand as the defining moment of the season for New England. November games are meant to solidify your position in the NFL. Belichick risked the game and made the wrong call. Do the former Superbowl Champions bounce back and move on, or does this interfere with Belichick’s legacy?
The Patriots masterful head coach is the subject of scrutiny in the sports media today. There's a public outcry because the result did not work last night. Belichick cost his team a win against the rival Colts when he inexplicably chose to go for a fourth and two. New England failed on the stunning gamble in their own territory. Tom Brady’s completion to Kevin Faulk came up a yard short of the first down, and Belichick’s infamy became instantaneous. Melvin Bullitt, replacing the injured veteran, Bob Sanders, drove Faulk into the ground to stifle the Pats. The Colts, playing at home in a Sunday night AFC battle, took over on downs. It took Manning just two throws to take give his team the lead. The prolific passer connected with Reggie Wayne in the end zone with 13 seconds left to rally Indianapolis to a 35-34 win. The Colts remained undefeated, but the bigger story was the questionable decision by the championship coach on the opposing sideline.
The Lucas Oil Stadium crowd sensed the Colts’ chances slipping away along with the team’s 18 game regular season winning streak. Indianapolis trailed by 17 points in the fourth quarter before the improbable comeback. Manning’s two interceptions were close to as uncharacteristic as Belichick’s call in the fourth quarter. Joseph Addai hauled in a Manning spiral from 15 yards out to give the Colts an early advantage. New England running back, Laurence Maroney, poked into the end zone for a one yard touchdown to even the score before the first quarter ended. The Patriots and Colts were equally humble in the backfield, but both teams scored a rushing touchdown a piece. Addai scored on a four yard scramble following a six play Colts drive in the final quarter.
New England padded the lead in the second quarter after Stephen Gostkowski’s 31 yard field goal split the uprights. Brady found Randy Moss and Julian Edelman for 63 and 9 yard touchdown receptions, respectively. Wayne’s 20 yard heave from Manning before the half put the Colts within ten points. The receiver caught 10 passes for 126 yards and two touchdowns. Neither team scored in the third quarter. Manning was 28 for 44 on the night, with four touchdown passes. He threw two in the fourth, the first a rocket to Pierre Garcon from 29 yards. The second was the game-winning launch to Wayne. Brady totaled 375 yard and three touchdowns in this AFC shootout. The 2007 MVP found Moss in the end zone for the second time Sunday during the fourth quarter. Moss finished 21 yards shy of 200 yards, with nine receptions and a pair of touchdowns. Belichick’s aggressive game strategy has often made him a winner. Last night, he made a poor, unconventional choice. The Colts punted seven times on fourteen possessions. They weren’t playing their best and Belichick should have had more faith in his own men. The Patriots’ demoralized defense was an obvious scene when they came out to stop Manning from the 28 yard line. Sunday marked the first time the Pats lost when leading by at least 13 points in the final period in Belichick’s tenure as head coach. You can’t give Manning three timeouts and over a minute with the ball when all the All-Star needs is one touchdown to win. Jim Caldwell’s team has not lost and now lead the Patriots by three games. Belichick’s morose monotone is always the same, win or lose. This time, he needs to take the heat for putting his team in position to lose. Head coaches are supposed to put their teams in a position to win, but Belichick was unafraid to go for it on fourth down. His decision shows how little he thought of his own defense, and of Manning. The ridiculousness of the call is quite evident. Belichick is perhaps the only NFL coach to get away with it. The Belichick error doesn’t undermine the Patriots coughing up a 14 points lead in four minutes. The dubious decision can be dissected and discussed, however, because the Patriots outplayed the Colts for 56 minutes. Belichick believed Brady would come through, and his Bean town team would run out the clock. Not so. Not in Indianapolis. Not against an undefeated team. Sunday’s disconcerting one point loss will stand as the defining moment of the season for New England. November games are meant to solidify your position in the NFL. Belichick risked the game and made the wrong call. Do the former Superbowl Champions bounce back and move on, or does this interfere with Belichick’s legacy?
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Ohio Overtime Ovation
I’m part of the proud crowd of a rose-colored spread glad because their clad in gray and red…
It took five quarters and a 39 yard field goal from a walk-on soccer player, but Ohio State finally knocked off Iowa to book a ticket to the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes are packing for Pasadena after besting the Hawkeyes 27-24 in overtime Saturday at the Horseshoe in Columbus. The 9-2 Buckeyes can claim the Big 10 title outright with a win against Michigan next week. The combat in Columbus concluded with a close contest and now the club is heading for California. The win over Iowa means the Buckeyes clinch at least a share of their fifth straight Big 10 title. Head coach, Jim Tressel, makes his first trip to the Rose Bowl. It’s the first time in 13 years the scarlet and gray will play New Year’s Day in Pasadena.
Devin Barclay ripped the game-winning field goal through the uprights in overtime to send the OSU crowd into a frenzy. The Hawkeyes narrowed the margin in the fourth quarter after the Buckeyes built a 24-10 lead. Freshman quarterback, James Vandenberg, recorded his first loss in his first start for Iowa. Vandenberg was filling in for starter, Ricky Stanzi, who was sidelined following the upset loss to Northwestern last week. Iowa’s Derrell Johnson-Koulianos returned a kickoff 99 yards following OSU running back, Brandon Saine’s 49 yard scoring burst. With the Hawkeyes trailing by seven, Vandenberg drove Iowa 70 yards and tossed the tying 10 yard touchdown to Marvin McNutt with 2:42 remaining. The even-keeled quarterback orchestrated the eight play drive like a pro. He completed his first seven passes of the game, but was on the losing side of a series of bobbled passes that haunted the Hawkeyes. Vandenberg performed well considering the hostile Horseshoe environment, and the title implications.
Ohio State sophomore quarterback, Terrelle Pryor rushed right for nine yards on the ensuing kickoff, and handed off to Dan Herron for a first down at the OSU 29 yard line. Pryor rushed again, this time to the left before hitting receiver, Ray Small, from three yards out on second time. Following a Buckeyes timeout, Herron ran for a three yard loss and Ohio State was forced to punt. The Big 10’s most dominant defense stopped Iowa tailback, Adam Robinson on the final Hawkeye possession. The freshman back was held to 74 rushing yards on 20 carries. Iowa head coach, Kirk Ferentz took a page out of Tressel’s conservative playbook, and chose to run out the clock with .35 seconds left to send the game into an extra session.
Ohio State won the overtime coin toss and elected to play defense. The Hawkeyes went backward 16 yards and Vandenberg tossed an interception in the end zone. OSU linebacker, Doug Worthington, logged the game’s only sack when he trounced Vandenberg in overtime. The Iowa passer actually performed admirably despite his three picks. He threw for 233 yards and completed 20 of 33 passes with two touchdowns. If not for the defense allowing 200 yards on the ground, Iowa may have been the Big 10 team smelling roses. Instead, the Buckeyes took over in overtime, doing what they do best. Pryor did well in distributing the ball to five different Buckeye receivers. But in overtime, the sophomore gave the ball to Herron three times. Barclay, in his second career start, nailed the field goal that sent the stadium into a euphoric ovation.
The 15th ranked Hawkeyes kept fighting back even when the Buckeyes had every opportunity to put the game away. This was a measuring stick game for Ohio State, and they passed with flying colors. Everything’s coming up roses now. Saine jostled for over 100 yards, and Herron missed the mark by only three. Iowa’s front seven did a credible job in stopping Pryor. The quarterback sailed just 93 yards through the air but had 29 ground yards. Most important, Pryor was mistake-free with the ball. For the third consecutive game, the Buckeyes committed no turnovers. The team seems more sufficient and collective on offense. The offensive line was tremendous for the second straight week in protecting the quarterback and tramping one of the conference’s best defensive lines. The line looks in sync and can collaborate create holes for the run. It is nice to finally see Herron and Saine establish the ground game for Ohio State. Special teams had a brutal day for the Buckeyes, even with Barclay’s willful, worthy winner in the extra quarter. For Ohio State, this game was about stuffing Iowa in overtime and rushing the football behind a productive quarterback. Iowa’s late turnover virtually sealed the game for the Bucs. This was a classic title game that came down to the final play. That should be a testament to the Big 10. The conference takes enough criticism, but Saturday’s showdown proved good football will always silence the naysayers. Iowa’s valiant comeback was all heart and clutch throws from Vandenberg. The scarlet and gray did their best to rattle the quarterback and he barely flinched. Vandenberg came within a snap or two of guiding the underdog Hawkeyes to an upset win. It’s tough to stay on agenda when the team is reeling, but the Buckeyes have really turned their season around. USC could be the opponent in the Rose Bowl. We all know how it went when the Buckeyes hosted the Trojans earlier in the season. Stanford thwarted USC yesterday, and that torching should give Ohio State hope. The Trojans gave up 51 points to the Cardinal. That totaled more than any other USC team ever. Oregon is another likely Rose Bowl candidate. The Ducks are a challenging team who play physical and firm football. The run-oriented Buckeyes can win either game by catching the high-octane west coast offenses off guard. Yesterday was a showcase of just how valuable a refined running game is for Ohio State. For now, Tressel and his team can focus on their biggest rival, Michigan. Until then, Ohio State can savor the snazzy Hawkeye hampering where they cast a thorn into Iowa’s BCS chances.
Parting Points: Required reading- “12 Red Roses” by Barry Lanier
It took five quarters and a 39 yard field goal from a walk-on soccer player, but Ohio State finally knocked off Iowa to book a ticket to the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes are packing for Pasadena after besting the Hawkeyes 27-24 in overtime Saturday at the Horseshoe in Columbus. The 9-2 Buckeyes can claim the Big 10 title outright with a win against Michigan next week. The combat in Columbus concluded with a close contest and now the club is heading for California. The win over Iowa means the Buckeyes clinch at least a share of their fifth straight Big 10 title. Head coach, Jim Tressel, makes his first trip to the Rose Bowl. It’s the first time in 13 years the scarlet and gray will play New Year’s Day in Pasadena.
Devin Barclay ripped the game-winning field goal through the uprights in overtime to send the OSU crowd into a frenzy. The Hawkeyes narrowed the margin in the fourth quarter after the Buckeyes built a 24-10 lead. Freshman quarterback, James Vandenberg, recorded his first loss in his first start for Iowa. Vandenberg was filling in for starter, Ricky Stanzi, who was sidelined following the upset loss to Northwestern last week. Iowa’s Derrell Johnson-Koulianos returned a kickoff 99 yards following OSU running back, Brandon Saine’s 49 yard scoring burst. With the Hawkeyes trailing by seven, Vandenberg drove Iowa 70 yards and tossed the tying 10 yard touchdown to Marvin McNutt with 2:42 remaining. The even-keeled quarterback orchestrated the eight play drive like a pro. He completed his first seven passes of the game, but was on the losing side of a series of bobbled passes that haunted the Hawkeyes. Vandenberg performed well considering the hostile Horseshoe environment, and the title implications.
Ohio State sophomore quarterback, Terrelle Pryor rushed right for nine yards on the ensuing kickoff, and handed off to Dan Herron for a first down at the OSU 29 yard line. Pryor rushed again, this time to the left before hitting receiver, Ray Small, from three yards out on second time. Following a Buckeyes timeout, Herron ran for a three yard loss and Ohio State was forced to punt. The Big 10’s most dominant defense stopped Iowa tailback, Adam Robinson on the final Hawkeye possession. The freshman back was held to 74 rushing yards on 20 carries. Iowa head coach, Kirk Ferentz took a page out of Tressel’s conservative playbook, and chose to run out the clock with .35 seconds left to send the game into an extra session.
Ohio State won the overtime coin toss and elected to play defense. The Hawkeyes went backward 16 yards and Vandenberg tossed an interception in the end zone. OSU linebacker, Doug Worthington, logged the game’s only sack when he trounced Vandenberg in overtime. The Iowa passer actually performed admirably despite his three picks. He threw for 233 yards and completed 20 of 33 passes with two touchdowns. If not for the defense allowing 200 yards on the ground, Iowa may have been the Big 10 team smelling roses. Instead, the Buckeyes took over in overtime, doing what they do best. Pryor did well in distributing the ball to five different Buckeye receivers. But in overtime, the sophomore gave the ball to Herron three times. Barclay, in his second career start, nailed the field goal that sent the stadium into a euphoric ovation.
The 15th ranked Hawkeyes kept fighting back even when the Buckeyes had every opportunity to put the game away. This was a measuring stick game for Ohio State, and they passed with flying colors. Everything’s coming up roses now. Saine jostled for over 100 yards, and Herron missed the mark by only three. Iowa’s front seven did a credible job in stopping Pryor. The quarterback sailed just 93 yards through the air but had 29 ground yards. Most important, Pryor was mistake-free with the ball. For the third consecutive game, the Buckeyes committed no turnovers. The team seems more sufficient and collective on offense. The offensive line was tremendous for the second straight week in protecting the quarterback and tramping one of the conference’s best defensive lines. The line looks in sync and can collaborate create holes for the run. It is nice to finally see Herron and Saine establish the ground game for Ohio State. Special teams had a brutal day for the Buckeyes, even with Barclay’s willful, worthy winner in the extra quarter. For Ohio State, this game was about stuffing Iowa in overtime and rushing the football behind a productive quarterback. Iowa’s late turnover virtually sealed the game for the Bucs. This was a classic title game that came down to the final play. That should be a testament to the Big 10. The conference takes enough criticism, but Saturday’s showdown proved good football will always silence the naysayers. Iowa’s valiant comeback was all heart and clutch throws from Vandenberg. The scarlet and gray did their best to rattle the quarterback and he barely flinched. Vandenberg came within a snap or two of guiding the underdog Hawkeyes to an upset win. It’s tough to stay on agenda when the team is reeling, but the Buckeyes have really turned their season around. USC could be the opponent in the Rose Bowl. We all know how it went when the Buckeyes hosted the Trojans earlier in the season. Stanford thwarted USC yesterday, and that torching should give Ohio State hope. The Trojans gave up 51 points to the Cardinal. That totaled more than any other USC team ever. Oregon is another likely Rose Bowl candidate. The Ducks are a challenging team who play physical and firm football. The run-oriented Buckeyes can win either game by catching the high-octane west coast offenses off guard. Yesterday was a showcase of just how valuable a refined running game is for Ohio State. For now, Tressel and his team can focus on their biggest rival, Michigan. Until then, Ohio State can savor the snazzy Hawkeye hampering where they cast a thorn into Iowa’s BCS chances.
Parting Points: Required reading- “12 Red Roses” by Barry Lanier
Saturday, November 14, 2009
'Neers Nipped at Nippert
The Cincinnati Bearcats pulled even with five minutes left before halftime and clawed back in the second half to defeat West Virginia 24-21. By downing the Mountaineers, the Bearcats continued an inconceivable, unbelievable unbeaten 2009 under head coach, Brian Kelly. West Virginia hopes of capturing the Big East title or becoming bowl eligible were dashed in the defeat.
Cincinnati running back, Isaiah Pead carried the football near the goal line in the final minutes of the second quarter. Pead was stripped of the pigskin by West Virginia safety, Robert Sands. Nose tackle, Chris Neild jumped on the loose ball and the Mountaineers seemingly recovered the fumble. The officials overturned the call they originally signaled a fumble and instead ruled it a game-tying Cincinnati touchdown. A 14-14 game stood as both Big East teams headed to the locker room for the half.
Oft-injured quarterback, Tony Pike, completed Cincinnati’s opening possession of the game with a touchdown to give the Bearcats a 7-0 lead. The Bearcats turned around a West Virginia three-and-out to drive 73 yards for the score behind Zach Collaros in his fourth start for Pike. Kelly utilized Pike deep in West Virginia territory and in limited situations because of the senior injured his forearm a month ago. Pike sharply hit Armon Binns from ten yards across the middle of the zone. West Virginia signal caller, Jarrett Brown threw for 188 yards and a touchdown. He bulled in from eight yards past Bearcats lineman, Dan Giordano, to notch the game at 7-7 with 3:19 left in the first quarter. The rapid fire, yellow-and-white clad Mountaineers were not going to give in and lie down. Mountaineer kicker, Ryan Clarke, provided the visitor’s their first lead when he legged a 37 yard field goal in the second. Pead responded with the controversial two yard rush for Cincinnati. The Bearcats mixed it up offensively to start the second half. The strategy awarded the unblemished Bearcats a 21-14 advantage. Pead carried the ball on the first four plays of the drive and Collaros’ three completions put the Bearcats at the six yard line with a chance for seven. Pike was prompted to perform off the sidelines and quickly whipped the ball to D.J. Woods on a pass route. It was the quarterback’s second touchdown pass. He needed only four throws to score twice this game.
The mighty Mountaineers took advantage of Cincinnati mistakes to keep it a close game. They missed key opportunities in the first half, especially on a fourth down play before the intermission. Brown was pressured into throwing the ball incomplete from the Cincinnati 24 yard line, and the Mountaineers came up empty-handed. Collaros was a calamity for Cincy as he struggled with sacks and incompletions in the fourth quarter too. West Virginia tailback, Noel Devine, rushed for 88 yards and was effective in the final minutes. Jock Sanders scrambled for first downs, but Brown remained unable to find the end zone. Cincinnati settled for three during the ensuing drive on Jake Rogers’ 38 yard field goal with 2:08 left in regulation. Brown completed six passes to propel the promising Mountaineers to the 3 yard line. He hit Bradley Starks with 39 seconds left to narrow the outcome by three points. Binns cut across the field to recover West Virginia’s attempted on-side kick. Fifth-ranked Cincinnati was in position to finish it off, sending the Mountaineers home losers for just the third time this year. The swagger of a seasoned Cincinnati squad was enough to sour the dreams of WVU. Binns finished with 62 yards to lead all receivers and Pead scampered for 175 on the ground. The Mountaineers take on Pittsburgh in 2009’s installment of the Backyard Brawl on Black Friday. The 10-0 Bearcats welcome 3-6 Illinois to Nippert Stadium next week before a December 5th cat-fight with the Panthers. It’s all pawprints on deck for cursory Cincinnati.
Parting Points: November 14th song- “Name” by Goo Goo Dolls
Did you know…a bearcat is neither a bear nor a cat and its natural habitat is in trees?
Hawkeyes vs. Buckeyes!
Cincinnati running back, Isaiah Pead carried the football near the goal line in the final minutes of the second quarter. Pead was stripped of the pigskin by West Virginia safety, Robert Sands. Nose tackle, Chris Neild jumped on the loose ball and the Mountaineers seemingly recovered the fumble. The officials overturned the call they originally signaled a fumble and instead ruled it a game-tying Cincinnati touchdown. A 14-14 game stood as both Big East teams headed to the locker room for the half.
Oft-injured quarterback, Tony Pike, completed Cincinnati’s opening possession of the game with a touchdown to give the Bearcats a 7-0 lead. The Bearcats turned around a West Virginia three-and-out to drive 73 yards for the score behind Zach Collaros in his fourth start for Pike. Kelly utilized Pike deep in West Virginia territory and in limited situations because of the senior injured his forearm a month ago. Pike sharply hit Armon Binns from ten yards across the middle of the zone. West Virginia signal caller, Jarrett Brown threw for 188 yards and a touchdown. He bulled in from eight yards past Bearcats lineman, Dan Giordano, to notch the game at 7-7 with 3:19 left in the first quarter. The rapid fire, yellow-and-white clad Mountaineers were not going to give in and lie down. Mountaineer kicker, Ryan Clarke, provided the visitor’s their first lead when he legged a 37 yard field goal in the second. Pead responded with the controversial two yard rush for Cincinnati. The Bearcats mixed it up offensively to start the second half. The strategy awarded the unblemished Bearcats a 21-14 advantage. Pead carried the ball on the first four plays of the drive and Collaros’ three completions put the Bearcats at the six yard line with a chance for seven. Pike was prompted to perform off the sidelines and quickly whipped the ball to D.J. Woods on a pass route. It was the quarterback’s second touchdown pass. He needed only four throws to score twice this game.
The mighty Mountaineers took advantage of Cincinnati mistakes to keep it a close game. They missed key opportunities in the first half, especially on a fourth down play before the intermission. Brown was pressured into throwing the ball incomplete from the Cincinnati 24 yard line, and the Mountaineers came up empty-handed. Collaros was a calamity for Cincy as he struggled with sacks and incompletions in the fourth quarter too. West Virginia tailback, Noel Devine, rushed for 88 yards and was effective in the final minutes. Jock Sanders scrambled for first downs, but Brown remained unable to find the end zone. Cincinnati settled for three during the ensuing drive on Jake Rogers’ 38 yard field goal with 2:08 left in regulation. Brown completed six passes to propel the promising Mountaineers to the 3 yard line. He hit Bradley Starks with 39 seconds left to narrow the outcome by three points. Binns cut across the field to recover West Virginia’s attempted on-side kick. Fifth-ranked Cincinnati was in position to finish it off, sending the Mountaineers home losers for just the third time this year. The swagger of a seasoned Cincinnati squad was enough to sour the dreams of WVU. Binns finished with 62 yards to lead all receivers and Pead scampered for 175 on the ground. The Mountaineers take on Pittsburgh in 2009’s installment of the Backyard Brawl on Black Friday. The 10-0 Bearcats welcome 3-6 Illinois to Nippert Stadium next week before a December 5th cat-fight with the Panthers. It’s all pawprints on deck for cursory Cincinnati.
Parting Points: November 14th song- “Name” by Goo Goo Dolls
Did you know…a bearcat is neither a bear nor a cat and its natural habitat is in trees?
Hawkeyes vs. Buckeyes!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Scarlet Shooting Sizzling
Thad Matta’s 2010 Buckeyes should have no problem decimating opponents. Ohio State basketball looks as promising as ever with the announced signing of six top-notch recruits Thursday. Northland center, Jared Sullinger and forward, J.D. Weatherspoon joined forward, DeShaun Thomas and guards, Lenzelle Smith, Jr., Aaron Craft and Jordan Sibert in declaring Ohio State their school by faxing signed letters to the university. The super six arguably make up the number one recruiting class in the country. While the buzz in Columbus heightens for the future of men’s basketball, Matta’s current undergrads are having little trouble establishing their presence. The number 16 ranked Buckeyes face defending national title winners, North Carolina next Thursday after taking down James Madison 72-44 last night.
Evan Turner cleaned up the court Monday against undersized Alcorn State. The 6’7” Turner turned in a triple double at Value City Arena and the entire Buckeyes team fed off their star. The 100-60 final score doesn’t diminish what Turner accomplished. It was just the second triple-double in program history. Turner’s wide array of skills were on display Thursday night too. Turner followed up his triple-double with 24 points and 17 rebounds in powering OSU to a win over the Dukes. His monster effort in the 2K Sports Classic Thursday propelled OSU to a semifinal showdown with the Tarheels at Madison Square Garden.
The Buckeyes’ 2008-09 season ended at the Big Dance with a first-round loss to Siena in double overtime. Matta coached the Buckeyes to a 22-win season without all Big 10 forward Turner at point guard. With Turner debuting at guard this season, Matta seems NCAA tournament-bound again. The conference’s scoring leader also ranks third in rebounding. His supporting cast is a strong crop of returning starters. David Lighty, the sprightly 6’5” forward is a redshirt junior considered the Buckeyes’ finest, most versatile player. Lighty is the only remaining Buckeye from the 2006-07 NCAA finalist team. He broke his foot early last season but appears at full strength for the Bucs this year. Number 23 added 14 points, while helping OSU begin the second half on a 10-0 run against James Madison. He hit a bucket for three, and contributed five more points on the Buckeyes next 10-0 run. Turner, Lighty and P.J. Hill all have four steals so far this season. Jon Diebler , a junior shooter, joined Turner in the backcourt last season. This season, he projects to be as dangerous a shooter as he was during his freshman year in Columbus. Sophomore guard, William Buford netted 12 for the 2-0 Buckeyes last night. Dallas Lauderdale, whose name reminds me of a plane ticket stub, missed the season opener for Ohio State. The starting center came off the bench Thursday for 13 minutes to snag four rebounds and pocket a pair of points.
Fans turned on by Turner and Matta’s Buckeyes have even more to look forward to with the recruiting class of 2010. But don’t overlook the 2009 ringers. Michigan State is picked to win the prestigious Big 10 crown. The Spartans are poised to repeat as conference champions after they rolled to the NCAA finals a year ago. The Buckeyes and Purdue are the teams that will give conference player of the year, Kalin Lucas and the Spartans are run for their title. The scarlet and gray don’t play the Spartans until February 20th when they travel to Michigan State University. As long as Turner is on the hardwood and the Bucs aren’t short-handed, they will remain competitive. Talent goes a long way in men’s hoops. Good coaching and heart usually take you even farther. Ohio State has all three this year. Since his arrival in Columbus, Matta has done nothing but guide the Buckeyes to victories. The Butler alum has more wins as head coach after five seasons than any other at OSU men’s hoops. Matta’s teams continue to knock off top ranked opponents and gain national exposure and attention. His teams blend a defense-oriented set with offensive skills to assail and attack the opposition. Most Ohio State fans will focus this weekend on the football team’s quest for the Big 10 title with Iowa. If Jim Tressel’s football team falls short, the basketball team is on the cusp of a great season. So wear your scarlet and gray this week. Tomorrow the fracas with Iowa will decide the Big 10 crown. Then, Turner and hoops visit the grand Mecca of basketball to try their hand with North Carolina next week.
Parting Points: Song for hang time- “Hanging by a Moment” by Lifehouse
LeBron James is changing his uniform number from 23 to 6 to honor Michael Jordan. Why did he wear the number in the first place?
Evan Turner cleaned up the court Monday against undersized Alcorn State. The 6’7” Turner turned in a triple double at Value City Arena and the entire Buckeyes team fed off their star. The 100-60 final score doesn’t diminish what Turner accomplished. It was just the second triple-double in program history. Turner’s wide array of skills were on display Thursday night too. Turner followed up his triple-double with 24 points and 17 rebounds in powering OSU to a win over the Dukes. His monster effort in the 2K Sports Classic Thursday propelled OSU to a semifinal showdown with the Tarheels at Madison Square Garden.
The Buckeyes’ 2008-09 season ended at the Big Dance with a first-round loss to Siena in double overtime. Matta coached the Buckeyes to a 22-win season without all Big 10 forward Turner at point guard. With Turner debuting at guard this season, Matta seems NCAA tournament-bound again. The conference’s scoring leader also ranks third in rebounding. His supporting cast is a strong crop of returning starters. David Lighty, the sprightly 6’5” forward is a redshirt junior considered the Buckeyes’ finest, most versatile player. Lighty is the only remaining Buckeye from the 2006-07 NCAA finalist team. He broke his foot early last season but appears at full strength for the Bucs this year. Number 23 added 14 points, while helping OSU begin the second half on a 10-0 run against James Madison. He hit a bucket for three, and contributed five more points on the Buckeyes next 10-0 run. Turner, Lighty and P.J. Hill all have four steals so far this season. Jon Diebler , a junior shooter, joined Turner in the backcourt last season. This season, he projects to be as dangerous a shooter as he was during his freshman year in Columbus. Sophomore guard, William Buford netted 12 for the 2-0 Buckeyes last night. Dallas Lauderdale, whose name reminds me of a plane ticket stub, missed the season opener for Ohio State. The starting center came off the bench Thursday for 13 minutes to snag four rebounds and pocket a pair of points.
Fans turned on by Turner and Matta’s Buckeyes have even more to look forward to with the recruiting class of 2010. But don’t overlook the 2009 ringers. Michigan State is picked to win the prestigious Big 10 crown. The Spartans are poised to repeat as conference champions after they rolled to the NCAA finals a year ago. The Buckeyes and Purdue are the teams that will give conference player of the year, Kalin Lucas and the Spartans are run for their title. The scarlet and gray don’t play the Spartans until February 20th when they travel to Michigan State University. As long as Turner is on the hardwood and the Bucs aren’t short-handed, they will remain competitive. Talent goes a long way in men’s hoops. Good coaching and heart usually take you even farther. Ohio State has all three this year. Since his arrival in Columbus, Matta has done nothing but guide the Buckeyes to victories. The Butler alum has more wins as head coach after five seasons than any other at OSU men’s hoops. Matta’s teams continue to knock off top ranked opponents and gain national exposure and attention. His teams blend a defense-oriented set with offensive skills to assail and attack the opposition. Most Ohio State fans will focus this weekend on the football team’s quest for the Big 10 title with Iowa. If Jim Tressel’s football team falls short, the basketball team is on the cusp of a great season. So wear your scarlet and gray this week. Tomorrow the fracas with Iowa will decide the Big 10 crown. Then, Turner and hoops visit the grand Mecca of basketball to try their hand with North Carolina next week.
Parting Points: Song for hang time- “Hanging by a Moment” by Lifehouse
LeBron James is changing his uniform number from 23 to 6 to honor Michael Jordan. Why did he wear the number in the first place?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Thursday Trash Talk
I’m not sure what the bigger Chicago sports travesty is: The Cubs or the Bears. Chicago fans still reeling about the Bulls’ controversial loss to the Denver Nuggets Tuesday night can at least find solace in Mark Buehrle winning an AL Gold Glove. Luol Deng and Kirk Hinrich missed layups and jumpers as the Bulls were 0-15 from the floor in the final six minutes Wednesday night. The raging Bulls dropped another game last night, falling 99-89 to the Raptors at the Air Canada Centre. The Chicago basketball season is just unfolding, and the Bulls are bound to pick up the pieces and fall into place as a team. The same cannot be said for the 4-4 Bears, although they do share an identical record as the Bulls. Lovie Smith’s peak as a head coach was a trip to Superbowl XLI. The organization traded for Jay Cutler during the off-season. Cutler’s capabilities are exceptional, but the team around him is underdeveloped. The inordinately stubborn Bears defense of years ago is missing. The players on offense don’t fit the system and Smith’s schemes seem somewhat outdated by today’s NFL standards. Smith chose not to retain his defensive coordinator, Ron Rivera, this off-season. The move hasn’t made the mediocre team a playoff contender. Chicago plays Thursday night football against losers of four straight, the San Francisco 49ers. This could be a coming out party for Cutler if things go well. The Bears’ three year playoff drought is getting old in a city that adores their sports teams. It’s customary to root for losing teams in Chicago. The Cubs up-and-down 2009 was just another reminder to Chicago baseball aficionados why they are the so-called “Lovable Losers”. The name is very befitting. Now, with the Bears being declawed week in and week out, maybe “Lovie’s Losers” will become the new mocking moniker.
All things football is the focus of Cleveland outside LeBron James and the Cavs. The picture isn’t any prettier in for Cleveland football fans than it is for Chicago. That’s where Browns head coach, Eric Mangini, continues his quarterback shuffling. Mangini named former Notre Dame signal caller, Brady Quinn, his starter this Monday against the Baltimore Ravens. Quinn hasn’t started since facing the same demoralizing defense in week three. He was yanked from the game and benched after falling behind 20-0 in the first half. Derek Anderson replaced Quinn, but is coming off a November 1st game in which he threw a pair of picks against the Bears. Anderson completed just six of seventeen passes in the defeat. Considering what I just said about the Bears, Anderson probably deserves to sit this one out on Monday. This afternoon, captain Jamal Lewis, called out Mangini for his rigid practice regime. The running back expressed disappointment and frustration in his head coach’s three-hour practices not producing results. The lack of winning combined with the coach’s approach in Cleveland is wearing out the players according to Lewis. It’s time to change thing that 1-7 record into something acceptable. Perhaps inserting Quinn will change the karma in Cleveland.
The ugliness continues in this next segment- a soccer saga. Elizabeth Lambert’s infamous and violent hair-pulling incident during a semifinal soccer game between BYU and New Mexico screams of filthiness. The Lobo defender was suspended for her aggressive, shocking play against the Cougars. Lambert apologized for her disgraceful acts on the field. She was way out of line and her story is receiving national media attention. Her uncalled for actions are making Lambert a celebrity for the wrong reasons. Lambert physical and appalling punch to the back of a BYU player was followed by a kick and shove of another player. Then, she had the audacity to pull Kassidy Shumway’s ponytail braid hard enough to land them face-first on the grass. Where in the NCAA soccer rule book is this type of unsportsmanlike treatment of an opponent deemed acceptable? Lambert received a yellow card from the officials when she deliberately kicked a ball into a defenseless opponent’s face. Does that make it okay for athletes to adopt these behaviors if it merely means an in-game penalty? I’ve never donned the zebra stripes or called a college soccer game, but I am almost certain Lambert’s behavior deserved more than that. An indefinite suspension was well in order and overdue.
News today about an incident involving three Tennessee Volunteers freshman football players is unnerving. The distressing story involves an armed robbery at the edge of campus this morning. The men were dressed in hooded jackets and armed with handguns. Nu’Keese Richardson is a highly touted wide receiver recruited by Lane Kiffin. Cleveland native, Mike Edwards, was also charged with attempted robbery. The 18 year old defensive back has played in eight games for the Vols this year and registered five tackles. Safety Janzen Jackson is a seven game starter who was named SEC freshman of the week earlier in the year. Another black eye for college sports.
Parting Points: The New Jersey Devils skate for their seventh straight win tonight against the beat-up Pittsburgh Penguins.
Byron Scott is out in Charlotte. GM Jeff Bower will take over for the Hornets.
All things football is the focus of Cleveland outside LeBron James and the Cavs. The picture isn’t any prettier in for Cleveland football fans than it is for Chicago. That’s where Browns head coach, Eric Mangini, continues his quarterback shuffling. Mangini named former Notre Dame signal caller, Brady Quinn, his starter this Monday against the Baltimore Ravens. Quinn hasn’t started since facing the same demoralizing defense in week three. He was yanked from the game and benched after falling behind 20-0 in the first half. Derek Anderson replaced Quinn, but is coming off a November 1st game in which he threw a pair of picks against the Bears. Anderson completed just six of seventeen passes in the defeat. Considering what I just said about the Bears, Anderson probably deserves to sit this one out on Monday. This afternoon, captain Jamal Lewis, called out Mangini for his rigid practice regime. The running back expressed disappointment and frustration in his head coach’s three-hour practices not producing results. The lack of winning combined with the coach’s approach in Cleveland is wearing out the players according to Lewis. It’s time to change thing that 1-7 record into something acceptable. Perhaps inserting Quinn will change the karma in Cleveland.
The ugliness continues in this next segment- a soccer saga. Elizabeth Lambert’s infamous and violent hair-pulling incident during a semifinal soccer game between BYU and New Mexico screams of filthiness. The Lobo defender was suspended for her aggressive, shocking play against the Cougars. Lambert apologized for her disgraceful acts on the field. She was way out of line and her story is receiving national media attention. Her uncalled for actions are making Lambert a celebrity for the wrong reasons. Lambert physical and appalling punch to the back of a BYU player was followed by a kick and shove of another player. Then, she had the audacity to pull Kassidy Shumway’s ponytail braid hard enough to land them face-first on the grass. Where in the NCAA soccer rule book is this type of unsportsmanlike treatment of an opponent deemed acceptable? Lambert received a yellow card from the officials when she deliberately kicked a ball into a defenseless opponent’s face. Does that make it okay for athletes to adopt these behaviors if it merely means an in-game penalty? I’ve never donned the zebra stripes or called a college soccer game, but I am almost certain Lambert’s behavior deserved more than that. An indefinite suspension was well in order and overdue.
News today about an incident involving three Tennessee Volunteers freshman football players is unnerving. The distressing story involves an armed robbery at the edge of campus this morning. The men were dressed in hooded jackets and armed with handguns. Nu’Keese Richardson is a highly touted wide receiver recruited by Lane Kiffin. Cleveland native, Mike Edwards, was also charged with attempted robbery. The 18 year old defensive back has played in eight games for the Vols this year and registered five tackles. Safety Janzen Jackson is a seven game starter who was named SEC freshman of the week earlier in the year. Another black eye for college sports.
Parting Points: The New Jersey Devils skate for their seventh straight win tonight against the beat-up Pittsburgh Penguins.
Byron Scott is out in Charlotte. GM Jeff Bower will take over for the Hornets.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Vin's Veteran Voice
Those who follow baseball are touched by his demeanor and tone on the radio. None is greater than the legendary announcer, Vin Scully. On this Veteran’s Day, it’s time to recognize a veteran sportscaster whose voice generations of baseball fans recognize all too well.
Eighty-two year old Scully said Tuesday he will continue in the broadcast booth for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2010. Scully has been on the job since the day he began in 1950. His 59 year tenure with the Dodgers is the longest of any current sportscaster with the same team. Scully’s audiences have enjoyed his well-regarded mastery of the English language between balls and strikes for more than a half a century. Scully was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1995. His words and game calling remains as strong as ever. Vin was born in the Bronx. The young Giants fan began broadcasting games for Fordham University. He was hired by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1950 and worked alongside Red Barber. Scully was transported with the team when the Dodgers made L.A. their new home. He was in the booth for five World Championship seasons and brought to life in thrilling theater Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965. Scully set the standard for sports radio announcing. When you think of quality baseball on the radio, Scully automatically comes to mind. He is so intertwined with the Dodgers it’s hard to imagine anybody else broadcasting each game in L.A. The red-headed Irish announcer has the most musical, poetic voice in baseball. His sentences flow impeccably and his distinct, articulate words are similar to verses of a poem. Scully is one of the rare natural speakers with smooth and rounded melody. There aren’t enough accolades to describe how his commentary recreates the game in the listener’s mind. Some announcers struggle to find the right word, but Scully’s verbiage always seems to be on the tip of his tongue. He expresses his words in a manner baseball fans can intimately feel and understand. Scully paints the picture on the field more beautifully than any announcer of his day.
One of the things I appreciate most about the veteran synchronizing Scully is how he works alone. It’s more personal that way. There aren’t any color commentators to chime in with their opinions. Although Scully has called more than just baseball games, the National pastime is his forte. He specializes in engulfing the listener into a game that was meant to be broadcast on the radio. I am probably one of the few fans left who consider radio baseball better than TV baseball. I would rather hear Scully portray what’s happening on the field than access the game with my own eyes. The Dodger announcer uses the crowd to feed off of and makes them a part of each broadcast. Vincent Edward Scully will celebrate a birthday on November 29th. Today, we celebrate THE voice of baseball for the commitment and commentaries carried out, and give thanks for at least one more season of enjoyment. Even if you don’t frequently listen to Dodger games, afford praise to one of the great veterans of the game.
Parting Points: One of baseball’s veteran players agreed to a one-year deal with the Seattle Mariners. Ken Griffey Jr. will return for his 22 year in 2010.
Jam for Veteran’s Day- “Smooth” by Rob Thomas and Santana
Eighty-two year old Scully said Tuesday he will continue in the broadcast booth for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2010. Scully has been on the job since the day he began in 1950. His 59 year tenure with the Dodgers is the longest of any current sportscaster with the same team. Scully’s audiences have enjoyed his well-regarded mastery of the English language between balls and strikes for more than a half a century. Scully was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1995. His words and game calling remains as strong as ever. Vin was born in the Bronx. The young Giants fan began broadcasting games for Fordham University. He was hired by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1950 and worked alongside Red Barber. Scully was transported with the team when the Dodgers made L.A. their new home. He was in the booth for five World Championship seasons and brought to life in thrilling theater Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965. Scully set the standard for sports radio announcing. When you think of quality baseball on the radio, Scully automatically comes to mind. He is so intertwined with the Dodgers it’s hard to imagine anybody else broadcasting each game in L.A. The red-headed Irish announcer has the most musical, poetic voice in baseball. His sentences flow impeccably and his distinct, articulate words are similar to verses of a poem. Scully is one of the rare natural speakers with smooth and rounded melody. There aren’t enough accolades to describe how his commentary recreates the game in the listener’s mind. Some announcers struggle to find the right word, but Scully’s verbiage always seems to be on the tip of his tongue. He expresses his words in a manner baseball fans can intimately feel and understand. Scully paints the picture on the field more beautifully than any announcer of his day.
One of the things I appreciate most about the veteran synchronizing Scully is how he works alone. It’s more personal that way. There aren’t any color commentators to chime in with their opinions. Although Scully has called more than just baseball games, the National pastime is his forte. He specializes in engulfing the listener into a game that was meant to be broadcast on the radio. I am probably one of the few fans left who consider radio baseball better than TV baseball. I would rather hear Scully portray what’s happening on the field than access the game with my own eyes. The Dodger announcer uses the crowd to feed off of and makes them a part of each broadcast. Vincent Edward Scully will celebrate a birthday on November 29th. Today, we celebrate THE voice of baseball for the commitment and commentaries carried out, and give thanks for at least one more season of enjoyment. Even if you don’t frequently listen to Dodger games, afford praise to one of the great veterans of the game.
Parting Points: One of baseball’s veteran players agreed to a one-year deal with the Seattle Mariners. Ken Griffey Jr. will return for his 22 year in 2010.
Jam for Veteran’s Day- “Smooth” by Rob Thomas and Santana
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Blitzing Barricade Batters Broncos
The two best teams in the AFC collided in the Rocky Mountains Monday night. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ scruffy defense did most of the late scoring in lifting them over the 6-1 Denver Broncos 28-10. The defending Superbowl champions won their fifth straight game and were lead by replacement safety, Tyrone Carter. Carter’s 48 yard interception return to the Denver end zone was intended for Knowshon Moreno. It was one of three picks thrown by the suddenly sliding Purdue product, Kyle Orton. The Broncos have lost back-to-back games after rushing hurriedly off to a 6-0 start. The regressing Denver club outgained and outpassed the Steelers during the first half. Yet, Pittsburgh’s defense made the principal prevailing plays to escape the high altitudes of Colorado with an impressive 6-2 record.
Ben Roethlisberger was stripped of the football on his first possession in the second quarter. First year linebacker, Robert Ayers, carted the pigskin 54 yards the other way to give Denver a 10-7 lead. The rumbling didn’t last long for the roused Broncos. Roethlisberger drove the Steelers 80 yards to set up Hines Ward’s three yard touchdown reception. The strike to Ward put the visitors back on top by four. Despite Dick LeBeau’s depleted defense, the Invesco Field crowd was still forced to commit to memory superstars like Troy Polamalu, Brett Keisel, James Harrison and Carter. Polamalu snared an Orton pass in the fourth quarter with Pittsburgh clinging to a 14-10 lead. The safety’s pick set up Roethlisberger’s touchdown toss to rookie, Mike Wallace. Big Ben was 21 for 29 for 233 yards. He fled the pocket to hit Wallace from 25 yards and found Ward again for another Pittsburgh seven with 1:22 remaining in regulation. The Broncos offense was held without a touchdown. Save for the interception return in the early minutes of the third quarter, Denver never scored again after they were “Polamalued”.
The defense flogged a very prominent opponent on the road. Orton completed 23 of his 38 passes through the air. Eddie Royal collected three receptions for 47 yards for the ailing Broncos. Running back, Brandon Marshall, turned in a 112 yard day but rookie head coach, Josh McDaniels, lost his second game because of a porous offensive line. Denver rushed for one yard during the second half thanks in part to the blitzing of a pounding Pittsburgh defense. Polamalu intersected and interrupted Orton’s lane to Marshall throughout the game. He is one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, and the glue holding together the Steelers’ defense. William Gay disputed any attempt of Orton hitting an open Royal. The relentless Steelers capped their night off with a third interception. Carter caught his second turnover with fifteen seconds remaining. Rashard Mendenhall rushed over the Broncos for 155 yards. The Steelers dominated the second half with a no-huddle offense and three wideout set. The Broncos owe self-destruction helped the Steelers pummel the number one defense in the NFL. Pittsburgh’s health problems weren’t a concern as the team game together to stop the impotent Broncos ground game. The Steelers return to Heinz Field next Sunday to play the team they are tied with in the NFC North—the Cincinnati Bengals.
Parting Points: It looks like Charlie Weis is on the hot seat again.
Interesting read I picked up today- “Ten Minutes From Normal” by Karen Hughes
Ben Roethlisberger was stripped of the football on his first possession in the second quarter. First year linebacker, Robert Ayers, carted the pigskin 54 yards the other way to give Denver a 10-7 lead. The rumbling didn’t last long for the roused Broncos. Roethlisberger drove the Steelers 80 yards to set up Hines Ward’s three yard touchdown reception. The strike to Ward put the visitors back on top by four. Despite Dick LeBeau’s depleted defense, the Invesco Field crowd was still forced to commit to memory superstars like Troy Polamalu, Brett Keisel, James Harrison and Carter. Polamalu snared an Orton pass in the fourth quarter with Pittsburgh clinging to a 14-10 lead. The safety’s pick set up Roethlisberger’s touchdown toss to rookie, Mike Wallace. Big Ben was 21 for 29 for 233 yards. He fled the pocket to hit Wallace from 25 yards and found Ward again for another Pittsburgh seven with 1:22 remaining in regulation. The Broncos offense was held without a touchdown. Save for the interception return in the early minutes of the third quarter, Denver never scored again after they were “Polamalued”.
The defense flogged a very prominent opponent on the road. Orton completed 23 of his 38 passes through the air. Eddie Royal collected three receptions for 47 yards for the ailing Broncos. Running back, Brandon Marshall, turned in a 112 yard day but rookie head coach, Josh McDaniels, lost his second game because of a porous offensive line. Denver rushed for one yard during the second half thanks in part to the blitzing of a pounding Pittsburgh defense. Polamalu intersected and interrupted Orton’s lane to Marshall throughout the game. He is one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, and the glue holding together the Steelers’ defense. William Gay disputed any attempt of Orton hitting an open Royal. The relentless Steelers capped their night off with a third interception. Carter caught his second turnover with fifteen seconds remaining. Rashard Mendenhall rushed over the Broncos for 155 yards. The Steelers dominated the second half with a no-huddle offense and three wideout set. The Broncos owe self-destruction helped the Steelers pummel the number one defense in the NFL. Pittsburgh’s health problems weren’t a concern as the team game together to stop the impotent Broncos ground game. The Steelers return to Heinz Field next Sunday to play the team they are tied with in the NFC North—the Cincinnati Bengals.
Parting Points: It looks like Charlie Weis is on the hot seat again.
Interesting read I picked up today- “Ten Minutes From Normal” by Karen Hughes
Monday, November 9, 2009
Romo's Road Rally Response
Miles Austin hauled in the go-ahead touchdown from Tony Romo on third-and-fourteen midway through the fourth quarter. The Dallas Cowboys went on to beat NFC East rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles, 20-16 Sunday night. Even though the Eagles were without one of their top playmakers, running back Brian Westbrook, Dallas took over sole possession of first place in the division with the victory. The Cowboys are in the driver’s seat to win the NFC East. The New York Giants, who were throttled by the Eagles last week, fell for the fourth straight time yesterday. New York’s debilitating string of losses puts them in an awfully strenuous position the rest of the tough scheduled regular season. The Cowboys are firmly the favorite to capture the division. They should play the next few weeks with guarded optimism. Dallas simply has to look over their shoulders to see the hungry Eagles.
Dallas stopped a shaky Donovan McNabb at their 45 yard line on fourth-and-inches before Austin’s catch gave the Cowboys a 20-13 lead. Romo pump-faked a pass and nailed a wide-open Austin from 49 yards down the left sideline. The Eagles never relinquished the lead. David Ackers kicked a 52-yard field goal to cut the lead to four, but Big D held off the high flying birds at Lincoln Financial Field. McNabb threw for 227 yards, one score and a pair of interceptions. Romo turned in a 307 yard effort for Dallas. The Dallas quarterback finished 21 of 34 with one touchdown and one pick. The 6-2 ‘Boys started the scoring early when Tashard Choice crashed into the end zone five minutes into the contest. The drive was set up by Gerald Sensabaugh’s interception on Philadelphia’s first possession. Sensabaugh snatched McNabb’s pass intended for Jeremy Maclin on a deflection to end the quarterback’s 118 straight pass streak without a pick. Ackers cut the Dallas lead to one with a pair of field goals in the second quarter. The 11 year veteran kicker was accurate from 45 and 48 yards. The Eagles would need more than field goals to beat Dallas, however. After Nick Folk increased the Cowboys’ advantage to four points again late in the second, Philadelphia constructed a dazzling 77 yard drive after the half. Eagles’ standout, LeSean McCoy, turned a short pass into a 45-yard gain, and McNabb escaped the Dallas pass rush to find Brent Celek in the end zone.
Sheldon Brown intercepted Romo on the Cowboys’ ensuing possession. It was Romo’s first interception in 144 passes. He’s gradually increasing and improving his accuracy as a signal-caller. Philadelphia was unable to capitalize on the turnover because of an illegal block penalty. Folk tied the game at 13-13 after Michael Jenkins intercepted McNabb. It was the former South Florida cornerback’s third pick of the year. Dallas went three-and-out to begin the final quarter. The Eagles pieced together a credible, convincing drive that ended with a reviewed fourth-and-one quarterback sneak up the middle. McNabb tried going up the middle at the Dallas 45 yard line. He went without a gain, and Dallas took over on downs. That’s when Romo instituted the game-winning drive, concluding with Austin’s grab. The defense sacked McNabb after riding the quarterback’s tail on Philadelphia’s final possession to limit the Eagles to a field goal. The Cowboys proceeded to run out the clock. All-pro receiver, Jason Witten, lead all players with seven receptions. Marion Barber rushed for 50 yards on 12 carries for the ‘Boys. Dallas held DeSean Jackson, the slick scoring phenom, to just two catches. Jackson has six touchdowns for Philadelphia this year, and most of them have come on 50 yards or more. Jackson’s longest pass from McNabb Sunday was a 20-yarder. The Cowboys proved they are a tougher and more poised team that was downed in the playoffs last season. They steadily outplayed the Eagles in a physical game with playoff tones during their 100th meeting as foes. Romo was a smart and efficient passer and was accommodated by an operational offense. It was the defense that helped Dallas earn the reward of the top NFC East team at midseason. The secondary’s fierce rush and heavy blitz maintained enough pressure on McNabb to keep Maclin and Jackson in check. And it was the defense that kept Philadelphia out of the end zone after Austin’s catch. You can’t dismiss nose tackle, Jay Ratliff’s two sacks on the former Syracuse quarterback wearing green. The defense was the reason Andy Reid’s team exhausted their timeouts. The Eagles are 2-1 in the division; The Cowboys 1-1. The teams no longer have identical records. The perseverant Cowboys have one leg up in securing a spot in the NFL’s post-season parade.
Parting Points: Monday song- “Down” by 311
Monday sports trivia- Monday Night Football announcer, Howard Cosell, was known as “The Mouth”
I can’t believe the Pac-10 agreed to reinstate Oregon’s LeGarrette Blount.
Dallas stopped a shaky Donovan McNabb at their 45 yard line on fourth-and-inches before Austin’s catch gave the Cowboys a 20-13 lead. Romo pump-faked a pass and nailed a wide-open Austin from 49 yards down the left sideline. The Eagles never relinquished the lead. David Ackers kicked a 52-yard field goal to cut the lead to four, but Big D held off the high flying birds at Lincoln Financial Field. McNabb threw for 227 yards, one score and a pair of interceptions. Romo turned in a 307 yard effort for Dallas. The Dallas quarterback finished 21 of 34 with one touchdown and one pick. The 6-2 ‘Boys started the scoring early when Tashard Choice crashed into the end zone five minutes into the contest. The drive was set up by Gerald Sensabaugh’s interception on Philadelphia’s first possession. Sensabaugh snatched McNabb’s pass intended for Jeremy Maclin on a deflection to end the quarterback’s 118 straight pass streak without a pick. Ackers cut the Dallas lead to one with a pair of field goals in the second quarter. The 11 year veteran kicker was accurate from 45 and 48 yards. The Eagles would need more than field goals to beat Dallas, however. After Nick Folk increased the Cowboys’ advantage to four points again late in the second, Philadelphia constructed a dazzling 77 yard drive after the half. Eagles’ standout, LeSean McCoy, turned a short pass into a 45-yard gain, and McNabb escaped the Dallas pass rush to find Brent Celek in the end zone.
Sheldon Brown intercepted Romo on the Cowboys’ ensuing possession. It was Romo’s first interception in 144 passes. He’s gradually increasing and improving his accuracy as a signal-caller. Philadelphia was unable to capitalize on the turnover because of an illegal block penalty. Folk tied the game at 13-13 after Michael Jenkins intercepted McNabb. It was the former South Florida cornerback’s third pick of the year. Dallas went three-and-out to begin the final quarter. The Eagles pieced together a credible, convincing drive that ended with a reviewed fourth-and-one quarterback sneak up the middle. McNabb tried going up the middle at the Dallas 45 yard line. He went without a gain, and Dallas took over on downs. That’s when Romo instituted the game-winning drive, concluding with Austin’s grab. The defense sacked McNabb after riding the quarterback’s tail on Philadelphia’s final possession to limit the Eagles to a field goal. The Cowboys proceeded to run out the clock. All-pro receiver, Jason Witten, lead all players with seven receptions. Marion Barber rushed for 50 yards on 12 carries for the ‘Boys. Dallas held DeSean Jackson, the slick scoring phenom, to just two catches. Jackson has six touchdowns for Philadelphia this year, and most of them have come on 50 yards or more. Jackson’s longest pass from McNabb Sunday was a 20-yarder. The Cowboys proved they are a tougher and more poised team that was downed in the playoffs last season. They steadily outplayed the Eagles in a physical game with playoff tones during their 100th meeting as foes. Romo was a smart and efficient passer and was accommodated by an operational offense. It was the defense that helped Dallas earn the reward of the top NFC East team at midseason. The secondary’s fierce rush and heavy blitz maintained enough pressure on McNabb to keep Maclin and Jackson in check. And it was the defense that kept Philadelphia out of the end zone after Austin’s catch. You can’t dismiss nose tackle, Jay Ratliff’s two sacks on the former Syracuse quarterback wearing green. The defense was the reason Andy Reid’s team exhausted their timeouts. The Eagles are 2-1 in the division; The Cowboys 1-1. The teams no longer have identical records. The perseverant Cowboys have one leg up in securing a spot in the NFL’s post-season parade.
Parting Points: Monday song- “Down” by 311
Monday sports trivia- Monday Night Football announcer, Howard Cosell, was known as “The Mouth”
I can’t believe the Pac-10 agreed to reinstate Oregon’s LeGarrette Blount.
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