With NFL Football seemingly come to an end for an indefinite period, we the fans are left scrambling to figure out which side to support, if we choose to even support one. Do we take the owner's side and support billionaires who seemingly just want their money, or do we support the players, who go out and risk their health for 6 months each year? I couldn't be more sympathetic to players when talks of an 18-game schedule comes up. That would be torture! But both sides need to listen up, and we need to become the deciding factor like only the fans can be! Who should we support?
Well, that is ultimately the crux of the debate. It is unnatural for sports fans to want to align with billionaire owners. That is usually the argument that is instantly spouted whenever anyone comes out against the players in the debate between players and owners. Then again, it is equally unlikely for fans to want to align with players who sometimes seem more interested in their own personal brand and celebrity than anything the fans truly care about.
For all that separates billionaire owners from fans, there is one thing that keeps them bonded. We see in Tennessee with Bud Adams and his VY fetish, and his complete disregard for any new-school thinking, that he may not be our favorite guy. However, regardless of what the man does right, wrong or indifferent, we all know he wants one thing and one thing only, like us, to WIN!
As we see players guide themselves through their careers self-promoting like T.O. and Chad Ochocinco, tanking to get traded like Randy Moss, getting in shape only in a contract year like LenDale White, or worrying more about dating starlets than being a starting quarterback like Matt Leinart, their goals seemingly couldn’t be less aligned with those of fans. They also couldn’t seem further from being aligned with owners who pay contracts (even non-guaranteed ones) in order to get a certain level of effort toward a common goal.
So it isn’t that the world has a great level of sympathy for billionaires. There are certainly many cases where the billionaires are completely unsympathetic like in the cases of Daniel Snyder and Al Davis. Then again, in an objective look at the measure of goal congruency, fans are far more aligned with owners than players as a general rule.
Consider this as you steam at the stalemate while watching ESPN. Just make sure you know who you really support in all this mess, and let's get out and show our support of our favorite sport.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The Cream of the Crop
The good thing for me: I can watch NFL football without a care anymore! My two favorite teams, the Titans and Redskins, seem to have found a small pile of rocks and ordered a dump truck more to come bury them. The Skins decided to be nice to the Eagles and let them set some new records, while yet again, Michael Vick throws something to the dogs. Unfortunately for Washington, it was their defense. Still, however, they managed to beat the lowly Titans despite all efforts to throw the game, and for that matter the season, away. Then they lose to the Vikings, but more specifically a brand spanking new coach and a quarterback that already receives Social Security and Medicare.
Oh, sure, that's bad. At least they scored. My hometown Titans have lost 4 in a row and it has been ugly. The past 4 games have been like a car ride with Junior Seau, that is, a pure nosedive off a cliff. Asleep at the wheel. Unfortunately, the ending looks to be different than his minor scratches, as Tennessee has been headed for a massive explosion. Of course this explosion is helped by a guy I really liked two weeks ago named Rusty Smith. It looks like my assessment was a little rusty itself. He proved to be about as helpful as a box of nails, although his teammates had no intention of helping him. Yes, the Titans have hit rock bottom and that explosion I mentioned earlier was Courtland Finnegan and Andre Johnson playing Rocky in the 4th quarter of the game Sunday. Both were fined $25K, but that doesn't matter. I was kind of hoping that the punishment would be that the Titans had to switch with a college football team so maybe this diehard fan won't die hard of laughing at the incompetence of his faithful. You can fire who you want to, but anything save a brand spanking new team with an attitude you can't find in a prison won't help these sorry men.
Oh, sure, that's bad. At least they scored. My hometown Titans have lost 4 in a row and it has been ugly. The past 4 games have been like a car ride with Junior Seau, that is, a pure nosedive off a cliff. Asleep at the wheel. Unfortunately, the ending looks to be different than his minor scratches, as Tennessee has been headed for a massive explosion. Of course this explosion is helped by a guy I really liked two weeks ago named Rusty Smith. It looks like my assessment was a little rusty itself. He proved to be about as helpful as a box of nails, although his teammates had no intention of helping him. Yes, the Titans have hit rock bottom and that explosion I mentioned earlier was Courtland Finnegan and Andre Johnson playing Rocky in the 4th quarter of the game Sunday. Both were fined $25K, but that doesn't matter. I was kind of hoping that the punishment would be that the Titans had to switch with a college football team so maybe this diehard fan won't die hard of laughing at the incompetence of his faithful. You can fire who you want to, but anything save a brand spanking new team with an attitude you can't find in a prison won't help these sorry men.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Rankings, Week 7
The first BCS rankings have come out. Not many people are too happy. Comprised of the Harris Poll, USA Today Coaches' Poll, and six computerized polls, the BCS still doesn't have it right. They have the wrong team at number one, and almost everyone agrees. Here are my rankings for the week:
1. Oregon- Computers will never take over the Earth. They are much too stupid, as shown by their rankings of this high-powered offense. No doubt they deserve number one.
2. Boise State- Cruising through their schedule now has gotten almost too easy. Good thing they are joining the Mountain West next year.
3. Oklahoma- They are good, just not better than Oregon or Boise State like the BCS says.
4. TCU- Big game against Air Force this weekend. They can prove their defense is lights out if they stop the Falcons' option attack.
5. Auburn- If anyone thought that this team would score 65 points, they should go to Vegas. Big game against LSU this weekend.
6. LSU- Les Miles is the luckiest coach alive. Period. End of story. He makes no sense- just youtube "Les Miles let er rip." You will see. They should get annhialated by Auburn.
7. Michigan State- Who would have thought this team would be here? They flew under the radar for the early season, and last week avoided a possible trap game against Illinois. They are here to stay.
8. Utah- Their quarterbacks are very solid. They win games, and that's why they are here.
9. Missouri- Blaine Gabbert is a very good quarterback, however he is still slightly banged up. They will not only need his passing skills but his running to have a chance to beat Oklahoma. Remember, they only beat San Diego State by a miracle last minute play, so they have looked human.
10. Alabama- They haven't impressed me too much, and it pains me to put them this high. But, they are here until they lose or are outplayed by another team.
Most intriguing matchup: OREGON vs. UCLA Oregon is going to be under the spotlight for the rest of the season as everyone finds out whether they can sustain their explosive offense. Meanwhile, UCLA is trying to figure out who they are, the good team that beat Texas and Houston, or the bad one who got romped by Cal. Very interesting matchup in the Pac-10.
1. Oregon- Computers will never take over the Earth. They are much too stupid, as shown by their rankings of this high-powered offense. No doubt they deserve number one.
2. Boise State- Cruising through their schedule now has gotten almost too easy. Good thing they are joining the Mountain West next year.
3. Oklahoma- They are good, just not better than Oregon or Boise State like the BCS says.
4. TCU- Big game against Air Force this weekend. They can prove their defense is lights out if they stop the Falcons' option attack.
5. Auburn- If anyone thought that this team would score 65 points, they should go to Vegas. Big game against LSU this weekend.
6. LSU- Les Miles is the luckiest coach alive. Period. End of story. He makes no sense- just youtube "Les Miles let er rip." You will see. They should get annhialated by Auburn.
7. Michigan State- Who would have thought this team would be here? They flew under the radar for the early season, and last week avoided a possible trap game against Illinois. They are here to stay.
8. Utah- Their quarterbacks are very solid. They win games, and that's why they are here.
9. Missouri- Blaine Gabbert is a very good quarterback, however he is still slightly banged up. They will not only need his passing skills but his running to have a chance to beat Oklahoma. Remember, they only beat San Diego State by a miracle last minute play, so they have looked human.
10. Alabama- They haven't impressed me too much, and it pains me to put them this high. But, they are here until they lose or are outplayed by another team.
Most intriguing matchup: OREGON vs. UCLA Oregon is going to be under the spotlight for the rest of the season as everyone finds out whether they can sustain their explosive offense. Meanwhile, UCLA is trying to figure out who they are, the good team that beat Texas and Houston, or the bad one who got romped by Cal. Very interesting matchup in the Pac-10.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Rankings, Week 5
After what seemed to be the biggest week of college football yet, there is some shake-up in my top ten:
Game of the Week: Stanford vs. Oregon- If you wanted offense, you got it here. Oregon just put on a fireworks show, and Stanford did for at least the first half. It really solidified Oregon as a Pac-10 forerunner, and even a national championship candidate.
1. Alabama- They asserted themselves as the number one team this weekend with a blowout of Florida. I was at least expecting some kind of a fight from the Gators, but Alabama just flexed their muscles and stomped them in the ground. It will be a tough task for anyone to beat this superpower this year.
2. Oregon- I wasn't buying into this explosive offense, thinking that they weren't consistent enough to win every game and rack up copious amounts of yardage while doing it. Well, I was converted this week. After a wipeout of Stanford, who I thought was pretty darn good, they seem unstoppable. I would love to see them take on an SEC team in some bowl, whether the national championship or not. However, their sophomore quarterback is the weakness. He doesn't make the right read on the read option every time, and he is not the best passer. If anything led to a loss for the Ducks, it would be Darron Thomas.
3. Boise State- A rout of New Mexico State- what did you expect? Still, impressive.
4. Ohio State- A victim of circumstances. Oregon and Boise State are better than Ohio State right now in my mind, so that drops them out of 2. They got quite a scare against Illinois, but proved they were still calm with a clinching drive at the end of the game.
5. TCU- There are just too many good teams to rank TCU where they probably should be. The Horned Frogs proved dominant on defense this week against Colorado State, but their offense was a little concerningly unproductive.
6. Oklahoma- What a sweet victory over Texas for the Sooners. They were dominant until the 4th quarter where they, yet again, let their opponent make it interesting. Still, it is a quality win.
7. Nebraska- They were on a bye. How interesting.
8. Auburn- They whooped Louisiana-Monroe, and looked pretty good doing it.
9. Arizona- They were on a bye. Maybe they shouldn't play for the rest of the season if they can move up 5 spots every time.
Still, they look good and should be a huge challenge in the Pac-10.
10. LSU- Did they ever get a gift from the inept Tennessee when the last play of the game was overturned due to TWO extra men on the field for the Vols (guess too many people were just too eager to volunteer for defense). Still, they are 5-0 and have quality wins, and you can't ignore that.
Game of the Week: Stanford vs. Oregon- If you wanted offense, you got it here. Oregon just put on a fireworks show, and Stanford did for at least the first half. It really solidified Oregon as a Pac-10 forerunner, and even a national championship candidate.
1. Alabama- They asserted themselves as the number one team this weekend with a blowout of Florida. I was at least expecting some kind of a fight from the Gators, but Alabama just flexed their muscles and stomped them in the ground. It will be a tough task for anyone to beat this superpower this year.
2. Oregon- I wasn't buying into this explosive offense, thinking that they weren't consistent enough to win every game and rack up copious amounts of yardage while doing it. Well, I was converted this week. After a wipeout of Stanford, who I thought was pretty darn good, they seem unstoppable. I would love to see them take on an SEC team in some bowl, whether the national championship or not. However, their sophomore quarterback is the weakness. He doesn't make the right read on the read option every time, and he is not the best passer. If anything led to a loss for the Ducks, it would be Darron Thomas.
3. Boise State- A rout of New Mexico State- what did you expect? Still, impressive.
4. Ohio State- A victim of circumstances. Oregon and Boise State are better than Ohio State right now in my mind, so that drops them out of 2. They got quite a scare against Illinois, but proved they were still calm with a clinching drive at the end of the game.
5. TCU- There are just too many good teams to rank TCU where they probably should be. The Horned Frogs proved dominant on defense this week against Colorado State, but their offense was a little concerningly unproductive.
6. Oklahoma- What a sweet victory over Texas for the Sooners. They were dominant until the 4th quarter where they, yet again, let their opponent make it interesting. Still, it is a quality win.
7. Nebraska- They were on a bye. How interesting.
8. Auburn- They whooped Louisiana-Monroe, and looked pretty good doing it.
9. Arizona- They were on a bye. Maybe they shouldn't play for the rest of the season if they can move up 5 spots every time.
Still, they look good and should be a huge challenge in the Pac-10.
10. LSU- Did they ever get a gift from the inept Tennessee when the last play of the game was overturned due to TWO extra men on the field for the Vols (guess too many people were just too eager to volunteer for defense). Still, they are 5-0 and have quality wins, and you can't ignore that.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Rankings, Week 4
Well, another week has come and gone in the College Football world, so let's get the rundown:
Game of the Week: Alabama vs. Arkansas- A hard fought game by both teams that actually should have been won by the Razorbacks. However, the Crimson Tide came back and flexed their muscles and achieved an impressive fourth-quarter comeback.
1. Alabama- Ohio State looks more impressive so far, but you have to look at the strength of schedule. The Buckeyes want to have the easiest road to the National Championship, while Alabama has had challenges early, which they have won.
2. Ohio State- It makes me sick to think about how easy their schedule is. I can't wait to drop them from this spot.
3. Boise State- Again, they proved themselves, this time against Oregon State. Kellen Moore is my front runner for the Heisman this year, and look for him to lead the Broncos through the season undefeated.
4. TCU- They had a scare against rival SMU, but won big in the end. However, the score didn't tell the whole story, as it was a hard fought game. They did impress me by not getting worried at all. Good performance overall.
5. Oregon- This offense is just built for breakout offensive plays. What an explosive team, despite getting challenged by Arizona State. The Sun Devils have a good team, however. Big matchup against Stanford this week.
6. Oklahoma- Another really close game against Cincinnati, but they still looked impressive on offense. We will see whether they can make Texas look foolish again after their stomping by UCLA.
7. Nebraska- A scare by South Dakota State this weekend, but not on the scoreboard necessarily. They were fine on defense, only allowing three points, but on offense, it was a struggle. If an FCS team can stop their running attack, it'll be intersting to see what the Big 12 opponents do.
8. Florida- Finally they have an impressive performance, despite it coming from their backup quarterback. We shall see whether they can knock off the mighty Crimson Tide this weekend.
9. Stanford- They keep impressing me more and more, and I agree with the AP putting them so far up. They are just continuing to have impressive win after impressive win, and they should keep it going against top-5 opponent Oregon this weekend.
10. Auburn- They have some very impressive wins so far, and they deserve to be a top-10 team until they lose. Quarterback Cam Newton is very impressive so far, and what a shock to find three SEC teams in the top-10.
Game of the Week: Alabama vs. Arkansas- A hard fought game by both teams that actually should have been won by the Razorbacks. However, the Crimson Tide came back and flexed their muscles and achieved an impressive fourth-quarter comeback.
1. Alabama- Ohio State looks more impressive so far, but you have to look at the strength of schedule. The Buckeyes want to have the easiest road to the National Championship, while Alabama has had challenges early, which they have won.
2. Ohio State- It makes me sick to think about how easy their schedule is. I can't wait to drop them from this spot.
3. Boise State- Again, they proved themselves, this time against Oregon State. Kellen Moore is my front runner for the Heisman this year, and look for him to lead the Broncos through the season undefeated.
4. TCU- They had a scare against rival SMU, but won big in the end. However, the score didn't tell the whole story, as it was a hard fought game. They did impress me by not getting worried at all. Good performance overall.
5. Oregon- This offense is just built for breakout offensive plays. What an explosive team, despite getting challenged by Arizona State. The Sun Devils have a good team, however. Big matchup against Stanford this week.
6. Oklahoma- Another really close game against Cincinnati, but they still looked impressive on offense. We will see whether they can make Texas look foolish again after their stomping by UCLA.
7. Nebraska- A scare by South Dakota State this weekend, but not on the scoreboard necessarily. They were fine on defense, only allowing three points, but on offense, it was a struggle. If an FCS team can stop their running attack, it'll be intersting to see what the Big 12 opponents do.
8. Florida- Finally they have an impressive performance, despite it coming from their backup quarterback. We shall see whether they can knock off the mighty Crimson Tide this weekend.
9. Stanford- They keep impressing me more and more, and I agree with the AP putting them so far up. They are just continuing to have impressive win after impressive win, and they should keep it going against top-5 opponent Oregon this weekend.
10. Auburn- They have some very impressive wins so far, and they deserve to be a top-10 team until they lose. Quarterback Cam Newton is very impressive so far, and what a shock to find three SEC teams in the top-10.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Rankings, Week 3
A week of lackluster games turned into a night of intense watching for me. After playing golf as a substitute for the lack of interesting games on in the morning and afternoon, I was glued to the TV all night watching several nail-biters at once.
Game of the week: You can't beat the gamble that Michigan State took on a fake field goal in overtime to beat Notre Dame. All they needed was that field goal, and they went for all the marbles. Lucky for them, the play worked perfectly. Unlucky for them, their coach had a mild heart attack after the game. I didn't know I was that dead on when I described it as heart-attack football.
Now, here are my all-important rankings after Week 3.
1. Alabama- They routed Duke. No big surprise there. However, Mark Ingram looked great in his first game, just making this team even more powerful.
2. Ohio State- They routed Ohio. Again, no big surprise. They looked solid and even perhaps powerful against the Bobcats, but I was too busy watching the mascots duel it out to take any interest in the score.
3. Boise State- Impressive rout over Wyoming. They made Texas look silly with how embarassing they beat the Cowboys one week after Texas struggled for a while with the same team. Big game vs. Oregon State on Saturday.
4. TCU- This team has no weakness that I have seen. You have to love them to go undefeated. A potential upset alert however against SMU in the Iron Skillet Game.
5. Oregon- They continue to rack up points against no-name opponents, but they do indeed look very powerful and dangerous.
6. Nebraska- I expected Washington to upset the Huskers, or at least make it a game. Nebraska flexed its muscles and blew out the Huskies and limited Heisman-candidate (might as well call him a former one) to 4 completions in the game.
7. Oklahoma- Again, they struggled with an opponent they were supposed to manhandle, but I haven't lost confidence that they can show their power in big games like they did in Week 2.
8. Texas- Their defense was powerful, but their offense is about as exciting as a retirement home during the night. I am not impressed with them, but their win was enough to keep them ahead of Florida.
9. Florida- Aforementioned, Texas is just a little better at the fundamentals still. Florida is getting it together, but they still have leaps and bounds to perfection.
10. Arkansas- A very good game against Georgia. Ryan Mallett is very impressive, and the game against Alabama should be close. That is, unless Alabama is better than they have showed yet (a hard thing to accomplish).
Game of the week: You can't beat the gamble that Michigan State took on a fake field goal in overtime to beat Notre Dame. All they needed was that field goal, and they went for all the marbles. Lucky for them, the play worked perfectly. Unlucky for them, their coach had a mild heart attack after the game. I didn't know I was that dead on when I described it as heart-attack football.
Now, here are my all-important rankings after Week 3.
1. Alabama- They routed Duke. No big surprise there. However, Mark Ingram looked great in his first game, just making this team even more powerful.
2. Ohio State- They routed Ohio. Again, no big surprise. They looked solid and even perhaps powerful against the Bobcats, but I was too busy watching the mascots duel it out to take any interest in the score.
3. Boise State- Impressive rout over Wyoming. They made Texas look silly with how embarassing they beat the Cowboys one week after Texas struggled for a while with the same team. Big game vs. Oregon State on Saturday.
4. TCU- This team has no weakness that I have seen. You have to love them to go undefeated. A potential upset alert however against SMU in the Iron Skillet Game.
5. Oregon- They continue to rack up points against no-name opponents, but they do indeed look very powerful and dangerous.
6. Nebraska- I expected Washington to upset the Huskers, or at least make it a game. Nebraska flexed its muscles and blew out the Huskies and limited Heisman-candidate (might as well call him a former one) to 4 completions in the game.
7. Oklahoma- Again, they struggled with an opponent they were supposed to manhandle, but I haven't lost confidence that they can show their power in big games like they did in Week 2.
8. Texas- Their defense was powerful, but their offense is about as exciting as a retirement home during the night. I am not impressed with them, but their win was enough to keep them ahead of Florida.
9. Florida- Aforementioned, Texas is just a little better at the fundamentals still. Florida is getting it together, but they still have leaps and bounds to perfection.
10. Arkansas- A very good game against Georgia. Ryan Mallett is very impressive, and the game against Alabama should be close. That is, unless Alabama is better than they have showed yet (a hard thing to accomplish).
Monday, September 13, 2010
NCAA Fall Madness
Yes, I'm talking about college football. The amazing season has returned, and all teams are aiming for a shot at a BCS Bowl, preferably the National Championship Game. Since the BCS is not accurate nor published yet, and the AP and USA Today polls are terrible, I must right their wrongs with MY perfectly accurate standings, and of course, my reasons.
Call it the TCS (Tanner Championship Standings):
1. Alabama- How can you go against a national champion that returns their quarterback AND Heisman Trophy running back? As much as I hate the Crimson Tide, I couldn't have been more impressed with their defense in their convincing win over top-20 Penn State. They will be number 1 until they stop winning so convincingly.
2. Ohio State- I am a BCS buster advocate, but Ohio State also impressed me against a Miami team that I thought would beat them. Miami is a VERY good team, and Ohio State had no problem taking care of them. They will be my number 2 until they lose.
3. Boise State AND TCU- Boise State did nothing to drop in the rankings, and I love the Broncos, but I think TCU has deserved to be considered for the BCS buster team as well. They have really looked special this year and deserve more credit than they get. Boise State has only played one game, so I haven't had as much to base my impressions on.
5. Oklahoma- I was a little worried about the Sooners after they had problems with Utah State, but they sure proved themselves in what I thought would be a very tough game against Florida State. I was blown out of the water with the Seminoles after week 1, but OU really proved they can manhandle a good team.
6. Oregon- I was at the Oregon-UT game, and Oregon didn't play as well as the score looks like. Having said that, they have a very explosive offense, and this is why they are here.
7. Iowa- They have gained my respect. They are explosive on offense and dominant on defense. They should challenge Ohio State the most this year. Very impressive so far.
8. Nebraska- This was my preseason pick to win the Big 12, and they have been solid this year. They have played no better or worse than I have expected.
9. Texas- Texas hasn't wowed me this year. They should be beating their opponents a lot more convincingly than they are, and Garrett Gilbert has been less than spectacular this year.
10. Wisconsin- Whereas most people have Florida in the 10 spot, I have Wisconsin. They look good, despite a closer than expected score against San Jose State. However, this pick is more about why Florida doesn't deserve it. They look fundamentally awful for a top-10 football team. I am a Gators fan, and am disgusted at the way the team looks this year. It is disgusting. Otherwise, they are looking great... not.
Log in every Monday to see my wonderful top-10 rankings, and maybe I might get my rankings a little more accurate than the BCS this year (it's not hard to do).
Call it the TCS (Tanner Championship Standings):
1. Alabama- How can you go against a national champion that returns their quarterback AND Heisman Trophy running back? As much as I hate the Crimson Tide, I couldn't have been more impressed with their defense in their convincing win over top-20 Penn State. They will be number 1 until they stop winning so convincingly.
2. Ohio State- I am a BCS buster advocate, but Ohio State also impressed me against a Miami team that I thought would beat them. Miami is a VERY good team, and Ohio State had no problem taking care of them. They will be my number 2 until they lose.
3. Boise State AND TCU- Boise State did nothing to drop in the rankings, and I love the Broncos, but I think TCU has deserved to be considered for the BCS buster team as well. They have really looked special this year and deserve more credit than they get. Boise State has only played one game, so I haven't had as much to base my impressions on.
5. Oklahoma- I was a little worried about the Sooners after they had problems with Utah State, but they sure proved themselves in what I thought would be a very tough game against Florida State. I was blown out of the water with the Seminoles after week 1, but OU really proved they can manhandle a good team.
6. Oregon- I was at the Oregon-UT game, and Oregon didn't play as well as the score looks like. Having said that, they have a very explosive offense, and this is why they are here.
7. Iowa- They have gained my respect. They are explosive on offense and dominant on defense. They should challenge Ohio State the most this year. Very impressive so far.
8. Nebraska- This was my preseason pick to win the Big 12, and they have been solid this year. They have played no better or worse than I have expected.
9. Texas- Texas hasn't wowed me this year. They should be beating their opponents a lot more convincingly than they are, and Garrett Gilbert has been less than spectacular this year.
10. Wisconsin- Whereas most people have Florida in the 10 spot, I have Wisconsin. They look good, despite a closer than expected score against San Jose State. However, this pick is more about why Florida doesn't deserve it. They look fundamentally awful for a top-10 football team. I am a Gators fan, and am disgusted at the way the team looks this year. It is disgusting. Otherwise, they are looking great... not.
Log in every Monday to see my wonderful top-10 rankings, and maybe I might get my rankings a little more accurate than the BCS this year (it's not hard to do).
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Local Spotlight: BHS Golf
In the quietest sport that exists, the Brentwood High School golf team is quietly making ripples across the state. Around the course and around the state, the BHS golf team moves under the radar but leaves the impressions of an earthquake. Undefeated in the 2010 season, the team has grabbed the attention of far too few people. Fueled by new coach John Higgins and their overall positivism, the team continues to cruise through opponents.
An intensified look fills the golfers’ eyes as they maneuver through the course, but their competitiveness alone didn’t bring this on. First year coach John Higgins has taken the team to soaring heights that have easily met expectations so far. Higgins grew up in the Charlotte area, where he played golf on his school teams, as well as competing in amateur tournaments in high school. During his young career, he won eighteen Junior Golf and Amateur tournaments, as well as heading a high school team that won the State Championship. David Lipscomb offered him a scholarship to play golf in college, where Higgins graduated with a major in Communication Studies. He now owns an agency to help struggling athletes, mostly golfers, which have just graduated from college and are looking to make it to the next level.
Young and talented, Higgins was still impressed with the Brentwood High School athletics as well as the team. “What impressed me the most were the class of professionalism that they showed, as well as the talent of the team.”
Higgins brings an unusual coaching method to the team. He requires conditioning of the athletes to prepare them for the blistering heat that they must battle while walking 18 holes of golf. He also includes a lot of competitive games, such as a putting contest or a specific drill, where he will reward the winners with prizes. “I do this to prepare the golfers for the feel of competition,” says Higgins.
His focus, however, lies in the mind. Course management, and the “mental” game are two key elements of the game that will improve a golfer’s score no matter who it is. He also focuses on putting. The old mantra of golf, “Drive for show, putt for dough,” is reverberated by Higgins. “Putting ends up taking 40 percent of the holes in golf.”
Even though Higgins is very impressed with the talent of the team, he is still disappointed in each golfer’s expectation of him or her self. “These guys don’t realize how good they really are,” says Higgins.
An intensified look fills the golfers’ eyes as they maneuver through the course, but their competitiveness alone didn’t bring this on. First year coach John Higgins has taken the team to soaring heights that have easily met expectations so far. Higgins grew up in the Charlotte area, where he played golf on his school teams, as well as competing in amateur tournaments in high school. During his young career, he won eighteen Junior Golf and Amateur tournaments, as well as heading a high school team that won the State Championship. David Lipscomb offered him a scholarship to play golf in college, where Higgins graduated with a major in Communication Studies. He now owns an agency to help struggling athletes, mostly golfers, which have just graduated from college and are looking to make it to the next level.
Young and talented, Higgins was still impressed with the Brentwood High School athletics as well as the team. “What impressed me the most were the class of professionalism that they showed, as well as the talent of the team.”
Higgins brings an unusual coaching method to the team. He requires conditioning of the athletes to prepare them for the blistering heat that they must battle while walking 18 holes of golf. He also includes a lot of competitive games, such as a putting contest or a specific drill, where he will reward the winners with prizes. “I do this to prepare the golfers for the feel of competition,” says Higgins.
His focus, however, lies in the mind. Course management, and the “mental” game are two key elements of the game that will improve a golfer’s score no matter who it is. He also focuses on putting. The old mantra of golf, “Drive for show, putt for dough,” is reverberated by Higgins. “Putting ends up taking 40 percent of the holes in golf.”
Even though Higgins is very impressed with the talent of the team, he is still disappointed in each golfer’s expectation of him or her self. “These guys don’t realize how good they really are,” says Higgins.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Touch 'Em All: NL
The MLB season is getting down to crunch time, and it's shaping up to be an exciting September to set up an even more exciting October. Let's go through the NL division by division:
NL East: The Atlanta Braves are the "home" team of Nashville, so I get to see all of their games. They look just strong enough to hold on to the division lead for the remainder of the season, but the loss of Prado (for now) and Chipper Jones (season) will really make it hard. The Phillies now have Chase Utley back, and they know how to make a big run at the end of the season, and in the playoffs. Maybe it's wishful thinking, but I think the Phillies will come just short of making the postseason this year. The Mets Francisco Rodriguez isn't used to blowing games, let alone blowing seasons by blowing his cool. His season ended after he injured his hand punching his girlfriend's dad. But, if he didn't go on the DL for that, his severely damaged common sense function would have landed him there. The Marlins are the Marlins> Miami doesn't know they exist, and the rest of the world could care less about an average team. A guy from my high school has been signed to a minor league contract with the Nationals, so he deserves a shout-out. Congratulations, Robbie Ray.
NL Central: Another two horse race. Cincinnati has the lineup to win the division, but the young pitchers have to show themselves down the stretch. Leake and Wood are two up-and-coming sensations, and I think they can provide this young and talented team led by Joey Votto to a postseason berth. The Cardinals will have to play consistently stellar baseball to win this division, but aces Carpenter and Wainwright might spark them to have a late season run at the division title. The rest of the teams aren't even worth mentioning.
NL West: The Padres will win the NL West, guaranteed. They are a bunch of no-name, consistent players who have everything that it takes to make it to the World Series, and there is too much competition for one team to catch them. The Giants are a solid team with a little less hitting than they would like. They have made their lineup work, and that is why they lead the wild card race. They shouldn't be going anywhere. Unfortunately, the competition in the division will more than likely keep the Giants from making a run at the West-dominant Padres. The Rockies, despite having the best pitcher in baseball, can't keep the winning going enough to gain significant ground. The Dodgers just seem helpless despite their major additions to make a push. Whenever they seem to gain a game, they fall back again after a couple of games after that.
The Cincinnati Reds will win the NL Pennant this year behind their youthful hitting and pitching. Dusty Baker has been there before and can lead them to the World Series in a much weaker division than the AL. I can't see any team jumping out as the "best in the west," however, so in reality any of these teams has a shot to win the pennant. As you could imagine, I have to predict the AL team to win the World Series. If you recall, I picked the Rays to win the AL Pennant, so my World Series winner has to be those Tampa Bay Rays.
NL East: The Atlanta Braves are the "home" team of Nashville, so I get to see all of their games. They look just strong enough to hold on to the division lead for the remainder of the season, but the loss of Prado (for now) and Chipper Jones (season) will really make it hard. The Phillies now have Chase Utley back, and they know how to make a big run at the end of the season, and in the playoffs. Maybe it's wishful thinking, but I think the Phillies will come just short of making the postseason this year. The Mets Francisco Rodriguez isn't used to blowing games, let alone blowing seasons by blowing his cool. His season ended after he injured his hand punching his girlfriend's dad. But, if he didn't go on the DL for that, his severely damaged common sense function would have landed him there. The Marlins are the Marlins> Miami doesn't know they exist, and the rest of the world could care less about an average team. A guy from my high school has been signed to a minor league contract with the Nationals, so he deserves a shout-out. Congratulations, Robbie Ray.
NL Central: Another two horse race. Cincinnati has the lineup to win the division, but the young pitchers have to show themselves down the stretch. Leake and Wood are two up-and-coming sensations, and I think they can provide this young and talented team led by Joey Votto to a postseason berth. The Cardinals will have to play consistently stellar baseball to win this division, but aces Carpenter and Wainwright might spark them to have a late season run at the division title. The rest of the teams aren't even worth mentioning.
NL West: The Padres will win the NL West, guaranteed. They are a bunch of no-name, consistent players who have everything that it takes to make it to the World Series, and there is too much competition for one team to catch them. The Giants are a solid team with a little less hitting than they would like. They have made their lineup work, and that is why they lead the wild card race. They shouldn't be going anywhere. Unfortunately, the competition in the division will more than likely keep the Giants from making a run at the West-dominant Padres. The Rockies, despite having the best pitcher in baseball, can't keep the winning going enough to gain significant ground. The Dodgers just seem helpless despite their major additions to make a push. Whenever they seem to gain a game, they fall back again after a couple of games after that.
The Cincinnati Reds will win the NL Pennant this year behind their youthful hitting and pitching. Dusty Baker has been there before and can lead them to the World Series in a much weaker division than the AL. I can't see any team jumping out as the "best in the west," however, so in reality any of these teams has a shot to win the pennant. As you could imagine, I have to predict the AL team to win the World Series. If you recall, I picked the Rays to win the AL Pennant, so my World Series winner has to be those Tampa Bay Rays.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Touch 'Em All: AL
The MLB season is getting down to crunch time, and it's shaping up to be an exciting September to set up an even more exciting October. Let's go through the AL division by division:
AL East: The powerhouse. The Rays continue their streaky play, now winning 5 in a row after going on a losing skid after a winning streak. Streaky, right? Two crucial pitchers are on the DL (Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann) but new sensation Jeremy Hellickson is dazzling so far. I can't see a collapse in the near future. The Yankees, meanwhile, keep on trucking. They are expected to win every night, but when the Rays are on a losing skid, they can't seem to pull away in the division. The Red Sox might as well surrender, there is no way of catching either team. The Orioles are an interesting case. Since Showalter took over the managerial duties, they have played with a new ferocity and passion that was lacking during their trip to the MLB cellar. This team could act as the spoiler to either the Rays or Yankees and cost one team the division.
AL Central: Minnesota has good hitting, but streaky pitching. Mauer and Morneau are bound to produce every night, and if the pitching is good, they will easily win the division. Also, their incredible fan base at Target Field has got to fuel them. Chicago seems to have lost their "thing" that they had during their hot streak. Great pitching will be the only thing that can save them. Detroit can forget about their chances.
AL West: Simply, Texas. In October, the question will be whether they can beat an AL East team. Their regular season record against the AL East says no way, but I have confidence they will rise to the occasion, or at least come close.
The AL pennant will go to the Tampa Bay Rays. They have the most depth, especially at pitcher, although Texas could battle close. The Yankees can, of course, always win a pennant, but the Rays seem destined to make a trip back to the World Series this year.
AL East: The powerhouse. The Rays continue their streaky play, now winning 5 in a row after going on a losing skid after a winning streak. Streaky, right? Two crucial pitchers are on the DL (Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann) but new sensation Jeremy Hellickson is dazzling so far. I can't see a collapse in the near future. The Yankees, meanwhile, keep on trucking. They are expected to win every night, but when the Rays are on a losing skid, they can't seem to pull away in the division. The Red Sox might as well surrender, there is no way of catching either team. The Orioles are an interesting case. Since Showalter took over the managerial duties, they have played with a new ferocity and passion that was lacking during their trip to the MLB cellar. This team could act as the spoiler to either the Rays or Yankees and cost one team the division.
AL Central: Minnesota has good hitting, but streaky pitching. Mauer and Morneau are bound to produce every night, and if the pitching is good, they will easily win the division. Also, their incredible fan base at Target Field has got to fuel them. Chicago seems to have lost their "thing" that they had during their hot streak. Great pitching will be the only thing that can save them. Detroit can forget about their chances.
AL West: Simply, Texas. In October, the question will be whether they can beat an AL East team. Their regular season record against the AL East says no way, but I have confidence they will rise to the occasion, or at least come close.
The AL pennant will go to the Tampa Bay Rays. They have the most depth, especially at pitcher, although Texas could battle close. The Yankees can, of course, always win a pennant, but the Rays seem destined to make a trip back to the World Series this year.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Must Be Football Season
Brett Favre isn't sure about retiring or not, and the Titans are playing heart-attack football: must be football season.
And, indeed it is football season! The first week of preseason is more than halfway over, and already so many things have happened! Brett Favre has already retired and unretired once, but it isn't Favre making the noise at quarterback for the Vikings. WIth the uncertainty of the ancient quarterback, the Vikings are looking for their starter for this season to replace Favre. Tavaris Jackson started the game against the Rams last night, and proved that he is still just as inept as he was before the Favre era. Meanwhile, Sage Rosenfels lit up the scoreboard for 310 yards and three touchdowns. Still, though, Jackson is the main guy. Now we see why Brett Favre kept Brad Childress' job last year: he has no common sense. Rosenfels has proven himself as a backup for Matt Schaub in Houston, and I know him well. The Titans always seem to knock Schaub out, and Rosenfels time after time seems to light our defense up for all too many yards and touchdowns. If you look at the tape of this guy, he knows what he is doing way more than most backup quarterbacks, and deserves to have a chance to start for the Vikings this year. That is, if the big "if" of Favre not returning actually happens, of course.
Meanwhile, our good ole' Tennessee Titans have picked up right where they ended last season: playing heart-attack football. Even though the preseason is won or lost by the backups, the 20-18 loss was nail-biting. Here is my impression of the Titans team this year:
Vince Young looks sharp. He completed his passes in an impressive fashion, and showed he has matured through the offseason. Chris Johnson seems unchanged. He seems like the same back he was last year, and we will see more from him as the preseason progresses. Our wide receivers look more confident catching the ball. Good passes and good catches by Gage and Washington led to our first scoring drive. Defensively, we rested a lot of veterans, including both corners, starting 2nd year players Jason McCourty and Ryan Mouton. McCourty looked very impressive, as he had good coverage on his receiver the few times he was actually picked on. Mouton got burned several times, but did get a gift interception.
As for the backups, I was most impressed with 4th string QB Rusty Smith and WR Marc Mariani. Mariani was the go-to receiver the whole second half and Smith's passes were on target. I was most disappointed with QB Chris Simms. Recently pulled over for driving after smoking pot, he seemed high again on the field. His vision downfield was terrible and he just seemed incapable of completing a pass or doing anything worthwhile.
Stay tuned, as the Brett Favre saga might turn into the next CBS drama, while the Titans might be featured in the next edge-of-your-seat movie!
And, indeed it is football season! The first week of preseason is more than halfway over, and already so many things have happened! Brett Favre has already retired and unretired once, but it isn't Favre making the noise at quarterback for the Vikings. WIth the uncertainty of the ancient quarterback, the Vikings are looking for their starter for this season to replace Favre. Tavaris Jackson started the game against the Rams last night, and proved that he is still just as inept as he was before the Favre era. Meanwhile, Sage Rosenfels lit up the scoreboard for 310 yards and three touchdowns. Still, though, Jackson is the main guy. Now we see why Brett Favre kept Brad Childress' job last year: he has no common sense. Rosenfels has proven himself as a backup for Matt Schaub in Houston, and I know him well. The Titans always seem to knock Schaub out, and Rosenfels time after time seems to light our defense up for all too many yards and touchdowns. If you look at the tape of this guy, he knows what he is doing way more than most backup quarterbacks, and deserves to have a chance to start for the Vikings this year. That is, if the big "if" of Favre not returning actually happens, of course.
Meanwhile, our good ole' Tennessee Titans have picked up right where they ended last season: playing heart-attack football. Even though the preseason is won or lost by the backups, the 20-18 loss was nail-biting. Here is my impression of the Titans team this year:
Vince Young looks sharp. He completed his passes in an impressive fashion, and showed he has matured through the offseason. Chris Johnson seems unchanged. He seems like the same back he was last year, and we will see more from him as the preseason progresses. Our wide receivers look more confident catching the ball. Good passes and good catches by Gage and Washington led to our first scoring drive. Defensively, we rested a lot of veterans, including both corners, starting 2nd year players Jason McCourty and Ryan Mouton. McCourty looked very impressive, as he had good coverage on his receiver the few times he was actually picked on. Mouton got burned several times, but did get a gift interception.
As for the backups, I was most impressed with 4th string QB Rusty Smith and WR Marc Mariani. Mariani was the go-to receiver the whole second half and Smith's passes were on target. I was most disappointed with QB Chris Simms. Recently pulled over for driving after smoking pot, he seemed high again on the field. His vision downfield was terrible and he just seemed incapable of completing a pass or doing anything worthwhile.
Stay tuned, as the Brett Favre saga might turn into the next CBS drama, while the Titans might be featured in the next edge-of-your-seat movie!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
News Drought
I hate when no new sporting news is out. When I watch SportsCenter in the mornings where this is the case, I watch pointless interviews about rumors and speculation. To me, it's quite boring. I watched the show SportsNation the other day on ESPN, and partially due to the complete lack of interesting news, it was the most boring show ever. I watched as they debated over a new rookie in the NFL would make a bigger splash than a new soap opera show. You can surely tell it was utterly fascinating.
Here's a piece of news you probably won't hear about: Carl Pettersson won the RBC Canadian Open today, thanks to a 60 (-10) in the third round. Pettersson is a burly man, and it is good to see someone not as fit winning a championship like this. I tried out for the golf team, and in 100 degree heat index, it is not easy AT ALL to walk 18 holes. Congratulations, Carl.
Pettersson is building momentum for himself by playing most all tournaments, and with his win today earns himself a spot in the PGA Championship this year, along with the Masters next year. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are doing the opposite. By sitting out most tournaments, they are leaving their struggles for the big tournaments. Tiger Woods should be playing every tournament possible to fix his kinky swing. If he thinks he can use the range for preparation for the most difficult tournaments of the year, he is mistaken. It's the same thing with Phil. His struggles might not be so mighty in the majors if he would play more routine tournaments.
So, at the PGA Championship, I'm cheering for a regular on the European or PGA Tour. Forget the pros that forget the small tournaments.
Here's a piece of news you probably won't hear about: Carl Pettersson won the RBC Canadian Open today, thanks to a 60 (-10) in the third round. Pettersson is a burly man, and it is good to see someone not as fit winning a championship like this. I tried out for the golf team, and in 100 degree heat index, it is not easy AT ALL to walk 18 holes. Congratulations, Carl.
Pettersson is building momentum for himself by playing most all tournaments, and with his win today earns himself a spot in the PGA Championship this year, along with the Masters next year. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are doing the opposite. By sitting out most tournaments, they are leaving their struggles for the big tournaments. Tiger Woods should be playing every tournament possible to fix his kinky swing. If he thinks he can use the range for preparation for the most difficult tournaments of the year, he is mistaken. It's the same thing with Phil. His struggles might not be so mighty in the majors if he would play more routine tournaments.
So, at the PGA Championship, I'm cheering for a regular on the European or PGA Tour. Forget the pros that forget the small tournaments.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
British Open Season
Louis Oosthuizen is now in possession of the Clarett Jug, the most famed and sought-after trophy in golf. He finished at -16, seven shots ahead of addicted-to-second-place Lee Westwood. Possibly the game's toughest test, St. Andrews proved to be a brute again this week. Oosthuizen was the only golfer to finish in double digits, as the rest of the field got blown away, literally. The wind, like most times in Open Championship golf, was the "great equalizer" again. However, Oosthuizen handled it like an old pro, which he is ironically not. Here's some insight on Louis.
I first was introduced to Louis Oosthuizen on the European Tour stop at the Qatar Masters early in 2009. He and Alvaro Quiros, the long-hitting Spaniard, were dueling for the lead through the last round, with Quiros prevailing. However, I was impressed with Oosthuizen's game, and I would look for him on the leaderboard from then on. It wasn't hard to find him, as he was in contention of many events when I tuned in to the European Tour. Naturally, when I heard his name in major championships, I would laugh at the commentator's lack of knowledge of who he was. Earlier this year at the Masters, he won the par three competition on Wednesday that I never miss, and I knew that he would break through this year. Turns out I was right, as he won a European tour stop in Spain, and I was not surprised to see him in second after round one of the British Open. In the Open, he took advantage of the first day when the wind did not blow hard, and then followed it up with a great round on a rainy Friday morning. Step one: take advantage of the course when it's possible; check. On Saturday, he played solidly, and increased his margin to four. Also, through the tournament, he was number one in driving accuracy. Step two: put yourself in a spot to win by hitting fairways and greens; check. Finally on Sunday, he played consistently and took advantage of what he could, and otherwise played for par. His consistency and unwavering confidence allowed him to make par when he wanted to. Step three: play like an old pro; check.
These three steps allowed Oosthuizen to win the Open Championship. Interestingly, the first American player was Nick Watney at -6. It makes you think that the European Tour players have the advantage in the British Open because they play constantly in the wind and bad conditions. No matter the case, though, Louis Oosthuizen has many reasons to celebrate his new major championship.
I first was introduced to Louis Oosthuizen on the European Tour stop at the Qatar Masters early in 2009. He and Alvaro Quiros, the long-hitting Spaniard, were dueling for the lead through the last round, with Quiros prevailing. However, I was impressed with Oosthuizen's game, and I would look for him on the leaderboard from then on. It wasn't hard to find him, as he was in contention of many events when I tuned in to the European Tour. Naturally, when I heard his name in major championships, I would laugh at the commentator's lack of knowledge of who he was. Earlier this year at the Masters, he won the par three competition on Wednesday that I never miss, and I knew that he would break through this year. Turns out I was right, as he won a European tour stop in Spain, and I was not surprised to see him in second after round one of the British Open. In the Open, he took advantage of the first day when the wind did not blow hard, and then followed it up with a great round on a rainy Friday morning. Step one: take advantage of the course when it's possible; check. On Saturday, he played solidly, and increased his margin to four. Also, through the tournament, he was number one in driving accuracy. Step two: put yourself in a spot to win by hitting fairways and greens; check. Finally on Sunday, he played consistently and took advantage of what he could, and otherwise played for par. His consistency and unwavering confidence allowed him to make par when he wanted to. Step three: play like an old pro; check.
These three steps allowed Oosthuizen to win the Open Championship. Interestingly, the first American player was Nick Watney at -6. It makes you think that the European Tour players have the advantage in the British Open because they play constantly in the wind and bad conditions. No matter the case, though, Louis Oosthuizen has many reasons to celebrate his new major championship.
Friday, July 9, 2010
An Erie Feeling
Nestled on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Browns, and the Cavaliers. Outside of Quicken Loans Arena, home of the Cavaliers, one might have seen a huge Nike poster of Lebron James, the face of the franchise. But that was yesterday. Now you have to travel to South Beach to see anything advertising Lebron, as he is the newest member of the Miami Heat. In a one hour special yesterday, James announced he would join Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade for a superteam in Miami. Later, sources reported that the Heat would be trading Michael Beasley, the former second overall draft pick. As for the new big three, or to celebrate the Spanish flare of Miami, "Los Tres Grandes," they will each sign a smaller contract than anywhere else. This, however, is a small price to pay when a dynasty could be built with these three great players.
Back in Cleveland, though, they have a big poster space to fill. Byron Scott, the newly introduced head coach, insists the team will move on without Lebron, but the owner had some stronger words to say. He openly assaulted Lebron's decision in a letter to Cavaliers fans, saying that he guarantees a championship in Cleveland before Lebron gets his first. He should have looked at his roster first. Their star player now is Shaquille O'Neal, who is way past his best times, and oh by the way, a free agent. So who are they going to win a championship with? Mo Williams? Delonte West? Anderson Varejao? Yeah right.
I think Cleveland fans forgot that the professional sports leagues are a business now, and Lebron's situation was no different. Even if Lebron wanted to stay, he had no incentive. He wanted to win a championship (how can you blame him) and it was proven in his seven year time with Cleveland that it could not and would not be done. Cleveland fans have no right to feel betrayed. I had a conversation with friend and former Ohio native Marie Alford about the situation, and she agrees with me. "[SportsCenter] says Lebron has now become the second most hated man in Cleveland, next to Art Modell of course, but I just don't think that should be said. if Cleveland fans really cared, they would know what's best for him, not make him feel unwelcome in his own city." It is time for Cleveland fans to be mature and move on.
Back in Cleveland, though, they have a big poster space to fill. Byron Scott, the newly introduced head coach, insists the team will move on without Lebron, but the owner had some stronger words to say. He openly assaulted Lebron's decision in a letter to Cavaliers fans, saying that he guarantees a championship in Cleveland before Lebron gets his first. He should have looked at his roster first. Their star player now is Shaquille O'Neal, who is way past his best times, and oh by the way, a free agent. So who are they going to win a championship with? Mo Williams? Delonte West? Anderson Varejao? Yeah right.
I think Cleveland fans forgot that the professional sports leagues are a business now, and Lebron's situation was no different. Even if Lebron wanted to stay, he had no incentive. He wanted to win a championship (how can you blame him) and it was proven in his seven year time with Cleveland that it could not and would not be done. Cleveland fans have no right to feel betrayed. I had a conversation with friend and former Ohio native Marie Alford about the situation, and she agrees with me. "[SportsCenter] says Lebron has now become the second most hated man in Cleveland, next to Art Modell of course, but I just don't think that should be said. if Cleveland fans really cared, they would know what's best for him, not make him feel unwelcome in his own city." It is time for Cleveland fans to be mature and move on.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Courting the King
The Summer of 2010 has turned into the Summer of the Free Agents. Hyped to be possibly the best free agent market in history in the NBA, it has lived up to nothing less. Free agents like Dirk Novitzki, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Paul Pierce, Dwyane Wade, and of course LeBron James draw lines of teams outside each one's door. Here is my take on the topic I most want gone:
LeBron James is good, and I have said all along that he needs a supporting cast. Why didn't anyone else see the possibility of he and Dirk Novitzki playing together? Dirk has been said to be the best "number two" guy, and LeBron is the best number one out there. Sounds like a no-brainer to me! If I can see something like that, it's a wonder why every single person getting payed to see it doesn't. Next, in the "courting" of James, I think everyone but the Cavaliers did a good job. The Cavs did what those Scottrade commercials portray: they joked around and said "Hey! It's us! You've been with us for your whole career. Sure the other teams actually have made moves to help you win championships, but come on, we go back!" If I was LeBron, I would be saying, "What have you done for me? Where are my championships? And what WILL you do for me?" Answer: they have made you lead a crap team, you have no championships, and they have not made a SINGLE move to get any supporting players. If he stays with Cleveland, he will move from best player to biggest free agent idiot. Miami is his best option, joining Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade on a team that will surely win championships. Chicago, with Carlos Boozer and the existing talent that led them to the playoffs this year, would be my second choice, and New York and Amare Stoudemire third.
Meanwhile, outside of LeBron's mighty decision, the free agency has been a bust. Everyone was waiting for LeBron to make their move based off of him, and most decided not to wait any longer. Paul Pierce, Dirk Novitzki and Joe Johnson highlighted the list of star players who just decided to stay put and try try again with their current teams. As for the other new team signees, well, they were overshadowed by the crown of the king.
LeBron James is good, and I have said all along that he needs a supporting cast. Why didn't anyone else see the possibility of he and Dirk Novitzki playing together? Dirk has been said to be the best "number two" guy, and LeBron is the best number one out there. Sounds like a no-brainer to me! If I can see something like that, it's a wonder why every single person getting payed to see it doesn't. Next, in the "courting" of James, I think everyone but the Cavaliers did a good job. The Cavs did what those Scottrade commercials portray: they joked around and said "Hey! It's us! You've been with us for your whole career. Sure the other teams actually have made moves to help you win championships, but come on, we go back!" If I was LeBron, I would be saying, "What have you done for me? Where are my championships? And what WILL you do for me?" Answer: they have made you lead a crap team, you have no championships, and they have not made a SINGLE move to get any supporting players. If he stays with Cleveland, he will move from best player to biggest free agent idiot. Miami is his best option, joining Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade on a team that will surely win championships. Chicago, with Carlos Boozer and the existing talent that led them to the playoffs this year, would be my second choice, and New York and Amare Stoudemire third.
Meanwhile, outside of LeBron's mighty decision, the free agency has been a bust. Everyone was waiting for LeBron to make their move based off of him, and most decided not to wait any longer. Paul Pierce, Dirk Novitzki and Joe Johnson highlighted the list of star players who just decided to stay put and try try again with their current teams. As for the other new team signees, well, they were overshadowed by the crown of the king.
Monday, June 28, 2010
World Cup Catch Up
So much has happened in the last week, so let's get a rundown.
In the World Cup, we have moved on to the knockout round of 16, with many of these games already complete. Team USA has gone down in history as the most hyped World Cup team in the USA, but we will not see any more of the new countrywide heroes. Landon Donovan's heart-stopping (as well as game-stopping) goal in additional time will go down in everyone's personal history book as a "where was I when that happened?" moment. As for me, I was in a golf clubhouse. Of course, by now I am hooked on World Cup, and so I cancelled everything to watch the next match versus Ghana. The result: the USA lost, and I was sheathed in sweat and on my knees on the floor. However, they sure impressed me, and in 2014 I will be nowhere else when the USA plays but glued to the screen. Meanwhile, Germany squished the pompous English team, not to my surprise. The English think they are much better than they really are, and my hat is off to Germany for showing the world. Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay are on to the quarterfinals in a South American dominated field. The Netherlands have impressed me the most, and they are my dark horse to win, and coincidentally who I am cheering for to win.
Unfortunately for the world, England has something to blame their loss on to cover up their embarrassment. A goal was not seen by referees who were out of position, which would have tied the game 2-2. Instead, the English ended up getting slaughtered 4-1. A missed offsides call by the referees in the Argentina-Mexico game that would have disallowed the first Argentinean goal resulted in a confrontation between sides in the next match. This got everyone into a "we need replay" frenzy, which I was a part of. So, FIFA responded by saying that they just won't show controversial calls on stadium jumbotrons. What a bunch of idiots. They are too lazy to really do anything, and they'll just cover it up instead of making it right. Sounds like the police in a mafia movie to me. Install goal-line replay and get with the millennium. By the way, an interesting point: no hoop-la was made to install replay into soccer when the USA was cheated out of TWO goals in TWO games. And then, suddenly, when the English were on the short end of the stick, the news has been all over it like Tiger Woods on his women.
Do all the international countries hate us that much?
In the World Cup, we have moved on to the knockout round of 16, with many of these games already complete. Team USA has gone down in history as the most hyped World Cup team in the USA, but we will not see any more of the new countrywide heroes. Landon Donovan's heart-stopping (as well as game-stopping) goal in additional time will go down in everyone's personal history book as a "where was I when that happened?" moment. As for me, I was in a golf clubhouse. Of course, by now I am hooked on World Cup, and so I cancelled everything to watch the next match versus Ghana. The result: the USA lost, and I was sheathed in sweat and on my knees on the floor. However, they sure impressed me, and in 2014 I will be nowhere else when the USA plays but glued to the screen. Meanwhile, Germany squished the pompous English team, not to my surprise. The English think they are much better than they really are, and my hat is off to Germany for showing the world. Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay are on to the quarterfinals in a South American dominated field. The Netherlands have impressed me the most, and they are my dark horse to win, and coincidentally who I am cheering for to win.
Unfortunately for the world, England has something to blame their loss on to cover up their embarrassment. A goal was not seen by referees who were out of position, which would have tied the game 2-2. Instead, the English ended up getting slaughtered 4-1. A missed offsides call by the referees in the Argentina-Mexico game that would have disallowed the first Argentinean goal resulted in a confrontation between sides in the next match. This got everyone into a "we need replay" frenzy, which I was a part of. So, FIFA responded by saying that they just won't show controversial calls on stadium jumbotrons. What a bunch of idiots. They are too lazy to really do anything, and they'll just cover it up instead of making it right. Sounds like the police in a mafia movie to me. Install goal-line replay and get with the millennium. By the way, an interesting point: no hoop-la was made to install replay into soccer when the USA was cheated out of TWO goals in TWO games. And then, suddenly, when the English were on the short end of the stick, the news has been all over it like Tiger Woods on his women.
Do all the international countries hate us that much?
Monday, June 21, 2010
U.S.Open Goes European
Graeme McDowell can finally rest in peace. He can covet his new US Open trophy like Donald Trump his money after winning the Open with a score of level par. The Open at Pebble Beach this year was the toughest I have seen any golf course play EVER. The announcers seemed to be repeating "this one is tricky," or, "this one is nearly impossible." Every putt was fast, every approach shot was lucky to make it on the green, and every chip and putt were lucky to get close to the hole. An even par winner was three shots higher than Lucas Glover's -3 on the daunting Bethpage Black Course. However, I loved the difficulty.
This golf course embarrassed each and every pro player that played it on one day or another. I was watching the tournament thinking, "that is what I look like out there!" Especially on the final day, I was thinking as the ambitious golfer that I am, "I could do better than these guys!" Indeed, it was a final round meltdown for everyone, especially Dustin Johnson. I picked him to win, but instead he shot a +12 82, absolutely atrocious for anyone, and especially the 54 hole leader! The only calm ones were Graeme McDowell and Gregory Havret, who finished 1 and 2, respectively. They both managed the course and took their medicine with bogeys, not double and triple bogeys. They hit fairways and missed the ball in the right places, while Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, and Phil Mickelson did not. Graeme McDowell seems ready for anything that comes his way, and has brought the US Open trophy safely to Europe for the first time in 40 years.
This golf course embarrassed each and every pro player that played it on one day or another. I was watching the tournament thinking, "that is what I look like out there!" Especially on the final day, I was thinking as the ambitious golfer that I am, "I could do better than these guys!" Indeed, it was a final round meltdown for everyone, especially Dustin Johnson. I picked him to win, but instead he shot a +12 82, absolutely atrocious for anyone, and especially the 54 hole leader! The only calm ones were Graeme McDowell and Gregory Havret, who finished 1 and 2, respectively. They both managed the course and took their medicine with bogeys, not double and triple bogeys. They hit fairways and missed the ball in the right places, while Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, and Phil Mickelson did not. Graeme McDowell seems ready for anything that comes his way, and has brought the US Open trophy safely to Europe for the first time in 40 years.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
The 2010 FIFA World Annoyance
Almost finished with the second matchup in each World Cup grouping, the 2010 FIFA World Cup has established one thing: its noise. Host country South Africa is making a big impression on the world, and not with their football team. The long horn, called a vuvuzela, is annoying players, coaches, and fans watching at home. It is causing such an uproar, literally and figuratively, that it is overshadowing the amazing football going on. I'll get to that later. As for my opinion on the vuvuzelas, I like them. It is part of the host country's traditions, and we should embrace them, no matter how annoying. I even like the noise, as it makes the fans heard. This way, stadiums don't sound empty, and fans can influence the game rather than just sitting silently in their seat. I was watching the Marlins vs. Rays baseball game the other night, and i heard the familiar swarm of bees on my TV. The Marlins stadium was giving out these vuvuzelas to make their infamously-sparse crowd more of a factor. It turns out that it caused an error in lineup cards that possibly contributed to the Marlins losing, but I really liked the idea of turning up the noise at an always-empty stadium.
Meanwhile, football is actually being played during all of this raucous. Team USA was lucky to draw with England after an easy save bounced off the goalie's hands right into the net. In the next game against Slovenia, they went down 2-0 by halftime, but in the second half scored three goals, but only two of them counted. The referee from Mali, a country in western Africa, called a foul disallowing the goal by the US, and when questioned by all, had no explanation for it. I was expecting to see the wad of money fall out of his pocket later, but the team wasn't that lucky, although the ref will not do another World Cup game.
Brazil looks as good as they were made out to be, but Spain, Italy, and France have been disappointments. Italy drew again today against huge underdog New Zealand. Spain lost 1-0 in it's first match, shocking the football world. And lastly, and possibly the biggest disappointment, is France. After two losses and no goals scored, the team has sent one player home for cussing at the coach, and after the trainer and coach fought today, the remaining players went back to the bus and refused to train or practice.
So, until the end, let's enjoy this World Cup, or as most think, the World Annoyance.
Meanwhile, football is actually being played during all of this raucous. Team USA was lucky to draw with England after an easy save bounced off the goalie's hands right into the net. In the next game against Slovenia, they went down 2-0 by halftime, but in the second half scored three goals, but only two of them counted. The referee from Mali, a country in western Africa, called a foul disallowing the goal by the US, and when questioned by all, had no explanation for it. I was expecting to see the wad of money fall out of his pocket later, but the team wasn't that lucky, although the ref will not do another World Cup game.
Brazil looks as good as they were made out to be, but Spain, Italy, and France have been disappointments. Italy drew again today against huge underdog New Zealand. Spain lost 1-0 in it's first match, shocking the football world. And lastly, and possibly the biggest disappointment, is France. After two losses and no goals scored, the team has sent one player home for cussing at the coach, and after the trainer and coach fought today, the remaining players went back to the bus and refused to train or practice.
So, until the end, let's enjoy this World Cup, or as most think, the World Annoyance.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Guess Who's Back?
Well, first of all, I am. With traveling and the internet out in two places, it has been impossible for me to blog for the past week. I apologize for this.
But as for my story, Tiger Woods is back. With his third round 66 (-5), he has shown that the old Tiger is back and hopefully for good. With heroic putts and approach shots, he really showed that his game and swing are almost back to normal. I surely expected no one to post a good score today, and especially not Tiger after he was +2 after 3 holes. However, he showed the resiliency and determination of the old Tiger we are used to and posted his incredible round with a 31 on the back 9 of Pebble Beach.
As for the greens, they look awful, bumpy, and discolored. However, they are as fast and in as good a condition as ever, and the players are adamant that they are not nearly as bad as they look. They are keeping scores close to par, and are giving anyone with a good stretch of holes a chance at the championship. This is what I love to see in tournaments, especially the US and British Opens: difficult scoring, with everyone having a chance to win. Anyone who complains that it is or looks too hard, just remember that it is supposed to be this way.
Who do I think will win? Dustin Johnson has my vote, winning at Pebble Beach during the Pro-Am the last two years, and three years ago finishing T-7. He has the calmness and accuracy to hold on to a lead and shoot a smooth even par on the final day. Plus, his caddie is from the area and has tons of local knowledge of the course. Graeme McDowell is a hot player as well, winning at the Ryder Cup venue this year in Wales, and he knows how to hit the knock-down shots needed to run the balls up on to the fast and furious greens. However, he doesn't have enough experience to be my favorite to win. As for Tiger, if he does something as spectacular as what we saw today, he will win. I think, though, he will hang around even or +1 and finish in the top 5. Phil Mickelson will have to make a major move that I just don't see him doing.
But as for my story, Tiger Woods is back. With his third round 66 (-5), he has shown that the old Tiger is back and hopefully for good. With heroic putts and approach shots, he really showed that his game and swing are almost back to normal. I surely expected no one to post a good score today, and especially not Tiger after he was +2 after 3 holes. However, he showed the resiliency and determination of the old Tiger we are used to and posted his incredible round with a 31 on the back 9 of Pebble Beach.
As for the greens, they look awful, bumpy, and discolored. However, they are as fast and in as good a condition as ever, and the players are adamant that they are not nearly as bad as they look. They are keeping scores close to par, and are giving anyone with a good stretch of holes a chance at the championship. This is what I love to see in tournaments, especially the US and British Opens: difficult scoring, with everyone having a chance to win. Anyone who complains that it is or looks too hard, just remember that it is supposed to be this way.
Who do I think will win? Dustin Johnson has my vote, winning at Pebble Beach during the Pro-Am the last two years, and three years ago finishing T-7. He has the calmness and accuracy to hold on to a lead and shoot a smooth even par on the final day. Plus, his caddie is from the area and has tons of local knowledge of the course. Graeme McDowell is a hot player as well, winning at the Ryder Cup venue this year in Wales, and he knows how to hit the knock-down shots needed to run the balls up on to the fast and furious greens. However, he doesn't have enough experience to be my favorite to win. As for Tiger, if he does something as spectacular as what we saw today, he will win. I think, though, he will hang around even or +1 and finish in the top 5. Phil Mickelson will have to make a major move that I just don't see him doing.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Champions
The Chicago Blackhawks are Stanley Cup Champions for the first time in 49 years. Last night, they closed the series out with a thrilling 4-3 OT win against the Flyers of Philadelphia. After the Blackhawks took a 3-2 lead, it seemed they had all the momentum, but in the third period they seemed to begin to play defensively. This allowed the Flyers back in the game, as the puck spent almost all of the third period in Chicago's defensive zone. Despite Antti Niemi's unbelievable saves, the Flyers still were able to get a goal out of the multitude of shots taken. During the intermission, I remarked that Chicago had better start playing hockey again or the series would be headed back to Chicago. Sure enough, the Flyers came out and almost scored (not to mention give me a heart attack) on a turnover by the Blackhawks. Then, the game began to even, with puck movement from zone to zone by both, and Patrick Kane was able to slip one past Leighton, and the Blackhawks could finally celebrate around Niemi. Jonathan Toews, who again won almost all of his faceoffs last night, won the Conn Smythe Trophy for Playoff MVP, and Antti Niemi won the respect of any hockey critic, making countless unbelievable saves throughout their run. As for me, I got to see these champions work against Nashville, and trust me, they earned the Stanley Cup.
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