The Pittsburgh Panthers stole a win against undefeated Connecticut Monday night in Petersen Events Center. The sixth ranked Panthers topped fourth ranked UConn 78-63 in a Big East battle of supremacy. Both teams have been ranked in the Big East’s top two for the past decade and another chapter was added to the rivalry last night. The Panthers improved to 13-1 in beating the Huskies for the fourth consecutive time in the series between the teams. Kemba Walker stole the show for the Huskies with 31 points, but it was the Panthers who were too much for Uconn’s defense. Walker added five steals and four rebounds. Junior Ashton Gibbs led Pitt with 21 points and senior Brad Wanamaker turned in 14 as the Panthers won their third straight game. Pittsburgh held the previously unbeaten Huskies to 32 percent shooting. Connecticut is now 10-1 on the season.
The Panthers showed last night why they remain an unblemished 8-0 against top five teams since 2002. Four players scored in double digits for Jamie Dixon’s Panthers. Pitt marched to a 37-28 halftime lead as the efficient offense and transition defense finally showed up on the same night for the home team. Nasir Robinson logged 11 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for Pitt. Panthers’ center, Gary McGhee, also contributed 11 points while snagging 11 rebounds in the victory. McGhee and Robinson recorded double-doubles as Pitt held a commanding and comfortable lead throughout the conference’s first matchup of top ten teams.
The steamrolling Panthers shot 52 percent from the field and Gibbs was a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line. Pittsburgh never trailed during the contest and even carried a 17 point lead at one point during the second half. The Huskies attempted a late comeback but Pitt’s balance and depth were too much to overcome. Connecticut shot the ball poorly and was clearly outplayed. Walker was a one-man wrecking crew, putting up nearly half of Connecticut’s 63 points. Walker finished with a game high in buckets, but he needed 27 shots to do so. The Connecticut junior shot just 10-for-27 from the field. Connecticut has lost five of their last six conference openers. Jim Calhoun is just 1-for-5 at Pitt’s arena.
Parting Points: Jerry Jones is searching for the next Cowboys’ coach. Dallas is 4-3 under interim coach, Jason Garrett. The “boys genius” seems to make the most sense for me (unless Bill Cowher suddenly becomes available).
The Saints clipped the Falcons in a meeting between two of the NFC’s best teams.
How good is Dustin Brown? I love this Ithaca, NY native for the Los Angeles Kings. If you take anything from the plus/minus statistic, Brown is in the top three. (Personally, I don’t think that’s a great measure of individual performance)
This is post #700 and the final one of 2010! Have a Happy New Year.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Frozen Fumble
The Aaron Rodgers-led Packers romped the New York Giants in a playoff clash at Lambeau Field. Rodgers unleashed four touchdown passes and threw for 404 yards to keep Green Bay’s playoff hopes alive in a 45-17 New York thrashing. The Packers’ offense shredded New York’s defense for a season high 515 yards as the Giants fell to 9-6. New York has an outside chance of making the post-season but they will have to do so through the backdoor. Big Blue failed in their attempt for win-and-you’re-in Sunday afternoon at the frozen tundra. The Giants couldn’t stop Rodgers or hold on to the ball. Eli Manning threw four interceptions as his turnover numbers continue to climb to epic proportions. Green Bay entered Sunday’s game needing two games to make the playoffs. The Packers host Chicago in the final regular-season game next week. New York must beat the Redskins and hope the Packers lose next week or the Saints lose their final two games.
Green Bay raced out to a 14-0 lead and were the only team to score in the opening quarter. Jordy Nelson outran the Giants secondary for an 80 yard touchdown on the Pack’s second possession of the game. James Jones’ three yard reception from Rodgers gave Green Bay a two touchdown edge with less than two minutes left in the first quarter. The G men finally hit the end zone when Hakeem Nicks hauled in a 36 yard touchdown pass from Manning to cut the Green Bay lead in half. The Giants’ quarterback was 17-for-33 in the loss, with a pair of touchdown passes and 301 yards. After the Giants recovered a Nelson fumble in the red zone, Manning found Mario Manningham five minutes before halftime to tie the game at 14-14. The 85 yard play was the longest of Manning’s career, but the splendor would be thwarted on the next Packer drive. Green Bay fullback, John Kuhn, turned a 79 yard drive into a seven point Packers’ lead with an eight yard run up the middle. The Giants went into the locker room down by a touchdown.
Mason Crosby’s 31 yard field goal made it 24-14 in favor of the home team. Lawrence Tynes kicked a 38 yarder through the uprights as the Giants and Packers traded field goals to begin the second half. Rodgers tossed two more touchdown passes in the final two quarters to give Green Bay a sizable lead. Rodgers hit Donald Lee from one yard out and Kuhn with a five yard dish as the Pack overpowered Big Blue. Kuhn finished the Sunday scoring with another touchdown run with 4:20 left in regulation to lift the Packers 45-17. Green Bay scored 24 points off the Giants’ six turnovers. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs lost fumbles as New York added to their 36 turnovers this season. Greg Jennings caught seven passes for 142 yards for Green Bay. Manningham caught four passes for 132 yards to lead New York receivers.
Parting Points: Playoff clinchers so far-New England, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York (Jets), Chicago,& Atlanta
Green Bay raced out to a 14-0 lead and were the only team to score in the opening quarter. Jordy Nelson outran the Giants secondary for an 80 yard touchdown on the Pack’s second possession of the game. James Jones’ three yard reception from Rodgers gave Green Bay a two touchdown edge with less than two minutes left in the first quarter. The G men finally hit the end zone when Hakeem Nicks hauled in a 36 yard touchdown pass from Manning to cut the Green Bay lead in half. The Giants’ quarterback was 17-for-33 in the loss, with a pair of touchdown passes and 301 yards. After the Giants recovered a Nelson fumble in the red zone, Manning found Mario Manningham five minutes before halftime to tie the game at 14-14. The 85 yard play was the longest of Manning’s career, but the splendor would be thwarted on the next Packer drive. Green Bay fullback, John Kuhn, turned a 79 yard drive into a seven point Packers’ lead with an eight yard run up the middle. The Giants went into the locker room down by a touchdown.
Mason Crosby’s 31 yard field goal made it 24-14 in favor of the home team. Lawrence Tynes kicked a 38 yarder through the uprights as the Giants and Packers traded field goals to begin the second half. Rodgers tossed two more touchdown passes in the final two quarters to give Green Bay a sizable lead. Rodgers hit Donald Lee from one yard out and Kuhn with a five yard dish as the Pack overpowered Big Blue. Kuhn finished the Sunday scoring with another touchdown run with 4:20 left in regulation to lift the Packers 45-17. Green Bay scored 24 points off the Giants’ six turnovers. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs lost fumbles as New York added to their 36 turnovers this season. Greg Jennings caught seven passes for 142 yards for Green Bay. Manningham caught four passes for 132 yards to lead New York receivers.
Parting Points: Playoff clinchers so far-New England, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York (Jets), Chicago,& Atlanta
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Boxing Bevy
The term “box” is bountiful in sports. The word is used profusely in almost every athletic game we play. Since today is Boxing Day, let’s revisit the boxes we encounter in our favorite sports.
First, there’s the actual sport of boxing. The combative fist-fight competition is one dating back to ancient history. When I think of boxing, I think of red Everlast gloves, bloody noses and knockouts (KO’s). I think of jabs and uppercuts, Rocky movies and Ali’s rope-a-dope. Boxing was as American as any other sport in its heyday. Boxing developed an international following because fans embraced contenders like Joe Frazier, Mike Tyson and The Manassa Mauler, Jack Dempsey. The interest is waning in the sport today. Manny Pacquiao is the king of the sport in this 21st century society. I’d like to see boxing revived because it’s a true combat sport that requires physical skills, balance and good reflexes.
Box out is a term frequently used in basketball. Coaches team the proper technique of “boxing out” because defense and rebounding are imperative to the game. Boxing out requires a defensive player to make contact with the person they are guarding. Boxing out is protecting the hoop by drawing the player away from the basket. Good body positioning and pivoting are key to a successful box outs.
Most professional hockey players are familiar with the penalty box. It’s the area on the side of the rink where players who commit penalties must sit for a set number of minutes during a game. The infraction could be for hooking, tripping, cross-checking or interference. Nobody wants to be in the penalty box because it leaves your team short-handed on the ice unless both teams commit penalties.
The service box is of upmost importance in tennis. The left and right service boxes are divided by a center line and bounded off by the service line. Any serve landing within the box is playable. Players must aim their serve into the opposite diagonal box and avoid hitting the net. Service placement is so vital to being an effective tennis player.
Eight in the box defense is common in football. The alignment consists of eight of the eleven players near the line of scrimmage. Defensive lineman and linebackers are usually considered in the “box”, normally occupied by seven players. Coaches will call for an “eight in the box” defense against a strong running team to make a solid defensive front. It’s typical for a safety to leave his post and line up near the line of scrimmage in this formation.
The batter’s box is 36 inches wide. It’s the area where the batter must stand when receiving a pitch in a baseball game. When I played Little League, there were several kids who had trouble staying in the box. Many feared getting beaned, but stepping out of the box during a delivery is not permitted. As soon as a batter steps out of the box, the ball is dead and the batter is out. As you can see, the batter’s box has gigantic implications.
Parting Points: Cowboys lose a tight one on Christmas night…
Book for Sunday- “The Imperfectionists” by Tom Rachman
First, there’s the actual sport of boxing. The combative fist-fight competition is one dating back to ancient history. When I think of boxing, I think of red Everlast gloves, bloody noses and knockouts (KO’s). I think of jabs and uppercuts, Rocky movies and Ali’s rope-a-dope. Boxing was as American as any other sport in its heyday. Boxing developed an international following because fans embraced contenders like Joe Frazier, Mike Tyson and The Manassa Mauler, Jack Dempsey. The interest is waning in the sport today. Manny Pacquiao is the king of the sport in this 21st century society. I’d like to see boxing revived because it’s a true combat sport that requires physical skills, balance and good reflexes.
Box out is a term frequently used in basketball. Coaches team the proper technique of “boxing out” because defense and rebounding are imperative to the game. Boxing out requires a defensive player to make contact with the person they are guarding. Boxing out is protecting the hoop by drawing the player away from the basket. Good body positioning and pivoting are key to a successful box outs.
Most professional hockey players are familiar with the penalty box. It’s the area on the side of the rink where players who commit penalties must sit for a set number of minutes during a game. The infraction could be for hooking, tripping, cross-checking or interference. Nobody wants to be in the penalty box because it leaves your team short-handed on the ice unless both teams commit penalties.
The service box is of upmost importance in tennis. The left and right service boxes are divided by a center line and bounded off by the service line. Any serve landing within the box is playable. Players must aim their serve into the opposite diagonal box and avoid hitting the net. Service placement is so vital to being an effective tennis player.
Eight in the box defense is common in football. The alignment consists of eight of the eleven players near the line of scrimmage. Defensive lineman and linebackers are usually considered in the “box”, normally occupied by seven players. Coaches will call for an “eight in the box” defense against a strong running team to make a solid defensive front. It’s typical for a safety to leave his post and line up near the line of scrimmage in this formation.
The batter’s box is 36 inches wide. It’s the area where the batter must stand when receiving a pitch in a baseball game. When I played Little League, there were several kids who had trouble staying in the box. Many feared getting beaned, but stepping out of the box during a delivery is not permitted. As soon as a batter steps out of the box, the ball is dead and the batter is out. As you can see, the batter’s box has gigantic implications.
Parting Points: Cowboys lose a tight one on Christmas night…
Book for Sunday- “The Imperfectionists” by Tom Rachman
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Greatest Gifts
My heart still beats like crazy every Christmas morning. I still get excited seeing all the presents under the tree and watching my family as they open each gift. My sister and I used to have a Christmas Eve routine. We’d stay awake, indicated by coughing signals throughout the night. When the living room was dark and quiet, we’d meet in the hallway and tiptoe to the tree just to see the presents. That element of surprise and happiness may never go away, even as we become adults.
It’s probably very easy shopping for me. Anybody who has a sports fan on their Christmas gift list knows what to buy. It’s a pretty sure bet any present having to do with their favorite team will suffice. I’ve gotten sleigh-loads of sports gifts through the years. There’s the OSU toothbrush my sister bought me, the perfectly-folded white tennis shorts I received from my mother, and the World Series hardcover my dad got me one year. I’ve gotten baseball bats and caps, sports ornaments, and dozens of Yankee paraphernalia. Treasured gifts include the handheld Tiger baseball game I played hour after hour the year my Grandmother bought it for me. One Christmas, I opened, with much delight, a basketball shooting toy similar to a pinball machine. My two favorite sports-related gifts are a David Wells autographed ball cap from his perfect game and a Troy Aikman jersey. Another gift I still cherish is a leather Yankee bracelet given by a friend a few years back.
Every year, I look forward to at least one sports gift. It’s a sure bet I’ll get a few—after all, sports is what I do. It’s who I am. But I don’t think the greatest gifts come in tangible form. No, the greatest gifts are those you can’t put on a shelf or over your head. A parent’s love. Your sister’s comradery. The blessing from a friend. A co-worker’s acknowledgment. The smiling stranger. The greatest gifts come from the feeling you get when you exchange glances with a loved one on December 25th. Or when you think about a friend you lost this year before you go to bed on Christmas Eve. It’s the sight of a colorful Christmas tree and a beautiful life you’ve been blessed with. Or that sparkling person who somehow moves you to tears with the slightest gesture. Snazzy bats and signed baseballs can’t compare to the gift of a human heart. So here’s a big thank you to those people who have given me a piece of their heart on Christmas. Here’s to those who will always have a place in mine—the one that still beats like crazy every Christmas morning.
Parting Points: Song for Xmas-“Thank You” by Dido.
It’s probably very easy shopping for me. Anybody who has a sports fan on their Christmas gift list knows what to buy. It’s a pretty sure bet any present having to do with their favorite team will suffice. I’ve gotten sleigh-loads of sports gifts through the years. There’s the OSU toothbrush my sister bought me, the perfectly-folded white tennis shorts I received from my mother, and the World Series hardcover my dad got me one year. I’ve gotten baseball bats and caps, sports ornaments, and dozens of Yankee paraphernalia. Treasured gifts include the handheld Tiger baseball game I played hour after hour the year my Grandmother bought it for me. One Christmas, I opened, with much delight, a basketball shooting toy similar to a pinball machine. My two favorite sports-related gifts are a David Wells autographed ball cap from his perfect game and a Troy Aikman jersey. Another gift I still cherish is a leather Yankee bracelet given by a friend a few years back.
Every year, I look forward to at least one sports gift. It’s a sure bet I’ll get a few—after all, sports is what I do. It’s who I am. But I don’t think the greatest gifts come in tangible form. No, the greatest gifts are those you can’t put on a shelf or over your head. A parent’s love. Your sister’s comradery. The blessing from a friend. A co-worker’s acknowledgment. The smiling stranger. The greatest gifts come from the feeling you get when you exchange glances with a loved one on December 25th. Or when you think about a friend you lost this year before you go to bed on Christmas Eve. It’s the sight of a colorful Christmas tree and a beautiful life you’ve been blessed with. Or that sparkling person who somehow moves you to tears with the slightest gesture. Snazzy bats and signed baseballs can’t compare to the gift of a human heart. So here’s a big thank you to those people who have given me a piece of their heart on Christmas. Here’s to those who will always have a place in mine—the one that still beats like crazy every Christmas morning.
Parting Points: Song for Xmas-“Thank You” by Dido.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Thursday Take-Twos (Tattoo edition)
Reports out of Columbus about a possible investigation into the Ohio State football team have Sugar Bowl implications. During last night’s game between Boise State and Utah, OSU alum and ESPN reporter, Kirk Herbstreit indicated the university is meeting with officials regarding allegations about players’ participation in receiving tattoos for autographs. According to the report, as many as nine football players are being charged with allegations of trading undocumented autographs and memorabilia for tattoos. Herbstreit reported the IRS raided a tattoo parlor, where the memorabilia was discovered. The investigations were apparently an offshoot of another probe by law enforcement agencies of unlawful behavior by the parlor owner, according to the Columbus Dispatch. The NCAA is looking into the charges of illegal benefits. All players remain eligible at this time for the upcoming Sugar Bowl against Alabama. Several starting players are being named in the tattoo allegations and their status for the bowl could be in jeopardy if the committee takes action. At the very least, the allegations are a distraction to the team as they prepare to beat an SEC school in a bowl game for the first time.
Speaking of tattoos and athletes, is Carmelo Anthony headed to the New York Knicks? Anthony has a “live now, die later” tat on his left arm. The Knicks should adopt that motto and go hard for the Denver superstar. Melo told the Nuggets he will not sign a three year contract extension unless he is traded to the Knicks. If Anthony remains in Denver for the rest of the season, he will become an unrestricted free agent. A trade to Manhattan would be ideal for the upstart Knicks, who added a top flight player in Amare Stoudemire this off-season. Danilo Gallinari and Landry Fields are among the players the Knicks could swap in exchange for Melo. The Nuggest have interest in rookie Fields, who has starred in every game and been a huge reason for New York’s surge this season. The NBA trade deadline is February 24th. Anthony, a former Syracuse standout, would be a nice fit for New York. Fans are split on adding Anthony to the lineup because the Knicks are so hot right now. Defensive-minded and one of the best pure scorers, Melo would boost the Knicks to serious title contenders if he was traded. Sympathy and prayers go out to the 26 year old Nuggets’ All-Star who recently lost his sister to a pre-existing medical condition.
Parting Points: I wrote this blog this morning…so here is the update. Five OSU players have been suspended for five games in 2011. Terrelle Pryor, Dan Herron and Devier Posey are among the players listed. Totally unfair, when you consider Cam Newton was able to suit up the entire season, win the Heisman and participate in the national championship game for doing FAR worse than the Buckeyes.
Speaking of tattoos and athletes, is Carmelo Anthony headed to the New York Knicks? Anthony has a “live now, die later” tat on his left arm. The Knicks should adopt that motto and go hard for the Denver superstar. Melo told the Nuggets he will not sign a three year contract extension unless he is traded to the Knicks. If Anthony remains in Denver for the rest of the season, he will become an unrestricted free agent. A trade to Manhattan would be ideal for the upstart Knicks, who added a top flight player in Amare Stoudemire this off-season. Danilo Gallinari and Landry Fields are among the players the Knicks could swap in exchange for Melo. The Nuggest have interest in rookie Fields, who has starred in every game and been a huge reason for New York’s surge this season. The NBA trade deadline is February 24th. Anthony, a former Syracuse standout, would be a nice fit for New York. Fans are split on adding Anthony to the lineup because the Knicks are so hot right now. Defensive-minded and one of the best pure scorers, Melo would boost the Knicks to serious title contenders if he was traded. Sympathy and prayers go out to the 26 year old Nuggets’ All-Star who recently lost his sister to a pre-existing medical condition.
Parting Points: I wrote this blog this morning…so here is the update. Five OSU players have been suspended for five games in 2011. Terrelle Pryor, Dan Herron and Devier Posey are among the players listed. Totally unfair, when you consider Cam Newton was able to suit up the entire season, win the Heisman and participate in the national championship game for doing FAR worse than the Buckeyes.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Final Exam
You put into play all the images in your mind
The words and ways you memorize the lines
It’s like observing from the sidelines
The pusher who turns back the ball every time
She defends every shot as if spitting out terms
For a final exam she knew before she learned
But how do you beat a pusher this stern
When she scales the court with all her burn
Why, don’t play her game or lower your own
But move quickly to receive the fair volleys that drone
Take the dinks over net and break the rhythm and tone
By sending a passing shot to the backcourt alone
At that moment you’ll realize you’ve passed the test
You can settle in for all the rest
The answers lie not in the observers’ request
But in the one who questions her own bequest
The words and ways you memorize the lines
It’s like observing from the sidelines
The pusher who turns back the ball every time
She defends every shot as if spitting out terms
For a final exam she knew before she learned
But how do you beat a pusher this stern
When she scales the court with all her burn
Why, don’t play her game or lower your own
But move quickly to receive the fair volleys that drone
Take the dinks over net and break the rhythm and tone
By sending a passing shot to the backcourt alone
At that moment you’ll realize you’ve passed the test
You can settle in for all the rest
The answers lie not in the observers’ request
But in the one who questions her own bequest
Monday, December 20, 2010
Eagles’ Explosive Endeavor
The New York Giants endured an incredulous debacle of a loss Sunday at the new Meadowlands Stadium. Big Blue lost a 38-31 decision to the NFC East rival Eagles on the final play of the game. DeSean Jackson, the speedster in green and white, raced a punt return back 65 yards for the winning touchdown with 13 seconds left in regulation. Jackson has burned teams with his speed all season, but none as electrifying and dramatic as the winning runback of yesterday’s 31-31 ball game. The Eagles scored 28 unanswered points to erase a 31-10 fourth quarter deficit. The Philadelphia victory puts the Eagles in sole possession of first place in the division. Philadelphia swept the two game season series against New York with yesterday’s comeback win. The Giants will have to settle for a wildcard if they hope to make the post-season. New York fell to 9-5 in one of the worst losses in franchise history.
Mario Manningham put the Giants on the scoreboard with his first of two touchdown catches with 3:36 to go in the opening quarter. Manningham caught a 35 yard pass from Eli Manning to complete a nine play, 71 yard drive for the G-Men. The Eagles scored their only points of the first half two minutes into the second quarter. David Akers sent a 34 yard field goal into the end zone to make it a 7-3 game. The Giants’ offense unloaded a pair of touchdowns and added a field goal to increase their lead to 24-3 at the break. Manningham hauled in his second touchdown, a 33 yard bomb from Manning. The receiver finished with 113 yards on eight catches as the Giants trounced Philadelphia during the first half. Lawrence Tynes’ 25 yard field goal was followed by Hakeem Nicks’ eight yard score. Jeremy Maclin’s fumble late in the half was picked up by Giants’ safety, Kenny Phillips to set up Nicks’ touchdown. The Giants outgained the top-ranked Eagles’ offense 222-74 in the first half. It looked like Big Blue was going to coast to the top of the NFC East.
Michael Vick ran for a game high 130 yards and threw 242 behind center for the Eagles. The Giants succeeded in slowing Vick with blitzes for most of the game. Big Blue’s defense sacked Vick twice and constantly applied pressure. Vick completed just six passes for 33 yards. His first touchdown came via a third quarter strike to Maclin to make it 24-10 Giants. Kevin Boss pulled in an eight yard pass from Manning early in the fourth quarter to negate Maclin’s touchdown. The Eagles, facing a huge fourth quarter deficit, shocked the Giants in the final seven and a half minutes. Vick made late work with his arm and the Giants couldn’t tackle or defend. New York’s first 53 minutes of strong play went for naught. Eagles’ tight end, Brent Celek, got the comeback started with a 65 yard touchdown off a missed Phillips tackle. Celek turned a 30-something yard gain into seven points. Vick’s four yard touchdown scramble cut a rejuvenated Philadelphia’s deficit to one score. Maclin avenged for his earlier fumble with a 13 yard touchdown grab with 1:13 left to tie the game at 31-31. Then, there was the final play. Rookie Matt Dodge punted to the Eagles’ elusive return man and Jackson responded accordingly to top off the 28 point rally.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “The Way to Your Heart” by Soulsister
Mario Manningham put the Giants on the scoreboard with his first of two touchdown catches with 3:36 to go in the opening quarter. Manningham caught a 35 yard pass from Eli Manning to complete a nine play, 71 yard drive for the G-Men. The Eagles scored their only points of the first half two minutes into the second quarter. David Akers sent a 34 yard field goal into the end zone to make it a 7-3 game. The Giants’ offense unloaded a pair of touchdowns and added a field goal to increase their lead to 24-3 at the break. Manningham hauled in his second touchdown, a 33 yard bomb from Manning. The receiver finished with 113 yards on eight catches as the Giants trounced Philadelphia during the first half. Lawrence Tynes’ 25 yard field goal was followed by Hakeem Nicks’ eight yard score. Jeremy Maclin’s fumble late in the half was picked up by Giants’ safety, Kenny Phillips to set up Nicks’ touchdown. The Giants outgained the top-ranked Eagles’ offense 222-74 in the first half. It looked like Big Blue was going to coast to the top of the NFC East.
Michael Vick ran for a game high 130 yards and threw 242 behind center for the Eagles. The Giants succeeded in slowing Vick with blitzes for most of the game. Big Blue’s defense sacked Vick twice and constantly applied pressure. Vick completed just six passes for 33 yards. His first touchdown came via a third quarter strike to Maclin to make it 24-10 Giants. Kevin Boss pulled in an eight yard pass from Manning early in the fourth quarter to negate Maclin’s touchdown. The Eagles, facing a huge fourth quarter deficit, shocked the Giants in the final seven and a half minutes. Vick made late work with his arm and the Giants couldn’t tackle or defend. New York’s first 53 minutes of strong play went for naught. Eagles’ tight end, Brent Celek, got the comeback started with a 65 yard touchdown off a missed Phillips tackle. Celek turned a 30-something yard gain into seven points. Vick’s four yard touchdown scramble cut a rejuvenated Philadelphia’s deficit to one score. Maclin avenged for his earlier fumble with a 13 yard touchdown grab with 1:13 left to tie the game at 31-31. Then, there was the final play. Rookie Matt Dodge punted to the Eagles’ elusive return man and Jackson responded accordingly to top off the 28 point rally.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “The Way to Your Heart” by Soulsister
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Selby’s Shot Sinks S.C.
There are dozens of things that make me happy. King crab legs, kisses on the cheek and Kansas basketball are just a few. That’s why when the latter occurred on Saturday in Lawrence, Kansas, I was rapturous. The Jayhawks defeated USC 70-68 to preserve their consecutive home game winning streak. Third –ranked Kansas has 65 straight wins at Phog Allen Fieldhouse. Yesterday, Bill Self’s squad upended Southern California with the help of freshman guard, Josh Selby. Selby made his KU debut, finishing with a game high 21 points in 27 minutes. The Baltimore native went 5-for-11 from the field and hit the go-ahead bucket with 24 seconds on the clock. Not bad for your first college game.
The 10-0 Jayhawks steadily built a 39-25 lead against the Trojans in the first half. Selby sunk five of eight three pointers, including his first two attempts. The visitors trailed by double digits most of the game but the Jayhawks struggled to generate offense after halftime. The well-schooled, scrappy USC shooters took the lead in the game’s final minutes. Donte Smith led USC on an 11-0 run and Jio Fontan hit a pair of free throws to put the Trojans up by two points with two minutes to play. USC’s quick guards found their way into the lane and pounded away at KU’s poor post-defense. Donte Smith led the Trojans with 20 points, including five baskets from downtown. USC outscored Kansas 48-39 in the second half.
The Jayhawks held the rebounding edge throughout the game against one of the best rebounding teams in college basketball. KU fought back with their gritty freshman leading the way. Marcus Morris threw the ball to Selby with the game on the line. The clutch Kansas guard unfurled another three-point attempt in the final minute to give Kansas the lead for good. The Trojans called time out, trailing 69-68. USC blew its chance to win the game in the last five seconds when Fontan turned the ball over on an inbounds pass. Kansas’ Tyrel Reed made a free throw for the final margin. The starting senior guard had a game high five assists in the Jayhawk’s victory.
Parting Points: The second-ranked Buckeyes remain poised—79-57 winners over South Carolina.
Gilbert Arenas to the Orlando Magic---good move?
The 10-0 Jayhawks steadily built a 39-25 lead against the Trojans in the first half. Selby sunk five of eight three pointers, including his first two attempts. The visitors trailed by double digits most of the game but the Jayhawks struggled to generate offense after halftime. The well-schooled, scrappy USC shooters took the lead in the game’s final minutes. Donte Smith led USC on an 11-0 run and Jio Fontan hit a pair of free throws to put the Trojans up by two points with two minutes to play. USC’s quick guards found their way into the lane and pounded away at KU’s poor post-defense. Donte Smith led the Trojans with 20 points, including five baskets from downtown. USC outscored Kansas 48-39 in the second half.
The Jayhawks held the rebounding edge throughout the game against one of the best rebounding teams in college basketball. KU fought back with their gritty freshman leading the way. Marcus Morris threw the ball to Selby with the game on the line. The clutch Kansas guard unfurled another three-point attempt in the final minute to give Kansas the lead for good. The Trojans called time out, trailing 69-68. USC blew its chance to win the game in the last five seconds when Fontan turned the ball over on an inbounds pass. Kansas’ Tyrel Reed made a free throw for the final margin. The starting senior guard had a game high five assists in the Jayhawk’s victory.
Parting Points: The second-ranked Buckeyes remain poised—79-57 winners over South Carolina.
Gilbert Arenas to the Orlando Magic---good move?
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Wishes & Wants
All I want for Christmas is:
A J.R. Smith dunk
Cam Newton’s trophy case
And some Brett Favre spunk
I want Troy Polamalu’s hair
Yao Ming’s doctor’s job
And a little of Sid Crosby’s flair
I’ll take a chunk of Cliff Lee’s check
Along with Tom Brady’s fame
And Vincent Jackson’s hands just for the heck
I would like a Jared Sullinger three
Packaged with a Jonathan Quick stop
All of these I want under my Christmas tree
A J.R. Smith dunk
Cam Newton’s trophy case
And some Brett Favre spunk
I want Troy Polamalu’s hair
Yao Ming’s doctor’s job
And a little of Sid Crosby’s flair
I’ll take a chunk of Cliff Lee’s check
Along with Tom Brady’s fame
And Vincent Jackson’s hands just for the heck
I would like a Jared Sullinger three
Packaged with a Jonathan Quick stop
All of these I want under my Christmas tree
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Team Talk Thursday
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/frank_deford/12/15/uconn.streak/index.html
Frank Deford wrote an excellent article in his weekly column yesterday. The article focuses on bringing attention to women’s team sports. Deford applauds Connecticut’s women’s basketball team and writes how women are usually recognized for individual efforts instead of team efforts. I agree with Deford. Women tennis players, swimmers, runners and skiers grab the headlines in a male-dominated professional sports world. Seldom do we see headlines praising women’s basketball , softball or hockey teams. The only time women who participate in team sports make the news is when they take their shirts off or pull someone else’s hair during a soccer match. Controversy makes the news. I can’t remember the last time I heard any fan (male or female) say they snagged tickets to a women’s college volleyball game.
Women’s sports have never generated the interest men’s sports have enjoyed. They probably never will. Most girls don’t grow up with the idea of becoming a professional athlete. It’s just not a reality. If you are a woman athlete and you play a team sport, the highest achievement you can hope for is at the college level. Even Olympic women’s team sports don’t rate. The USA softball and hockey teams had rosters filled with incredibly talented athletes. Nobody seemed to care. It was the men’s team that was supposed to bring home the gold. Just look at Team USA men’s basketball, often called “The Dream Team”. People flock to men’s sports at the professional, and college, level. As Deford says, how often do sports commentators even reference women’s teams?
Nothing is going to change as long as women are prevented from participating in society’s elite sports. Football and baseball dominate American culture, and they are only played by men. Title IX helped women make tremendous strides, but only at the scholastic level. There is a glass ceiling in athletics much like there exists one in the business world. Women’s team sports cannot take over and the reason is this: professional sports will always be a male-dominated field. Women don’t draw headlines and they don’t draw other women fans. Even the NFL, possessors of the most women fans, will never become a women’s world. Girls don’t strive to play football because they are just not brought up that way. The same goes for baseball. Sure, there are women who can hit 100 mph fastballs and catch a football. But it’s a heck of a lot easier to be a women tennis player or a downhill skier in today’s society. Individually, you can’t disrupt or threaten an entire sport the way you could if you were a team. Perhaps women are fearful of becoming too dominant, too good. Perhaps men don’t think much of women’s teams because they insist men are stronger athletes. A number of reasons exist why women’s sports haven’t caught society’s eye and why fans fail to embellish women teams. The NFL is an established brand and the market is expanding every day. There is a market for women who play teams sports but it’s very difficult to sell something without a brand.
Parting Points: RIP Bob Feller.
Pittsburgh hired Miami of Ohio’ Michael Haywood…a good choice.
Frank Deford wrote an excellent article in his weekly column yesterday. The article focuses on bringing attention to women’s team sports. Deford applauds Connecticut’s women’s basketball team and writes how women are usually recognized for individual efforts instead of team efforts. I agree with Deford. Women tennis players, swimmers, runners and skiers grab the headlines in a male-dominated professional sports world. Seldom do we see headlines praising women’s basketball , softball or hockey teams. The only time women who participate in team sports make the news is when they take their shirts off or pull someone else’s hair during a soccer match. Controversy makes the news. I can’t remember the last time I heard any fan (male or female) say they snagged tickets to a women’s college volleyball game.
Women’s sports have never generated the interest men’s sports have enjoyed. They probably never will. Most girls don’t grow up with the idea of becoming a professional athlete. It’s just not a reality. If you are a woman athlete and you play a team sport, the highest achievement you can hope for is at the college level. Even Olympic women’s team sports don’t rate. The USA softball and hockey teams had rosters filled with incredibly talented athletes. Nobody seemed to care. It was the men’s team that was supposed to bring home the gold. Just look at Team USA men’s basketball, often called “The Dream Team”. People flock to men’s sports at the professional, and college, level. As Deford says, how often do sports commentators even reference women’s teams?
Nothing is going to change as long as women are prevented from participating in society’s elite sports. Football and baseball dominate American culture, and they are only played by men. Title IX helped women make tremendous strides, but only at the scholastic level. There is a glass ceiling in athletics much like there exists one in the business world. Women’s team sports cannot take over and the reason is this: professional sports will always be a male-dominated field. Women don’t draw headlines and they don’t draw other women fans. Even the NFL, possessors of the most women fans, will never become a women’s world. Girls don’t strive to play football because they are just not brought up that way. The same goes for baseball. Sure, there are women who can hit 100 mph fastballs and catch a football. But it’s a heck of a lot easier to be a women tennis player or a downhill skier in today’s society. Individually, you can’t disrupt or threaten an entire sport the way you could if you were a team. Perhaps women are fearful of becoming too dominant, too good. Perhaps men don’t think much of women’s teams because they insist men are stronger athletes. A number of reasons exist why women’s sports haven’t caught society’s eye and why fans fail to embellish women teams. The NFL is an established brand and the market is expanding every day. There is a market for women who play teams sports but it’s very difficult to sell something without a brand.
Parting Points: RIP Bob Feller.
Pittsburgh hired Miami of Ohio’ Michael Haywood…a good choice.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Cliff's Choice
The pitching-rich Phillies just added another ace in lefthander, Cliff Lee. Philadelphia landed Lee Monday night after weeks of speculation. The free agent All-Star agreed to return to the Phillies for $120 million over five years. Lee’s choice surprised many around baseball, including the teams who courted him throughout the past few months. The Yankees and Rangers lost out on signing the southpaw, despite heftier contract offers. Jon Daniels and Brian Cashman couldn’t snag the pitcher, who chose comfort over dollars. Now the NL East champions have an added boost in an already stellar starting rotation for 2011. The addition of Lee gives the city the greatest quartet since Boyz II Men: Lee, Roy Halladay, Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt.
The Phillies traded Lee approximately a year ago. The free agent pitcher went to Seattle before being traded to Texas. Lee helped propel the upstart Rangers to the World Series after a spectacular division series against the Yankees. Lee suffered two difficult losses to the Giants in the Fall Classic, but his post-season dominance is proven. He was the best free agent pitcher on the market. The Rangers and Yankees went head-to-head in hopes of acquiring the lefty for next season, but it was Lee’s former club who signed the hurler. New York offered a seven year deal in excess of $160 million, while Lee’s current team offered a six year guarantee for an undetermined amount. The 32 year old signed a lucrative deal with the Phillies after the team came close to matching Lee’s other offers. Lee spurned those offers and now the Phillies have four bona fide aces. The agreement is the third biggest ever for a pitcher, and Lee is all too pleased to return to the City of Brotherly Love.
Parting Points: The Big Ten announced their new division names: Legends and Leaders.
Brett Favre’s streak is over.
The Phillies traded Lee approximately a year ago. The free agent pitcher went to Seattle before being traded to Texas. Lee helped propel the upstart Rangers to the World Series after a spectacular division series against the Yankees. Lee suffered two difficult losses to the Giants in the Fall Classic, but his post-season dominance is proven. He was the best free agent pitcher on the market. The Rangers and Yankees went head-to-head in hopes of acquiring the lefty for next season, but it was Lee’s former club who signed the hurler. New York offered a seven year deal in excess of $160 million, while Lee’s current team offered a six year guarantee for an undetermined amount. The 32 year old signed a lucrative deal with the Phillies after the team came close to matching Lee’s other offers. Lee spurned those offers and now the Phillies have four bona fide aces. The agreement is the third biggest ever for a pitcher, and Lee is all too pleased to return to the City of Brotherly Love.
Parting Points: The Big Ten announced their new division names: Legends and Leaders.
Brett Favre’s streak is over.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Eagles’ Enormity
Jason Garrett’s gritty Cowboys were bested by the Eagles 30-27 on Sunday night at Cowboys Stadium. Rival Philadelphia got an enormous lift from standout receiver, DeSean Jackson and running back, LeSean McCoy in improving to 9-4 on the year. Jackson finished with 210 yards and scored on a 91 yard touchdown pass from Michael Vick to snap a 20-20 tie in the fourth quarter. The former Pittsburgh rusher, McCoy, finished with 149 yards on the ground. Dallas, led my sure-handed tight end Jason Witten’s two scores, dropped their ninth decision in an otherwise disappointing season.
Dallas’ defense was overtaken by Vick’s play-action as the Eagles put seven points on the board three minutes into the contest. The Eagles made big plays all night, including during the first touchdown drive. Jackson hauled in a 60 yard pass and Vick capped the six-play drive with a one yard touchdown run. Cowboys’ signal-caller, Jon Kitna, strung together a touchdown drive midway through the first quarter to even the score at 7-7. Tashard Choice added some important gains with the run and Miles Austin got the ‘Boys into Phily territory. Kitna avoided the tenacious blitz from the Philly defense to hit Witten in the end zone from one yard out.
Vick’s two yard pass to Todd Herremans completed a 51 yard, three minute drive and put the Eagles back on top by seven in the second quarter. Vick and Kitna were both picked off during the second quarter. The Cowboys scored with eight seconds before halftime courtesy of David Buehler’s 50 yard field goal. Dallas scored the first ten points of the second half to take a 20-14 advantage. Buehler made a 43 yard field goal to narrow the gap, and took the lead on Felix Jones’ storming scurry off a screen pass into the end zone three minutes later.
David Akers kicked a pair of field goals to tie the game at 20-20 into the fourth quarter. Dallas was able to stall the Eagles and hold them to three until Jackson’s incredible 91 yard touchdown reception. The speedy receiver turned a ten yard pass into a huge gain and a Philadelphia lead. The Eagles held the momentum, adding an Akers’ field goal set up by Kitna’s second interception of the game. Kitna responded with an impressive 80 yard drive and another touchdown pass to Witten. The Cowboys pulled within three points but the Eagles ran out the clock with less than five minutes to earn the victory. Philadelphia hammered down the win despite the Cowboys’ comeback attempt. Dallas is 3-2 under interim coach Garrett. Jackson’s 210 yards were third most in franchise history.
Parting Points: The Patriots are in the playoffs…
Cliff Lee is still keeping everybody in suspense…
Song of the day- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift
Dallas’ defense was overtaken by Vick’s play-action as the Eagles put seven points on the board three minutes into the contest. The Eagles made big plays all night, including during the first touchdown drive. Jackson hauled in a 60 yard pass and Vick capped the six-play drive with a one yard touchdown run. Cowboys’ signal-caller, Jon Kitna, strung together a touchdown drive midway through the first quarter to even the score at 7-7. Tashard Choice added some important gains with the run and Miles Austin got the ‘Boys into Phily territory. Kitna avoided the tenacious blitz from the Philly defense to hit Witten in the end zone from one yard out.
Vick’s two yard pass to Todd Herremans completed a 51 yard, three minute drive and put the Eagles back on top by seven in the second quarter. Vick and Kitna were both picked off during the second quarter. The Cowboys scored with eight seconds before halftime courtesy of David Buehler’s 50 yard field goal. Dallas scored the first ten points of the second half to take a 20-14 advantage. Buehler made a 43 yard field goal to narrow the gap, and took the lead on Felix Jones’ storming scurry off a screen pass into the end zone three minutes later.
David Akers kicked a pair of field goals to tie the game at 20-20 into the fourth quarter. Dallas was able to stall the Eagles and hold them to three until Jackson’s incredible 91 yard touchdown reception. The speedy receiver turned a ten yard pass into a huge gain and a Philadelphia lead. The Eagles held the momentum, adding an Akers’ field goal set up by Kitna’s second interception of the game. Kitna responded with an impressive 80 yard drive and another touchdown pass to Witten. The Cowboys pulled within three points but the Eagles ran out the clock with less than five minutes to earn the victory. Philadelphia hammered down the win despite the Cowboys’ comeback attempt. Dallas is 3-2 under interim coach Garrett. Jackson’s 210 yards were third most in franchise history.
Parting Points: The Patriots are in the playoffs…
Cliff Lee is still keeping everybody in suspense…
Song of the day- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Sports Short
Sports recap: Pitt lost to the Vols; Giants-Vikes postponed to Monday night in Detroit; Will Muschamp signed on at Florida; Cam Newton drilled the other Heisman candidates by a landslide.
And now for a short poem:
I’m not over you
I hate that I think I am
I tell myself to give up
But my tears still hope for your hands
When was it that I didn’t feel this way
When the taste in my mouth wasn’t bitter from goodbye
When was it that I had room left in my heart
And the voice in my head didn’t hold your song
The hardest part of missing you
The hardest thing of letting go
Is that I know I never will
You are the memory I console
You are the bounce in my step
The love I still follow without regret
"I won't be idle with despair"- Jewel
And now for a short poem:
I’m not over you
I hate that I think I am
I tell myself to give up
But my tears still hope for your hands
When was it that I didn’t feel this way
When the taste in my mouth wasn’t bitter from goodbye
When was it that I had room left in my heart
And the voice in my head didn’t hold your song
The hardest part of missing you
The hardest thing of letting go
Is that I know I never will
You are the memory I console
You are the bounce in my step
The love I still follow without regret
"I won't be idle with despair"- Jewel
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday Take-Twos (Coaching Vacancy Edition)
It has been an eventful week on the coaching front. The 3-9 Denver Broncos canned head coach, Josh McDaniels, earlier this week. The infamous videographer was fired, ending a scandal that has plagued the team and slapped them with fines for not reporting the violations. McDaniels’ blunders included letting Brandon Marshall and Jay Cutler go and firing defensive coordinator, Mike Nolan. The rebuilding project is underway now that 34 year old McDaniels is out. Eric Studesville was given the interim tag, and will finish out the season as head coach. Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher’s names have already popped up as replacements. Reports from Denver indicate the Broncos haven’t set a timetable on hiring a new coach. The Broncos are still paying part of Mike Shanahan’s contract in addition to the remaining two years of McDaniels’ due. Former Florida quarterback, Tim Tebow’s future is in question, but he could see more playing time down the stretch of the season.
And speaking of Florida, Urban Meyer dropped a bomb on the college football world (especially those in Gator Nation) when he announced his retirement after ten seasons. This is Meyer’s second retirement in two seasons. Last year, the two time national championship head coach cited health as his reason for stepping down. Yesterday, Meyer resigned due to family reasons. The 7-5 Gators endured a disappointing 2010 under Meyer, and the once renowned and prominent program is now an average team. Meyer attributed Florida’s slide to the stream of assistant coaches who left the program. The loss of one of the best college ballplayers this decade surely did not help Florida. Tebow’s departure left plenty of rebuilding for the spread option offense. Meyer’s ability to recruit will be missed, and his trio of 13-win seasons will be hard to top. Boise State’s Chris Peterson, Oregon’s Chip Kelly and Oklahoma’s Bob Stoops are respectable candidates to fill the polarizing Meyer’s shoes. Personally, I’d like to see Skip Holtz or Greg Schiano take over in Gainesville. Neither coachhas a 95-18 record, but both have the ability to transform and lead. Both also have experience working for a major college programs (Holtz at Florida State and Schiano at Miami) in Florida. Schiano was the 2006 Big East Coach of the year at Rutgers. Holtz led the East Carolina Pirates to two C-USA titles before taking a position at USF. It’s likely Florida will go after a big name, but they should afford a lower-ranking coach an opportunity. The problem with all the above-named coaches is they have no experience with SEC football. There will probably never be another Tebow-Meyer tandem at Florida, but it shouldn’t stop the Gators from pursuing excellence.
Dave Wannstedt stepped down after six seasons with the Pittsburgh Panthers. Wannstedt’s resignation was a long time coming, with the final blow occurring after the Panthers were crushed by West Virginia on November 26th. The loss impacted the Big East-leading Panthers’ shot at the conference title. Talented and heavily favored Pittsburgh underperformed under Wannstedt, and many in the organization felt the head coach lost the team. Pitt won just one bowl game in Wannstedt’s tenure. Wannstedt never truly wanted to leave, but was forced out under pressure on Tuesday. The former Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears head coach will remain with Pittsburgh as a special assistant to the AD. The next Pitt coach will step into a decent position, with a solid team already in place. Standout running back, Dion Lewis, will return next season for the 7-5 Panthers. Pitt is an easy sell, with products such as Dan Marino, Tony Dorsett, and Mike Ditka coming out of the organization. Gruden and Cowher are the big names being mentioned, but in my opinion, Pitt needs to promote from within. Offensive coordinator, Frank Cignetti, is a good place to start. Cignetti will coach the BBVA Compass Bowl game against Kentucky if Wannstedt chooses not to finish out the year. Cignetti began at Pitt just a year ago, but the Panthers’ offense got off to a 9-1 start in 2009 after his introduction. He is an offensive minded coach who has spent time with the NFL’s Saints, Chiefs and 49ers, as well as premiere college teams at California and upstart North Carolina. Miami of Ohio’s Michael Hayward is another solid candidate should the university look outside the program. Schiano and Holtz are also my picks to be considered for this job simply because they know Big East football. Schiano revamped Rutgers when there was very little there. I can only imagine what he would do with the Panthers’ squad.
Parting Points: Crosby scores two, Pens win again.
Song of the day- Madonna’s “Borderline”
And speaking of Florida, Urban Meyer dropped a bomb on the college football world (especially those in Gator Nation) when he announced his retirement after ten seasons. This is Meyer’s second retirement in two seasons. Last year, the two time national championship head coach cited health as his reason for stepping down. Yesterday, Meyer resigned due to family reasons. The 7-5 Gators endured a disappointing 2010 under Meyer, and the once renowned and prominent program is now an average team. Meyer attributed Florida’s slide to the stream of assistant coaches who left the program. The loss of one of the best college ballplayers this decade surely did not help Florida. Tebow’s departure left plenty of rebuilding for the spread option offense. Meyer’s ability to recruit will be missed, and his trio of 13-win seasons will be hard to top. Boise State’s Chris Peterson, Oregon’s Chip Kelly and Oklahoma’s Bob Stoops are respectable candidates to fill the polarizing Meyer’s shoes. Personally, I’d like to see Skip Holtz or Greg Schiano take over in Gainesville. Neither coachhas a 95-18 record, but both have the ability to transform and lead. Both also have experience working for a major college programs (Holtz at Florida State and Schiano at Miami) in Florida. Schiano was the 2006 Big East Coach of the year at Rutgers. Holtz led the East Carolina Pirates to two C-USA titles before taking a position at USF. It’s likely Florida will go after a big name, but they should afford a lower-ranking coach an opportunity. The problem with all the above-named coaches is they have no experience with SEC football. There will probably never be another Tebow-Meyer tandem at Florida, but it shouldn’t stop the Gators from pursuing excellence.
Dave Wannstedt stepped down after six seasons with the Pittsburgh Panthers. Wannstedt’s resignation was a long time coming, with the final blow occurring after the Panthers were crushed by West Virginia on November 26th. The loss impacted the Big East-leading Panthers’ shot at the conference title. Talented and heavily favored Pittsburgh underperformed under Wannstedt, and many in the organization felt the head coach lost the team. Pitt won just one bowl game in Wannstedt’s tenure. Wannstedt never truly wanted to leave, but was forced out under pressure on Tuesday. The former Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears head coach will remain with Pittsburgh as a special assistant to the AD. The next Pitt coach will step into a decent position, with a solid team already in place. Standout running back, Dion Lewis, will return next season for the 7-5 Panthers. Pitt is an easy sell, with products such as Dan Marino, Tony Dorsett, and Mike Ditka coming out of the organization. Gruden and Cowher are the big names being mentioned, but in my opinion, Pitt needs to promote from within. Offensive coordinator, Frank Cignetti, is a good place to start. Cignetti will coach the BBVA Compass Bowl game against Kentucky if Wannstedt chooses not to finish out the year. Cignetti began at Pitt just a year ago, but the Panthers’ offense got off to a 9-1 start in 2009 after his introduction. He is an offensive minded coach who has spent time with the NFL’s Saints, Chiefs and 49ers, as well as premiere college teams at California and upstart North Carolina. Miami of Ohio’s Michael Hayward is another solid candidate should the university look outside the program. Schiano and Holtz are also my picks to be considered for this job simply because they know Big East football. Schiano revamped Rutgers when there was very little there. I can only imagine what he would do with the Panthers’ squad.
Parting Points: Crosby scores two, Pens win again.
Song of the day- Madonna’s “Borderline”
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Cream of the Crop
Patriots by six touchdowns!
The Jets ran out of fuel in Foxboro. New England nuked New York, holding Gang Green to three measly points in Monday night’s AFC East division showdown. Last night helped separate the pretenders from the players, and it wasn’t pretty for Rex Ryan and the showy Jets. The Patriot’s dismantled the Jets to the tune of a 45-3 romp and improved to 10-2. The Jets, winners of five consecutive games on the road, fell to 9-3. Second year signal caller for Gang Green, Mark Sanchez, threw three interceptions and kicker, Nick Folk, missed a try from 53 yards. Brady embarrassed the Jets’ defense in prime time with 326 yards and four touchdowns. Ryan was outcoached, the defense was outmatched and the Jets were outclassed on the road.
The Jets looked off guard and unprepared most of the evening, but stopped New England on their opening drive. Brady tossed three incompletions before handing the ball back to the visiting team. New England didn’t come up short very often the rest of the way. Shayne Graham’s 41 yard field goal made it 3-0 Patriots. New England took over at the 43 yard line after Ryan unsuccessfully gambled on Folk’s 53 yard field goal attempt. Benjarvus Green-Ellis plowed into the end zone from one yard out to give the Patriots their first touchdown and a 10-0 edge. Deion Branch completed the first quarter scoring with a 25 yard touchdown reception with one minute remaining.
The Jets were shut out in every quarter but the second. Folk’s 39 yard kick at 12:14 into the second stanza were the only points New England would afford the humbled team from New York. The Jets’ secondary struggled badly without safety Jim Leonard. The defense allowed 405 total yards, including Danny Woodhead’s 102 receiving for New England. The running back chewed up a yardage on just four receptions and Green-Ellis added 72 yards on the ground. Brandon Tate four yard catch midway through the second quarter made it 24-3 in favor of the home team at the half.
Sanchez was out of sync with his offense and was picked off by on three consecutive drives in the second half. Wes Welker was Brady’s favorite target, hauling down four receptions for 80 yards and a score. Welker caught an 18 yard pass from his MVP quarterback, the only points of the third quarter for either team. Brady was 21-of-29 in another efficient effort behind center. His fourth touchdown pass of the game came seconds into the final quarter after Devin McCourty intercepted Sanchez at the New England 45 yard line. Brady hit Aaron Hernandez following an eight play, 94 yard New England drive. Brady sliced up the Jets’ secondary on rout to his 26th straight regular season home win. Green-Ellis hammered the final nail in the coffin with his second touchdown run, a five yard scurry with 9:20 left in regulation. The Patriots appear to be the elite team in the AFC, tied with Atlanta at the top. Brady is making a strong showing for another MVP award, while the Jets are simply winning close games and losing the big ones. The Jets have finally hit a road block.
Parting Points: RIP Don Meredith.
The Jets ran out of fuel in Foxboro. New England nuked New York, holding Gang Green to three measly points in Monday night’s AFC East division showdown. Last night helped separate the pretenders from the players, and it wasn’t pretty for Rex Ryan and the showy Jets. The Patriot’s dismantled the Jets to the tune of a 45-3 romp and improved to 10-2. The Jets, winners of five consecutive games on the road, fell to 9-3. Second year signal caller for Gang Green, Mark Sanchez, threw three interceptions and kicker, Nick Folk, missed a try from 53 yards. Brady embarrassed the Jets’ defense in prime time with 326 yards and four touchdowns. Ryan was outcoached, the defense was outmatched and the Jets were outclassed on the road.
The Jets looked off guard and unprepared most of the evening, but stopped New England on their opening drive. Brady tossed three incompletions before handing the ball back to the visiting team. New England didn’t come up short very often the rest of the way. Shayne Graham’s 41 yard field goal made it 3-0 Patriots. New England took over at the 43 yard line after Ryan unsuccessfully gambled on Folk’s 53 yard field goal attempt. Benjarvus Green-Ellis plowed into the end zone from one yard out to give the Patriots their first touchdown and a 10-0 edge. Deion Branch completed the first quarter scoring with a 25 yard touchdown reception with one minute remaining.
The Jets were shut out in every quarter but the second. Folk’s 39 yard kick at 12:14 into the second stanza were the only points New England would afford the humbled team from New York. The Jets’ secondary struggled badly without safety Jim Leonard. The defense allowed 405 total yards, including Danny Woodhead’s 102 receiving for New England. The running back chewed up a yardage on just four receptions and Green-Ellis added 72 yards on the ground. Brandon Tate four yard catch midway through the second quarter made it 24-3 in favor of the home team at the half.
Sanchez was out of sync with his offense and was picked off by on three consecutive drives in the second half. Wes Welker was Brady’s favorite target, hauling down four receptions for 80 yards and a score. Welker caught an 18 yard pass from his MVP quarterback, the only points of the third quarter for either team. Brady was 21-of-29 in another efficient effort behind center. His fourth touchdown pass of the game came seconds into the final quarter after Devin McCourty intercepted Sanchez at the New England 45 yard line. Brady hit Aaron Hernandez following an eight play, 94 yard New England drive. Brady sliced up the Jets’ secondary on rout to his 26th straight regular season home win. Green-Ellis hammered the final nail in the coffin with his second touchdown run, a five yard scurry with 9:20 left in regulation. The Patriots appear to be the elite team in the AFC, tied with Atlanta at the top. Brady is making a strong showing for another MVP award, while the Jets are simply winning close games and losing the big ones. The Jets have finally hit a road block.
Parting Points: RIP Don Meredith.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Tigers Take Title
Cam Newton, Gene Chizik and the Auburn Tigers are headed to the BCS Championship game after winning the SEC title. The Tigers walloped 18th ranked South Carolina 52-17 in the Georgia Dome on Saturday to improve to 13-0 on the year. Auburn will face the Oregon Ducks, winners against Oregon State yesterday, in the national title game in Arizona. The Tigers’ controversial quarterback, Newton, fired six touchdown passes and raised his bid for the leading Heisman Trophy candidate. Newton pushed his season touchdown total to 28 passing and 20 rushing three days after the NCAA ruled him eligible to play. For Auburn, it was the seventh SEC title in school history. Steve Spurrier’s Gamecocks finished with a 9-4 record.
The Tigers compiled 21 points and 227 yards on offense by the end of the first quarter. Onterio Mccalebb sealed a 12 yard pass from Newton to give Auburn a 7-0 lead two minutes into the contest. McCalebb returned the opening kickoff and Newton’s threw a 61 yard bomb to Darvin Adams that set up the touchdown two plays later. The Gamecocks evened the score 7-7 by taking their first possession into the end zone. Patrick DeMarco hauled down a Stephen Garcia pass over the middle for a 25 yard score. Auburn’s flashy junior quarterback kept making plays, shuffling into the end zone from five yards out midway through the first quarter to give the Tigers a 14-7 advantage. Newton ran for 73 yards and a pair of touchdowns in guiding the Tigers to victory. He hit Adams in stride for a 54 yard touchdown with 2:09 remaining in the opening quarter to provide the Tigers a 14 point lead.
Alshon Jeffrey’s one yard touchdown reception with sixteen seconds left in the first half was the first scoring of the second quarter. Newton lost his first fumble of his college career and Garcia was intercepted in a sloppy second quarter on both ends. Wes Bynum, the reliable field goal kicker for Auburn, missed a 36 yard attempt and South Carolina’s defense held the Tigers’ offense to zero points until Newton found Adams as time expired in the half. Adams caught a tipped pass by S.C.’s Devonte Holloman in the end zone to give the Tigers a 28-14 edge at the break. The receiver finished with 217 yards and a pair of scores on the day.
Newton’s one yard touchdown run, his second rushing score of the day, opened the second half scoring for Auburn. T’Sharvan Bell followed the Newton run with an interception return for a touchdown to pad the Auburn lead. The eight yard pick-six gave the Tigers a sizable 42-14 advantage with 7:23 to play in the third quarter. Emory Blake, who finished with 63 yards on five receptions, caught a seven yard pass from Newton three minutes into the fourth quarter. Trailing 49-14, the Gamecocks finally answered back with a 33 yard field goal by Spencer Lanning. Lanning missed from 42 yards out early in the half. Running back for Auburn, Michael Dyer, wore down the Gamecock defense and carried the ball 14 times for 64 yards. It was the senior back for Chizik that scored the final touchdown of the game. Mario Fannin scurried into the end zone for a six yard score with 2:22 to play. Newton finished his storybook season with a career best 335 yards and completed 17 of 28 passes. Garcia was intercepted twice in tossing 170 yards and a pair of touchdowns. The Gamecocks are possibly headed to the Outback Bowl after being blown out in Atlanta yesterday.
Parting Points: Derek Jeter is signed- three years for $51 million and a fourth year option. The BoSox deal for Adrian Gonzalez.
Congrats to the Connecticut Huskies for clinching a BCS Bowl game. I’m disappointed in the Seminoles for losing to VT.
The Tigers compiled 21 points and 227 yards on offense by the end of the first quarter. Onterio Mccalebb sealed a 12 yard pass from Newton to give Auburn a 7-0 lead two minutes into the contest. McCalebb returned the opening kickoff and Newton’s threw a 61 yard bomb to Darvin Adams that set up the touchdown two plays later. The Gamecocks evened the score 7-7 by taking their first possession into the end zone. Patrick DeMarco hauled down a Stephen Garcia pass over the middle for a 25 yard score. Auburn’s flashy junior quarterback kept making plays, shuffling into the end zone from five yards out midway through the first quarter to give the Tigers a 14-7 advantage. Newton ran for 73 yards and a pair of touchdowns in guiding the Tigers to victory. He hit Adams in stride for a 54 yard touchdown with 2:09 remaining in the opening quarter to provide the Tigers a 14 point lead.
Alshon Jeffrey’s one yard touchdown reception with sixteen seconds left in the first half was the first scoring of the second quarter. Newton lost his first fumble of his college career and Garcia was intercepted in a sloppy second quarter on both ends. Wes Bynum, the reliable field goal kicker for Auburn, missed a 36 yard attempt and South Carolina’s defense held the Tigers’ offense to zero points until Newton found Adams as time expired in the half. Adams caught a tipped pass by S.C.’s Devonte Holloman in the end zone to give the Tigers a 28-14 edge at the break. The receiver finished with 217 yards and a pair of scores on the day.
Newton’s one yard touchdown run, his second rushing score of the day, opened the second half scoring for Auburn. T’Sharvan Bell followed the Newton run with an interception return for a touchdown to pad the Auburn lead. The eight yard pick-six gave the Tigers a sizable 42-14 advantage with 7:23 to play in the third quarter. Emory Blake, who finished with 63 yards on five receptions, caught a seven yard pass from Newton three minutes into the fourth quarter. Trailing 49-14, the Gamecocks finally answered back with a 33 yard field goal by Spencer Lanning. Lanning missed from 42 yards out early in the half. Running back for Auburn, Michael Dyer, wore down the Gamecock defense and carried the ball 14 times for 64 yards. It was the senior back for Chizik that scored the final touchdown of the game. Mario Fannin scurried into the end zone for a six yard score with 2:22 to play. Newton finished his storybook season with a career best 335 yards and completed 17 of 28 passes. Garcia was intercepted twice in tossing 170 yards and a pair of touchdowns. The Gamecocks are possibly headed to the Outback Bowl after being blown out in Atlanta yesterday.
Parting Points: Derek Jeter is signed- three years for $51 million and a fourth year option. The BoSox deal for Adrian Gonzalez.
Congrats to the Connecticut Huskies for clinching a BCS Bowl game. I’m disappointed in the Seminoles for losing to VT.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Everlasting
I'm getting in the Christmas spirit. There are so many wonderful gifts in this life, but I think the most precious is the everlasting.
At the end of the day
All that really matters is how we make our own way
The sorrow and the weeping
Find their place to stay
Our Father in the heavens
He carries on His shoulders
All the borrowed burdens
Sent along by others
And when we kneel in silence
Falling like a sparrow
He hears and grips the heart
For an everlasting ‘morrow
At the end of the day
All that really matters is how we make our own way
The sorrow and the weeping
Find their place to stay
Our Father in the heavens
He carries on His shoulders
All the borrowed burdens
Sent along by others
And when we kneel in silence
Falling like a sparrow
He hears and grips the heart
For an everlasting ‘morrow
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Highlights in Houston
The reeling Lakers have lost four straight after being dispatched by the Rockets in Houston on Wednesday night. L.A. was beaten 109-99 at Toyota Center as the pesky Rockets held off Kobe Bryant’s 27 and a season high 22 points from Lamor Odom. The Lakers haven’t lost four consecutive games since April 2007. The struggling defending champions are now owners of a 5-4 road record and 13-6 overall. Houston improved their dismal season start to 6-12. Kevin Martin led the Rockets in points and Shane Battiers knocked down back-to-back three pointers to carry them to victory with less than three minutes in regulation.
Martin finished with 22 points and was a flawless 10-10 at the charity stripe. Luis Scola added 14 points for Houston, who shot just over 50% from the field. Odom bucketed 25 points and had 11 boards in the loss as L.A. snapped a three game winning streak over Houston. The Lakers outscored the Rockets in the first quarter and maintained a three point advantage into the break. Martin had 20 points, and Battier 11, in the second half to lift the Rockets. Houston trimmed their deficit to two points by the end of the third stanza. Kyle Lowry, the former Villanova point guard, contributed with a game high 10 assists.
The Lakers missed their last seven shots and were overpowered 33-21 in the final quarter. Lowry’s pass to Battier with 2:05 remaining resulted in a tie ball game. Battier sunk the downtown shot for a 97-97 score, and struck again on the next Rockets’ possession to pull Houston ahead by three. Battier was fouled inside a minute to play and drilled three free throws for a six point home advantage. The Lakers shot just 33% in the second half. They failed to score again after Bryant drained a pair of free throws in L.A.’s 22% shooting fourth quarter. Pau Gasol, the fluid power player, came down with a left hamstring pull and was limited to just eight points for the Lakers. Houston’s bench outscored L.A.’s in the first half, and the Rockets’ defense clamped down to taunt Gasol and Bryant the remainder of the contest to earn the win. For the ailing home team, Wednesday was finally a happy highlight.
Parting Points: Duke looks dominant with their flamboyant freshman, Kyrie Irving.
I like this athletic kid, Jordan Hill for the Rockets. For starters, he shares his name with a terrific singer.
Song of the day- “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Martin finished with 22 points and was a flawless 10-10 at the charity stripe. Luis Scola added 14 points for Houston, who shot just over 50% from the field. Odom bucketed 25 points and had 11 boards in the loss as L.A. snapped a three game winning streak over Houston. The Lakers outscored the Rockets in the first quarter and maintained a three point advantage into the break. Martin had 20 points, and Battier 11, in the second half to lift the Rockets. Houston trimmed their deficit to two points by the end of the third stanza. Kyle Lowry, the former Villanova point guard, contributed with a game high 10 assists.
The Lakers missed their last seven shots and were overpowered 33-21 in the final quarter. Lowry’s pass to Battier with 2:05 remaining resulted in a tie ball game. Battier sunk the downtown shot for a 97-97 score, and struck again on the next Rockets’ possession to pull Houston ahead by three. Battier was fouled inside a minute to play and drilled three free throws for a six point home advantage. The Lakers shot just 33% in the second half. They failed to score again after Bryant drained a pair of free throws in L.A.’s 22% shooting fourth quarter. Pau Gasol, the fluid power player, came down with a left hamstring pull and was limited to just eight points for the Lakers. Houston’s bench outscored L.A.’s in the first half, and the Rockets’ defense clamped down to taunt Gasol and Bryant the remainder of the contest to earn the win. For the ailing home team, Wednesday was finally a happy highlight.
Parting Points: Duke looks dominant with their flamboyant freshman, Kyrie Irving.
I like this athletic kid, Jordan Hill for the Rockets. For starters, he shares his name with a terrific singer.
Song of the day- “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Rival Romping
Ohio State grabbed a share of their record-tying sixth straight Big Ten title with a 37-7 win over rival Michigan at the ‘Shoe. The 11-1 Buckeyes put up 24 second and 13 third quarter points, respectively on their rout of the visiting Wolverines. Michigan fell to 7-5 in their seventh consecutive loss to the Buckeyes. Ohio State shares the conference spotlight with Michigan State and Wisconsin.
The Wolverines put up a fight in the first quarter but never led during the contest. Michigan’s electric quarterback, Denard Robinson, was a one-man show. Robinson rushed for 105 yards and completed 8-of-18 passes. Rich Rodriguez’s kicking unit is unreliable at best, and the Wolverine offense was forced to go for it on fourth down situations. The Maize and Blue had little success against the persistent and pervasive Buckeyes’ defense. The Michigan offense came into Saturday’s showdown averaging 37 points per game. Yesterday, they had more than a little trouble reaching that average against some of the Big Ten’s best defenders.
Terrelle Pryor, the exciting signal caller for the home team, was just as phenomenal with the football as Robinson. Both quarterbacks slipped through the defenses and fended off tackles. Pryor threw for 220 yards and a pair of scores, while adding 49 yards on the ground. Michigan shut out Pryor and the Buckeyes during the first quarter and succeeded in keeping them out of the end zone until midway through the second. The Wolverines won the coin toss and opted to kick off despite having perhaps one of the conference’s more dismal defenses. But the Buckeyes went three-and-out on their first drive and Michigan responded by shaving five minutes off the clock with nothing to show for it on the ensuing drive. Ohio State punted again after Jake Stoneburner fumbled a pass and failed to convert a third down. Robinson headed another lengthy Michigan drive, but the lost the ball deep in the red zone. Ohio State recovered the ball and in the second quarter, Devin Barclay kicked a 33 yard field goal for the day’s first points.
The Buckeyes coasted to a 10-0 lead on Dane Sanzenbacher’s seven yard pass from Pryor with 12:29 remaining in the first half. Senior receiver Sanzenbacher scored the first touchdown of the game and finished with 71 receiving yards. Michael Shaw netted the only Michigan touchdown with a second quarter one yard run. Robinson set up the score with a diving try at the end zone, falling just short of the goal line. Shaw’s touchdown trimmed the OSU lead to three points, but the slim deficit wouldn’t last long. Jordan Hall returned the kickoff 85 yards for another Ohio State touchdown to put the Buckeyes up 17-7. The Buckeyes continued to romp Michigan, coordinating an impressive 60 yard drive on their next possession. Pryor propelled the Buckeyes with his legs and moved the chains with efficient, smart throws. The drive ended with DeVier Posey’s catch covering 33 yards that sent OSU into the locker room with a comfortable 24-7 advantage. Posey had an 82 yard day for the Buckeyes. Despite piling up 258 total yards, the Wolverines’ lone touchdown was all they had to show for it. Ohio State did pick up a pair of questionable celebration penalties for forming an “O” with their gloved hands.
Robinson exited the game for several stretches during the second half. Tate Forcier replaced the dynamic quarterback and began by being intercepted on his first play from scrimmage. Travis Howard’s leaping snag shifted the momentum even more the Buckeye way. Howard also recovered two fumbles. The Buckeyes declawed Michigan the rest of the game, with Dan Herron scoring on a 32 yard third quarter run and Barclay extending the lead with a pair of field goals. Herron had just five carries on the day but finished with 175 yards, including a school record 89 yard run. Forcier couldn’t complete anything, as Michigan gained just 93 yards after the break. The Wolverines’ closest chance at scoring occurred in the fourth quarter with the Jim Tressel’s team sitting on a 30 points lead. Forcier’s six yard pass was incomplete at the OSU six yard line, and OSU took over in their own territory. Ohio State had 478 yards on offense and converted 10 of 19 third downs in decking Michigan.
Parting Points: News from Miami- Randy Shannon is out at the “U” and the Heat continue to wilt.
Kudos to FSU for knocking off Florida and the Razorbacks for defeating LSU.
“All Americans come from Ohio originally, if only briefly”- Dawn Powell
The Wolverines put up a fight in the first quarter but never led during the contest. Michigan’s electric quarterback, Denard Robinson, was a one-man show. Robinson rushed for 105 yards and completed 8-of-18 passes. Rich Rodriguez’s kicking unit is unreliable at best, and the Wolverine offense was forced to go for it on fourth down situations. The Maize and Blue had little success against the persistent and pervasive Buckeyes’ defense. The Michigan offense came into Saturday’s showdown averaging 37 points per game. Yesterday, they had more than a little trouble reaching that average against some of the Big Ten’s best defenders.
Terrelle Pryor, the exciting signal caller for the home team, was just as phenomenal with the football as Robinson. Both quarterbacks slipped through the defenses and fended off tackles. Pryor threw for 220 yards and a pair of scores, while adding 49 yards on the ground. Michigan shut out Pryor and the Buckeyes during the first quarter and succeeded in keeping them out of the end zone until midway through the second. The Wolverines won the coin toss and opted to kick off despite having perhaps one of the conference’s more dismal defenses. But the Buckeyes went three-and-out on their first drive and Michigan responded by shaving five minutes off the clock with nothing to show for it on the ensuing drive. Ohio State punted again after Jake Stoneburner fumbled a pass and failed to convert a third down. Robinson headed another lengthy Michigan drive, but the lost the ball deep in the red zone. Ohio State recovered the ball and in the second quarter, Devin Barclay kicked a 33 yard field goal for the day’s first points.
The Buckeyes coasted to a 10-0 lead on Dane Sanzenbacher’s seven yard pass from Pryor with 12:29 remaining in the first half. Senior receiver Sanzenbacher scored the first touchdown of the game and finished with 71 receiving yards. Michael Shaw netted the only Michigan touchdown with a second quarter one yard run. Robinson set up the score with a diving try at the end zone, falling just short of the goal line. Shaw’s touchdown trimmed the OSU lead to three points, but the slim deficit wouldn’t last long. Jordan Hall returned the kickoff 85 yards for another Ohio State touchdown to put the Buckeyes up 17-7. The Buckeyes continued to romp Michigan, coordinating an impressive 60 yard drive on their next possession. Pryor propelled the Buckeyes with his legs and moved the chains with efficient, smart throws. The drive ended with DeVier Posey’s catch covering 33 yards that sent OSU into the locker room with a comfortable 24-7 advantage. Posey had an 82 yard day for the Buckeyes. Despite piling up 258 total yards, the Wolverines’ lone touchdown was all they had to show for it. Ohio State did pick up a pair of questionable celebration penalties for forming an “O” with their gloved hands.
Robinson exited the game for several stretches during the second half. Tate Forcier replaced the dynamic quarterback and began by being intercepted on his first play from scrimmage. Travis Howard’s leaping snag shifted the momentum even more the Buckeye way. Howard also recovered two fumbles. The Buckeyes declawed Michigan the rest of the game, with Dan Herron scoring on a 32 yard third quarter run and Barclay extending the lead with a pair of field goals. Herron had just five carries on the day but finished with 175 yards, including a school record 89 yard run. Forcier couldn’t complete anything, as Michigan gained just 93 yards after the break. The Wolverines’ closest chance at scoring occurred in the fourth quarter with the Jim Tressel’s team sitting on a 30 points lead. Forcier’s six yard pass was incomplete at the OSU six yard line, and OSU took over in their own territory. Ohio State had 478 yards on offense and converted 10 of 19 third downs in decking Michigan.
Parting Points: News from Miami- Randy Shannon is out at the “U” and the Heat continue to wilt.
Kudos to FSU for knocking off Florida and the Razorbacks for defeating LSU.
“All Americans come from Ohio originally, if only briefly”- Dawn Powell
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Boise Black & Blue
Black Friday in Reno was just that for the Boise State Broncos. The Broncos scored the first 17 points at Mackay Stadium only to see their lead evaporate in overtime. The nation’s longest winning streak, at 34, is over. Boise State fell 34-31 to Nevada, the Broncos first loss since 2007. The 10-1 Broncos’ BCS-busing hopes also vanished in defeat. Kyle Broztman, the normally efficient kicker for Boise State, missed a field goal in regulation and one in overtime as the Broncos suffered a heartbreaker against the 11-1 Wolf Pack. Nevada emerged victorious in a wild game when redshirt freshman, Anthony Martinez, kicked the game winning field goal from 34 yards out.
The Broncos leapt out to a 3-0 advantage in the first quarter on a Brotzman 33 yard kick. Doug Martin’s four yard touchdown run completed a 13 play, 87 yard drive for Boise State in the second quarter. Quarterback Kellen Moore added a passing touchdown to senior wideout, Titus Young, to give Boise State a commanding 17-0 lead with 5:47 remaining in the first half. Nevada cracked the scoreboard at 4:20 with a five yard rushing touchdown from Vai Taua. The Broncos responded with a 51 yard run by junior tailback Doug Martin, and headed into the break ahead by 17 points. The Boise State offense was almost unstoppable in the first half. Young made six catches on the night for 129 yards and a touchdown, and Martin rushed for 152 yards and a pair of scores. Moore passed for 348 yards in the crucial Friday night loss. Boise State’s defense also held the high-powered Nevada offense in check during the opening half. Wolf Pack passer, Colin Kaepernick was sacked on back-to-back plays and interecepted once. Nevada got two first downs against the Broncos, a first against Boise State, but George Iloka’s intercepted a tipped pass to extinguish the Pack’s promising drive. Nineteenth ranked Nevada would have the last word, however.
The Pack came back to tie the game at 24-24 after three straight scores in the second half. Nevada found their rhythm and punished the Broncos with their running attack. The Wolf Pack racked up 288 yards behind Kaepernick and Taua. Kaepernick scored on an 18 yard run to trim the Boise State edge to ten points in the third quarter. Defensive end, Tyrone Crawford, blocked Martinez’s 35 yard field goal attempt in the third quarter as Nevada settled for just three points during the frame. Rishard Matthews’s 44 yard scramble added another seven for Nevada, and Martinez bounced back by banging home a 24 yard field goal to knot the game in the fourth quarter. Nevada shut out the Boise State offense throughout most of the second half. Matthews picked up 172 yards on 10 receptions to lead all receivers. Martin scored his second touchdown of the night with just under five minutes in regulation to put the Broncos back on top. The spectacular 79 yard reception was followed by Nevada converting two key third downs. Matthews’ seven yard reception made it a 31-31 affair with thirteen seconds left in the game. The Broncos had one last chance to win the game in regulation, but Brotzman missed a 26 yarder to send the game into overtime.
Moore was stymied in the extra session and the Brotzman was ushered in to try a game winning kick. The 29 yard attempt was booted short to the right by a kicker who leads all active players in career scoring. On the ensuing Nevada possession, Martinez drove the winning field goal between the uprights to upset the darlings of the BCS.
Parting Points: Backyard Brawl 2010 goes to the Mountaineers.
OSU vs. Michigan today. Go Buckeyes!
The Broncos leapt out to a 3-0 advantage in the first quarter on a Brotzman 33 yard kick. Doug Martin’s four yard touchdown run completed a 13 play, 87 yard drive for Boise State in the second quarter. Quarterback Kellen Moore added a passing touchdown to senior wideout, Titus Young, to give Boise State a commanding 17-0 lead with 5:47 remaining in the first half. Nevada cracked the scoreboard at 4:20 with a five yard rushing touchdown from Vai Taua. The Broncos responded with a 51 yard run by junior tailback Doug Martin, and headed into the break ahead by 17 points. The Boise State offense was almost unstoppable in the first half. Young made six catches on the night for 129 yards and a touchdown, and Martin rushed for 152 yards and a pair of scores. Moore passed for 348 yards in the crucial Friday night loss. Boise State’s defense also held the high-powered Nevada offense in check during the opening half. Wolf Pack passer, Colin Kaepernick was sacked on back-to-back plays and interecepted once. Nevada got two first downs against the Broncos, a first against Boise State, but George Iloka’s intercepted a tipped pass to extinguish the Pack’s promising drive. Nineteenth ranked Nevada would have the last word, however.
The Pack came back to tie the game at 24-24 after three straight scores in the second half. Nevada found their rhythm and punished the Broncos with their running attack. The Wolf Pack racked up 288 yards behind Kaepernick and Taua. Kaepernick scored on an 18 yard run to trim the Boise State edge to ten points in the third quarter. Defensive end, Tyrone Crawford, blocked Martinez’s 35 yard field goal attempt in the third quarter as Nevada settled for just three points during the frame. Rishard Matthews’s 44 yard scramble added another seven for Nevada, and Martinez bounced back by banging home a 24 yard field goal to knot the game in the fourth quarter. Nevada shut out the Boise State offense throughout most of the second half. Matthews picked up 172 yards on 10 receptions to lead all receivers. Martin scored his second touchdown of the night with just under five minutes in regulation to put the Broncos back on top. The spectacular 79 yard reception was followed by Nevada converting two key third downs. Matthews’ seven yard reception made it a 31-31 affair with thirteen seconds left in the game. The Broncos had one last chance to win the game in regulation, but Brotzman missed a 26 yarder to send the game into overtime.
Moore was stymied in the extra session and the Brotzman was ushered in to try a game winning kick. The 29 yard attempt was booted short to the right by a kicker who leads all active players in career scoring. On the ensuing Nevada possession, Martinez drove the winning field goal between the uprights to upset the darlings of the BCS.
Parting Points: Backyard Brawl 2010 goes to the Mountaineers.
OSU vs. Michigan today. Go Buckeyes!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thankful Thursday
Again For You
I love you as if I never
Have room to love another
Again
Living with you
Is like being stuck in a tree so high
You cannot see the ground
Life goes on all around you
But your head is in the clouds
You’re the hand that breaks my fall
And keeps me coming back for more
I’m thankful for the way
You crack a smile on my face
If I live to see tomorrow
I’ll be grateful to see you
Again
Every day without you
My heart breaks a little more
I may well be sentimental
But you’ve made me more than loved
I feel as though I’m gratified
Simply because my heart is alive
For you
Parting Points: Happy Thanksgiving!
I love you as if I never
Have room to love another
Again
Living with you
Is like being stuck in a tree so high
You cannot see the ground
Life goes on all around you
But your head is in the clouds
You’re the hand that breaks my fall
And keeps me coming back for more
I’m thankful for the way
You crack a smile on my face
If I live to see tomorrow
I’ll be grateful to see you
Again
Every day without you
My heart breaks a little more
I may well be sentimental
But you’ve made me more than loved
I feel as though I’m gratified
Simply because my heart is alive
For you
Parting Points: Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Duke Defends, Delivers
The Duke Blue Devils and Marquette Eagles clashed in the CBE Classic semifinal Monday night. The high-profile hoops programs squared off at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, with the top-ranked Devils squeezing out a 82-77 victory. Duke faces Kansas State in the championship game tonight. The reigning national champs have now won 14 consecutive games and are 4-0 this season. The Devils steamrolled their previous opponents by an average of 41 points.
Mason Plumlee poured in 25 points to lead the Blue Devils. The sophomore center contributed six rebounds and six blocks as he helped wear down the Golden Eagles. Duke took an early lead before Marquette rebounded to tie the game. The Devils bounced back with a 9-0 run to tear ahead by 14 points with 11:15 remaining in the half. Marquette lacked a perimeter player to keep up with Plumlee and countered with questionable shots against Mike Krzyzewski’s Devils. Jimmy Butler led the Eagles, who struggled from the arc, with 22 points. Darius Johnson-Odom missed all eight of his shots in the first half. The Big East powerhouse Eagles labored for points against the NCAA’s elite Devils. Marquette was able to tie the game three times but it was Duke who took a 41-30 advantage into the locker room.
The Devils were harassed for 19 turnovers during the contest as the Eagles outscored Duke 46-42 in the second half. The Eagles’ defense also stripped the ball 11 times and effectively disrupted the pass. The Marquette guards did a tremendous job in applying pressure and got a boost from bench player, Jae Crowder, in the second half. Crowder scored 15 points, including a baseline jumper to tie the game at 57-57. The Devils answered with nine straight points following Crowder’s chip-in. Plumlee was credited for four of the baskets in the late Duke run. Guard Nolan Smith put up an efficient 18 points in victory and grabbed nine rebounds, and Kyle Singler added 14. Quick-learning freshman, Kyle Irving, carried the Devils with seven assists, while Junior Cadougan matched Irving with seven assists for the 4-1 Eagles.
Parting Points: Philip Rivers sure looks sharp; Brad Childress not so much.
Song of the day-“It Don’t Mean a Thing” by Duke Ellington
Mason Plumlee poured in 25 points to lead the Blue Devils. The sophomore center contributed six rebounds and six blocks as he helped wear down the Golden Eagles. Duke took an early lead before Marquette rebounded to tie the game. The Devils bounced back with a 9-0 run to tear ahead by 14 points with 11:15 remaining in the half. Marquette lacked a perimeter player to keep up with Plumlee and countered with questionable shots against Mike Krzyzewski’s Devils. Jimmy Butler led the Eagles, who struggled from the arc, with 22 points. Darius Johnson-Odom missed all eight of his shots in the first half. The Big East powerhouse Eagles labored for points against the NCAA’s elite Devils. Marquette was able to tie the game three times but it was Duke who took a 41-30 advantage into the locker room.
The Devils were harassed for 19 turnovers during the contest as the Eagles outscored Duke 46-42 in the second half. The Eagles’ defense also stripped the ball 11 times and effectively disrupted the pass. The Marquette guards did a tremendous job in applying pressure and got a boost from bench player, Jae Crowder, in the second half. Crowder scored 15 points, including a baseline jumper to tie the game at 57-57. The Devils answered with nine straight points following Crowder’s chip-in. Plumlee was credited for four of the baskets in the late Duke run. Guard Nolan Smith put up an efficient 18 points in victory and grabbed nine rebounds, and Kyle Singler added 14. Quick-learning freshman, Kyle Irving, carried the Devils with seven assists, while Junior Cadougan matched Irving with seven assists for the 4-1 Eagles.
Parting Points: Philip Rivers sure looks sharp; Brad Childress not so much.
Song of the day-“It Don’t Mean a Thing” by Duke Ellington
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Idoneous Intensity In Iowa
Dan Herron bulled into the endzone with 1:47 remaining in the final quarter as Ohio State survived Iowa on Senior Day at Kinnick Stadium. The Big 10 showdown pitted the eighth ranked Buckeyes and 21st ranked Hawkeyes with conference title implications on the line. Ohio State pulled out a 21-17 victory in the final minute to remain in contention for a share of the Big 10 championship. Ohio State has won the conference six straight seasons but Wisconsin and Michigan State are also vying for Big 10 primacy this year. The Hawkeyes fell to 7-4 while OSU bumped their record to 10-1. For the Buckeyes, it was the first fourth quarter comeback of the season.
Marvin McNutt’s 19 yard touchdown reception with one minute to go in the first quarter gave Iowa their first lead of the game. McNutt finished with 92 receiving yards. Hawkeye quarterback, Ricki Stanzi, was sharp and accurate. The Ohio native threw for 195 yards and a score in the Iowa loss. Iowa’s balanced attack caught the Buckeyes off guard and off the scoreboard until Devin Barclay’s 18 yard field goal in the second quarter. OSU quarterback, Terrelle Pryor, threw two interceptions and the Bucks’ offense was mistaken-prone throughout the first half. Pryor matched Stanzi in yardage but his receivers could not hold on to the ball and he made several ill-timed passes. Pryor did find Dane Sanzenbacher six times during the game. Sanzenbacher snagged 102 yards on the day, including two pretty passes for 42 yards on OSU’s first scoring drive. The Buckeyes couldn’t reach the end zone, however, and settled for their only points of the half on Barclay’s kick. The Buckeyes drove into Iowa territory late in the half, but Pryor was picked off in the end zone by Micah Hyde. Iowa took a 7-3 advantage into the locker room.
The second half was all about dual-threat Pryor. The OSU signal-caller came out of the break running on first downs and picking up yardage with his legs. Pryor led the team in rushing with 78 yards. The Buckeyes took their first lead of the game midway through the third stanza when Pryor connected with Reid Fragel from five yards out. Iowa tied it at 10-10 five minutes later. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos caught a 23 yard bomb from Stanzi and McNutt hauled in a 18 yard reception to put the Hawkeyes in position to score. The thrifty Buckeye defense held strong and stalled Stanzi’s effort to reach the endzone. Michael Meyer punched home a 31 yard field goal to even the score for 3:26 remaining in the third quarter. The Buckeyes would have to rely on the athletic Pryor to move the ball. It turns out, the quarterback was up for the challenge as he took over the game in the final quarter. Even after a costly miscue, Pryor responded well to the negative play. The Big 10 battle would come down to the final few minutes in nail-biting fashion.
Marcus Coker burst into the Iowa endzone after Shaun Prater intercepted Pryor at the OSU 27 yard line in the fourth quarter. The Buckeyes answered with Jordan Hall’s 33 yard kick return, but Pryor’s targets failed to catch the ball and the Hawks sacked towering Terrelle. The clutch kicking Barclay booted a 48 yard field goal, a career long, to cut the deficit to four. Ohio State’s defense stepped up with a sack and a tipped pass on the next Iowa drive. Brian Rolle and Ross Homan led the charge on defense and the cornerbacks for OSU made the necessary tackles. The Hawkeyes went three and out on the ensuing kickoff and it was all Buckeyes from there. In dramatic fashion, OSU orchestrated a 76 yard drive culminating in Herron’s game winning leap into the endzone. DeVier Posey dropped what would have been a touchdown pass on third down for the visitors. On fourth down with 4:02 remaining, Pryor rushed for 14 yards and the first down. Pryor’s conversion on fourth and ten made all the difference. Sanzenbacher caught a 24 yard pass at the two yard line to keep the drive alive three plays later. OSU took the lead for good, leaving a stunned and bewildered Kinnick Stadium crowd. The Hawkeyes’ final attempt to tie or take the lead was thwarted when Cameron Hayward sacked Stanzi and McNutt was short of the first down on fourth-and-22.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “You Mean the World to Me” by Toni Braxton
Marvin McNutt’s 19 yard touchdown reception with one minute to go in the first quarter gave Iowa their first lead of the game. McNutt finished with 92 receiving yards. Hawkeye quarterback, Ricki Stanzi, was sharp and accurate. The Ohio native threw for 195 yards and a score in the Iowa loss. Iowa’s balanced attack caught the Buckeyes off guard and off the scoreboard until Devin Barclay’s 18 yard field goal in the second quarter. OSU quarterback, Terrelle Pryor, threw two interceptions and the Bucks’ offense was mistaken-prone throughout the first half. Pryor matched Stanzi in yardage but his receivers could not hold on to the ball and he made several ill-timed passes. Pryor did find Dane Sanzenbacher six times during the game. Sanzenbacher snagged 102 yards on the day, including two pretty passes for 42 yards on OSU’s first scoring drive. The Buckeyes couldn’t reach the end zone, however, and settled for their only points of the half on Barclay’s kick. The Buckeyes drove into Iowa territory late in the half, but Pryor was picked off in the end zone by Micah Hyde. Iowa took a 7-3 advantage into the locker room.
The second half was all about dual-threat Pryor. The OSU signal-caller came out of the break running on first downs and picking up yardage with his legs. Pryor led the team in rushing with 78 yards. The Buckeyes took their first lead of the game midway through the third stanza when Pryor connected with Reid Fragel from five yards out. Iowa tied it at 10-10 five minutes later. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos caught a 23 yard bomb from Stanzi and McNutt hauled in a 18 yard reception to put the Hawkeyes in position to score. The thrifty Buckeye defense held strong and stalled Stanzi’s effort to reach the endzone. Michael Meyer punched home a 31 yard field goal to even the score for 3:26 remaining in the third quarter. The Buckeyes would have to rely on the athletic Pryor to move the ball. It turns out, the quarterback was up for the challenge as he took over the game in the final quarter. Even after a costly miscue, Pryor responded well to the negative play. The Big 10 battle would come down to the final few minutes in nail-biting fashion.
Marcus Coker burst into the Iowa endzone after Shaun Prater intercepted Pryor at the OSU 27 yard line in the fourth quarter. The Buckeyes answered with Jordan Hall’s 33 yard kick return, but Pryor’s targets failed to catch the ball and the Hawks sacked towering Terrelle. The clutch kicking Barclay booted a 48 yard field goal, a career long, to cut the deficit to four. Ohio State’s defense stepped up with a sack and a tipped pass on the next Iowa drive. Brian Rolle and Ross Homan led the charge on defense and the cornerbacks for OSU made the necessary tackles. The Hawkeyes went three and out on the ensuing kickoff and it was all Buckeyes from there. In dramatic fashion, OSU orchestrated a 76 yard drive culminating in Herron’s game winning leap into the endzone. DeVier Posey dropped what would have been a touchdown pass on third down for the visitors. On fourth down with 4:02 remaining, Pryor rushed for 14 yards and the first down. Pryor’s conversion on fourth and ten made all the difference. Sanzenbacher caught a 24 yard pass at the two yard line to keep the drive alive three plays later. OSU took the lead for good, leaving a stunned and bewildered Kinnick Stadium crowd. The Hawkeyes’ final attempt to tie or take the lead was thwarted when Cameron Hayward sacked Stanzi and McNutt was short of the first down on fourth-and-22.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “You Mean the World to Me” by Toni Braxton
Friday, November 19, 2010
Bears Blanking & Blitzing
The Bears defense harassed Dolphins’ third-string quarterback, Tyler Thigpen, in Thursday’s shutout in Miami and improved to 7-3 on the season. Chicago swarmed Thigpen in the 16-0 victory in their first trip back to Miami since losing Superbowl 41. Julius Peppers led the defense with three of the six sacks, and Robbie Gould kicked three field goals to provide the majority of the offense. Chicago quarterback, Jay Cutler, completed 16-of-25 passes for 156 yards and was just impressive enough in the win. Matt Forte ran for 97 yards and finished the Bears’ scoring with a two yard touchdown plunge late in the third quarter. The Bears moved one-half game ahead of the Packers in the NFC North after winning their third straight contest. The Dolphins fell to 5-5 after a miserable home loss in which they did essentially nothing right and couldn’t catch any breaks.
Gould’s 46 yard field goal with 3:48 remaining in the opening quarter gave the visitors a 3-0 edge. Cameron Wake’s sack of Cutler forced the Bears to settle for three during the drive. The Chicago kicker planted a 24 yard field goal through the uprights midway through the second quarter to increase the Bears advantage to six. That was all the scoring in the first half. Chicago’s defense cracked down with tight coverage and Thigpen was ineffective in communicating with his receivers. The Dolphins running attack was non-existent against the league’s best team against the rush. Now their playoff chances are almost non-existent too. Miami failed to put up any points on the board for the second time in 40 seasons. For Chicago, it was the first shutout in four years.
Thigpen worked the ground with 27 rushing yards to lead all Dolphins, but the former Coastal Carolina player couldn’t keep the chains moving. Brian Hartline managed five receptions for 70 yards to lead all Miami receivers and Brandon Marshall caught three passes before leaving the game with an injury. Marshall was tagged for a taunting penalty after throwing the ball at Cutler when he was heading out of bounds. Cutler, Marshall’s former Denver teammate, pinpointed Johnny Knox as his favorite target on Thursday. Knox hauled in five receptions for 55 yards. The Bears scored twice after halftime on Gould’s third field goal and Forte’s scramble into the end zone. The Dolphins defense couldn’t get off the field as Chicago controlled the time of possession and was more efficient on third downs. Miami converted just one third down in eleven tries and Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown combined for 11 rushing yards. Cutler was intercepted by Benny Sapp and Charles Tillman recorded a pick for the Bears. The Dolphins finally got inside the Bears’ 35 yard line on the game’s final play, but for the most part was un-bearable to watch.
Parting Points: Congrats to Felix Hernandez and Roy Halladay on winning this year’s CY Young awards.
Hawaii is heading to the Mountain West Conference.
Notre Dame vs. Army at Yankee Stadium this Saturday.
“People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defenses, or the problems of modern society.”- Vince Lombardi
Gould’s 46 yard field goal with 3:48 remaining in the opening quarter gave the visitors a 3-0 edge. Cameron Wake’s sack of Cutler forced the Bears to settle for three during the drive. The Chicago kicker planted a 24 yard field goal through the uprights midway through the second quarter to increase the Bears advantage to six. That was all the scoring in the first half. Chicago’s defense cracked down with tight coverage and Thigpen was ineffective in communicating with his receivers. The Dolphins running attack was non-existent against the league’s best team against the rush. Now their playoff chances are almost non-existent too. Miami failed to put up any points on the board for the second time in 40 seasons. For Chicago, it was the first shutout in four years.
Thigpen worked the ground with 27 rushing yards to lead all Dolphins, but the former Coastal Carolina player couldn’t keep the chains moving. Brian Hartline managed five receptions for 70 yards to lead all Miami receivers and Brandon Marshall caught three passes before leaving the game with an injury. Marshall was tagged for a taunting penalty after throwing the ball at Cutler when he was heading out of bounds. Cutler, Marshall’s former Denver teammate, pinpointed Johnny Knox as his favorite target on Thursday. Knox hauled in five receptions for 55 yards. The Bears scored twice after halftime on Gould’s third field goal and Forte’s scramble into the end zone. The Dolphins defense couldn’t get off the field as Chicago controlled the time of possession and was more efficient on third downs. Miami converted just one third down in eleven tries and Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown combined for 11 rushing yards. Cutler was intercepted by Benny Sapp and Charles Tillman recorded a pick for the Bears. The Dolphins finally got inside the Bears’ 35 yard line on the game’s final play, but for the most part was un-bearable to watch.
Parting Points: Congrats to Felix Hernandez and Roy Halladay on winning this year’s CY Young awards.
Hawaii is heading to the Mountain West Conference.
Notre Dame vs. Army at Yankee Stadium this Saturday.
“People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defenses, or the problems of modern society.”- Vince Lombardi
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Gator Gnashing
The Buckeyes basketball team employed a similar strategy as the OSU football squad, erupting in the second half to take down the Florida Gators 93-75 last night. The closely contested season opener in Gainesville went the Buckeyes’ way as freshman, Jared Sullinger and senior, David Lighty scored 26 points each in the victory. Sullinger was 13-of-17 with ten rebounds as the Buckeyes outlasted number nine Florida. The youngest player on the floor at O’Connell Center, eighteen year old Sullinger had 16 of his points in the second half. Kenny Boynton led the Gators, hitting five of eight from beyond the arc and finishing with 21 points. OSU defeated Florida for the second time since the 2007 NCAA tournament. The Gators were the victors in that game three years ago.
Ohio State’s stifling defense was effective early but the Buckeyes trailed 41-38 at the half. Florida outscored the visitors in the paint and hit more second-chance points than the Bucks in the first half. Billy Donovan’s team scored on six of seven possessions to open up with a 15-14 edge. The Gators dominated the boards and their offensive rebounding outmatched the Buckeyes. Erik Murphy contributed eight points and grabbed three offensive rebounds off the bench for the Gators. Florida stretched their lead to seven before Ohio State broke back with four points to close in at the half. Dallas Lauderdale, the towering 6’8” center, played 18 minutes for Thad Matta’s Buckeyes. Lauderdale’s absence was advantageous for the Gator offense. Florida took advantage inside.
The lead changed 11 times in the opening of the second half. Ohio State didn’t pull ahead until midway through the half when Jon Diebler’s trey put them up for good. A seasoned shooter, Diebler poured in 14 points, including four from downtown. The Gators seemed to lose their composure on offense during the second half as number four Ohio State outscored them 55-34. Erving Walker had 15 points for Donovan’s Gators, but it was the Buckeyes’ defense that stood in the end. Sullinger finished with his second straight double-double. William Buford grabbed three of the team’s six steals and Florida’s turnovers ignited the OSU defense. Florida shot the ball well but couldn’t contain the Bucks’ second half tempo. Ohio State shot 62% from the field and won the turnover ratio by ten. The Buckeyes performed uncontested layups, dunks and premier perimeter shots, culminating in impressive come-from-behind win.
Parting Points: The UConn women continue to roll, now streaking at 80 straight wins.
Managers of the year honors to Ron Gardenhire and Bud Black.
It’s Splitsville for Eva Longoria and Tony Parker.
Ohio State’s stifling defense was effective early but the Buckeyes trailed 41-38 at the half. Florida outscored the visitors in the paint and hit more second-chance points than the Bucks in the first half. Billy Donovan’s team scored on six of seven possessions to open up with a 15-14 edge. The Gators dominated the boards and their offensive rebounding outmatched the Buckeyes. Erik Murphy contributed eight points and grabbed three offensive rebounds off the bench for the Gators. Florida stretched their lead to seven before Ohio State broke back with four points to close in at the half. Dallas Lauderdale, the towering 6’8” center, played 18 minutes for Thad Matta’s Buckeyes. Lauderdale’s absence was advantageous for the Gator offense. Florida took advantage inside.
The lead changed 11 times in the opening of the second half. Ohio State didn’t pull ahead until midway through the half when Jon Diebler’s trey put them up for good. A seasoned shooter, Diebler poured in 14 points, including four from downtown. The Gators seemed to lose their composure on offense during the second half as number four Ohio State outscored them 55-34. Erving Walker had 15 points for Donovan’s Gators, but it was the Buckeyes’ defense that stood in the end. Sullinger finished with his second straight double-double. William Buford grabbed three of the team’s six steals and Florida’s turnovers ignited the OSU defense. Florida shot the ball well but couldn’t contain the Bucks’ second half tempo. Ohio State shot 62% from the field and won the turnover ratio by ten. The Buckeyes performed uncontested layups, dunks and premier perimeter shots, culminating in impressive come-from-behind win.
Parting Points: The UConn women continue to roll, now streaking at 80 straight wins.
Managers of the year honors to Ron Gardenhire and Bud Black.
It’s Splitsville for Eva Longoria and Tony Parker.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
“Boom” Boosts Buckeyes, Sinks State at ‘Shoe
A second half surge and a pair of key turnovers propelled the Buckeyes past the Nittany Lions in Columbus on Saturday. Ohio State scored 35 unanswered points after halftime to improve to 9-1 on the season. The scarlet and gray held Joe Paterno at 400 victories and his visiting Happy Valley squad scoreless in the second half to remain in the Big 10 title chase. The Buckeyes erased an 11 point deficit and outscored the Lions 21-0 in the final quarter to win decidedly, 38-14. Penn State remains winless at the Horseshoe under Paterno, despite scoring two touchdowns in Columbus for the first time in the legendary coach’s tenure.
Eighth-ranked OSU tallied the game’s first points with a first quarter 26 yard field goal by Devin Barclay. Lions’ quarterback Matt McGloin looked like a seasoned pro against the Buckeyes’ defense in the first half. The Scranton sensation passed for 159 yards and two touchdowns, while completing half of his 30 passes. McGloin tossed two picks in the second half that proved costly in preserving Penn State’s three game winning streak. Justin Brown hauled in a 23 yard sling from McGloin to make it 7-3 with just over four minutes remaining in the opening quarter. Derek Moye added a six yard touchdown catch three minutes into the second quarter to lift the Lions to a 14-3 edge. The 6-4 Lions made their lead stand as Paterno’s defense forced the Buckeyes to punt time and time again. Penn State sparkled in stringing together long drives with their aggressive receivers. OSU signal caller, Terrelle Pryor, finished with 139 yards passing and a pair of scores, but moving up the field in the first half proved problematic for perfectionist Pryor.
The Buckeyes came out of the locker room and entered the third quarter trailing by eleven. The hole was soon erased via a tremendous rushing effort. OSU accumulated 314 yards on the ground to Penn State’s 113. Dan “Boom” Herron ran for a career high 190 yards on 21 carries, including the first touchdown run of the third quarter. Herron amassed yardage with amazement during the 96 yard drive that set up the Buckeyes’ only rushing touchdown. Defensive back, Devon Torrence, was tormented by Penn State’s offense all day. Torrence got his revenge with a third quarter interception return for a touchdown to give the Bucks their first lead of the game. Ohio State continued to execute and run the ball well, while the defense cracked down against the roller coaster State offense with the brash quarterback. There wouldn’t be another score for the white-and-blue on this day.
Pryor found leg room to run in one of his best rushing games since last year’s Rose Bowl victory over the Oregon Ducks. He finished with 49 yards to match the Lions’ leading rusher, Evan Royster. The Buckeyes threatened to score early in the fourth quarter, but Pryor aired out an errant pass that was picked off by Malcom Williams at the two yard line. McGloin completed just 2 of his 12 passes in the second half and the Lions had little success getting first downs. Ohio State got the ball back following Pryor’s only miscue. After a penalty pushed them back to their own 42 yards line, the home team promptly found the end zone again. Dane Sanzenbacher pulled down a 58 yard bomb from Pryor to give the Buckeyes a 24-14 advantage with less than ten minutes in regulation. The pass was tipped by a Penn State defender but laned in the hands of the talented Bucks’ wideout. Penn State’s hopes of a comeback disappeared when Travis Howard intercepted McGloin and ran it 30 yards for the score. Pryor passed to Jake Stoneburner from three yards out to finish the Buckeyes’ scoring and a 7 play drive. DeVier Posey led the Buckeyes with three receptions for 63 yards, but it was Herron who keyed the second half surge.
Parting Points: The Cowboys are 14 point underdogs against the Giants today. Holy smoke…
Wisconsin whipping...enough said.
Eighth-ranked OSU tallied the game’s first points with a first quarter 26 yard field goal by Devin Barclay. Lions’ quarterback Matt McGloin looked like a seasoned pro against the Buckeyes’ defense in the first half. The Scranton sensation passed for 159 yards and two touchdowns, while completing half of his 30 passes. McGloin tossed two picks in the second half that proved costly in preserving Penn State’s three game winning streak. Justin Brown hauled in a 23 yard sling from McGloin to make it 7-3 with just over four minutes remaining in the opening quarter. Derek Moye added a six yard touchdown catch three minutes into the second quarter to lift the Lions to a 14-3 edge. The 6-4 Lions made their lead stand as Paterno’s defense forced the Buckeyes to punt time and time again. Penn State sparkled in stringing together long drives with their aggressive receivers. OSU signal caller, Terrelle Pryor, finished with 139 yards passing and a pair of scores, but moving up the field in the first half proved problematic for perfectionist Pryor.
The Buckeyes came out of the locker room and entered the third quarter trailing by eleven. The hole was soon erased via a tremendous rushing effort. OSU accumulated 314 yards on the ground to Penn State’s 113. Dan “Boom” Herron ran for a career high 190 yards on 21 carries, including the first touchdown run of the third quarter. Herron amassed yardage with amazement during the 96 yard drive that set up the Buckeyes’ only rushing touchdown. Defensive back, Devon Torrence, was tormented by Penn State’s offense all day. Torrence got his revenge with a third quarter interception return for a touchdown to give the Bucks their first lead of the game. Ohio State continued to execute and run the ball well, while the defense cracked down against the roller coaster State offense with the brash quarterback. There wouldn’t be another score for the white-and-blue on this day.
Pryor found leg room to run in one of his best rushing games since last year’s Rose Bowl victory over the Oregon Ducks. He finished with 49 yards to match the Lions’ leading rusher, Evan Royster. The Buckeyes threatened to score early in the fourth quarter, but Pryor aired out an errant pass that was picked off by Malcom Williams at the two yard line. McGloin completed just 2 of his 12 passes in the second half and the Lions had little success getting first downs. Ohio State got the ball back following Pryor’s only miscue. After a penalty pushed them back to their own 42 yards line, the home team promptly found the end zone again. Dane Sanzenbacher pulled down a 58 yard bomb from Pryor to give the Buckeyes a 24-14 advantage with less than ten minutes in regulation. The pass was tipped by a Penn State defender but laned in the hands of the talented Bucks’ wideout. Penn State’s hopes of a comeback disappeared when Travis Howard intercepted McGloin and ran it 30 yards for the score. Pryor passed to Jake Stoneburner from three yards out to finish the Buckeyes’ scoring and a 7 play drive. DeVier Posey led the Buckeyes with three receptions for 63 yards, but it was Herron who keyed the second half surge.
Parting Points: The Cowboys are 14 point underdogs against the Giants today. Holy smoke…
Wisconsin whipping...enough said.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Rookies Rise at the Rock
The floundering Devils finally found a way to eke out a victory. New Jersey capped a 4-3 win over Edmonton at the Prudential Center in overtime. Ilya Kovalchuk netted a power play goal in the extra session as the Devils skated to their first home decision. The $100million forward for New Jersey also snapped a personal seven game goal drought. Kovalchuk netted the game-winner at 3:27 in overtime to break the Devils’ seven game slide in Newark. New Jersey is 5-10-2 while Edmonton dropped to 4-6-4.
The Oilers were 0-for-2 on power play opportunities and continued their dismal penalty-killing. Edmonton’s Colin Fraser scored a pair for first period goals in Martin Brodeur’s return to goal for the Devils. Fraser found the back of the net after Jordan Eberle’s pass went through the legs of defender, David Clarkson. Five minutes later, Fraser beat Brodeur by skating ahead of the Devils’ defenders and taking advantage of New Jersey mistakes in the defensive zone. He send a screened shot into the net for a 2-0 Edmonton edge. Rookie Alexander Vasyunov scored his first NHL and the only for the Devils in the opening period. Vasyunov took a pass from Patrik Elias to cut the Oilers’ lead in half.
Sam Gagner buried the Oilers’ third goal of the game during a second period line change lapse by New Jersey. Brodeur made 21 saves on the night and the defense tightened up as the game went on. Brian Rolston, in his first game back from a hernia, zipped the Devils’ second goal by Devan Dubnyk with a rebound from the crease. Rolson’s goal turned the game into a 3-2 contest late in the second period. Dubnyk made 35 saves for Edmonton, but couldn’t persevre the one-goal lead in the third period. Another Devils’ rookie, Mattias Tedenby secured a third period goal to tie the game at 3-3. It was Tedenby’s first career goal and the first power play goal by New Jersey on Friday night. The equalizer would hold through regulation as the teams went to an overtime period. Both rookie forwards played their best games so far in Friday’s win. The Devils’ penalty killing was perfect in stopping all four power-play chances.
The Devils snatched a victory in overtime on Kovalchuk’s rifle shot from the left circle. New Jersey earned two points for the win, pulling them out of a tie with Edmonton and the Islanders for fewest in points in the league. Elias had six shots on goal followed by Tedenby’s five and Travis Zajac’s four. New Jersey outshot Edmonton 39-24 and escaped the Rock with their first win this season. The Devils play at 8-4 Boston on Monday night.
Parting Points: Minnesota’s Kevin Love has arrived. Mr. 30-30 for the first time since before I was born (1982)
Boise State is 9-0 after pummeling Idaho 52-14.
OSU vs. PSU!
Song for Saturday- Dion and the Belmonts’ “I Wonder Why”
The Oilers were 0-for-2 on power play opportunities and continued their dismal penalty-killing. Edmonton’s Colin Fraser scored a pair for first period goals in Martin Brodeur’s return to goal for the Devils. Fraser found the back of the net after Jordan Eberle’s pass went through the legs of defender, David Clarkson. Five minutes later, Fraser beat Brodeur by skating ahead of the Devils’ defenders and taking advantage of New Jersey mistakes in the defensive zone. He send a screened shot into the net for a 2-0 Edmonton edge. Rookie Alexander Vasyunov scored his first NHL and the only for the Devils in the opening period. Vasyunov took a pass from Patrik Elias to cut the Oilers’ lead in half.
Sam Gagner buried the Oilers’ third goal of the game during a second period line change lapse by New Jersey. Brodeur made 21 saves on the night and the defense tightened up as the game went on. Brian Rolston, in his first game back from a hernia, zipped the Devils’ second goal by Devan Dubnyk with a rebound from the crease. Rolson’s goal turned the game into a 3-2 contest late in the second period. Dubnyk made 35 saves for Edmonton, but couldn’t persevre the one-goal lead in the third period. Another Devils’ rookie, Mattias Tedenby secured a third period goal to tie the game at 3-3. It was Tedenby’s first career goal and the first power play goal by New Jersey on Friday night. The equalizer would hold through regulation as the teams went to an overtime period. Both rookie forwards played their best games so far in Friday’s win. The Devils’ penalty killing was perfect in stopping all four power-play chances.
The Devils snatched a victory in overtime on Kovalchuk’s rifle shot from the left circle. New Jersey earned two points for the win, pulling them out of a tie with Edmonton and the Islanders for fewest in points in the league. Elias had six shots on goal followed by Tedenby’s five and Travis Zajac’s four. New Jersey outshot Edmonton 39-24 and escaped the Rock with their first win this season. The Devils play at 8-4 Boston on Monday night.
Parting Points: Minnesota’s Kevin Love has arrived. Mr. 30-30 for the first time since before I was born (1982)
Boise State is 9-0 after pummeling Idaho 52-14.
OSU vs. PSU!
Song for Saturday- Dion and the Belmonts’ “I Wonder Why”
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Wall Works Wizardry in Win
The Houston Rockets are still winless away from home after losing 98-91 to the John Wall and the Wizards at the Verizon Center. The Washington rookie helped his team top the Rockets by picking up his first career triple-double in his 42 minutes on the hardwood. The former Kentucky Wildcat finished with 19 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds as the Wizards improved to 2-5. The veteran-like 6’4” Wall looked polished for a phenom. The Rockets just looked awful. Houston is just 1-6 on the season despite leading midway through the fourth quarter in Wednesday’s loss. The oft-injured Yao Ming was sidelined with an ankle ailment and departed the game in the first quarter without scoring a point. The Rockets have lost six of their last seven contests.
Kevin Martin scored 31 points for Houston to lead all scorers. He also knocked down 13-of-15 from the charity stripe as the Rockets hit 89% from the line. Houston’s Luis Scola contributed 24 points before fouling out. The Wizards capitalized on Houston’s inferior interior defense in the first half. Andray Blatche grabbed 11 rebounds to go along with 20 points for the Wizards. Gilbert Arenas did not start for Washington, but played 23 minutes to add score five. Al Thornton chipped in 20 points for Washington, while the athletic Wall stole the show as the Wizards pulled ahead 53-46 at the half. Wall committed just one turnover and snagged five steals in an all-round veteran-like performance. Houston outscored the home team 26-20 in the third quarter behind Martin and Scola. The Rockets raced out to an 85-84 lead in the fourth before rupturing and surrendering a 10-0 Wizards’ run.The Wizards wrenched back their advantage after blowing an 11-point lead. Houston collapsed and crumbled down the stretch, committing five turnovers. The Wizards were the only team sinking buckets and the Rockets’ couldn’t keep them out of the paint late in the game. The number one draft picked secured his triple-double with five minutes to go in the final quarter.
Parting Points: Sad passing- Mariners’ announcer Dave Niehaus
Happy Veteran’s Day!
Kevin Martin scored 31 points for Houston to lead all scorers. He also knocked down 13-of-15 from the charity stripe as the Rockets hit 89% from the line. Houston’s Luis Scola contributed 24 points before fouling out. The Wizards capitalized on Houston’s inferior interior defense in the first half. Andray Blatche grabbed 11 rebounds to go along with 20 points for the Wizards. Gilbert Arenas did not start for Washington, but played 23 minutes to add score five. Al Thornton chipped in 20 points for Washington, while the athletic Wall stole the show as the Wizards pulled ahead 53-46 at the half. Wall committed just one turnover and snagged five steals in an all-round veteran-like performance. Houston outscored the home team 26-20 in the third quarter behind Martin and Scola. The Rockets raced out to an 85-84 lead in the fourth before rupturing and surrendering a 10-0 Wizards’ run.The Wizards wrenched back their advantage after blowing an 11-point lead. Houston collapsed and crumbled down the stretch, committing five turnovers. The Wizards were the only team sinking buckets and the Rockets’ couldn’t keep them out of the paint late in the game. The number one draft picked secured his triple-double with five minutes to go in the final quarter.
Parting Points: Sad passing- Mariners’ announcer Dave Niehaus
Happy Veteran’s Day!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Soar & Sore
Dallas’ debacle season continued against the Packers on Sunday night. The Eagles edged the Colts by two in an intriguing, firework-like contest at the Linc. The upstart Raiders and Chiefs played a thrilling overtime game with the black-and-gold pulling through in the end. But the 1pm game between the New York Jets and Detroit Lions is the focus of this post.
The Jets soared to an overtime victory over the Lions in Detroit. New York improved to 6-2 and benefited from poor coaching, a little bit of green luck and another Lions’ choke job. Detroit fell to 2-6 on the year after suffering a heartbreaking 23-20 home loss. Nick Folk’s 36 yard field goal on the final play of the fourth quarter sent the game into an extra session. The Jets’ place kicker nailed a 30-yarder in overtime to lift the Jets over a sore Detroit squad. New York sits in first place in the AFC East after the Patriots were topped by Colt McCoy’s Cleveland club.
Matthew Stafford, the gifted signal caller for Detroit threw for a pair of touchdowns and 246 yards before leaving the game midway through the fourth quarter. Stafford suffered a shoulder injury and was replaced by Drew Stanton. Detroit coasted to a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on Brandon Pettigrew’s 10 yard reception. The Oklahoma State product hauled in Stafford’s pass after an 11 play drive at 9:16 in the first. The Jets did not answer until the clock read 3:57 in the second stanza. Folk planted a 31 yard field goal to cut the Lions’ lead to four. After a Detroit punt, the sloppy Jets (five fumbles) got the ball back. Facing third-and-nine, quarterback Mark Sanchez lofted a bomb downfield to Braylon Edwards. The Gang Green receiver made the 74 yard catch and ran it to the end zone with a minute left before halftime.
The Jets’ 10-7 advantage didn’t last long after the break. Detroit threatened to score on their first drive out of the locker room. Stafford drove the Lions inside the five yard line, but Detroit would have to settle for a field goal opportunity against Rex Ryan’s stingy defense. Jason Hanson’s kick was good, but New York was charged with a roughing-the-kicker penalty. The Lions had new life, albeit at the cost of their kicker. Stafford ran the ball in from one yard out after faking a handoff to Jahvid Best in the backfield. Defensive tackle and top draft pick, Ndamukong Suh replaced Hanson, but booted the extra point, making it 13-10 in favor of the Lions.
Neither team executed the run very efficiently. LaDainian Tomlinson was held to 55 yards on 15 carries for New York. Best rushed for a mere 48 yards in the loss. Nate Burleson’s two yard pass from Stafford with 3:17 left to play gave the Lions a ten point cushion. The Jets would soon erase that protection. Sanchez orchestrated a 56 yard drive on six plays, culminating in a one-yard quarterback scramble. Stanton had little success completing passes and running out the clock. The Lions afforded New York too much time, and after a Detroit punt, Folk planted the game-tying kick. In overtime, the Jets needed just five plays to race down the field. Santonio Holmes charged down the field and grabbed a 52 yard pass from Sanchez to set up the winning field goal. Holmes, the dynamic receiver from Ohio State, finisihed with 114 yards. Burleson nearly matched him, with 113, for the Lions. Sanchez finished with a career-high 323 yards, which makes sense when you look at the two bombs he threw for completions. The Jets are riding a seven game road winning streak as they head to Cleveland next Sunday.
Parting Points: The Yankees are pursuing Cliff Lee. Really!?
The Giants absolutely destroyed the Seahawks yesterday. It’s been a rough year for Pete Carroll.
The Jets soared to an overtime victory over the Lions in Detroit. New York improved to 6-2 and benefited from poor coaching, a little bit of green luck and another Lions’ choke job. Detroit fell to 2-6 on the year after suffering a heartbreaking 23-20 home loss. Nick Folk’s 36 yard field goal on the final play of the fourth quarter sent the game into an extra session. The Jets’ place kicker nailed a 30-yarder in overtime to lift the Jets over a sore Detroit squad. New York sits in first place in the AFC East after the Patriots were topped by Colt McCoy’s Cleveland club.
Matthew Stafford, the gifted signal caller for Detroit threw for a pair of touchdowns and 246 yards before leaving the game midway through the fourth quarter. Stafford suffered a shoulder injury and was replaced by Drew Stanton. Detroit coasted to a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on Brandon Pettigrew’s 10 yard reception. The Oklahoma State product hauled in Stafford’s pass after an 11 play drive at 9:16 in the first. The Jets did not answer until the clock read 3:57 in the second stanza. Folk planted a 31 yard field goal to cut the Lions’ lead to four. After a Detroit punt, the sloppy Jets (five fumbles) got the ball back. Facing third-and-nine, quarterback Mark Sanchez lofted a bomb downfield to Braylon Edwards. The Gang Green receiver made the 74 yard catch and ran it to the end zone with a minute left before halftime.
The Jets’ 10-7 advantage didn’t last long after the break. Detroit threatened to score on their first drive out of the locker room. Stafford drove the Lions inside the five yard line, but Detroit would have to settle for a field goal opportunity against Rex Ryan’s stingy defense. Jason Hanson’s kick was good, but New York was charged with a roughing-the-kicker penalty. The Lions had new life, albeit at the cost of their kicker. Stafford ran the ball in from one yard out after faking a handoff to Jahvid Best in the backfield. Defensive tackle and top draft pick, Ndamukong Suh replaced Hanson, but booted the extra point, making it 13-10 in favor of the Lions.
Neither team executed the run very efficiently. LaDainian Tomlinson was held to 55 yards on 15 carries for New York. Best rushed for a mere 48 yards in the loss. Nate Burleson’s two yard pass from Stafford with 3:17 left to play gave the Lions a ten point cushion. The Jets would soon erase that protection. Sanchez orchestrated a 56 yard drive on six plays, culminating in a one-yard quarterback scramble. Stanton had little success completing passes and running out the clock. The Lions afforded New York too much time, and after a Detroit punt, Folk planted the game-tying kick. In overtime, the Jets needed just five plays to race down the field. Santonio Holmes charged down the field and grabbed a 52 yard pass from Sanchez to set up the winning field goal. Holmes, the dynamic receiver from Ohio State, finisihed with 114 yards. Burleson nearly matched him, with 113, for the Lions. Sanchez finished with a career-high 323 yards, which makes sense when you look at the two bombs he threw for completions. The Jets are riding a seven game road winning streak as they head to Cleveland next Sunday.
Parting Points: The Yankees are pursuing Cliff Lee. Really!?
The Giants absolutely destroyed the Seahawks yesterday. It’s been a rough year for Pete Carroll.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Stinging Style Sparks Smiles
For all its glitz and glamour, basketball is still a game created for the fundamentally-sound. James Naismith, who was born on this day in 1861 would, at the very least, smile at that notion. The rest of the professional game is all together “cringe-worthy”, some might argue. But there’s still that elementary excellence about the game that keeps people interested. It’s exhibited just enough to overlook a sport entwined with rap stars, unprofessionalism and showy slam dunk contests. Basketball is still, at its core, a game of agility, touch and balance. It’s a game of defense (although it’s been downplayed this decade), anticipation and footwork. Passing is paramount because basketball is a team sport. Last night the New Orleans Hornets won a team game. In my opinion, Tim Duncan and Chris Paul represent what basketball is all about. Paul was on display last night against the Miami Heat. Here’s a recap:
All Star Paul is the epitome of a point guard. He spreads the ball around to the offense and engages him teammates. The Hornets are off to a sizzling start, due in part to Paul’s incredible scoring and defensive abilities. The other part of the story is how New Orleans is playing basketball how the game is meant to be played. The Hornets are coming off a season in which they missed the post-season and are under the direction of a rookie coach. New Orleans defeated Miami 96-93 at home last night to improve to a franchise best 5-0 start. Emeka Okafor scored a team high 26 points for the Hornets. Okafor contributed 13 rebounds as the former UConn star evoked memories of his dominant college days. The 6’10” center went 12-of-13 from the field. Paul’s unique ability to distract defenders and his speed during the dribble enabled Okafor a big night. Paul finished with 19 assists, bucketing 13 points along the way. Five New Orleans shooters finished in double digits, proving team ball is the name of the game.
The Heat, propelled by Dwayne Wade’s 28 points, did not lead until late in the final quarter when LeBron James’ free throw put them up 90-89. James poured in 20 points in 41 minutes and Chris Bosh completed the Big Three scoring with 15 points. Wade also pulled down 10 rebounds in the loss. James dominated the assists column for Miami, with ten. Center Zydrunas Ilgauskas added a dime in points for the 4-2 Heat, who tried in vain to take the sting out of New Orleans. The Big Three’s tremendous efforts couldn’t overwhelm the opponent on Friday night. Paul set the game’s tempo from the beginning with repeated drives to the basket. He slipped through screens and stayed ahead of the defense with crossover dribbles most of the game. Miami’s rebounding was inconsistent, and Okafor proved too much for the Heat’s defense. The Heat rallied from 14 down and had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds. Eddie House missed a shot off the rim, preserving the Hornets’ honorable unblemished record.
The outlook for the Hornets looks supreme, especially if New Orleans can lessen Paul’s burden. Paul is shooting nearly 52% this season and the offense behind him has been solid. But it’s the defense that has New Orleans thriving. The Hornets are among league leaders in defensive efficiency. They have discouraged opponents from shooting by protecting the paint. The team-wide commitment and strategy is effective and plays to Okafor’s strength and size. The Hornets are also cleaning up on the glass. Rebounding is so fundamental to basketball and Monty Williams’ team ranks as one of basketball’s best. Marco Belinelli, Paul and backups Marcus Thornton and Willie Green are rebounding well above their career averages at this point in the season. Paul’s presence causes opponents to be weary of passing, and that usually results in careless turnovers. Opponents are paying attention to the aggressive Paul and the protection on the outside discourages penetration down the baseline. New Orleans’ defense has vastly improved from a season ago. The Hornets are a force to be reckoned with and nobody should be smiling about their style more than Mr. Basketball himself. Happy Birthday, Naismith.
Parting Points: Dismal Devils, just dismal!
Add to Heisman hopeful players involved in scandals: Cam Newton
Who is more aggravating than Nick Saban? Perhaps Brad Childress…
Speaking of Nick’s: Congrats to Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo. Wedding bells will be ringing. But why does the media insist on referring to (my baby) Nick as “Jessica Simpson’s ex?” Give the guy the respect he deserves, please.
All Star Paul is the epitome of a point guard. He spreads the ball around to the offense and engages him teammates. The Hornets are off to a sizzling start, due in part to Paul’s incredible scoring and defensive abilities. The other part of the story is how New Orleans is playing basketball how the game is meant to be played. The Hornets are coming off a season in which they missed the post-season and are under the direction of a rookie coach. New Orleans defeated Miami 96-93 at home last night to improve to a franchise best 5-0 start. Emeka Okafor scored a team high 26 points for the Hornets. Okafor contributed 13 rebounds as the former UConn star evoked memories of his dominant college days. The 6’10” center went 12-of-13 from the field. Paul’s unique ability to distract defenders and his speed during the dribble enabled Okafor a big night. Paul finished with 19 assists, bucketing 13 points along the way. Five New Orleans shooters finished in double digits, proving team ball is the name of the game.
The Heat, propelled by Dwayne Wade’s 28 points, did not lead until late in the final quarter when LeBron James’ free throw put them up 90-89. James poured in 20 points in 41 minutes and Chris Bosh completed the Big Three scoring with 15 points. Wade also pulled down 10 rebounds in the loss. James dominated the assists column for Miami, with ten. Center Zydrunas Ilgauskas added a dime in points for the 4-2 Heat, who tried in vain to take the sting out of New Orleans. The Big Three’s tremendous efforts couldn’t overwhelm the opponent on Friday night. Paul set the game’s tempo from the beginning with repeated drives to the basket. He slipped through screens and stayed ahead of the defense with crossover dribbles most of the game. Miami’s rebounding was inconsistent, and Okafor proved too much for the Heat’s defense. The Heat rallied from 14 down and had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds. Eddie House missed a shot off the rim, preserving the Hornets’ honorable unblemished record.
The outlook for the Hornets looks supreme, especially if New Orleans can lessen Paul’s burden. Paul is shooting nearly 52% this season and the offense behind him has been solid. But it’s the defense that has New Orleans thriving. The Hornets are among league leaders in defensive efficiency. They have discouraged opponents from shooting by protecting the paint. The team-wide commitment and strategy is effective and plays to Okafor’s strength and size. The Hornets are also cleaning up on the glass. Rebounding is so fundamental to basketball and Monty Williams’ team ranks as one of basketball’s best. Marco Belinelli, Paul and backups Marcus Thornton and Willie Green are rebounding well above their career averages at this point in the season. Paul’s presence causes opponents to be weary of passing, and that usually results in careless turnovers. Opponents are paying attention to the aggressive Paul and the protection on the outside discourages penetration down the baseline. New Orleans’ defense has vastly improved from a season ago. The Hornets are a force to be reckoned with and nobody should be smiling about their style more than Mr. Basketball himself. Happy Birthday, Naismith.
Parting Points: Dismal Devils, just dismal!
Add to Heisman hopeful players involved in scandals: Cam Newton
Who is more aggravating than Nick Saban? Perhaps Brad Childress…
Speaking of Nick’s: Congrats to Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo. Wedding bells will be ringing. But why does the media insist on referring to (my baby) Nick as “Jessica Simpson’s ex?” Give the guy the respect he deserves, please.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Rutgers’ Reign Ruptured
The Scarlet Knights sure would have liked to inject some of Ray Rice’s legs into their offense on Wednesday night. South Florida upset Rutgers 28-27 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The Big East battle featured a rusher just as prolific as Rice, but he belonged to the Bulls. Moise Plancher ran for a career high 135 yards to help USF upend the Knights and improve to 5-3 on the season. Plancher, however, also nearly cost the Bulls the game. Offensive lineman, Jacob Sims, recovered Plancher’s fourth quarter fumble and returned it for the winning touchdown. Fans know the Big East is the laughingstock of college football this year, but Rutgers has been the toughest foe for South Florida since their entrance into the conference. The Bulls finally got over the hurdle last night with a one-point home victory.
South Florida snapped a four game losing streak behind B.J. Daniels’ two touchdown passes, a pair of field goals, a safety, and a fumble recovery for a score. Daniels finished with 149 yards through the air and was picked off once. He was 10-of-17 on the night. The USF signal caller connected for two first half touchdowns as the teams went into the locker room knotted at 17-17. Evan Landi’s four yard reception midway through the first quarter gave the Bulls a 7-0 edge. The touchdown was set up by Terrence Mitchell’s 47 yard punt return. Rutgers came back to tie the game with .44 seconds remaining in the opening stanza. Mason Robinson returned a punt 60 yards for the Scarlet Knights’ first touchdown.
Chas Dodd completed 19-of-22 passes for 139 yards behind center for Rutgers. Mohamed Sanu snagged seven passes and threw the only touchdown pass for the Knights. Sanu’s toss came late in the second quarter, with South Florida ahead by four. Rutgers recorded a field goal to begin the second quarter. The Bulls bounced back with Daniels’ second touchdown pass, a six yard pitch to wideout, Dontavia Bogan. Sanu’s 21 yard pass to Mark Harrison gave Rutgers a three point lead with 6:28 left in the half. Maikon Bonani kicked a 47 yard field goal to tie the game with less than a minute before the break.
Joe Martinek, who finished with -6 yards rushing, managed a one yard touchdown run to begin the second half and give Rutgers their biggest lead of the night. The Bulls were whistled for 35 penalty yards during the momentum-swinging series. Bonani’s 21 yard field goal cut the Scarlet Knight lead back to four points and a safety to end the third quarter cut the advantage to two. Kordell Young caught a screen pass in the end zone, but was tackled before crossing the line to give the Bulls a pair of points. Daniels was intercepted on the first play of the fourth quarter. The home team still trailed by five after Rutgers’ San San Te booted a 30 yard field goal. The safety net wasn’t enough for the Knights as the Bulls scored the game’s final, and winning, touchdown. Rutgers is now 4-4 on the season.
Parting Points: Motor-mouth in the Motor City? That’s right, Randy Moss is a Titan. Oh, and Buffalo claimed Shawn Merriman.
Does it get any worse for the NJ Devils? Martin Brodeur will bounce back, but Zach Parise is out for three months.
Sources say the NCAA is going to drop charges against Michigan’s Rich Rodriguez.
RIP Sparky Anderson.
South Florida snapped a four game losing streak behind B.J. Daniels’ two touchdown passes, a pair of field goals, a safety, and a fumble recovery for a score. Daniels finished with 149 yards through the air and was picked off once. He was 10-of-17 on the night. The USF signal caller connected for two first half touchdowns as the teams went into the locker room knotted at 17-17. Evan Landi’s four yard reception midway through the first quarter gave the Bulls a 7-0 edge. The touchdown was set up by Terrence Mitchell’s 47 yard punt return. Rutgers came back to tie the game with .44 seconds remaining in the opening stanza. Mason Robinson returned a punt 60 yards for the Scarlet Knights’ first touchdown.
Chas Dodd completed 19-of-22 passes for 139 yards behind center for Rutgers. Mohamed Sanu snagged seven passes and threw the only touchdown pass for the Knights. Sanu’s toss came late in the second quarter, with South Florida ahead by four. Rutgers recorded a field goal to begin the second quarter. The Bulls bounced back with Daniels’ second touchdown pass, a six yard pitch to wideout, Dontavia Bogan. Sanu’s 21 yard pass to Mark Harrison gave Rutgers a three point lead with 6:28 left in the half. Maikon Bonani kicked a 47 yard field goal to tie the game with less than a minute before the break.
Joe Martinek, who finished with -6 yards rushing, managed a one yard touchdown run to begin the second half and give Rutgers their biggest lead of the night. The Bulls were whistled for 35 penalty yards during the momentum-swinging series. Bonani’s 21 yard field goal cut the Scarlet Knight lead back to four points and a safety to end the third quarter cut the advantage to two. Kordell Young caught a screen pass in the end zone, but was tackled before crossing the line to give the Bulls a pair of points. Daniels was intercepted on the first play of the fourth quarter. The home team still trailed by five after Rutgers’ San San Te booted a 30 yard field goal. The safety net wasn’t enough for the Knights as the Bulls scored the game’s final, and winning, touchdown. Rutgers is now 4-4 on the season.
Parting Points: Motor-mouth in the Motor City? That’s right, Randy Moss is a Titan. Oh, and Buffalo claimed Shawn Merriman.
Does it get any worse for the NJ Devils? Martin Brodeur will bounce back, but Zach Parise is out for three months.
Sources say the NCAA is going to drop charges against Michigan’s Rich Rodriguez.
RIP Sparky Anderson.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Choice Champions
They’re a team rich in history and on this Election Day, they are world champions. Willie Mays, Dusty Rhodes, and Johnny Antonelli are just three names from the last time the Giants were world champions. Leo Durocher was the team’s skipper and “The Catch” was the talk of the nation. Fifty-six years later, it’s Buster Posey, Cody Ross and Freddy Sanchez. I had a healthy disdain for Barry Bonds’ San Fransico Giants. I have to admit, the 2010 World Series champions are an easy team to fall in love with. Texas’ tenacious lineup never threatened San Francisco pitching. The Giants toppled Texas four games to one with dominant arms and timely hitting. The Rangers, a team who had no problem putting up 30 plus runs against New York, were shut out twice in five games. Texas’ offense went from decimation to deficiency. San Francisco battled Cliff Lee twice in the series and came out on the upside both times. On Monday, San Francisco’s 3-1 game five victory propelled them to a world championship. Now Giants fans are enjoying their most gratifying moment since the team’s move from the Polo Grounds.
The only disappointing thing about the Giants winning the series (except for it not being the Yankees) is Barry Zito’s benching. It would have been great for the veteran southpaw to pitch during the series, but who am I to argue with Bruce Bochy’s decision to leave him off the roster. Zito doesn’t have that devastating curveball he once possessed and has since been replaced by the likes of hurlers, Tim “The Freak” Lincecum, Matt Cain, Jonathan Sanchez and Madison Bumgarner. There’s no guarantee Zito would have been helpful in delivering the Giants their first title since 1954.
What accolades haven’t been said about Edgar Renteria? Renteria delivered three hits in game four and had the tie-breaking homer off C.J. Wilson in game two. He went 7-for-17 with six RBIs in the series. The speedy World Series MVP is as proven a clutch hitter as anyone. The 34 year old slugger who slapped a game winning single in game seven of the Fall Classic 13 years ago for Florida showed up again last night. Renteria ripped Lee’s cut fastball to center in the seventh inning Monday to become the unlikely hero of the World Series. The shortstop’s three RBIs broke a tie game and were all Lincecum needed to shut the door on the Rangers’ promising season. Lincecum outdueled Lee, adding another glorious feat to his already awesome career. He allowed a single run in eight frames last night. The Giants scored 29 runs over five games but their pitching strength cannot be undermined. Lincecum, Cain and Bumgarner kept the Rangers quiet at the plate with a batting average against of only .190. As the old adage goes: Good pitching beats good hitting any day. Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants!
Parting Points: Best San Francisco band? It’s close. There’s Third Eye Blind, Journey, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Chris Isaak, and Santana. But, my choice would be Green Day.
The only disappointing thing about the Giants winning the series (except for it not being the Yankees) is Barry Zito’s benching. It would have been great for the veteran southpaw to pitch during the series, but who am I to argue with Bruce Bochy’s decision to leave him off the roster. Zito doesn’t have that devastating curveball he once possessed and has since been replaced by the likes of hurlers, Tim “The Freak” Lincecum, Matt Cain, Jonathan Sanchez and Madison Bumgarner. There’s no guarantee Zito would have been helpful in delivering the Giants their first title since 1954.
What accolades haven’t been said about Edgar Renteria? Renteria delivered three hits in game four and had the tie-breaking homer off C.J. Wilson in game two. He went 7-for-17 with six RBIs in the series. The speedy World Series MVP is as proven a clutch hitter as anyone. The 34 year old slugger who slapped a game winning single in game seven of the Fall Classic 13 years ago for Florida showed up again last night. Renteria ripped Lee’s cut fastball to center in the seventh inning Monday to become the unlikely hero of the World Series. The shortstop’s three RBIs broke a tie game and were all Lincecum needed to shut the door on the Rangers’ promising season. Lincecum outdueled Lee, adding another glorious feat to his already awesome career. He allowed a single run in eight frames last night. The Giants scored 29 runs over five games but their pitching strength cannot be undermined. Lincecum, Cain and Bumgarner kept the Rangers quiet at the plate with a batting average against of only .190. As the old adage goes: Good pitching beats good hitting any day. Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants!
Parting Points: Best San Francisco band? It’s close. There’s Third Eye Blind, Journey, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Chris Isaak, and Santana. But, my choice would be Green Day.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Spartans Steamrolled on Saturday
Ricky Stanzi and the Hawkeyes massacred Michigan State on Saturday afternoon in Iowa City. The only undefeated team in the conference, MSU was crushed 37-6 in the Big 10 rivalry game at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa improved to 6-2 overall while the Spartans suffered their first loss of the season to drop to 8-1. Stanzi threw for 190 yards and three scores and Adam Robinson added a pair of touchdowns for the 18th ranked Hawkeyes.
The Spartans couldn’t get anything right in the first half. Michigan State quarterback, Kirk Cousins was picked off three times and the home team lead 30-0 by halftime. MSU struggled with the pass and with the run, while Iowa recorded 238 yards on offense during the first half. Iowa moved down the field 80 yards on their first drive and never looked back. Colin Sandeman snagged a three yard pass from Stanzi to tally the first Iowa touchdown. Michael Meyer legged a 37 yard field goal to give the Hawkeyes a 10-0 edge with 2:44 in the first stanza. Iowa completed their first quarter scoring with just ten seconds remaining to take a sizable 17-0 lead heading into the second. Micah Hyde pulled in a 66 yard interception return for a touchdown. Cousins’ short pitch to B.J. Cunningham was picked off by Iowa safety, Tyler Sash. Sash scrambled for six yards before relaying the ball to Hyde. The Hawkeye cornerback ran with a sense of purpose to the end zone as Iowa took advantage of the MSU turnover.
Shaun Prater intercepted another Cousins pass during the second quarter. Prater hustled to the Spartans’ 43 yard line, and three plays later the Hawkeyes were in the end zone again. Adam Robinson hauled in Stanzi’s 32 yard pass to put Iowa on top by 23 points. Robinson rushed for 69 yards in the win, including a third quarter touchdown from two yards out. Iowa kept pouring on the points after the half. Stanzi found an open Marvin McNutt for a 22 yard Iowa score to cap the third quarter. The Hawkeyes racked up 37 points before Mark Dantonio’s dismal squad even recorded one. But it would not be a shutout in Iowa City. The Spartans finally cracked the scoreboard early in the fourth quarter. Cousins hooked up with Cunningham after an 8 play drive to make it 37-6 in favor of the Kirk Ferentz’s team. Iowa held the Spartans to 31 yards passing and Cousins finished with 21-for-29before being replaced by Andrew Maxwell.
Parting Points: Another Buckeyes beatdown—this time against the hapless Minnesota Gophers.
It’s great to see the Texas Rangers finally making it a series with the Giants.
So, Alex Ovechkin scored two power play goals in 12 seconds. Is this really that surprising? He’s the most dangerous player in the NHL.
Happy Halloween!
The Spartans couldn’t get anything right in the first half. Michigan State quarterback, Kirk Cousins was picked off three times and the home team lead 30-0 by halftime. MSU struggled with the pass and with the run, while Iowa recorded 238 yards on offense during the first half. Iowa moved down the field 80 yards on their first drive and never looked back. Colin Sandeman snagged a three yard pass from Stanzi to tally the first Iowa touchdown. Michael Meyer legged a 37 yard field goal to give the Hawkeyes a 10-0 edge with 2:44 in the first stanza. Iowa completed their first quarter scoring with just ten seconds remaining to take a sizable 17-0 lead heading into the second. Micah Hyde pulled in a 66 yard interception return for a touchdown. Cousins’ short pitch to B.J. Cunningham was picked off by Iowa safety, Tyler Sash. Sash scrambled for six yards before relaying the ball to Hyde. The Hawkeye cornerback ran with a sense of purpose to the end zone as Iowa took advantage of the MSU turnover.
Shaun Prater intercepted another Cousins pass during the second quarter. Prater hustled to the Spartans’ 43 yard line, and three plays later the Hawkeyes were in the end zone again. Adam Robinson hauled in Stanzi’s 32 yard pass to put Iowa on top by 23 points. Robinson rushed for 69 yards in the win, including a third quarter touchdown from two yards out. Iowa kept pouring on the points after the half. Stanzi found an open Marvin McNutt for a 22 yard Iowa score to cap the third quarter. The Hawkeyes racked up 37 points before Mark Dantonio’s dismal squad even recorded one. But it would not be a shutout in Iowa City. The Spartans finally cracked the scoreboard early in the fourth quarter. Cousins hooked up with Cunningham after an 8 play drive to make it 37-6 in favor of the Kirk Ferentz’s team. Iowa held the Spartans to 31 yards passing and Cousins finished with 21-for-29before being replaced by Andrew Maxwell.
Parting Points: Another Buckeyes beatdown—this time against the hapless Minnesota Gophers.
It’s great to see the Texas Rangers finally making it a series with the Giants.
So, Alex Ovechkin scored two power play goals in 12 seconds. Is this really that surprising? He’s the most dangerous player in the NHL.
Happy Halloween!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Power at the Park
Cliff Lee looked more out of place than like an ace last night in the opening game of the World Series. The Rangers’ stellar starter was battered by the Bay in Texas’ 11-7 drubbing by the Giants. San Francisco handed Lee his first career post-season loss as they attacked the lefty for six earned runs. Texas gave Lee a 2-0 lead early, but the Giants soon swung things in their favor to take game one at AT&T Park.
Freddy Sanchez doubled before Cody Ross and Aubrey Huff hammered two-out singles in the six run fifth frame to break a 2-2 tie and chase Lee from the game. Tim Lincecum pitched well after a shaky start for the Giants. The San Francisco starter botched a rundown in the first inning and was tagged for a run on a Vlad Guerrero base hit off his shin. The Rangers tallied a second run in the second off Lincecum on Elvis Andrus’ sacrifice fly, but the Giants forged a comeback in the third to tie the game. Michael Young booted a third base grounder by Edgar Renteria to begin the frame. Andres Torres was hit by a pitch following the error and Sanchez lined a double to put the NL champions on board. Buster Posey’s game tying single followed.
The Rangers committed four errors during the sloppy contest, including a one by Andrus in the bottom of the fifth as the Giant bats came alive. It was the biggest post-season inning for San Francisco since the 1937 World Series. Pat Burrell was the only hitter who did not record a hit for the home team. Lee fanned seven but the Giants were able to knock the ace around for eight hits. San Francisco also succeeded in keeping ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, hitless in four trips to the plate. Sanchez keyed San Francisco with four hits and contributed three RBIs. The powerful slugger stroked three doubles to set a World Series record. Huff accounted for three hits and a stolen base, and Juan Uribe added a solo homerun as the impressive Giants defeated the resolute Rangers.
Lincecum went 5 2/3 innings despite giving off little semblance of stardom to earn the win. He was effective enough and at one point retired 13 of 14 batters he faced. Lincecum left the game with an 8-4 advantage. Bruce Bochy used a harvest of relievers to retire the Rangers in the final four frames. Texas collected two runs in the sixth and three in the ninth to keep the score respectable. The Giants weren’t perfect on defense, committing three errors of their own. But the offense executed when it needed to, and the bullpen shut the door on a high scoring affair. The Giants send Matt Cain to the mound to oppose southpaw, C.J. Wilson in game two tonight in San Francisco.
Parting Points: Joe Girardi and the Yanks agreed on a three year contract.
Freddy Sanchez doubled before Cody Ross and Aubrey Huff hammered two-out singles in the six run fifth frame to break a 2-2 tie and chase Lee from the game. Tim Lincecum pitched well after a shaky start for the Giants. The San Francisco starter botched a rundown in the first inning and was tagged for a run on a Vlad Guerrero base hit off his shin. The Rangers tallied a second run in the second off Lincecum on Elvis Andrus’ sacrifice fly, but the Giants forged a comeback in the third to tie the game. Michael Young booted a third base grounder by Edgar Renteria to begin the frame. Andres Torres was hit by a pitch following the error and Sanchez lined a double to put the NL champions on board. Buster Posey’s game tying single followed.
The Rangers committed four errors during the sloppy contest, including a one by Andrus in the bottom of the fifth as the Giant bats came alive. It was the biggest post-season inning for San Francisco since the 1937 World Series. Pat Burrell was the only hitter who did not record a hit for the home team. Lee fanned seven but the Giants were able to knock the ace around for eight hits. San Francisco also succeeded in keeping ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, hitless in four trips to the plate. Sanchez keyed San Francisco with four hits and contributed three RBIs. The powerful slugger stroked three doubles to set a World Series record. Huff accounted for three hits and a stolen base, and Juan Uribe added a solo homerun as the impressive Giants defeated the resolute Rangers.
Lincecum went 5 2/3 innings despite giving off little semblance of stardom to earn the win. He was effective enough and at one point retired 13 of 14 batters he faced. Lincecum left the game with an 8-4 advantage. Bruce Bochy used a harvest of relievers to retire the Rangers in the final four frames. Texas collected two runs in the sixth and three in the ninth to keep the score respectable. The Giants weren’t perfect on defense, committing three errors of their own. But the offense executed when it needed to, and the bullpen shut the door on a high scoring affair. The Giants send Matt Cain to the mound to oppose southpaw, C.J. Wilson in game two tonight in San Francisco.
Parting Points: Joe Girardi and the Yanks agreed on a three year contract.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
San Francisco Snags Series in Sixth
San Francisco is back in the World Series for the first time since 2002. The pitching-rich Giants topped the Philadelphia Phillies in game six last night 3-2 to win the National League Championship. San Francisco hosts the Rangers next Wednesday in game one of the World Series. The Giants are looking for their first world title since moving to the Bay Area. Philadelphia failed in their bid to become the first senior circuit team in 66 years to win three consecutive pennants. The Giants earned their 19th pennant in franchise history. Juan Uribe’s eighth inning homerun off Ryan Madson broke a 2-2 tie and the visiting Giants held on to become unlikely winners of the series.
The Phillies drew first blood in game six with a three hit first inning. San Francisco starter, Jonathan Sanchez, was pulled after two-plus innings. Sanchez walked Placido Polanco in the first inning and the speedy Philly advanced to second on a wild pitch. Chase Utley’s right field double send Polanco home before Jayson Werth made it a 2-0 Philadelphia edge later in the inning. Werth’s sacrifice fly scored Utley from third base to put the Giants in an early hole.
San Francisco scored a run in the third off 33 year old starter, Roy Oswalt. Oswalt yielded nine hits in six innings for the Phillies. He allowed back-to-back singles in the third and a sacrifice by Freddy Sanchez that put runners and second and third for the Giants. Aubrey Huff singled in one run before scoring himself on Polanco’s error at third base. The game remained tied even as Sanchez struggled on the mound. The Giants’ pitcher tossed six straight balls to begin the bottom of the third and then hit Utley in the back. Both benches and bullpens cleared during an altercation between pitcher and batter after the All-Star second baseman Utley flipped the ball back in Sanchez’s direction. No punches were thrown and nobody was ejected. The Giants managed to get out of the inning when Jeremy Affeldt buzzed through the Phillies’ order. Affeldt stayed perfect through the fourth and Madison Bumgardner took over in relief with similar success.
Madson relieved Oswalt beginning in the seventh. He fanned the first two Giants he faced before allowing a double by Freddy Sanchez. The Phillies escaped the inning but couldn’t do anything at the plate in their own half of the frame. Javier Lopez was solid in setting the defending NL champs down in order. In the eighth, Uribe pounced on Madson’s first pitch slider and the Giants were closer to bouncing the Phillies from contention. It was Uribe’s first long ball of the post-season but will forever be regarded as the one that sent the Giants to the 2010 Fall Classic. San Francisco’s Brian Wilson, who led the majors in saves this season, needed a line drive double play to end the bottom of the eighth. Wilson worked around two walks in the ninth before fanning struggling slugger, Ryan Howard, to end the game.
Parting Points: Mizzouri topped Oklahoma. Who will be number one in the BCS this week? My guess is Oregon.
The Devils benched Ilya Kovalchuk for undisclosed reasons. I already dislike John MacLean.
I’m so excited for the Sharapova-Vujacic engagement announcement. I think they should take Maria’s last name because Sasha Sharapova sounds terrific (and it’s alliteration)
Song of the day- “1983” by Neon Trees
The Phillies drew first blood in game six with a three hit first inning. San Francisco starter, Jonathan Sanchez, was pulled after two-plus innings. Sanchez walked Placido Polanco in the first inning and the speedy Philly advanced to second on a wild pitch. Chase Utley’s right field double send Polanco home before Jayson Werth made it a 2-0 Philadelphia edge later in the inning. Werth’s sacrifice fly scored Utley from third base to put the Giants in an early hole.
San Francisco scored a run in the third off 33 year old starter, Roy Oswalt. Oswalt yielded nine hits in six innings for the Phillies. He allowed back-to-back singles in the third and a sacrifice by Freddy Sanchez that put runners and second and third for the Giants. Aubrey Huff singled in one run before scoring himself on Polanco’s error at third base. The game remained tied even as Sanchez struggled on the mound. The Giants’ pitcher tossed six straight balls to begin the bottom of the third and then hit Utley in the back. Both benches and bullpens cleared during an altercation between pitcher and batter after the All-Star second baseman Utley flipped the ball back in Sanchez’s direction. No punches were thrown and nobody was ejected. The Giants managed to get out of the inning when Jeremy Affeldt buzzed through the Phillies’ order. Affeldt stayed perfect through the fourth and Madison Bumgardner took over in relief with similar success.
Madson relieved Oswalt beginning in the seventh. He fanned the first two Giants he faced before allowing a double by Freddy Sanchez. The Phillies escaped the inning but couldn’t do anything at the plate in their own half of the frame. Javier Lopez was solid in setting the defending NL champs down in order. In the eighth, Uribe pounced on Madson’s first pitch slider and the Giants were closer to bouncing the Phillies from contention. It was Uribe’s first long ball of the post-season but will forever be regarded as the one that sent the Giants to the 2010 Fall Classic. San Francisco’s Brian Wilson, who led the majors in saves this season, needed a line drive double play to end the bottom of the eighth. Wilson worked around two walks in the ninth before fanning struggling slugger, Ryan Howard, to end the game.
Parting Points: Mizzouri topped Oklahoma. Who will be number one in the BCS this week? My guess is Oregon.
The Devils benched Ilya Kovalchuk for undisclosed reasons. I already dislike John MacLean.
I’m so excited for the Sharapova-Vujacic engagement announcement. I think they should take Maria’s last name because Sasha Sharapova sounds terrific (and it’s alliteration)
Song of the day- “1983” by Neon Trees
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Blasé Bombers Beaten
Here’s a little irony: Former Texas slugger, Alex Rodriguez, struck out to end game six of the ALCS, sending the Rangers to their first ever World Series. Rodriguez was fanned by Neftali Feliz to seal the Rangers’ 6-1 victory over the defending champion New York Yankees. Texas begins their quest for a franchise-first title on Wednesday. They face the winner of the Philadelphia-San Francisco series. For New York and All-Star Rodriguez, it’s time to head home without back-to-back championships.
Yankees’ hurler, Phil Hughes, was charged with four runs in four 2/3 innings to take the loss. The beating started early for New York. Texas scored in the bottom of the first after Elvis Andrus led off with a double. ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, lined a single to left to advance the runner to third. Andrus came around to score on Vlad Guerrero’s infield groundout to put the Rangers up in the early going. Colby Lewis stunned New York’s offense, keeping the Yankees scoreless through four frames. Lewis spun a perfect second and third frame, and limited the defending champions to just three hits in eight innings. His only blemish was a fifth inning wild pitch that resulted in Rodriguez’s tally.
Hughes settled down to work around a couple base runners to keep it a one run game. He was blasted in the fifth. Mitch Moreland’s infield single was followed by a pair of groundouts. Hughes elected to issue an intentional pass to Hamilton with Moreland pacing the third base line, hungry to score. Guerrero stepped to the plate with two on and two outs, and promptly drove Hughes’ curveball to deep center. The outfielder’s two-run double signaled the end to Hughes’ evening. Dave Robertson replaced the rocked starter but didn’t offer any solace for the Yankees. Robertson allowed an inside fastball to Nelson Cruz to clear the centerfield wall. The Rangers were up 5-1 just like that.
Texas would add to their four run lead in the seventh, while the Yankees inept swings continued to plague the team. New York never threatened the rest of the game and were victims to nine strikeouts. Lance Berkman’s two out triple in the seventh was a mere waste after the first baseman was stranded in scoring position. Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera were summoned from the bullpen down the stretch, but it was New York’s starting pitching and offense that failed them this series. Rodriguez froze on a slider from Cruz to end any hope of a game seven for the Yankees. Texas outscored the Bombers 21-6 during the six games they played. Now the World Series is coming to Texas.
Parting Points: I’m happy for Nolan Ryan. Great pitcher, and deserving of seeing his team in the Fall Classic. Too bad it had to be at the Yankees’ expense. I’m also happy for ten-year Ranger, Michael Young. He seems like a great guy on and off the field.
In the words of Jakob Dylan- “Nothing is forever”
Yankees’ hurler, Phil Hughes, was charged with four runs in four 2/3 innings to take the loss. The beating started early for New York. Texas scored in the bottom of the first after Elvis Andrus led off with a double. ALCS MVP, Josh Hamilton, lined a single to left to advance the runner to third. Andrus came around to score on Vlad Guerrero’s infield groundout to put the Rangers up in the early going. Colby Lewis stunned New York’s offense, keeping the Yankees scoreless through four frames. Lewis spun a perfect second and third frame, and limited the defending champions to just three hits in eight innings. His only blemish was a fifth inning wild pitch that resulted in Rodriguez’s tally.
Hughes settled down to work around a couple base runners to keep it a one run game. He was blasted in the fifth. Mitch Moreland’s infield single was followed by a pair of groundouts. Hughes elected to issue an intentional pass to Hamilton with Moreland pacing the third base line, hungry to score. Guerrero stepped to the plate with two on and two outs, and promptly drove Hughes’ curveball to deep center. The outfielder’s two-run double signaled the end to Hughes’ evening. Dave Robertson replaced the rocked starter but didn’t offer any solace for the Yankees. Robertson allowed an inside fastball to Nelson Cruz to clear the centerfield wall. The Rangers were up 5-1 just like that.
Texas would add to their four run lead in the seventh, while the Yankees inept swings continued to plague the team. New York never threatened the rest of the game and were victims to nine strikeouts. Lance Berkman’s two out triple in the seventh was a mere waste after the first baseman was stranded in scoring position. Kerry Wood and Mariano Rivera were summoned from the bullpen down the stretch, but it was New York’s starting pitching and offense that failed them this series. Rodriguez froze on a slider from Cruz to end any hope of a game seven for the Yankees. Texas outscored the Bombers 21-6 during the six games they played. Now the World Series is coming to Texas.
Parting Points: I’m happy for Nolan Ryan. Great pitcher, and deserving of seeing his team in the Fall Classic. Too bad it had to be at the Yankees’ expense. I’m also happy for ten-year Ranger, Michael Young. He seems like a great guy on and off the field.
In the words of Jakob Dylan- “Nothing is forever”
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