Sweet.
And he got the vote from 49/50 voters, making him an A+ Rookie of the Year. Love that kid.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Holmgren also done
As expected, Holmgren has taken his sabbatical from Seattle, making 8 coaching jobs that will have changed between 2008 and 2009. That's a full 1/4 of the league.
Apparently, Cowher is out for the Jets job. *phew*
Apparently, Cowher is out for the Jets job. *phew*
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
(Junior) Hockey Night in Canada
Tonight we (my dad, Louise, and I) went to see a Kitchener Rangers game. The Rangers are part of the Ontario Hockey League, which is for junior players (15-20 years old). Some get drafted to the NHL directly from junior, so it's a pretty big deal. The Rangers have been around since 1963 and the team is publicly owned by the season tickets holders, kind of like the Green Bay Packers. When I was growing up, I went to a good many Kitchener Ranger games and thought it would be fun to check it out again. In fact, one of my formative live sports experiences was seeing the Rangers play in 1990 against the Oshawa Generals (with Eric Lindros) for the Memorial Cup, a game that the Generals won in double overtime (jerks).
Anyway, last year the Rangers were very good -- in fact, they were tops in the OHL and went to the Memorial Cup. This year they are not, occupying second-last place in the OHL with 34 points. They were playing against the Brampton Battalion, a team with some pretty awful pea-green uniforms. However, the Battalion are fourth overall in the league with 46 points and I thought that it might be a trounce. Numerous friends also warned me that the Rangers this year suck.
Momentum, though, favored the Rangers and they won heartily, 6-1 with 5 unanswered goals in the second period after a 1-all tie in the first. There was an extended 5-minute powerplay in the second due to a check from behind from a Brampton player (he was ejected from the game). For fun, there was also a fight and apparently the player made 'obscene gestures' with both hands from the penalty box. He was 'benched' or more accurately, 'lockerroomed.' We missed the obscene gestures because we couldn't see the penalty box from our seats. At one point, though, the Ranger goalie iced the puck and swore loud enough for everyone at our end of the rink to hear.
Anyway, I have to say that the whole experience was enjoyable, particularly since we were at the end of the rink where the 5 unanswered goals were scored (as another plus, there was no 50 mph wind). The crowd was responsive, if not overly active, and a fun time was had by all -- except for the Brampton fans sitting ahead of us.
Player to watch for: C Matt Duchene (#9, Brampton Battalion) - he can stick-handle, pass, and skate. Plus he's 17 going on 18 in January AND chose a good hockey number.
Anyway, last year the Rangers were very good -- in fact, they were tops in the OHL and went to the Memorial Cup. This year they are not, occupying second-last place in the OHL with 34 points. They were playing against the Brampton Battalion, a team with some pretty awful pea-green uniforms. However, the Battalion are fourth overall in the league with 46 points and I thought that it might be a trounce. Numerous friends also warned me that the Rangers this year suck.
Momentum, though, favored the Rangers and they won heartily, 6-1 with 5 unanswered goals in the second period after a 1-all tie in the first. There was an extended 5-minute powerplay in the second due to a check from behind from a Brampton player (he was ejected from the game). For fun, there was also a fight and apparently the player made 'obscene gestures' with both hands from the penalty box. He was 'benched' or more accurately, 'lockerroomed.' We missed the obscene gestures because we couldn't see the penalty box from our seats. At one point, though, the Ranger goalie iced the puck and swore loud enough for everyone at our end of the rink to hear.
Anyway, I have to say that the whole experience was enjoyable, particularly since we were at the end of the rink where the 5 unanswered goals were scored (as another plus, there was no 50 mph wind). The crowd was responsive, if not overly active, and a fun time was had by all -- except for the Brampton fans sitting ahead of us.
Player to watch for: C Matt Duchene (#9, Brampton Battalion) - he can stick-handle, pass, and skate. Plus he's 17 going on 18 in January AND chose a good hockey number.
Coaching changes since the start of the 2008 season
Denver Broncos
Cleveland Browns
New York Jets
Detroit Lions
San Fransisco 49ers
Oakland Raiders
St. Louis Rams
One more and we will be at 25% of the league. Considering that Holmgren is apparently leaving and Dungy (although he's the Brett Favre of retiring coaches), this number is getting kind of crazy. Jauron is apparently safe, although the press notice made it pretty clear that he needs to shape up.
Craaaaaaaaaazy.
Cleveland Browns
New York Jets
Detroit Lions
San Fransisco 49ers
Oakland Raiders
St. Louis Rams
One more and we will be at 25% of the league. Considering that Holmgren is apparently leaving and Dungy (although he's the Brett Favre of retiring coaches), this number is getting kind of crazy. Jauron is apparently safe, although the press notice made it pretty clear that he needs to shape up.
Craaaaaaaaaazy.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Well obviously it was our fault in the end, but...
Here is a recap of the highlights (and lowlights) from the season, including a little 'karma is a bitch' and 'ha ha ha ha schadenfreude' thrown in for good measure.
I have to disagree, though, that Seau and Colvin were little more than ghosts of their former selves. They were contributors (which is sad, but there ya go) particularly once Bruschi was out of the picture. We need to improve the D for next year with strong players at all positions. There are some hold-overs and some veterans, but we need more backs and -- all together now -- we need corners!
Also, I need to say that I'm glad Richard Seymour is saying what I was thinking...having been beat by several of the playoff-bound teams (and not too certain of our chances against Baltimore), I have a feeling that any playoff run would have been truncated. Although I have faith that we could have beat the Colts this time around. Inglorious bastards.
I have to disagree, though, that Seau and Colvin were little more than ghosts of their former selves. They were contributors (which is sad, but there ya go) particularly once Bruschi was out of the picture. We need to improve the D for next year with strong players at all positions. There are some hold-overs and some veterans, but we need more backs and -- all together now -- we need corners!
Also, I need to say that I'm glad Richard Seymour is saying what I was thinking...having been beat by several of the playoff-bound teams (and not too certain of our chances against Baltimore), I have a feeling that any playoff run would have been truncated. Although I have faith that we could have beat the Colts this time around. Inglorious bastards.
What we learned from Mangini: a retrospective
1) If your kicker can make a field goal with room to spare, the kicker can probably make the same field goal from 5 yards back. It's at least worth a try.
2) It's 1st and goal and your quarterback is future Hall of Famer Brett Favre. What do you do? Next time, try letting him throw.
3) The problem is not always the quarterback. Maybe it's time to look deep inside and ask if the problem is the quarterback inside yourself.
4) Brett Favre, in this day and age, is no Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. Or, for that matter, no Chad Pennington.
5) It's 4th and 2 late in the 4th quarter. You are down by 7 points. What do you do? Maybe not a deep route (see #4).
6) Money cannot buy you happiness. Or championships. <-- how does someone in New York not know that lesson?
7) 'Roster depth' is a great idea. See #6.
To quote one beleaguered fan: 'What the hell is going on in Mangini's pee like brain.'
2) It's 1st and goal and your quarterback is future Hall of Famer Brett Favre. What do you do? Next time, try letting him throw.
3) The problem is not always the quarterback. Maybe it's time to look deep inside and ask if the problem is the quarterback inside yourself.
4) Brett Favre, in this day and age, is no Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. Or, for that matter, no Chad Pennington.
5) It's 4th and 2 late in the 4th quarter. You are down by 7 points. What do you do? Maybe not a deep route (see #4).
6) Money cannot buy you happiness. Or championships. <-- how does someone in New York not know that lesson?
7) 'Roster depth' is a great idea. See #6.
To quote one beleaguered fan: 'What the hell is going on in Mangini's pee like brain.'
Christmas came twice this year
No more Mangini!
I'm not sure that it's worth us missing the playoffs just to see Mangini fired. Although it might be.
I'm not sure that it's worth us missing the playoffs just to see Mangini fired. Although it might be.
Heath Evans on the plane ride back from Buffalo
"We were all watching. The plane has those little TV screens on it, so we saw our lovely Jets not helping us out."
Yup.
Yup.
Tom Brady behind schedule
This is baaaaaaaaaaaaaad.
I guess that we all have to hope that this report is wildly exaggerated, although that doesn't seem likely. So seems like we will be re-signing Cassel. Or something. Ick. Not a fabulous week for Patriots fans!
UPDATE: So apparently this story may not be true (for sinister reasons). Tom may only need teeny tiny quick surgery. Let's hope so.
I guess that we all have to hope that this report is wildly exaggerated, although that doesn't seem likely. So seems like we will be re-signing Cassel. Or something. Ick. Not a fabulous week for Patriots fans!
UPDATE: So apparently this story may not be true (for sinister reasons). Tom may only need teeny tiny quick surgery. Let's hope so.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The Game! Pats vs. Bills
Ever since I first looked at the 2008 NFL season (which was sometime back in, like, July or something), I noticed that the Pats were ending in Buffalo. I immediately got on the horn (okay, not really, my dad and Louise called) and said that we had to go to Buffalo to see the game. They responded enthusiastically, even though my father is not a Patriots fan. Crazy, I know --> he has been known to cheer covertly for the Red Sox, even once remarking that Manny needed to get a haircut.
So this morning bright and early (not too bright and early, a reasonable bright and early) we piled in the car and made a run for the border to go to Buffalo. Spirits were high, as was the wind. Many people joined us in the border crossing, probably partially due to football, but also partially due to the fact that I think this weekend is the Great Florida Migration, where grandparents, now sick of their children and children's children, hop back in the car and make the trek to the land of sun, high dew points, and shuffleboard. But I digress. The crossing went without incident, we found our way to the stadium with no problems, and parked in someone's yard for $15. There is a whole cottage industry of lawn parking around Ralph Wilson Stadium.
We tailgated, but in a healthy, vegetarian (they are, not me) way that included vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. Also, we chose to stand outside to tailgate, which was kind of dumb seeing as it was wicked windy and somewhat chilly.
Reiss reported that the wind was gusting between 35-55 mph, and I will believe it. The stadium is open, too, there is no place you can go to escape the cold, a design that seems kind of stupid because it's Buffalo, people.
Anyway, we had fun watching the kickers trying to kick into the wind (it didn't go well) during warm-ups, then watched what was kind of a slow first half where the Pats got one field goal. Buffalo missed one field goal. We then missed one field goal. Party time. It kind of cracked me up that the Bills fans seemed less interested in cheering for their team than they did in cheering against my team.
This is not to say that the Patriots were not well-represented in the crowd. Like most out of town sporting events, Patriot fans came from all over, wearing infinite jerseys, and cheering loud and proud for our Pats. Yet another reason that everyone hates us.
Excitement also included a fan running on the field (although he did not attack Junior Seau), the cheerleaders ('Buffalo Jills') dressed as Santas and probably freezing, and the Patriots, you know, winning a shut-out game 13-0. Yay! At which point we piled into the car, followed the heavy traffic, and came back home without incident. It was fabulous. And we were in perfect position to see the one and only touchdown.
For the first part of the game, Bill sported a puffy red number, which at some point he removed in favor of a blue jacket. I was just across the field and up a bunch of rows from the Patriots! Super, super exciting.
So this morning bright and early (not too bright and early, a reasonable bright and early) we piled in the car and made a run for the border to go to Buffalo. Spirits were high, as was the wind. Many people joined us in the border crossing, probably partially due to football, but also partially due to the fact that I think this weekend is the Great Florida Migration, where grandparents, now sick of their children and children's children, hop back in the car and make the trek to the land of sun, high dew points, and shuffleboard. But I digress. The crossing went without incident, we found our way to the stadium with no problems, and parked in someone's yard for $15. There is a whole cottage industry of lawn parking around Ralph Wilson Stadium.
We tailgated, but in a healthy, vegetarian (they are, not me) way that included vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. Also, we chose to stand outside to tailgate, which was kind of dumb seeing as it was wicked windy and somewhat chilly.
Reiss reported that the wind was gusting between 35-55 mph, and I will believe it. The stadium is open, too, there is no place you can go to escape the cold, a design that seems kind of stupid because it's Buffalo, people.
Anyway, we had fun watching the kickers trying to kick into the wind (it didn't go well) during warm-ups, then watched what was kind of a slow first half where the Pats got one field goal. Buffalo missed one field goal. We then missed one field goal. Party time. It kind of cracked me up that the Bills fans seemed less interested in cheering for their team than they did in cheering against my team.
This is not to say that the Patriots were not well-represented in the crowd. Like most out of town sporting events, Patriot fans came from all over, wearing infinite jerseys, and cheering loud and proud for our Pats. Yet another reason that everyone hates us.
Excitement also included a fan running on the field (although he did not attack Junior Seau), the cheerleaders ('Buffalo Jills') dressed as Santas and probably freezing, and the Patriots, you know, winning a shut-out game 13-0. Yay! At which point we piled into the car, followed the heavy traffic, and came back home without incident. It was fabulous. And we were in perfect position to see the one and only touchdown.
For the first part of the game, Bill sported a puffy red number, which at some point he removed in favor of a blue jacket. I was just across the field and up a bunch of rows from the Patriots! Super, super exciting.
Rusty Old Man Favre throws away our playoff hopes, karma is a bitch
So you probably know by now that the Miami Dolphins are the AFC East champions, primarily (but not exclusively) due to the fact that Favre freaking sucks. Three interceptions. Three. Three! I heard the game on the radio (while returning from my game) and come on! Three! And this man is a Pro Bowl QB, which is a bit like Britney Spears winning multiple MTV awards for 'Piece of Me.'
But I'm not going to lie: as someone on the anti-Mangini Train, I was, in a way, very pleased that of all QBs to beat them, they lost the final game to Pennington. This, to me, is a great story. He gets cast aside in a truly wretched manner by the Jets to bring in Favre, then has what has got to be a career-best year. So ha, ha. And that's the karma part of the post.
I still have lots to say about match-ups, football, and everything else. Not quite time for a full blog switch to hockey. Not quite.
And sometimes I do hate it when I'm right. Weeks ago, I said Miami had the best shot at the AFC East title. Boo me.
But I'm not going to lie: as someone on the anti-Mangini Train, I was, in a way, very pleased that of all QBs to beat them, they lost the final game to Pennington. This, to me, is a great story. He gets cast aside in a truly wretched manner by the Jets to bring in Favre, then has what has got to be a career-best year. So ha, ha. And that's the karma part of the post.
I still have lots to say about match-ups, football, and everything else. Not quite time for a full blog switch to hockey. Not quite.
And sometimes I do hate it when I'm right. Weeks ago, I said Miami had the best shot at the AFC East title. Boo me.
Off to Buffalo to see the Pats play! -- or -- What Not to Wear
In what is extreme excitement, I will be seeing the season finale live today! I wanted to share with the readership what it is that you wear to go to a football game in Buffalo in December:
Upper:
Sports bra
Layering piece (this is what they called it) from the 2006 Tufts 10k
Windproof jacket (supposedly good to 0 degrees)
Patriots hoodie (not BB-style)
Head of the Charles fleece (also somewhat windproof)
Large hat
Mitts
Also bringing: chapstick, moisturizer
Lower:
Underwear
Long underwear
Leggings (from crew)
Sweatpants
Thermal socks
Normal socks
Winter boots (which are surprisingly chic given the rest of the outfit)
It is currently not all that cold out, but it is super windy. Also, concerns that the temperature may drop to near 32 during the game if the low pressure system moves through.
Either way, YAY! Patriots! Live! Yes I'm bringing my camera!
Upper:
Sports bra
Layering piece (this is what they called it) from the 2006 Tufts 10k
Windproof jacket (supposedly good to 0 degrees)
Patriots hoodie (not BB-style)
Head of the Charles fleece (also somewhat windproof)
Large hat
Mitts
Also bringing: chapstick, moisturizer
Lower:
Underwear
Long underwear
Leggings (from crew)
Sweatpants
Thermal socks
Normal socks
Winter boots (which are surprisingly chic given the rest of the outfit)
It is currently not all that cold out, but it is super windy. Also, concerns that the temperature may drop to near 32 during the game if the low pressure system moves through.
Either way, YAY! Patriots! Live! Yes I'm bringing my camera!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Follow-up on Snow-Angel-Gate
The NFL has been nominated as the Grinch of the (sports) Year. Even over the New York Yankees. And it's all for the fine on Wes Welker (which came on Christmas Eve no less) for making that snow angel.
Mangini delusion, Cotchery to get many passes this week
So apparently Mangini is not worried about his job, despite what pretty much everyone else in the world is telling him. I think that this development is fabulous. I'm worried about Mangini's job, and I don't even like the guy.
And what is the deal with Cotchery giving all of these quotes about how awesome a coach Mangini is and how Favre isn't hurt? Favre himself has implied that he's hurt. There is something weird going on in the Meadowlands, I can tell you that much.
And what is the deal with Cotchery giving all of these quotes about how awesome a coach Mangini is and how Favre isn't hurt? Favre himself has implied that he's hurt. There is something weird going on in the Meadowlands, I can tell you that much.
Friday, December 26, 2008
I can't bring myself to congratulate them
Looks like I will have to be The Future Mrs. Tom Brady #2 now.
Brett Favre turns out to be Rusty, Old Man
The excuses for choking are coming out of Meadowlands already with the season not even over.
Apparently, Favre's shoulder has been giving him problems, leading him to reconsider whether he wants to come back for next season.
That's some good long-term planning, Mangenius.......especially because it's been seen before.
What I'm finding ironic here is that this situation is exactly what I hoped would happen at the start of the season, yet I actually need the Jets to bring it against Miami this weekend.
Apparently, Favre's shoulder has been giving him problems, leading him to reconsider whether he wants to come back for next season.
That's some good long-term planning, Mangenius.......especially because it's been seen before.
What I'm finding ironic here is that this situation is exactly what I hoped would happen at the start of the season, yet I actually need the Jets to bring it against Miami this weekend.
Matt Cassel on staying, going
Matt Cassel is being a very correct Patriot and speaking to the press in very correct ways about how he loves the organization and wouldn't want to go elsewhere, but realizes that that is virtually impossible.
There had been no word out of Foxborough about Tom Brady (as usual, they are remaining completely mum about it in fact), so it's unsure for the fans whether he will be ready to play next season or not.
Remember around 15 weeks ago when we all thought our season was over because Brady went down? It's amazing how far Cassel has come. If he does wind up going -- and I'm pretty sure that all Patriots fans would wish him the best -- he will be missed.
There had been no word out of Foxborough about Tom Brady (as usual, they are remaining completely mum about it in fact), so it's unsure for the fans whether he will be ready to play next season or not.
Remember around 15 weeks ago when we all thought our season was over because Brady went down? It's amazing how far Cassel has come. If he does wind up going -- and I'm pretty sure that all Patriots fans would wish him the best -- he will be missed.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
No Fun League
Wes Welker was fined $10 000 for making a snow angel on Sunday. The league rule states that you are not allowed to 'go to the ground' after a touchdown unless it is to pray.
They couldn't have just let him off with a warning? Come on!
They couldn't have just let him off with a warning? Come on!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Ellis Hobbs on how the Pats are playing their best football in December
"Most definitely - we're rolling the dice each weekend and we just keep hitting them. Now we need some other guys to crap out." This was from the post-game interviews.
I still can't say it. But let's see a Miami loss next weekend.
I still can't say it. But let's see a Miami loss next weekend.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Good news, everyone! (Seahawks beat Jets)
Start the Heimlich maneuver because the Jets are awfully close to choking. Several bizarre plays allowed the Seahawks to win 13-3. I think my favorite was when they snapped the ball late on the field goal attempt. Yet I also liked when instead of trying for the field goal on the next attempt (+5 yards), Mangini opted to punt instead. And let's not forget that late 4th and long call that resulted in naught -- actually, worse than naught, because the Seahawks went on to score a field goal and put the game away.
The sportscaster was even more unimpressed with Mangini's calls that I was, which takes a lot.
The dream is still alive. Barely. I can't bring myself to say 'Go Jets,' but I would prefer that they win next week against Miami.
The sportscaster was even more unimpressed with Mangini's calls that I was, which takes a lot.
The dream is still alive. Barely. I can't bring myself to say 'Go Jets,' but I would prefer that they win next week against Miami.
Pats annihilate Arizona, may not matter
Pats won. And did they ever. 47-7. Good game, great game, fantastic game.
But the Miami Dolphins won (despite the fact that KC actually gave them a run for their money). Currently it is 7-3 in Seattle for the Seahawks.
I am very vaguely daring to dream. But frankly, by this point, after so very many disappointments, the dream is faint.
But the Miami Dolphins won (despite the fact that KC actually gave them a run for their money). Currently it is 7-3 in Seattle for the Seahawks.
I am very vaguely daring to dream. But frankly, by this point, after so very many disappointments, the dream is faint.
The more optimistic way of looking at this situation
Remember the last time the Pats had a decent record (10-6) and didn't make the playoffs back in 2002?
Then remember what happened in 2003 and 2004?
Then remember what happened in 2003 and 2004?
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Baltimore beats Dallas
So the Patriots' playoff chances are looking grimmer after the Cowboys seriously blew their game against Baltimore tonight. Not one, but two long run TDs sealed the deal for the Ravens.
Fan reaction: 'This is what happens when you put your playoff hopes in the hands of J.P. Losman and Tony Romo.'
Fan reaction: 'This is what happens when you put your playoff hopes in the hands of J.P. Losman and Tony Romo.'
Teenagers condoning violence = unethical adults = Belichick = retake the GREs = you failed logic
The title of this article: 'U.S. Teens Portrayed as Violent, Unethical'
The gist: that 20% of U.S. teens (male) resorted to violence in the past year.
Much of the article: offering reasons that this data may not be all that relevant (teens are not fully developed mentally, they often act selfishly, people tend to lie on surveys).
How this will lead to an entire generation of Belichicks: 'Lastly, Miller worries not just about violence but that teens will carry their ethical relativism into adulthood. On that point he might be right: A lot of adults have lousy ethics. One need look no farther than the Wall Street Ponzi scheme of Bernard Madoff or the New England Patriots head football coach Bill Belichick's cheating last year for proof.'
Where is a 'rolling eye smiley' when you need one?
The gist: that 20% of U.S. teens (male) resorted to violence in the past year.
Much of the article: offering reasons that this data may not be all that relevant (teens are not fully developed mentally, they often act selfishly, people tend to lie on surveys).
How this will lead to an entire generation of Belichicks: 'Lastly, Miller worries not just about violence but that teens will carry their ethical relativism into adulthood. On that point he might be right: A lot of adults have lousy ethics. One need look no farther than the Wall Street Ponzi scheme of Bernard Madoff or the New England Patriots head football coach Bill Belichick's cheating last year for proof.'
Where is a 'rolling eye smiley' when you need one?
Blame Canada
Because I am currently in Canada, I cannot see the USF Bulls Bowl game via:
1) ESPN 2 (at home) because we have TSN (The Sports Network) instead of ESPN...even though they borrow shows from the American network. If you're wondering, TSN is currently broadcasting the PGA. Don't even ask me. I'm pretty sure that PGA season has not started yet, but I could be wrong on that point. Hey, it's not curling (figure skating just ended on CBC if you were curious).
2) ESPN 360, which is not available outside of the US
3) Florida radio, because it is not available in Canada. This point strikes me as particularly stupid because I can get Canadian radio in the States with no problem (and in fact, that is how I listen to most of my hockey games).
4) The local sports bar down the street because they don't have ESPN (they do have a subscription to the NHL Network)
5) The big sports bar down the road because currently I am vehicleless and about 5 miles away and it's -17 C out.
6) Yahoo Game Channel because apparently that only works on PCs. Come on!
My solution: Yahoo Box Score, which truly captures the kinetic excitement of football. Taken directly from the feed:
Wasn't that thrilling? Notice that USF did score at the end there. It's entirely possible that you missed it. They could at least put TOUCHDOWN or touchdown! or something.
Here's to hoping that they play a good first half and that I feel it is worthwhile to get to the local sports bar to see the second half.
UPDATE: I just discovered ESPN Gamecast. Much better. And compatible for stupid computers (aka Macs).
1) ESPN 2 (at home) because we have TSN (The Sports Network) instead of ESPN...even though they borrow shows from the American network. If you're wondering, TSN is currently broadcasting the PGA. Don't even ask me. I'm pretty sure that PGA season has not started yet, but I could be wrong on that point. Hey, it's not curling (figure skating just ended on CBC if you were curious).
2) ESPN 360, which is not available outside of the US
3) Florida radio, because it is not available in Canada. This point strikes me as particularly stupid because I can get Canadian radio in the States with no problem (and in fact, that is how I listen to most of my hockey games).
4) The local sports bar down the street because they don't have ESPN (they do have a subscription to the NHL Network)
5) The big sports bar down the road because currently I am vehicleless and about 5 miles away and it's -17 C out.
6) Yahoo Game Channel because apparently that only works on PCs. Come on!
My solution: Yahoo Box Score, which truly captures the kinetic excitement of football. Taken directly from the feed:
| 1st-10, Memp43 | A. Love rushed to the left for 5 yard gain |
| 2nd-5, Memp38 | M. Grothe passed to B. Williams to the right for 12 yard gain |
| 1st-10, Memp26 | M. Grothe passed to T. Johnson to the left for 26 yard touchdown |
Wasn't that thrilling? Notice that USF did score at the end there. It's entirely possible that you missed it. They could at least put TOUCHDOWN or touchdown! or something.
Here's to hoping that they play a good first half and that I feel it is worthwhile to get to the local sports bar to see the second half.
UPDATE: I just discovered ESPN Gamecast. Much better. And compatible for stupid computers (aka Macs).
Everyone misses you, Tom Brady
It's not just me.
Anyway, this article was not only to commemorate the fact that Everyone Loves Tom, but also that this year's NFL season has been kind of blah for some (those 'some' admitted to being Charger and Raider fans, which could be one reason). The playoff race has certainly been compelling as of late and I feel like I've seen some pretty good games. But most were agreed that life is just not the same with the dynasty-type Patriots -- love them or hate them, it is hard to stay neutral.
(Astute readers may also note that I have made an exception and read something on ESPN. However, it looks like ESPN 360 might be my only way to see the USF Bowl Game. Whoo).
Anyway, this article was not only to commemorate the fact that Everyone Loves Tom, but also that this year's NFL season has been kind of blah for some (those 'some' admitted to being Charger and Raider fans, which could be one reason). The playoff race has certainly been compelling as of late and I feel like I've seen some pretty good games. But most were agreed that life is just not the same with the dynasty-type Patriots -- love them or hate them, it is hard to stay neutral.
(Astute readers may also note that I have made an exception and read something on ESPN. However, it looks like ESPN 360 might be my only way to see the USF Bowl Game. Whoo).
Friday, December 19, 2008
Why there is no such thing as running up the score
I'm not even going to bother to comment about how if the Colts had played like they did against many teams last night, they wouldn't have won.
However, they did qualify for a wild card spot, meaning that the wild card picture stands pretty much as it did when I last posted about it. So if the Ravens, Dolphins, and Jets all win, then we are pretty much out of it (barring a tie by the Jets-Dolphins in the last game, which would be completely wild. But unlikely). Here is one last possible scenario:
'There's one final possibility here, albeit a very confusing one: If either the Jets or Dolphins lose their last two games; and if the Patriots lose to the Cardinals and beat the Bills; and if the Ravens beat the Cowboys and lose to the Jaguars; New England and Baltimore would have the same record (10-6), and the same record within the conference (7-5) -- which is the first tiebreaker in a wild card scenario since the teams did not face each other this season. Complicating matters is that, if our math is right, they would also be tied in the next tiebreaker -- record against common opponents. So that means it could come down to strength of victory.'
'Strength of victory' would mean that you want the most points possible, meaning that there is no such thing as running up the score. You may resume your business.
However, they did qualify for a wild card spot, meaning that the wild card picture stands pretty much as it did when I last posted about it. So if the Ravens, Dolphins, and Jets all win, then we are pretty much out of it (barring a tie by the Jets-Dolphins in the last game, which would be completely wild. But unlikely). Here is one last possible scenario:
'There's one final possibility here, albeit a very confusing one: If either the Jets or Dolphins lose their last two games; and if the Patriots lose to the Cardinals and beat the Bills; and if the Ravens beat the Cowboys and lose to the Jaguars; New England and Baltimore would have the same record (10-6), and the same record within the conference (7-5) -- which is the first tiebreaker in a wild card scenario since the teams did not face each other this season. Complicating matters is that, if our math is right, they would also be tied in the next tiebreaker -- record against common opponents. So that means it could come down to strength of victory.'
'Strength of victory' would mean that you want the most points possible, meaning that there is no such thing as running up the score. You may resume your business.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A Blog after my own heart
I think I've read The Hater Nation before, but had forgotten it. Anyway, this I liked a lot (although I disagree with the Ravens being the AFC team....but my mantra is 'Anything but the Jets', so that would be okay):
'Raven is my current pick to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Normally, you wouldn't pick a team with a rookie quarterback to win the conference. But look at some of the other quarterbacks on potential AFC playoff teams. Jay Cutler, Kerry Collins, Favre, Gomer, Cassel and Ben Roethlisberger (fantasy killer). Not a bad group, but we're not looking at Joe Montana, Troy Aikman and Bart Starr here, either. Not that you need one anymore. Just look at the last two Super Bowl MVPs.'
I don't think I need to refresh your memories on the MVPs from the last two Superbowls...
'Raven is my current pick to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Normally, you wouldn't pick a team with a rookie quarterback to win the conference. But look at some of the other quarterbacks on potential AFC playoff teams. Jay Cutler, Kerry Collins, Favre, Gomer, Cassel and Ben Roethlisberger (fantasy killer). Not a bad group, but we're not looking at Joe Montana, Troy Aikman and Bart Starr here, either. Not that you need one anymore. Just look at the last two Super Bowl MVPs.'
I don't think I need to refresh your memories on the MVPs from the last two Superbowls...
Greatest Moments in Sports (clearly compiled by a Boston-area hater)
Last night I was at a sports bar and chanced to see a collection of highlights from the 100 greatest moments in sports (or something like that). As soon as I saw that #5 was from Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, I was pretty sure what that was. But can you really call the Bill Buckner drop a 'great' moment in sports? What was great about it? Memorable, yes. Great, no.
Number 3 on the list was the Helmet Catch from last year's Superbowl shown multiple times in agonizing slow motion. They also showed -- in painful detail -- the 'Eli really should have been sacked' moment leading up to the Helmet Catch. Someone hates Boston.
Number 1 was the US Olympic hockey team's 1980 gold medal victory. Has the US somehow become jealous of the Paul Henderson goal? It seemed to me to be an odd #1 choice.
(In case you were wondering, 4 was a boxing match that I don't recall and 2 was Michael Phelps at the 2008 Olympics).
Number 3 on the list was the Helmet Catch from last year's Superbowl shown multiple times in agonizing slow motion. They also showed -- in painful detail -- the 'Eli really should have been sacked' moment leading up to the Helmet Catch. Someone hates Boston.
Number 1 was the US Olympic hockey team's 1980 gold medal victory. Has the US somehow become jealous of the Paul Henderson goal? It seemed to me to be an odd #1 choice.
(In case you were wondering, 4 was a boxing match that I don't recall and 2 was Michael Phelps at the 2008 Olympics).
This is how injured we are
Asterisk indicates a player on injury reserve (number is the number of games missed due to injury):
Quarterback
* Tom Brady -- 13
Offensive line
Nick Kaczur -- 2
Stephen Neal -- 5
Running back
Sammy Morris -- 3
*Laurence Maroney -- 11
Wide receiver
Sam Aiken -- 2
Tight end
Benjamin Watson -- 2
Defensive line
Ty Warren -- 3
Jarvis Green -- 2
Linebacker
Tedy Bruschi -- 1
*Adalius Thomas -- 5
*Pierre Woods -- 2
Cornerback
Lewis Sanders -- 5
*Terrence Wheatley -- 6
Safety
*Rodney Harrison -- 8
James Sanders -- 1
Yahoo has a headline story today on the front page about how the Pats could go 11-5 yet be snubbed for a playoff spot. Snubbed. What a difference a year makes.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Wetzel summarizes the Giants' problems
Since Plaxico shot himself, the Giants are 0-2. Here is Dan Wetzel on the reason:
'It turns out Burress didn’t just shoot himself in the leg Thanksgiving weekend. He may have shot the Giants’ entire season in the foot.'
Simple. Yet lovely.
'It turns out Burress didn’t just shoot himself in the leg Thanksgiving weekend. He may have shot the Giants’ entire season in the foot.'
Simple. Yet lovely.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Fan kicked out of Giants game for racy outfit
An important news update:
"Sondra Fortunato went to Giants Stadium last week wearing a Santa Claus outfit, a tiara, fishnet stockings, a bathing suit bottom and high-heeled boots."
The following was also reported:
"She insists nothing naughty was showing even though she’s “well-endowed.” As the middle-aged woman puts it, “You couldn’t even see my underwear.”"
And finally:
"Security escorted her out, saying signs and baggage weren’t allowed and telling her to cover up because there were children present. She figures other women “got jealous and complained.”"
If it winds up being a NY/NY Superbowl, this is what we have to look forward to. Combined with a multitude of Jets fans. Ewwwwwwwwwwwwww.
"Sondra Fortunato went to Giants Stadium last week wearing a Santa Claus outfit, a tiara, fishnet stockings, a bathing suit bottom and high-heeled boots."
The following was also reported:
"She insists nothing naughty was showing even though she’s “well-endowed.” As the middle-aged woman puts it, “You couldn’t even see my underwear.”"
And finally:
"Security escorted her out, saying signs and baggage weren’t allowed and telling her to cover up because there were children present. She figures other women “got jealous and complained.”"
If it winds up being a NY/NY Superbowl, this is what we have to look forward to. Combined with a multitude of Jets fans. Ewwwwwwwwwwwwww.
LaMont Jordan after the game
Comments from LaMont Jordan, former Oakland Raiders RB:
(on his performance against his former team)
"I prayed to the Lord this morning to please keep me humble, and not say too many negative things about Oakland."
(on his performance against his former team)
"I prayed to the Lord this morning to please keep me humble, and not say too many negative things about Oakland."
(on his thoughts about what is happening in Oakland)
"I'm going to say something you all probably haven't heard me say -- 'no comment.'"
Criticizing the officiating? That's a fine
A comment from Torry Holt of the St. Louis Rams on a call from their game yesterday against the Seattle Seahawks:
“He said he looked up in the Jumbotron and saw that I pushed off,” said Holt, who is in his 10th year with the Rams (2-12). “I told him I never extended my arm. It is one thing if you extended, because that is pass interference. But everything was in motion catching the football. I don’t even know if I had my hands on the guy.
“That was his explanation, and I told him it was a bad call.”
Expect a phone call any minute from the NFL.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Fill in the expletive
On Tennessee's loss today to Houston:
“Hopefully we’ll be up for the challenge and guys will come back from vacation,” linebacker Keith Bulluck said. “I think we were on vacation this week, knowing we got a bye and whatever other good stuff happened for us last week. But I know as a team we need to get our heads out of our (expletive) and come out and play football. Pittsburgh is playing for way more than us next week.”
“Hopefully we’ll be up for the challenge and guys will come back from vacation,” linebacker Keith Bulluck said. “I think we were on vacation this week, knowing we got a bye and whatever other good stuff happened for us last week. But I know as a team we need to get our heads out of our (expletive) and come out and play football. Pittsburgh is playing for way more than us next week.”
Yahoo Answers on NFL questions
Here's the question:
Do you ever feel pity for a friend because they are fans [sic] of an inferior NFL team?
Selected answers:
As a forty year die hard Chargers fan, I feel no pity at Raiders fans all over my town. I chuckle. But no pity. I feel safe in the knowledge that no matter how bad the Chargers play, however bad the officiating is...we're still better than the Raiders! hahahahahahahaha!
I am a Browns fan, I believe I am the one that is felt sorry for, not the other way around.
I'M A JETS FAN. IT'S BASICALLY HAS BEEN DOWNHILL SINCE SUPER BOWL III. SO I DON'T.
Do you ever feel pity for a friend because they are fans [sic] of an inferior NFL team?
Selected answers:
As a forty year die hard Chargers fan, I feel no pity at Raiders fans all over my town. I chuckle. But no pity. I feel safe in the knowledge that no matter how bad the Chargers play, however bad the officiating is...we're still better than the Raiders! hahahahahahahaha!
I am a Browns fan, I believe I am the one that is felt sorry for, not the other way around.
I'M A JETS FAN. IT'S BASICALLY HAS BEEN DOWNHILL SINCE SUPER BOWL III. SO I DON'T.
Lion Carnage
Here is how it all went horribly, horribly wrong.
“We weren’t as sharp as we’d like to be. We couldn’t make the plays we needed to put the game away, but it’s something we expected,” coach Tony Dungy said. “You obviously can’t mishandle two punts and give them short fields. Those are situations that usually get you beat.”
Yes, they should get you beat. But you are the 2008 Indianapolis Colts. You have barely beat several bad teams in a row now. How you do it, I don't know. But you may have observed that I have given up on hunting you down for a wild card spot, you lucky bastards.
Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit. This is all I have to say.
“We weren’t as sharp as we’d like to be. We couldn’t make the plays we needed to put the game away, but it’s something we expected,” coach Tony Dungy said. “You obviously can’t mishandle two punts and give them short fields. Those are situations that usually get you beat.”
Yes, they should get you beat. But you are the 2008 Indianapolis Colts. You have barely beat several bad teams in a row now. How you do it, I don't know. But you may have observed that I have given up on hunting you down for a wild card spot, you lucky bastards.
Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit. This is all I have to say.
49-26, final score in Oakland
Now before you Patrihaters start accusing us of something like running up the score, let me tell you: we did our best to lose this football game. The defense had holes like Swiss cheese in it. Our defenders have some serious bad weather issues (see: the Pittsburgh game). We need corners. Junior Seau and Roosevelt Colvin made their presence(s) felt today and it is just kind of sad when the old, rusty men are making themselves presence(s) on your team. Special teams allowed Oakland to return a kick-off for a touchdown (mind you, then Oakland did the exact same thing on the next play, which was nice of them). Bill threw the red flag on arguably silly plays that were upheld not once, but twice. The end of the game was likely the single longest 2:07 I have ever sat through.
We tried to lose, dammit, but we just couldn't do it. Oakland is seriously that bad.
Mind you, not many teams have lost to Oakland this year. The Jets do spring to mind...
We will have to do a lot better next week against the Cardinals or else Kurt Warner will tear up our secondary à la Chargers back in October. Have I mentioned that we need corners?
We tried to lose, dammit, but we just couldn't do it. Oakland is seriously that bad.
Mind you, not many teams have lost to Oakland this year. The Jets do spring to mind...
We will have to do a lot better next week against the Cardinals or else Kurt Warner will tear up our secondary à la Chargers back in October. Have I mentioned that we need corners?
Teams that are currently 9-5
New England Patriots
Baltimore Ravens (I cheered for the Steelers and yes, I feel a bit dirty now)
Miami Dolphins (so close, 49ers, and yet so far)
New York Jets (you are KILLING ME, Buffalo, for turning over the ball with a little over a minute to go, leading to the game-winning TD. Come on!)
...so theoretically, it is now not only a tie in the division, but also a tie for the last wild card spot.
Here's what I need to happen over the last two weeks:
Week 16
New England Patriots (10-5) beat Arizona Cardinals
Seattle Seahawks beat Jets (9-6) -- this is not likely. Or is it?
Miami Dolphins (10-5) beat Kansas City Chiefs
Dallas Cowboys beat Baltimore Ravens (9-6)
Week 17
New England Patriots (11-5) beat Buffalo Bills
New York Jets (10-6) beat Miami Dolphins (10-6)
Baltimore Ravens (10-6) beat Jacksonville Jaguars. Or not. I don't really care at this point.
Easy, right?
Incidentally, at one point today (at the start of the 4th quarter, in fact) Detroit was tied against Indy 21-21. Then, naturally, they lost.
Baltimore Ravens (I cheered for the Steelers and yes, I feel a bit dirty now)
Miami Dolphins (so close, 49ers, and yet so far)
New York Jets (you are KILLING ME, Buffalo, for turning over the ball with a little over a minute to go, leading to the game-winning TD. Come on!)
...so theoretically, it is now not only a tie in the division, but also a tie for the last wild card spot.
Here's what I need to happen over the last two weeks:
Week 16
New England Patriots (10-5) beat Arizona Cardinals
Seattle Seahawks beat Jets (9-6) -- this is not likely. Or is it?
Miami Dolphins (10-5) beat Kansas City Chiefs
Dallas Cowboys beat Baltimore Ravens (9-6)
Week 17
New England Patriots (11-5) beat Buffalo Bills
New York Jets (10-6) beat Miami Dolphins (10-6)
Baltimore Ravens (10-6) beat Jacksonville Jaguars. Or not. I don't really care at this point.
Easy, right?
Incidentally, at one point today (at the start of the 4th quarter, in fact) Detroit was tied against Indy 21-21. Then, naturally, they lost.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
From the team that brought you the manly kiss
You may not remember this, but on two separate occasions, Tom Brady manly kissed (on the cheek) Belichick last year after games early in the season/soon after Spygate. Bruschi did once as well.
Now I was not aware that football players could get away with saying the following to the media. Heath Evans commenting on the death of Matt Cassel's father:
"Maybe being around the guys might ease [things] a bit," said fullback Heath Evans. "I don't know that for a fact. I know I just kind of wanted to wrap my arms around him this morning and tell him I loved him. At this time, that's about the only thing you know to do. Hopefully, we can be of some encouragement to him and see how that helps him out."
I love it. And who doesn't love Matt Cassel, somewhere deep inside?
Now I was not aware that football players could get away with saying the following to the media. Heath Evans commenting on the death of Matt Cassel's father:
"Maybe being around the guys might ease [things] a bit," said fullback Heath Evans. "I don't know that for a fact. I know I just kind of wanted to wrap my arms around him this morning and tell him I loved him. At this time, that's about the only thing you know to do. Hopefully, we can be of some encouragement to him and see how that helps him out."
I love it. And who doesn't love Matt Cassel, somewhere deep inside?
Who didn't participate in full practice yesterday (courtesy Reiss)
The real question being, of course, who did participate in full practice yesterday. Matt Cassel's father passed away on Monday (sad), which is why he missed.
PATRIOTS
Did Not Participate in Practice
LB Tedy Bruschi (left knee) -- he's back in Boston
QB Matt Cassel (not injury related)
S James Sanders (abdomen)
OLB Pierre Woods (jaw)
Limited Participation in Practice
RB Kevin Faulk (not injury related)
CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder)
WR Randy Moss (not injury related)
OLB Vince Redd (ankle)
OLB Mike Vrabel (neck)
DE Ty Warren (groin)
WR Kelley Washington (thigh)
NT Vince Wilfork (shoulder)
Joe Sakic injured by snowblower
Joe Sakic, of the Colorado Avalanche, was injured while using his snowblower. He hurt his fingers. Sakic was already out with an injury at the time.
Joe Sakic. Now that is a blast from the past <-- get it?
Joe Sakic. Now that is a blast from the past <-- get it?
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
From Vegas, courtesy LoHud
It's the annual meeting for MLB Bigwigs where Stuff happens.
(Yes, this post is originally from a Yankee blog)
"Outside of the buffet, the longest line here is for general managers who want nothing to do with Manny Ramirez. Red Sox (obviously), Mets, Yankees, Giants and even the Angels, who said it would take some unusual series of events. Tigers? Nope. Rays? Too expensive. Blue Jays? No money."
(Yes, this post is originally from a Yankee blog)
"Outside of the buffet, the longest line here is for general managers who want nothing to do with Manny Ramirez. Red Sox (obviously), Mets, Yankees, Giants and even the Angels, who said it would take some unusual series of events. Tigers? Nope. Rays? Too expensive. Blue Jays? No money."
Monday, December 8, 2008
And now, a priceless pep talk from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell
"The real issue to me, is when the players feel they're unsafe, they shouldn't be there," Goodell said. "So get out, don't be there. If you feel the need to have a firearm to be someplace, you're in the wrong place."
Our chances at the playoffs? Slim to none
Here is a detailed list of what needs to happen for us to make the playoffs. The most realistic hope, in my opinion, is Baltimore losing against the NFC East, even though they played Washington last night and beat them. However, they still have several tough games remaining.
NFL.com is giving us better odds, noting that in some ways our schedule is the easiest (clearly Arizona is considered 'easy' by this standard, which I think is debatable).
It would be insanely helpful if the Bills could come up big against the Jets this weekend. Then Seattle do the same.
It's not over yet, but it's starting to inch its way closer to over.
NFL.com is giving us better odds, noting that in some ways our schedule is the easiest (clearly Arizona is considered 'easy' by this standard, which I think is debatable).
It would be insanely helpful if the Bills could come up big against the Jets this weekend. Then Seattle do the same.
It's not over yet, but it's starting to inch its way closer to over.
Daunte Culpepper injured
Daunte Culpepper went in for an MRI of his shoulder today. He will likely not go to Indianapolis to play/get destroyed by the Colts. Apparently QB #1, who has been injured with a wrist injury, may be ready to go.
So glad that the Pats went with Cassel!
So glad that the Pats went with Cassel!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Eric Mangini's To-Do List, December 8, 2008
1) Send resume to following organizations: Oakland, Kansas City, Detroit, Cincinnati, and Seattle
2) Work hard on not crying in front of Brett Favre. Brett never cries. Ever.
3) Watch tape. Tape of my cameo on The Sopranos. Realize that such a moment will never happen again.
4) Double-check to make sure teams got my resume. Try to find someone -- anyone -- to write me a recommendation.
5) Ponder whether it was worth selling my soul to beat Tennessee when there was a lot of football to go.
6) Put up new picture of Belichick on dart board.
7) Try to calculate how many more Pro Bowl acquisitions we can get this off-season.
8) Just End The Season....without blowing it....
2) Work hard on not crying in front of Brett Favre. Brett never cries. Ever.
3) Watch tape. Tape of my cameo on The Sopranos. Realize that such a moment will never happen again.
4) Double-check to make sure teams got my resume. Try to find someone -- anyone -- to write me a recommendation.
5) Ponder whether it was worth selling my soul to beat Tennessee when there was a lot of football to go.
6) Put up new picture of Belichick on dart board.
7) Try to calculate how many more Pro Bowl acquisitions we can get this off-season.
8) Just End The Season....without blowing it....
We won! Or did we?
24-21, final score for the Pats in Seattle. It was mostly a nail-biter. Deion Branch had a very good game and made us look kind of lousy at points. But I actually feel okay with that....I still miss him to be honest. Thank goodness I have him in my copy of Madden.
Wilfork, Bruschi, and Sanders were injured and did not return to the game. So maybe we chalk that up as an injury loss.
Who exactly are we putting on the field again? Will Bill be suiting up soon? I mean good grief, this has certainly been a season of injuries!
Wilfork, Bruschi, and Sanders were injured and did not return to the game. So maybe we chalk that up as an injury loss.
Who exactly are we putting on the field again? Will Bill be suiting up soon? I mean good grief, this has certainly been a season of injuries!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Maybe another signing?
Junior Seau is reportedly at Foxborough today.
It's starting to be like a reunion.
It's starting to be like a reunion.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
State of arbitration
This article by Jeff Passan documents how teams have handled arbitration this year. The Red Sox have extended to Varitek and Byrd, which means that any team that takes them will need to give up draft picks to do so.
Passan also notes: 'The Yankees scrimping. This really is a recession.'
Passan also notes: 'The Yankees scrimping. This really is a recession.'
Wes Welker is A-OK
He is at practice and even talked to the press about the hit. *phew*
And Roosevelt Colvin has taken #95. His #59 is being worn by Guyton. His interview seemed good.
And Roosevelt Colvin has taken #95. His #59 is being worn by Guyton. His interview seemed good.
Reiss has it in for O'Neal
And rightly so.
In an article that investigates just how dreadful our third and long defense has been this year (dreadful), blame goes generally to the defense and specifically to the secondary.
One fan points out, though, that the more we wind up sucking in the end, the better our draft picks. I think I'd rather leave that kind of arbitration to Bill & Co though. However, I think that we are all agreed: the time has come to revamp the D.
In an article that investigates just how dreadful our third and long defense has been this year (dreadful), blame goes generally to the defense and specifically to the secondary.
One fan points out, though, that the more we wind up sucking in the end, the better our draft picks. I think I'd rather leave that kind of arbitration to Bill & Co though. However, I think that we are all agreed: the time has come to revamp the D.
More signings
The Red Sox announced that they have signed Dustin Pedroia to a 6 year deal worth ca. 40M.
And just two years after that, I can get my ticket to see the Bucs play the Pats in Tampa....
And just two years after that, I can get my ticket to see the Bucs play the Pats in Tampa....
Signings
The Pats just signed Roosevelt Colvin to bolster the defense. I literally cheered. They are also apparently talking to Victor Hobson for the same reason.
Junichi Tazawa will most likely sign with the Red Sox today. He is 22, Japanese, and decided to go straight to the MLB instead of playing professionally in Japan. If it turns out well, we've got a steal. If not, meh.
Junichi Tazawa will most likely sign with the Red Sox today. He is 22, Japanese, and decided to go straight to the MLB instead of playing professionally in Japan. If it turns out well, we've got a steal. If not, meh.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Reiss's Mailbag, the NFL hates me
According to Reiss's Mailbag this week, Deltha O'Neal sucks. In related news, we desperately need corners. I don't think anyone will disagree with either sentiment.
The Patriots will be playing against the Jacksonville Jaguars next year. In New England. Grr. At this rate, undoubtedly they will be playing Miami some weekend when I need to be elsewhere.
The Patriots will be playing against the Jacksonville Jaguars next year. In New England. Grr. At this rate, undoubtedly they will be playing Miami some weekend when I need to be elsewhere.
Monday, December 1, 2008
The players respond to the news of a London game
"I don't really want to go to London if I didn't have to, but I guess if we have to we have to," said left guard Logan Mankins.
Patriots fans comment on the London game vs. the Bucs
"Anyone know any bars in London that will be showing the Sox in the Series that night?" Posted by Sean on Reiss's blog comments.
Next season's international games announced
The Pats will be playing Tampa Bay in London next year.
Are. You. Kidding. Me.
I wanted to go to that game. London is much further away than Raymond James (which is about 5 miles from my house).
ARGH!
Now you are just messing with me, NFL.
Are. You. Kidding. Me.
I wanted to go to that game. London is much further away than Raymond James (which is about 5 miles from my house).
ARGH!
Now you are just messing with me, NFL.
Boston.com playoff discussion
Bob Ryan thinks we're still making the playoffs.
60% of Pats fans don't.
I admittedly voted with the 60% of Pats fans. But I have found my peace. And I still love them. Let's hope for a great end to the season!
60% of Pats fans don't.
I admittedly voted with the 60% of Pats fans. But I have found my peace. And I still love them. Let's hope for a great end to the season!
Michael Silver's column
So usually Michael Silver drives me nuts (he was the guy to print the reasons we all hate Tom Brady last season....), but this morning, I actually liked his column. He broke down why the Chargers are so terrible this year (two words: Norv. Turner.). He appealed to Roger Goodell to get rid of Detroit on Thanksgiving and schedule instead Pats vs. Colts (I am pro, or HELL YEAH as Silver's rant ended). He even didn't have the previous feature of him picking apart grammar/spelling from people writing in, which seemed a bit dumb seeing as these are football fans, not Ph.D. candidates (or as they would call them in Russian, aspirants).
However, what got me thinking was his comment about how this year, the two dominant teams in the AFC are the Steelers and Titans. And suddenly, I felt okay about this fact. I don't know why. I guess because they have both really earned these titles. They are two franchises working hard. For some reason, my hatred of Big Ben has subsided. Pittsburgh's defense is fantastic, while the Titans overall are playing very well (except in that game against the Jets, but in a way that was good because it thwarted a potential 16-0...plus I remain convinced Mangini sold his soul for that game, which was a BAD CALL because there is still a lot of football to go). Suddenly, my world is brighter, there are birds singing outside (literally), and I feel okay.
The two dominant teams this year are the Steelers and Titans. They have earned this honor.
The Pats may not make the playoffs (unless my soul-selling scenario is correct and the Jets tank). The Colts probably will, but will hopefully exit early. And the AFC Championship Game might be pretty darned good this year.
On the flip side, if the AFC Championship game pits the Colts vs. Jets, then I may have to give up. Not only would I be unable to choose sides, but either one would likely lead to my two Superbowl nightmares (Manning vs. Manning/NY, NY). So go Titans and/or Steelers!
However, what got me thinking was his comment about how this year, the two dominant teams in the AFC are the Steelers and Titans. And suddenly, I felt okay about this fact. I don't know why. I guess because they have both really earned these titles. They are two franchises working hard. For some reason, my hatred of Big Ben has subsided. Pittsburgh's defense is fantastic, while the Titans overall are playing very well (except in that game against the Jets, but in a way that was good because it thwarted a potential 16-0...plus I remain convinced Mangini sold his soul for that game, which was a BAD CALL because there is still a lot of football to go). Suddenly, my world is brighter, there are birds singing outside (literally), and I feel okay.
The two dominant teams this year are the Steelers and Titans. They have earned this honor.
The Pats may not make the playoffs (unless my soul-selling scenario is correct and the Jets tank). The Colts probably will, but will hopefully exit early. And the AFC Championship Game might be pretty darned good this year.
On the flip side, if the AFC Championship game pits the Colts vs. Jets, then I may have to give up. Not only would I be unable to choose sides, but either one would likely lead to my two Superbowl nightmares (Manning vs. Manning/NY, NY). So go Titans and/or Steelers!
Recovering from yesterday's slaughter
I am still concerned about Wes Welker, so far on patriots.com, nfl.com and Reiss, there are no updates.
One of the members of our Patriots meet-up group here in Tampa pointed out yesterday that we are playing our B-team, yet still managing to be a threat. This is a guy who is a long-time committed fan (he even reminded us all that in 1991, the Patriots won 1 game). In fact, he seemed downright cheerful at the end of the game, unlike the rest of the table. I don't know if I've quite reached this level of acceptance, but it's a valid point.
For anyone talking about trading Tom and keeping Cassel...you're nuts, right? For the most part, Cassel did well, but not great. It's possible that in those conditions, Tom only would have done well. However, we've all seen him be great. More blame, though, still goes on the receivers (particularly Randy Moss) who did not seem capable of holding on to the ball at all.
The post-game quotes were appropriately contrite. Reiss is also reminding us that from here on, the schedule gets easier.
One of the members of our Patriots meet-up group here in Tampa pointed out yesterday that we are playing our B-team, yet still managing to be a threat. This is a guy who is a long-time committed fan (he even reminded us all that in 1991, the Patriots won 1 game). In fact, he seemed downright cheerful at the end of the game, unlike the rest of the table. I don't know if I've quite reached this level of acceptance, but it's a valid point.
For anyone talking about trading Tom and keeping Cassel...you're nuts, right? For the most part, Cassel did well, but not great. It's possible that in those conditions, Tom only would have done well. However, we've all seen him be great. More blame, though, still goes on the receivers (particularly Randy Moss) who did not seem capable of holding on to the ball at all.
The post-game quotes were appropriately contrite. Reiss is also reminding us that from here on, the schedule gets easier.
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