Whew. If you didn't watch the Marquette-St. John's slugfest last night, you missed a buzzer-beater by Small Forward Jimmy Butler to win it for the Warriors in overtime. I have to confess something to all of my fans on Chuck's Corner: I completely forgot about the game until I looked on Twitter to find Cracked Sidewalks, a Marquette blog tweeting about the game. My excuse is I had a test the next day so I was completely lost in the books and needed a break then realized MU was playing.
I would like to tell you why I think the Golden Eagles are doing so well right now, my Twitter page. If you follow me @chuckscorner, you will see that I tweet about 5-8 times during the game and they always seem to come out as victories for Marquette. So for you that do not tweet, I feel that I should share with you those tweets. I never am satisfied, always angry or concerned. It just seems to be that way, here we go...
"The blue jerseys plus my blog post equals all the possibilities for a bad night for MU. Ugly start not good at all"- Honestly, breaking the baby blue curse was a great subplot to the whole buzzer-beating evening. I am so glad we can now wear those uniforms with confidence. Also I seem to jinx the team after praising them on the blog.
"This MU game is as ugly as a Milwaukee 2 at the local bars. Just bad basketball"- I stand by that, it was like that fat girl who thinks she is the hottest thing in the bar and just ruins it for everyone. That's how I felt about watching the Marquette game on Wednesday night.
"Worry level is at a 7 right now, i feel there is no answer for Zar and he needs to get the ball alot in the second half "- Down four at half, I thought if Lazar Hayward stayed in the game, they would win going away. But there was still concern because Zar tends to be a dumbass on the defense.
"Lazar has the record in MU history of most dumb fouls."- Like I said, he is a dumbass. I love him as an offensive threat but he makes horrible decisions with silly hacks.
"How is MU losing to a team that cannot hit a wide open layup. That has to be number one on not top 10."- Just an awful miss, he jumped way too early and totally biffed the lay-up, complete game changer. I think the Red Storm didn't make a shot after that for like three minutes.
"My worried level moved to 9"- At this point, I thought we lost. It was right before Mo Acker came up with a huge three, I would give him more credit but he missed a big one and one down the stretch.
"Yup that asshole whose hit six threes all year would hit one in the corner"- Never fails in a close game that the guy who hasn't hit many threes, drills the big three. This guy was wide open in the corner and just drilled the three to send us to overtime.
JIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIMMMMMMMMY BUUUUUTTTTTLLLEEEEEER!!!!!- Nothing more needs to be said.
So big game again at Seton Hall on Sunday and I played the Pirates in NCAA Basketball 10 last night, half-drunk. Lost by 1, Hazell had 34... Needless to say I am bit worried.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
5 Places LDT Takes His Slide
I am trying a new thing here on Chuck's Corner. I want to be involved more with the NFL/NBA/MLB Free Agency and I like to be right about things so I am doing the "5 Places" game with certain players. This week, it's LaDainian Tomlinson and Julius Peppers. Once I know Brandon Marshall of the Denver Broncos will be dealt, I will probably include him too. I didn't add Brian Westbrook because I feel he has nothing left in the tank compared to LDT. I think Tomlinson could be a number one for a bad team and a great second option for a good team, making them a great team.
a.) New Orleans Saints- The King of New Orleans' Drew Brees has been publicly campagining on his Twitter account to get Tomlinson back as a teammate and right now, I think Brees can really do whatever he wants. Although, LDT is a bigger, older version of Reggie Bush who let me add is owed a bunch of money this year so if Tomlinson there, it means Mr. Kim Kardashian is somewhere else. Odds: 40 to 1
b.) Minnesota Vikings- This has been another team whose talking heads have been talking about the prospects of bringing in Tomlinson to convince Brett Favre to play another season with the Vikes. I think the combination of Peterson-Tomlinson is Super Bowl good but honestly, I could see them bringing in a guy like Westbrook who knows the Chris Hanson Predator Watchlist's own Brad Childress' offense. I have a hard time seeing this happen. Odds: 100 to 1
c.) New England Patriots- I think this is too easy of an option, I mean the Pats have been known in the past to bring in old running backs (see Corey Dillon, Fred Taylor) in hopes that they have something left. Dillon helped them win a Super Bowl and Taylor was well... Fragile Freddy again. They could use a running back to complement Quarterback Tom Brady and LDT would work out with the Pats' short passing offense. Odds 7 to 1
d.) Seattle Seahawks- This is probably one you might not have expected but think about it, Pete Carroll has always used his running back in the passing game throughout the years at USC. LDT is a carefree type of a guy who would totally buy into Carroll's relaxed atmosphere and the Seahawks need to make a splash for their fans because let's face it they play in the "WNBA of divisions". They can win the division with a couple moves. Odds 10 to 1
e.) Green Bay Packers- People have been campaigining for this to happen, but let me tell you I HATE the offseason for the Packers is always about "hey this guy would be good or this guy would be the difference." It never fails, every year this happens. I think LDT would be a nice addition to the Packers, but I did like Brandon Jackson's production at the end of the year. Who knows maybe this will be year that Ted Thompson decides to do something in the offseason. Odds 50 to 1
-Charlie.
a.) New Orleans Saints- The King of New Orleans' Drew Brees has been publicly campagining on his Twitter account to get Tomlinson back as a teammate and right now, I think Brees can really do whatever he wants. Although, LDT is a bigger, older version of Reggie Bush who let me add is owed a bunch of money this year so if Tomlinson there, it means Mr. Kim Kardashian is somewhere else. Odds: 40 to 1
b.) Minnesota Vikings- This has been another team whose talking heads have been talking about the prospects of bringing in Tomlinson to convince Brett Favre to play another season with the Vikes. I think the combination of Peterson-Tomlinson is Super Bowl good but honestly, I could see them bringing in a guy like Westbrook who knows the Chris Hanson Predator Watchlist's own Brad Childress' offense. I have a hard time seeing this happen. Odds: 100 to 1
c.) New England Patriots- I think this is too easy of an option, I mean the Pats have been known in the past to bring in old running backs (see Corey Dillon, Fred Taylor) in hopes that they have something left. Dillon helped them win a Super Bowl and Taylor was well... Fragile Freddy again. They could use a running back to complement Quarterback Tom Brady and LDT would work out with the Pats' short passing offense. Odds 7 to 1
d.) Seattle Seahawks- This is probably one you might not have expected but think about it, Pete Carroll has always used his running back in the passing game throughout the years at USC. LDT is a carefree type of a guy who would totally buy into Carroll's relaxed atmosphere and the Seahawks need to make a splash for their fans because let's face it they play in the "WNBA of divisions". They can win the division with a couple moves. Odds 10 to 1
e.) Green Bay Packers- People have been campaigining for this to happen, but let me tell you I HATE the offseason for the Packers is always about "hey this guy would be good or this guy would be the difference." It never fails, every year this happens. I think LDT would be a nice addition to the Packers, but I did like Brandon Jackson's production at the end of the year. Who knows maybe this will be year that Ted Thompson decides to do something in the offseason. Odds 50 to 1
-Charlie.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Is Kansas on 05 Carolina Level?
I personally feel like we are seeing something special right now in college basketball right now. Something that only comes around every couple years, a team that is just too damn good for anyone to beat. I believe that team is the Kansas Jayhawks.
I think the Jayhawks are a special team this year because they have the combination of what it takes to win a championship in one team. They have the seniors, the big men, the deep bench, hit free throws, shoot three pointers and a great point guard. I cannot find one flaw in the Jayhawks' game and if you can, please comment on the post below.
The first big reason why I think the Jayhawks are that good is point guard Sheron Collins. He is an absolute stud for Kansas and your classic example of the stubby point guard who will not probably play in the NBA (see Khalid El-Ahim, Trajan Langdon, or Levance Fields). The other thing Collins does so well if he is very clutch and lives in the big moment every time the game is close.
Another reason why is Cole Aldrich is not your typical white guy in the middle. He can bang with anyone in the league and he can run the court with any team. Yes, even Kentucky. There are not many teams that could compete with Aldrich in the middle. He presents a challenge for any team in America and also I think he needs to find a replacement for his tooth because that shit is getting ridiculous.
The bench is probably the biggest reason why I think they might be on that Carolina level. If you remember, the Tar Heels that year had probably the deepest team since the early 2000s Duke teams. You have guys like Xavier Henry, the Morris brothers, Tyshawn Taylor (screw him too, could be a Golden Eagle right now starting but whatever), Brady Morningstar, and Tyrel Reed. They all could probably put up 10 a game for most teams in Division 1 basketball right now.
Finally, looking at Kansas' bracket right now according to bracketologist Joe Lunardi they probably face Michigan State in the Sweet 16 right now and if you listen to resident Spartan fan, Eric he would tell you this will be a blow out for the Jayhawks. I think they play Vanderbilt in the Elite Eight and A.J. Oglivy would be a problem with Aldrich plus they can shoot threes, that would be a problem. I have no idea who they see in the Final Four or National Championship maybe Kentucky who obviously provides problems with the inside presence of DeMarcus Cousins plus John Wall, nothing else needs to be said.
Kansas isn't my pick to win it all because a lot could happened in the coming weeks so who knows who my pick will be for the National Championship starting in March 18th
-Charlie.
I think the Jayhawks are a special team this year because they have the combination of what it takes to win a championship in one team. They have the seniors, the big men, the deep bench, hit free throws, shoot three pointers and a great point guard. I cannot find one flaw in the Jayhawks' game and if you can, please comment on the post below.
The first big reason why I think the Jayhawks are that good is point guard Sheron Collins. He is an absolute stud for Kansas and your classic example of the stubby point guard who will not probably play in the NBA (see Khalid El-Ahim, Trajan Langdon, or Levance Fields). The other thing Collins does so well if he is very clutch and lives in the big moment every time the game is close.
Another reason why is Cole Aldrich is not your typical white guy in the middle. He can bang with anyone in the league and he can run the court with any team. Yes, even Kentucky. There are not many teams that could compete with Aldrich in the middle. He presents a challenge for any team in America and also I think he needs to find a replacement for his tooth because that shit is getting ridiculous.
The bench is probably the biggest reason why I think they might be on that Carolina level. If you remember, the Tar Heels that year had probably the deepest team since the early 2000s Duke teams. You have guys like Xavier Henry, the Morris brothers, Tyshawn Taylor (screw him too, could be a Golden Eagle right now starting but whatever), Brady Morningstar, and Tyrel Reed. They all could probably put up 10 a game for most teams in Division 1 basketball right now.
Finally, looking at Kansas' bracket right now according to bracketologist Joe Lunardi they probably face Michigan State in the Sweet 16 right now and if you listen to resident Spartan fan, Eric he would tell you this will be a blow out for the Jayhawks. I think they play Vanderbilt in the Elite Eight and A.J. Oglivy would be a problem with Aldrich plus they can shoot threes, that would be a problem. I have no idea who they see in the Final Four or National Championship maybe Kentucky who obviously provides problems with the inside presence of DeMarcus Cousins plus John Wall, nothing else needs to be said.
Kansas isn't my pick to win it all because a lot could happened in the coming weeks so who knows who my pick will be for the National Championship starting in March 18th
-Charlie.
A Bubble Mindset
I cannot begin to tell you how exciting the past three weeks have been for me in terms of college basketball. Every Marquette game is the most meaningful game of the season and it continues every game with the Warriors flirting with the bubble every week.
The last four years I haven't had to worry about making the NCAA Tournament because the Big 3 of Dominic James, Jerel McNeal, and Wesley Matthews. It was almost expected that Marquette would make the tournament with those guys and had it not been for James' injury last season, I personally believe that Marquette would have been 3 or 4 seed.
The new bubble thinking leads to me almost having a heart attack every game. It seems like every game is close in the past two months and only the South Florida game last Saturday was the only one that seemed easy for the Golden Eagles. Other than that, I am pulling out my hair, yelling at the computer/TV, and bitching about different players. Even though, anything can happen in those games I personally like those games because they are exciting. I never know what it will bring and yes, there is the chance Marquette could fall flat on their faces.
To add to the close games, have anyone else realized how much more comfortable Marquette feels in late games? If you forgot, they seemed to shit the bed every time it got close the early part of January (see: Villanova (X2), West Virginia, DePaul) This also led for me to write this disappointed post and at the end, I thought the close wins might not even come. Then add the road game against UConn, and Providence, I feel Marquette figured it out in the late portions of the game. In addition, Marquette looked dead in the water against Cincinnati on the road with some very poor possessions late in the game pulled that win out of nowhere in overtime.
With all of this being said, I hope Marquette doesn't lay an egg against St. Johns but like I said early with being a bubble team, it means that everything in a game can happen.
-Charlie.
The last four years I haven't had to worry about making the NCAA Tournament because the Big 3 of Dominic James, Jerel McNeal, and Wesley Matthews. It was almost expected that Marquette would make the tournament with those guys and had it not been for James' injury last season, I personally believe that Marquette would have been 3 or 4 seed.
The new bubble thinking leads to me almost having a heart attack every game. It seems like every game is close in the past two months and only the South Florida game last Saturday was the only one that seemed easy for the Golden Eagles. Other than that, I am pulling out my hair, yelling at the computer/TV, and bitching about different players. Even though, anything can happen in those games I personally like those games because they are exciting. I never know what it will bring and yes, there is the chance Marquette could fall flat on their faces.
To add to the close games, have anyone else realized how much more comfortable Marquette feels in late games? If you forgot, they seemed to shit the bed every time it got close the early part of January (see: Villanova (X2), West Virginia, DePaul) This also led for me to write this disappointed post and at the end, I thought the close wins might not even come. Then add the road game against UConn, and Providence, I feel Marquette figured it out in the late portions of the game. In addition, Marquette looked dead in the water against Cincinnati on the road with some very poor possessions late in the game pulled that win out of nowhere in overtime.
With all of this being said, I hope Marquette doesn't lay an egg against St. Johns but like I said early with being a bubble team, it means that everything in a game can happen.
-Charlie.
USA USA USA
The Olympics needed a story. Sure the medal count of the USA was as impressive as the drinking the house of 223 Broadway is going to do this weekend but the real story is the US Men's Hockey Team. Now, I do not know much about hockey so I will try my best to write about them as much as possible.
You probably will not believe me, but I thought the US Hockey had the Bill Simmons' theory "Nobody Believes In Us theory." I thought the hockey team featured no stars and they were the enemies going into Vancouver, Canada. There was absolutely no pressure on the team and they are playing like it right now. Ryan Miller, the goalie of the US Hockey team has been awesome so far and I knew Miller was an awesome player for the Buffalo Sabres. Miller is the MVP so far even more so than Brian Rafelski who has 5 goals right now I believe. The United States will go as far as Miller will go.
Do I think the US can win the gold? Yes BUT I am worried they might not be able to get it done with the power of Russia standing in their way. The Russians are damn good and I think they will be waiting for the United States in the gold medal game if the US gets past Switzerland and Finland/Czech Republic. I feel the Russians with Alexander Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, and Ilya Kovalchuk is a dominate force of offense players and in my opinion is the best team left.
I will still be cheering my country on strong and I hope you do too. Also NBC continues their 2010 year of Epic Fail with not putting this on NBC HD.
-Charlie.
You probably will not believe me, but I thought the US Hockey had the Bill Simmons' theory "Nobody Believes In Us theory." I thought the hockey team featured no stars and they were the enemies going into Vancouver, Canada. There was absolutely no pressure on the team and they are playing like it right now. Ryan Miller, the goalie of the US Hockey team has been awesome so far and I knew Miller was an awesome player for the Buffalo Sabres. Miller is the MVP so far even more so than Brian Rafelski who has 5 goals right now I believe. The United States will go as far as Miller will go.
Do I think the US can win the gold? Yes BUT I am worried they might not be able to get it done with the power of Russia standing in their way. The Russians are damn good and I think they will be waiting for the United States in the gold medal game if the US gets past Switzerland and Finland/Czech Republic. I feel the Russians with Alexander Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, and Ilya Kovalchuk is a dominate force of offense players and in my opinion is the best team left.
I will still be cheering my country on strong and I hope you do too. Also NBC continues their 2010 year of Epic Fail with not putting this on NBC HD.
-Charlie.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Top Five: Favorite Professional Wrestlers/Tag Teams
Some of you watched professional wrestling or better know in my world as WWE. I watched it religously twice a week and sometimes even three times a week. Now, the last two years I have been reeled back in thanks to various people and watched it mostly in Tosa although if I flip through channels on Monday, Raw might stay on.
1. Stone Cold Steve Austin- The Rattlesnake was the man. Simple as that, I loved everything about him at the tender age of 10. I think it led to some rebelling as a kid because I saw Stone Cold not giving a f.. about anything and doing what he wanted when he wanted. Story to share, I wasn't the only one who loved Stone Cold.. My friend Doz would go out to his backyard turn on the theme music and slam two root beers like he was Stone Cold. If only we had video of this, my goal for the summer is to have him do it with beer of course.
2. Shawn Michaels- The Heartbreak Kid was my original favorite wrestler. The first wrestler who I liked as a small kid. I really do not know why I liked him so much, likely it probably had do with the fact he was the best at the time I started watching wrestling. I got pulled back into wrestling because I witnessed the reunion of DeGeneration X with Triple H. Sweet Chin Music is a top five finisher as well, it's no stunner but still a great move.
3. New Age Outlaws- All time favorite tag-team. I can still sing about half of the entrance song.... OOOOOHHH YOU DIDN'T KNOW?! YOUR ASS BETTER CALL SOMEBODY!!!!!! I love the Outlaws, they were so cool and worked well as a team. Also a part of DX, which added to the aspect of their coolness. Bigger fan of the Road Dogg, then Bad Ass Billy Gunn because I believe he was white with dreads, something I didn't know was possible.
4. Hardy Boyz- Another Tag Team makes the list because after the New Age Outlaws, there were the Hardy Boyz. In general, everybody loved this tag-team. The reason is because they did the craziest shit in the wrestling ring. I still love Jeff Hardy who I believe he is back on the nose candy but yes, someday I will try a swanton bomb.
5. John Cena- I could put anyone in here but the reason why it's Cena. I have a friend The Burner who one day during on Monday Night Raw events one day came in super hot with jean shorts on with Cena's music on his mini-boom box doing the whole beginning of Cena's entrance. It was as awesome as I am describing it. So funny, kudos to him.
-Charlie.
1. Stone Cold Steve Austin- The Rattlesnake was the man. Simple as that, I loved everything about him at the tender age of 10. I think it led to some rebelling as a kid because I saw Stone Cold not giving a f.. about anything and doing what he wanted when he wanted. Story to share, I wasn't the only one who loved Stone Cold.. My friend Doz would go out to his backyard turn on the theme music and slam two root beers like he was Stone Cold. If only we had video of this, my goal for the summer is to have him do it with beer of course.
2. Shawn Michaels- The Heartbreak Kid was my original favorite wrestler. The first wrestler who I liked as a small kid. I really do not know why I liked him so much, likely it probably had do with the fact he was the best at the time I started watching wrestling. I got pulled back into wrestling because I witnessed the reunion of DeGeneration X with Triple H. Sweet Chin Music is a top five finisher as well, it's no stunner but still a great move.
3. New Age Outlaws- All time favorite tag-team. I can still sing about half of the entrance song.... OOOOOHHH YOU DIDN'T KNOW?! YOUR ASS BETTER CALL SOMEBODY!!!!!! I love the Outlaws, they were so cool and worked well as a team. Also a part of DX, which added to the aspect of their coolness. Bigger fan of the Road Dogg, then Bad Ass Billy Gunn because I believe he was white with dreads, something I didn't know was possible.
4. Hardy Boyz- Another Tag Team makes the list because after the New Age Outlaws, there were the Hardy Boyz. In general, everybody loved this tag-team. The reason is because they did the craziest shit in the wrestling ring. I still love Jeff Hardy who I believe he is back on the nose candy but yes, someday I will try a swanton bomb.
5. John Cena- I could put anyone in here but the reason why it's Cena. I have a friend The Burner who one day during on Monday Night Raw events one day came in super hot with jean shorts on with Cena's music on his mini-boom box doing the whole beginning of Cena's entrance. It was as awesome as I am describing it. So funny, kudos to him.
-Charlie.
My Long Awaited Tiger Post
I need to do it. I am sorry to all. It has to be done. Another person writing about Tiger Woods, and not to mention, I am three days late. What?! That's a lifetime, so many things have happened... you cannot do that. Well, I am going to and I am writing three other posts so I am actually burying the whole thing all together but whatever here I go.
Tiger Woods had always been one of my athletes because I believed that he was the hardest worker in his sport plus was the absolute best at what he did. I never really cared that he pretty much hated everyone in the media and that he hated the fans in many ways. If Tiger had it his way, he would play in front of no one and just play golf taking advice from caddy Steve Williams. But that didn't matter to me and honestly when the allegations of him cheating on his wife Elin, I felt like he is just like any other athlete and I stood by him because if you decided not to like every pro that cheated, you wouldn't like anyone in professional sports.
The other questions to all the Tiger haters... Did Tiger kill a guy? Nope, that was Dante Stallworth and Leonard Little of the NFL who were both drunk when they killed a man and virtually got away with it (both playing in the NFL). Did Tiger beat up animals? Nope, no wasn't Woods either, that was Michael Vick who honestly did his time, yet he still hurt many "mans-best friend" and the images really make you cringe. Did any of Tiger's mistresses accuse him of rape? Nah, that was Kobe Bryant who like a lot of athletes cheated on his wife and got caught. The reason why people cared about Tiger Woods was simple, no one saw it coming.
People believed that Tiger lived his life played golf and was this class-act citizen. The media made him out to be the greatest guy in the world and loved his wife more than any person of the world. Woods understood that no one would report on his indiscretions because simply, it's Tiger Woods. No one ever went against Woods because he would find a way to bury you. The media never questioned things Woods did because he is the most well-known athlete in the world. The PGA never dealt with something like this and had no idea how to handle such a topic in a country-club sport. Every week, people wanted more about Tiger because it mesmerized people that this could actually happen to a person held with such high regard and statchure. Therefore, it did not surprise me in the slightest that people especially the media had such mixed reactions about Tiger's apology.
People of my Dad's age loved it thought it was genuine and sincere. While people my age hated it and though he could have done much better. I personally am going to take the old guys side in this one because I knew going into the whole thing that Tiger never really shows emotion. People called him out for being a robot and not really caring, but let me ask you this when have you ever seen an interview with Tiger where he was emotional? Only when his dad passed away did Tiger seem vulnerable when talking about a certain topic. The speech exposed Tiger and made him apologize to the world for CHEATING. It happens a lot in our society and to make a guy apologize for not living up to the standards that media put before him is absolutely absurd. Tiger's people said "The world needs to hear from you because you cannot live in fear of them." I agree that he needed to say something but to just lay it out there to apologize to the world for committing multiple infidelities is plain stupid.
I think Tiger is done for the year. I hate to say that but I really do not think he wants to come back this year dealing with the amount of media pressure that will be on him all year. Let him handle his business and figure out how to save his marriage before he tries to play golf at various locations around the United States. If at any point, Elin decides that Tiger and her cannot work then it's time for Tiger to play golf again. Although, if Tiger Woods wants to come back, he can because simply, he is Tiger Woods.
-Charlie.
Tiger Woods had always been one of my athletes because I believed that he was the hardest worker in his sport plus was the absolute best at what he did. I never really cared that he pretty much hated everyone in the media and that he hated the fans in many ways. If Tiger had it his way, he would play in front of no one and just play golf taking advice from caddy Steve Williams. But that didn't matter to me and honestly when the allegations of him cheating on his wife Elin, I felt like he is just like any other athlete and I stood by him because if you decided not to like every pro that cheated, you wouldn't like anyone in professional sports.
The other questions to all the Tiger haters... Did Tiger kill a guy? Nope, that was Dante Stallworth and Leonard Little of the NFL who were both drunk when they killed a man and virtually got away with it (both playing in the NFL). Did Tiger beat up animals? Nope, no wasn't Woods either, that was Michael Vick who honestly did his time, yet he still hurt many "mans-best friend" and the images really make you cringe. Did any of Tiger's mistresses accuse him of rape? Nah, that was Kobe Bryant who like a lot of athletes cheated on his wife and got caught. The reason why people cared about Tiger Woods was simple, no one saw it coming.
People believed that Tiger lived his life played golf and was this class-act citizen. The media made him out to be the greatest guy in the world and loved his wife more than any person of the world. Woods understood that no one would report on his indiscretions because simply, it's Tiger Woods. No one ever went against Woods because he would find a way to bury you. The media never questioned things Woods did because he is the most well-known athlete in the world. The PGA never dealt with something like this and had no idea how to handle such a topic in a country-club sport. Every week, people wanted more about Tiger because it mesmerized people that this could actually happen to a person held with such high regard and statchure. Therefore, it did not surprise me in the slightest that people especially the media had such mixed reactions about Tiger's apology.
People of my Dad's age loved it thought it was genuine and sincere. While people my age hated it and though he could have done much better. I personally am going to take the old guys side in this one because I knew going into the whole thing that Tiger never really shows emotion. People called him out for being a robot and not really caring, but let me ask you this when have you ever seen an interview with Tiger where he was emotional? Only when his dad passed away did Tiger seem vulnerable when talking about a certain topic. The speech exposed Tiger and made him apologize to the world for CHEATING. It happens a lot in our society and to make a guy apologize for not living up to the standards that media put before him is absolutely absurd. Tiger's people said "The world needs to hear from you because you cannot live in fear of them." I agree that he needed to say something but to just lay it out there to apologize to the world for committing multiple infidelities is plain stupid.
I think Tiger is done for the year. I hate to say that but I really do not think he wants to come back this year dealing with the amount of media pressure that will be on him all year. Let him handle his business and figure out how to save his marriage before he tries to play golf at various locations around the United States. If at any point, Elin decides that Tiger and her cannot work then it's time for Tiger to play golf again. Although, if Tiger Woods wants to come back, he can because simply, he is Tiger Woods.
-Charlie.
Friday, February 19, 2010
The LeBron Sweepstakes Are On (Breakdown of the T-Mac Deal)
Every New York Knicks fan knew that their team needed to make a big time move to give them a chance at having a chance at the Summer Sweepstakes of 2010 especially LeBron James. So the Knicks made a move to get Tracy McGrady's massive expiring contract from the Houston Rockets, and the Rockets pried away Kevin Martin somehow
SACAREMENTO GETS: PF Carl Landry, PF Joey Dorsey, SG Larry Hughes
HOUSTON GETS: SG Kevin Marin, C Hilton Armstrong, PF Jordan Hill, PF Jared Jeffries
NEW YORK GETS: SG Tracy McGrady, PG Sergio Rodriguez
In my opinion, the Kings felt that Rookie of the Year candidate Tyreke Evans cannot play with Kevin Martin on a day-to-day basis and feel it's better to move on with a promising young team with Evans, Omar Cassipi, Jason Thompson, and Spencer Hawes. It reminds me a lot of what the Oklahoma City Thunder did when they developed their team when they were still in Seattle. While I feel Houston didn't give up enough to get Martin, I still feel the deal will work out in the long run.
As for Houston, they are 2.5 games out of the playoffs right now but they become a pretty dangerous team with Martin. Already, they had a team who just scrapped and did everything to get by. Adding Martin to that mix makes them even more dangerous and gives them an actual scorer. I feel guys like Shane Battier, Trevor Ariza, and Aaron Brooks are much better when they are role players instead of being the star of the team. I feel this move will make Houston a playoff team without question
The Knicks did this primarily for the money reasons. New York can say what they want about getting T-Mac to get them to the playoffs, but c'mon, he is a lazy player who is a complete me guy. I doubt that McGrady will be enough spark to the get the Knicks to the playoffs. They got Jeffries off the books and they will move Eddy Curry this summer (owed 11.7 mil) to create enough space to get LeBron and Dwyane Wade. I truly believe that James will not be a Knick unless there is another player to build this team with him.
I, for one cannot wait for the 2010 summer.
-Charlie.
SACAREMENTO GETS: PF Carl Landry, PF Joey Dorsey, SG Larry Hughes
HOUSTON GETS: SG Kevin Marin, C Hilton Armstrong, PF Jordan Hill, PF Jared Jeffries
NEW YORK GETS: SG Tracy McGrady, PG Sergio Rodriguez
In my opinion, the Kings felt that Rookie of the Year candidate Tyreke Evans cannot play with Kevin Martin on a day-to-day basis and feel it's better to move on with a promising young team with Evans, Omar Cassipi, Jason Thompson, and Spencer Hawes. It reminds me a lot of what the Oklahoma City Thunder did when they developed their team when they were still in Seattle. While I feel Houston didn't give up enough to get Martin, I still feel the deal will work out in the long run.
As for Houston, they are 2.5 games out of the playoffs right now but they become a pretty dangerous team with Martin. Already, they had a team who just scrapped and did everything to get by. Adding Martin to that mix makes them even more dangerous and gives them an actual scorer. I feel guys like Shane Battier, Trevor Ariza, and Aaron Brooks are much better when they are role players instead of being the star of the team. I feel this move will make Houston a playoff team without question
The Knicks did this primarily for the money reasons. New York can say what they want about getting T-Mac to get them to the playoffs, but c'mon, he is a lazy player who is a complete me guy. I doubt that McGrady will be enough spark to the get the Knicks to the playoffs. They got Jeffries off the books and they will move Eddy Curry this summer (owed 11.7 mil) to create enough space to get LeBron and Dwyane Wade. I truly believe that James will not be a Knick unless there is another player to build this team with him.
I, for one cannot wait for the 2010 summer.
-Charlie.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
It's All About the Benjamins for the Bucks/Bulls
Once again, I have a trade for you and just to let you know, I probably will not update the blog until 10 or so when the Marquette game is over and I am at home. So if a T-Mac or Amar'e trade happens, you will not get my reactions until later tonight. Anyways, the Milwaukee Bucks made a money move with the Chicago Bulls, but you know I sort of like the deal myself.
BUCKS GET: SF John Salmons
BULLS GET: PF Hakim Warrick SF Joe Alexander
This was a simple monetary move for the Bulls as they get two expiring contracts in Warrick and Alexander. I think they will get a lot out of Warrick, I like him in his short time with the Bucks. He rebounded and got to the basket a lot. I liked him a lot in college so I was happy to see him on the team this year, it's sad he cannot finished up the year with the Bucks. I have no idea what the Bulls will get from Alexander, likely nothing. I know that the Bulls will probably leave both players by the waste side at the end of the year in pursuit of some of the big free agents in the summer of 2010.
The resident Bulls fan Mike Fant of the Daily Sports Grind tweeted at Mitch of the Daily Dose... "What NBA team would be silly enough to trade for Salmons?" Obviously, he has not contributed in the way that Bulls' fans wanted him to this season. But really the reason why is because, Salmons can opt out of his contract at the end of this year. I highly doubt that Salmons will stay a Milwaukee Buck, let's be honest here. I just hope that Salmons can do some things for the Bucks. The Bucks really do not have a small forward scoring presence. I would believe the lineup would be... Jennings-Bell-Salmons-Mbah Moute-Bogut. You could also put Illyasosa or Delfino in that lineup as well.
-Charlie.
BUCKS GET: SF John Salmons
BULLS GET: PF Hakim Warrick SF Joe Alexander
This was a simple monetary move for the Bulls as they get two expiring contracts in Warrick and Alexander. I think they will get a lot out of Warrick, I like him in his short time with the Bucks. He rebounded and got to the basket a lot. I liked him a lot in college so I was happy to see him on the team this year, it's sad he cannot finished up the year with the Bucks. I have no idea what the Bulls will get from Alexander, likely nothing. I know that the Bulls will probably leave both players by the waste side at the end of the year in pursuit of some of the big free agents in the summer of 2010.
The resident Bulls fan Mike Fant of the Daily Sports Grind tweeted at Mitch of the Daily Dose... "What NBA team would be silly enough to trade for Salmons?" Obviously, he has not contributed in the way that Bulls' fans wanted him to this season. But really the reason why is because, Salmons can opt out of his contract at the end of this year. I highly doubt that Salmons will stay a Milwaukee Buck, let's be honest here. I just hope that Salmons can do some things for the Bucks. The Bucks really do not have a small forward scoring presence. I would believe the lineup would be... Jennings-Bell-Salmons-Mbah Moute-Bogut. You could also put Illyasosa or Delfino in that lineup as well.
-Charlie.
LeBron Gets his Robin
Finally. That is what most Cleveland Cavalier fans are saying today as they learned that they got Power Forward Antawan Jamison from the Washington Wizards. Now it appears that the Cavs are the most unstoppable team in the Eastern Conference. Lets break down the deal...
CLEVELAND GETS: PF Antawan Jamison, PG Sebastian Telfair
WASHINGTON GETS: C Zydurnas Ilgauskas, SF Al Thornton
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS GETS: PF Drew Gooden
Starting with the Washington Wizards, I am ready to put Ernie Grunfeld in the bottom five of worst General Managers. He did an awful job with the Milwaukee Bucks, and now Grunfeld is self-destructing the Wizards. They are just dumping their entire team all together and basically now has all this money to play with for the upcoming big summer 2010, yet who is left to play with? I cannot believe that the Wizards didn't even include ultra-talented J.J. Hickson in this deal. Big Z, really? He is alright, but he is not an All-Star by any means. Once again, Washington I feel bad that the Capitals are on break.
The Clippers give up on Al Thornton who I thought had a promising future and yes his numbers are down this year, I am kind of surprised that the Clips gave up on him so quickly. Also this will now be Gooden's ninth team and the second time in as many years he has been shipped right away.
Now on to the Cavs, this is a great deal for them. They get a bit of depth in their backcourt with Telfair. Yes he is sort of a headcase, but I think we have learned that LeBron is the type of guy who can keep all his teammates in line. Jamison is averaging 20 and 8 right now plus he can defend pretty well against the Rashard Lewis and Rasheed Wallaces of the Eastern Conference. In addition, if they meet the Lakers in the Finals, he can cover Lamar Odom. Basically, bringing in Jamison shores all of their problems with covering the big forwards.
Finally this means tomorrow when the deadline ends, the Celtics and Magic MUST make deals. They need to upgrade if they want to compete on the level of the Cavs. Because right now, I could see Cleveland sweeping through until the NBA Finals if everyone in the East stays the same.
-Charlie.
CLEVELAND GETS: PF Antawan Jamison, PG Sebastian Telfair
WASHINGTON GETS: C Zydurnas Ilgauskas, SF Al Thornton
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS GETS: PF Drew Gooden
Starting with the Washington Wizards, I am ready to put Ernie Grunfeld in the bottom five of worst General Managers. He did an awful job with the Milwaukee Bucks, and now Grunfeld is self-destructing the Wizards. They are just dumping their entire team all together and basically now has all this money to play with for the upcoming big summer 2010, yet who is left to play with? I cannot believe that the Wizards didn't even include ultra-talented J.J. Hickson in this deal. Big Z, really? He is alright, but he is not an All-Star by any means. Once again, Washington I feel bad that the Capitals are on break.
The Clippers give up on Al Thornton who I thought had a promising future and yes his numbers are down this year, I am kind of surprised that the Clips gave up on him so quickly. Also this will now be Gooden's ninth team and the second time in as many years he has been shipped right away.
Now on to the Cavs, this is a great deal for them. They get a bit of depth in their backcourt with Telfair. Yes he is sort of a headcase, but I think we have learned that LeBron is the type of guy who can keep all his teammates in line. Jamison is averaging 20 and 8 right now plus he can defend pretty well against the Rashard Lewis and Rasheed Wallaces of the Eastern Conference. In addition, if they meet the Lakers in the Finals, he can cover Lamar Odom. Basically, bringing in Jamison shores all of their problems with covering the big forwards.
Finally this means tomorrow when the deadline ends, the Celtics and Magic MUST make deals. They need to upgrade if they want to compete on the level of the Cavs. Because right now, I could see Cleveland sweeping through until the NBA Finals if everyone in the East stays the same.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The Clips Cease to Amaze Me
Another trade goes down in the NBA and I am trying to break things down like I am Ric Bucher, Marc Stein, or J.A. Adande with every trade going down this week. Honestly, I will try my best not to rip a team, but usually in trades especially in the NBA, there is one team that gets completely screwed. The latest trade is between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Portland Trail Blazers.
CLIPPERS GET: PG Steve Blake SF Travis Outlaw
BLAZERS GET: PF/C Marcus Camby
Honestly, I have no idea why the Clippers pulled the trigger on this one. It's not like the Clippers established Blake Griffin already and had no use for Camby, not to mention his contract on the bench. They do not even know if Griffin will be the same player when he comes back next year. So why do you give up Camby for a shitty back-up point guard and a guy who just hangs out on the three-point line? You couldn't pull away a first-round pick or maybe Rudy Fernandez straight up for Camby? Once again, this is proof that the Clippers will always be the second team in Los Angeles.
As for Rip City (for those who don't know, it's a nickname for Portland), this is a fantastic trade for them. Camby is a guy that is a complete game changer on defense and can block shots like no other. They have been using the lifeless body of Juwan Howard for God sakes, obviously Camby is the better option. Not to mention, Nicholas Batum has been improving by the day and now will be great force off the bench. A starting five of Miller-Roy-Webster-Alridge-Camby, which becomes a pretty powerful force. I am not saying they can get past the divisional round, but they are definitly able to advance past the first round.
-Charlie.
CLIPPERS GET: PG Steve Blake SF Travis Outlaw
BLAZERS GET: PF/C Marcus Camby
Honestly, I have no idea why the Clippers pulled the trigger on this one. It's not like the Clippers established Blake Griffin already and had no use for Camby, not to mention his contract on the bench. They do not even know if Griffin will be the same player when he comes back next year. So why do you give up Camby for a shitty back-up point guard and a guy who just hangs out on the three-point line? You couldn't pull away a first-round pick or maybe Rudy Fernandez straight up for Camby? Once again, this is proof that the Clippers will always be the second team in Los Angeles.
As for Rip City (for those who don't know, it's a nickname for Portland), this is a fantastic trade for them. Camby is a guy that is a complete game changer on defense and can block shots like no other. They have been using the lifeless body of Juwan Howard for God sakes, obviously Camby is the better option. Not to mention, Nicholas Batum has been improving by the day and now will be great force off the bench. A starting five of Miller-Roy-Webster-Alridge-Camby, which becomes a pretty powerful force. I am not saying they can get past the divisional round, but they are definitly able to advance past the first round.
-Charlie.
Throwing Water Bottles is a New College Sport
Once upon a time, I was a super fan for a team. Granted, it was only a high school experience but I still had a blast in the stands cheering on my basketball team plus I knew they appreciated my support. I did some things that I probably regret but I never threw anything on to the court like West Virginia, a couple weeks ago and Mississippi State did today.
First of all, I feel bad for anyone who cheers on the Mountaineers and Bulldogs if they are students, alumni, or just overall fans. Because not everyone in the stands is throwing shit onto the courts, rather it's a few drunken individuals who had a few too many drinks. In addition, a fan who cares way too much like the kid I saw playing World of Warcraft for three straight hours. A message to him and the over-the-top fans, get a life. Look, WoW and college basketball doesn't matter that much.
The other thing that is sad about this whole thing is both of these states (West Virginia/Mississippi) are not regarded as "classy states" in the first place. How many jokes about how dumb the people of West Virginia and Mississippi are? (Not saying that people from those states are but if you look up dumb states jokes, they are near the top of the list) No matter if you are a Marshall fan or an Ole Miss fan, it's still an embarrassment to the whole state that something like this had to happen.
Also, I know the refs aren't the greatest. Trust me, I have seen Marquette get screwed over by the bigger team like a Syracuse or UConn but that doesn't give any fan the right to litter the court with water bottles. Bitter rivalries sometimes start fights, but most fans just get jacked up from what happened and now want to kick their asses even more.
I hate to say this but I believe the NCAA should make a rule if this happens once that the students are banned for a game and if happens again, they are banned for the year. For the most part, I feel the alumni and other fans do not start this sort of shit, it is usually the drunken student body. In addition, I have no problems with the fans going drunk to the game, just not to level where you feel it's okay to throw things. I hope some action from the NCAA comes from this entire melee.
-Charlie.
First of all, I feel bad for anyone who cheers on the Mountaineers and Bulldogs if they are students, alumni, or just overall fans. Because not everyone in the stands is throwing shit onto the courts, rather it's a few drunken individuals who had a few too many drinks. In addition, a fan who cares way too much like the kid I saw playing World of Warcraft for three straight hours. A message to him and the over-the-top fans, get a life. Look, WoW and college basketball doesn't matter that much.
The other thing that is sad about this whole thing is both of these states (West Virginia/Mississippi) are not regarded as "classy states" in the first place. How many jokes about how dumb the people of West Virginia and Mississippi are? (Not saying that people from those states are but if you look up dumb states jokes, they are near the top of the list) No matter if you are a Marshall fan or an Ole Miss fan, it's still an embarrassment to the whole state that something like this had to happen.
Also, I know the refs aren't the greatest. Trust me, I have seen Marquette get screwed over by the bigger team like a Syracuse or UConn but that doesn't give any fan the right to litter the court with water bottles. Bitter rivalries sometimes start fights, but most fans just get jacked up from what happened and now want to kick their asses even more.
I hate to say this but I believe the NCAA should make a rule if this happens once that the students are banned for a game and if happens again, they are banned for the year. For the most part, I feel the alumni and other fans do not start this sort of shit, it is usually the drunken student body. In addition, I have no problems with the fans going drunk to the game, just not to level where you feel it's okay to throw things. I hope some action from the NCAA comes from this entire melee.
-Charlie.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
2009-2010 A Sports Year to Forget for Washington
This All-Star weekend generated the first trade of the season between the host team Dallas Mavericks and the Washington Wizards. It's a good thing something has happened because this weekend has been awful to say the least. The Dunk Contest was something I think I saw at Wauwatosa West's gym, there were about two or three really good dunks and Nate Robinson of the Knicks won because he puts on a show so people vote for him. So here's the deal....
Dallas GETS: SF Caron Butler, C Brendan Haywood, and SG DeShawn Stevenson
Washington GETS: SG Josh Howard PF Drew Gooden G Quinton Ross F James Singleton.
Now ESPN.com's Marc Stein said that this mostly done financial for the Wizards and they are starting their rebuilding process plus maybe freeing up more money in the next couple of days if the Wiz decides to trade Antwan Jamison. If I am Wizards fan, I am happy that we have a great NHL team in the Capitals because seriously, this team becomes very bad for the rest of the year especially if Jamison gets traded as well. These next two weeks with no hockey will be brutal for the fans of Washington professional sports.
The Mavericks I feel move ahead of the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz in terms of biggest threat to the Los Angeles Lakers. I think they are really good defensively with Haywood, Shawn Marion, and Butler and those three cancel out the careless defense of Dirk Nowitzki. They also get a dangerous three-point shooter off the bench in Stevenson who does have an attitude issue but he has been know to make big shots for the Wizards.
The big question in terms of the playoffs has to be whether the newly acquired Mavs will step up? They were on Wizards team who failed to get out of the first round in four consecutive years. I mean you can blame them having to play LeBron James, but still that doesn't explain the choke jobs they have had in the NBA playoffs.
-Charlie.
Dallas GETS: SF Caron Butler, C Brendan Haywood, and SG DeShawn Stevenson
Washington GETS: SG Josh Howard PF Drew Gooden G Quinton Ross F James Singleton.
Now ESPN.com's Marc Stein said that this mostly done financial for the Wizards and they are starting their rebuilding process plus maybe freeing up more money in the next couple of days if the Wiz decides to trade Antwan Jamison. If I am Wizards fan, I am happy that we have a great NHL team in the Capitals because seriously, this team becomes very bad for the rest of the year especially if Jamison gets traded as well. These next two weeks with no hockey will be brutal for the fans of Washington professional sports.
The Mavericks I feel move ahead of the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz in terms of biggest threat to the Los Angeles Lakers. I think they are really good defensively with Haywood, Shawn Marion, and Butler and those three cancel out the careless defense of Dirk Nowitzki. They also get a dangerous three-point shooter off the bench in Stevenson who does have an attitude issue but he has been know to make big shots for the Wizards.
The big question in terms of the playoffs has to be whether the newly acquired Mavs will step up? They were on Wizards team who failed to get out of the first round in four consecutive years. I mean you can blame them having to play LeBron James, but still that doesn't explain the choke jobs they have had in the NBA playoffs.
-Charlie.
Friday, February 12, 2010
The Top Five of the Week: Dunk Contest Moments
I decided to do my personal Top Five Dunks in one of my favorite days of the year, the Slam Dunk Contest. Now, I will admit to you that I am putting stuff into my top five that I have personally witnessed while I agree that what Spud Webb, and Nique' vs. MJ probably trumps what I have seen, I am a young pup sorry.
1. Vince Carter Makes a Name for Himself- He had put everybody on notice in 2000 that he was the best dunker around and arguably the best slasher until the knee injuries and Dwyane Wade came along. All of these dunks are unreal and seriously, I have never seen a crowd more electric for a dunk contest. I also had one of those purple/black Carter jerseys, just sick.
2. Steve Nash's Header to Amar'e Stoudamire- This was probably the coolest thing I have seen done on the basketball court. Once again, great commentary from Smith and the dunk with the great pass from Nash. Not to mention, Stoudemire and Josh Smith had a great battle in this one.
3. Jason Richardson vs. Desmond Mason- I think one of the bigger reasons I love the Slam Dunk Contest is Kenny Smith's reactions to it. This was an awesome night where J-Rich needed a 49 to beat Mason in the finals, just an awesome finishing dunk.
4. Dwight Howard's 2008 Performance- Now I know there is some controversy with Howard's claim to being Superman but this was one of the most creative string of dunks. The one off the top of the shot clock was the best dunk of the night, not even the 12 foot one because he threw the dunk through. Once again, I love Kenny Smith.
5. Stevie Franchise Wishes VC Wasn't Around - The same year as Carter and seriously, I think he wins in the next three years with some of the dunks he did. For his size, he just put together an awesome array of dunks. Also I had a pair of Franchises, which if you forget were red while I played on a team with green uniforms... I could care less what people thought of them.
Enjoy it, I got Shannon Brown tomorrow
-Charlie.
1. Vince Carter Makes a Name for Himself- He had put everybody on notice in 2000 that he was the best dunker around and arguably the best slasher until the knee injuries and Dwyane Wade came along. All of these dunks are unreal and seriously, I have never seen a crowd more electric for a dunk contest. I also had one of those purple/black Carter jerseys, just sick.
2. Steve Nash's Header to Amar'e Stoudamire- This was probably the coolest thing I have seen done on the basketball court. Once again, great commentary from Smith and the dunk with the great pass from Nash. Not to mention, Stoudemire and Josh Smith had a great battle in this one.
3. Jason Richardson vs. Desmond Mason- I think one of the bigger reasons I love the Slam Dunk Contest is Kenny Smith's reactions to it. This was an awesome night where J-Rich needed a 49 to beat Mason in the finals, just an awesome finishing dunk.
4. Dwight Howard's 2008 Performance- Now I know there is some controversy with Howard's claim to being Superman but this was one of the most creative string of dunks. The one off the top of the shot clock was the best dunk of the night, not even the 12 foot one because he threw the dunk through. Once again, I love Kenny Smith.
5. Stevie Franchise Wishes VC Wasn't Around - The same year as Carter and seriously, I think he wins in the next three years with some of the dunks he did. For his size, he just put together an awesome array of dunks. Also I had a pair of Franchises, which if you forget were red while I played on a team with green uniforms... I could care less what people thought of them.
Enjoy it, I got Shannon Brown tomorrow
-Charlie.
Pitno is the College BBall's Version of Pete Carroll
Today, some NBA news came out that was very interesting and about the hapless New Jersey Nets who right now are a stunning 4-47. In addition, they only drew a little over 1000 fans to see the Nets play the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. So what could I possibly write about the Nets? Rick Pitno seems to be interested in the job after the year is done and he denies it although I think its completely plausible. Here is why...
He knows that the hold he had on the state of Kentucky is absolutely gone. John Calipari has came in super hot and stole it away from him in an instant. Pitno is not a guy that wants to play second fiddle, he hasn't anywhere he has coached and I honestly couldn't see him staying at Louisville competing with Calipari all the time.
The reason I mentioned Pete Carroll in my blog title because I think Pitno sees what Carroll did with the Seattle Seahawks and wants to prove something in the NBA. Like Carroll, he had a sub .500 record but he also had two playoff appearances. Pitno knows that it will not take much to win in the Eastern Conference and there is another large factor...
The Russian mega-billionaire is taking over the team soon giving the Nets an influx of money and making any of the popular 2010 free agents a possibility. Although, unless one of the free agents is inspired by the Jersey Shore to live there... zero percent chance they go to Jersey. Like Carroll who went to a team owned by uber-billionaire Paul Allen, Pitno knows damn well that he will make a ton of money if he signs with the Nets.
The final reason why this might be true... Louisville got beat by 19 points tonight by the lowly St. Johns and then have to play at Syracuse on Sunday, rut-roh. It's hard to explain a team getting blown out by a bottom-feeder in the Big East. Is there a chance that the team feels Pitno has given up on the players therefore they have given up on him? The game against the Orange will really show their true colors.
-Charlie
PS I know that Pitno has completely denied this story and compared this to Barack Obama stepping down from office to move to Hawaii. He can say what he wants but when the chips are down, I think there will be some interest.
He knows that the hold he had on the state of Kentucky is absolutely gone. John Calipari has came in super hot and stole it away from him in an instant. Pitno is not a guy that wants to play second fiddle, he hasn't anywhere he has coached and I honestly couldn't see him staying at Louisville competing with Calipari all the time.
The reason I mentioned Pete Carroll in my blog title because I think Pitno sees what Carroll did with the Seattle Seahawks and wants to prove something in the NBA. Like Carroll, he had a sub .500 record but he also had two playoff appearances. Pitno knows that it will not take much to win in the Eastern Conference and there is another large factor...
The Russian mega-billionaire is taking over the team soon giving the Nets an influx of money and making any of the popular 2010 free agents a possibility. Although, unless one of the free agents is inspired by the Jersey Shore to live there... zero percent chance they go to Jersey. Like Carroll who went to a team owned by uber-billionaire Paul Allen, Pitno knows damn well that he will make a ton of money if he signs with the Nets.
The final reason why this might be true... Louisville got beat by 19 points tonight by the lowly St. Johns and then have to play at Syracuse on Sunday, rut-roh. It's hard to explain a team getting blown out by a bottom-feeder in the Big East. Is there a chance that the team feels Pitno has given up on the players therefore they have given up on him? The game against the Orange will really show their true colors.
-Charlie
PS I know that Pitno has completely denied this story and compared this to Barack Obama stepping down from office to move to Hawaii. He can say what he wants but when the chips are down, I think there will be some interest.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Carolina Blues
The days that Duke and North Carolina met up in this classic rivalry where one of those great days to look forward to because the teams always bring it and usually, they are really good teams in at least the top twenty. You have Dickie V acting like an absolute maniac and seems to be at home when this game is going on. But this game tonight is not one that I am looking forward to for the first time in several years because the Tar Heels are a bad team.
In the past, I liked Carolina more than the Dukies because simply, they had more exciting players when I grew up in the late 90s watching guys like Vince Carter, Antwan Jamison, Joe Forte, and Ed Cota. Duke just seemed boring to me and made them the enemy for a long time. Now, as years past I leaned more towards Marquette because that is my hometown team and didn't want to be like others I know who just loved the good teams.
I still follow the Tar Heels and cheer them on when they are on television but even I am completely stunned with what has happened to Carolina this season. Even though, they lost some great players in Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, and Wayne Ellington but they had some great recruits filtering into the Tar Heel system. In my opinion, Roy Williams' system isn't like John Calipari where you can have a revolving door and still be successful. Williams needs guys to stay there and develop into his system to make things work.
I also think that the Tar Heels are suffering from the same complex that Marquette has dealt with all year and that's having a team of completely role players with no player to step up in the clutch when they need it. Granted, MU has seemed to figure that out in the coming weeks with the good late game play of Darius-Johnson Odom and Lazar Hayward. Ed Davis, the supposed star of this Tar Heel team needs to prove that he is worth a top ten pick right now because all I see is a guy who has uber-potential and is not living up to it. Davis' play will be huge tonight in the game this evening.
Do I believe that Williams poorly recruited some of these guys? No doubt about it, I think there is no excuse for the Heels giving up 80-plus points in most games. I think Williams didn't look at his players in defensive aspects as well as he probably needed to. Coach K had some down years but he never was at the level of what is happening to North Carolina right now.
Like I said earlier this week, I am taking Duke but expect a close game, even with Duke had their one awful year and Carolina went on to win the National Championship, it went to double overtime. There is no doubt in my mind that you will see a blowout tonight, but if the Heels don't show up on the defensive end could spell trouble.
-Charlie.
In the past, I liked Carolina more than the Dukies because simply, they had more exciting players when I grew up in the late 90s watching guys like Vince Carter, Antwan Jamison, Joe Forte, and Ed Cota. Duke just seemed boring to me and made them the enemy for a long time. Now, as years past I leaned more towards Marquette because that is my hometown team and didn't want to be like others I know who just loved the good teams.
I still follow the Tar Heels and cheer them on when they are on television but even I am completely stunned with what has happened to Carolina this season. Even though, they lost some great players in Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, and Wayne Ellington but they had some great recruits filtering into the Tar Heel system. In my opinion, Roy Williams' system isn't like John Calipari where you can have a revolving door and still be successful. Williams needs guys to stay there and develop into his system to make things work.
I also think that the Tar Heels are suffering from the same complex that Marquette has dealt with all year and that's having a team of completely role players with no player to step up in the clutch when they need it. Granted, MU has seemed to figure that out in the coming weeks with the good late game play of Darius-Johnson Odom and Lazar Hayward. Ed Davis, the supposed star of this Tar Heel team needs to prove that he is worth a top ten pick right now because all I see is a guy who has uber-potential and is not living up to it. Davis' play will be huge tonight in the game this evening.
Do I believe that Williams poorly recruited some of these guys? No doubt about it, I think there is no excuse for the Heels giving up 80-plus points in most games. I think Williams didn't look at his players in defensive aspects as well as he probably needed to. Coach K had some down years but he never was at the level of what is happening to North Carolina right now.
Like I said earlier this week, I am taking Duke but expect a close game, even with Duke had their one awful year and Carolina went on to win the National Championship, it went to double overtime. There is no doubt in my mind that you will see a blowout tonight, but if the Heels don't show up on the defensive end could spell trouble.
-Charlie.
America is a Part of Who Dat Nation
Rarely in sports do you ever see the Hollywood story play out before our eyes, but Sunday was one of those special days that we got to see the story book ending if the last four years of the New Orleans Saints franchise had been a book. It started with Hurricane Katrina and the team having to play in New Orleans then taking a chance on Drew Brees, building the franchise from the ground up with the combination of all the great players, and ending with a Super Bowl win.
When the playoffs started if the Green Bay Packers got eliminated, I wanted the Saints. I loved Reggie Bush in college and hoped that he would break out in the pros. I also thought Brees was a complete class act before seeing all the stuff pre-Super Bowl now I know he is the definition of role model in professional sports. Not to mention, I watched him a fair amount in college at Purdue. The duo of Bush-Brees gravitated me towards this team and even though, we heard about too much if one team was to go unbeaten... I prayed it would be the Saints.
The thing that I never realized until this week is how strong thir fan base really is. But if you look at, there are only a few NFL teams in the Southeast part of the United States. In addition, the fact that Carolina and Jacksonville weren't franchises until 1994 therefore anyone growing up in decades before chose cheering for Atlanta, Miami, or New Orleans, which would expand their fan base even more. The WHO DAT?! chants are great and you can tell these people geniunely care about their football team in New Orleans.
The sexy question about the Saints are can they maintain this run or is this another one-year wonder Super Bowl team? I think the Saints will be featured in the NFC Championship a couple times and back in the Super Bowl at least once in the coming decade. The reasons why? Sean Payton is an offensive mastermind and with a somewhat young offense, they could dominate that side of the ball for the next decade. Drew Brees could be the best quarterback in football right now with all things considered and when you have that kind of quarterback, you wonder if anybody will challenge the Saints. Finally, I think you haven't seen the last of Reggie Bush, I think next season will be a break out year for Bush.
My question is will the Saints get annoying like the New England Patriots did when they won their second Super Bowl. People LOVED the Pats in the same way they loved the Saints this year. Will people start to find Who Dat a bit annoying or see Brees as too much a pretty boy creating some sort of dislike for the Saints. Honestly, this will not happen for at least five years because even though, it happened four years ago Katrina is still fresh in people minds and it's something that has stuck with people for many years to come. People understand that football is a release for some people who are still trying to pick up the pieces from the horrific disaster.
I do know one thing, the Saints are no longer the Aints
-Charlie.
When the playoffs started if the Green Bay Packers got eliminated, I wanted the Saints. I loved Reggie Bush in college and hoped that he would break out in the pros. I also thought Brees was a complete class act before seeing all the stuff pre-Super Bowl now I know he is the definition of role model in professional sports. Not to mention, I watched him a fair amount in college at Purdue. The duo of Bush-Brees gravitated me towards this team and even though, we heard about too much if one team was to go unbeaten... I prayed it would be the Saints.
The thing that I never realized until this week is how strong thir fan base really is. But if you look at, there are only a few NFL teams in the Southeast part of the United States. In addition, the fact that Carolina and Jacksonville weren't franchises until 1994 therefore anyone growing up in decades before chose cheering for Atlanta, Miami, or New Orleans, which would expand their fan base even more. The WHO DAT?! chants are great and you can tell these people geniunely care about their football team in New Orleans.
The sexy question about the Saints are can they maintain this run or is this another one-year wonder Super Bowl team? I think the Saints will be featured in the NFC Championship a couple times and back in the Super Bowl at least once in the coming decade. The reasons why? Sean Payton is an offensive mastermind and with a somewhat young offense, they could dominate that side of the ball for the next decade. Drew Brees could be the best quarterback in football right now with all things considered and when you have that kind of quarterback, you wonder if anybody will challenge the Saints. Finally, I think you haven't seen the last of Reggie Bush, I think next season will be a break out year for Bush.
My question is will the Saints get annoying like the New England Patriots did when they won their second Super Bowl. People LOVED the Pats in the same way they loved the Saints this year. Will people start to find Who Dat a bit annoying or see Brees as too much a pretty boy creating some sort of dislike for the Saints. Honestly, this will not happen for at least five years because even though, it happened four years ago Katrina is still fresh in people minds and it's something that has stuck with people for many years to come. People understand that football is a release for some people who are still trying to pick up the pieces from the horrific disaster.
I do know one thing, the Saints are no longer the Aints
-Charlie.
Rewriting the Peyton Manning Story
As most of you know, the Super Bowl is now two days behind and the parade already happened for the New Orleans Saints although I feel it's still necessary to talk about most of the Super Bowl. So we will start with the Colts and one quarterback known as Peyton Manning.
After Manning won this first Super Bowl, the monkey was off his back and people would shut up in terms of comparing Manning to Dan Marino as a stats guy instead of a winner like Joe Montana. All of these things seemed to wash away when Manning won the big game. But when everything seemed like everything pointed to Manning winning another Super Bowl putting him into a brand new category of quarterbacks, Tracy Porter changed everything.
Once again, Manning choked away a big game. My homeboy Bill Simmons got to rejoice because he got to see the "Peyton Manning Face" and if you don't know what that is, it's the dumbfounded look of 'is this really happening to me?' Now, people would like to put the blame on Reggie Wayne for not making his cut quick enough and he shoulders the blame for the interception. I call complete bullshit because I have seen Brett Favre's receivers in Green Bay in his famous three interception games tip balls causing the pick, yet Favre gets the blame for what happens. It is always the quarterback's fault no matter what.
Some writers said that this one game destroys Manning's legacy and he will never be looked at the same due to this one game. I would disagree somewhat, I think Manning is a great quarterback probably the best regular season quarterback we have ever seen. But he is nowhere near Joe Montana, Tom Brady, Big Ben, or Kurt Warner. It's basically the same argument that people have about Brett Favre and his personal legacy because he only has one Super Bowl win. In my opinion, nothing can be said about Manning's legacy until he retires because there is a good chance he might get back to the Super Bowl.
Finally, I think to call the Colts the team of the decade because they won the most games is asinine because the other teams of the prior decades won more than one Super Bowl. The San Francisco 49ers won four from 1980-1990, the Dallas Cowboys won three from 1990-2000, and the New England Patriots won three from 2000-2010. You cannot say that the Colts are deserving of the honor of team of the decade because they have the most wins. If anything, it shows how badly they have performed in the playoffs in the past ten years.
-Charlie.
After Manning won this first Super Bowl, the monkey was off his back and people would shut up in terms of comparing Manning to Dan Marino as a stats guy instead of a winner like Joe Montana. All of these things seemed to wash away when Manning won the big game. But when everything seemed like everything pointed to Manning winning another Super Bowl putting him into a brand new category of quarterbacks, Tracy Porter changed everything.
Once again, Manning choked away a big game. My homeboy Bill Simmons got to rejoice because he got to see the "Peyton Manning Face" and if you don't know what that is, it's the dumbfounded look of 'is this really happening to me?' Now, people would like to put the blame on Reggie Wayne for not making his cut quick enough and he shoulders the blame for the interception. I call complete bullshit because I have seen Brett Favre's receivers in Green Bay in his famous three interception games tip balls causing the pick, yet Favre gets the blame for what happens. It is always the quarterback's fault no matter what.
Some writers said that this one game destroys Manning's legacy and he will never be looked at the same due to this one game. I would disagree somewhat, I think Manning is a great quarterback probably the best regular season quarterback we have ever seen. But he is nowhere near Joe Montana, Tom Brady, Big Ben, or Kurt Warner. It's basically the same argument that people have about Brett Favre and his personal legacy because he only has one Super Bowl win. In my opinion, nothing can be said about Manning's legacy until he retires because there is a good chance he might get back to the Super Bowl.
Finally, I think to call the Colts the team of the decade because they won the most games is asinine because the other teams of the prior decades won more than one Super Bowl. The San Francisco 49ers won four from 1980-1990, the Dallas Cowboys won three from 1990-2000, and the New England Patriots won three from 2000-2010. You cannot say that the Colts are deserving of the honor of team of the decade because they have the most wins. If anything, it shows how badly they have performed in the playoffs in the past ten years.
-Charlie.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Where College Basketball Becomes Relevent Again
Just a note for all you MU fans out there, currently the bracketologist has the Golden Eagles right now outside of the tournament and currently considered the 66th. Thats okay I will take that right now, huge game on Saturday. I got a good response from the Big East Bubble Watch and in a couple weeks, I might try to place the top twenty-five teams in the tournament. Anyways here we go with the picks for the week.
Monday
1. Kansas at 14. Texas- If you didn't hear, this is the Rivalry week for ESPN so you get a ton of good games all week. There was so much anticipation for this game weeks ago but the Longhorns have fallen hard off the wagon. They shoot an abysmal 61 percent from the free-throw line and seem to fall apart in clutch situations. I like the Jayhawks in convincing fashion. KU 83-70
5. Villanova at 4. West Virginia- For the record, I call Georgetown's win last week but you have to believe me on that one. I think the Wildcats are at a big time disadvantage in this game with the Mountaineer lineup being all over 6'7 and the Cats have a relatively small lineup. I think we are looking at back-to-back loses from the Wildcats, just cannot see how they stop all their big guys. WVA 75-71
Tuesday
6. Purdue at 10. Michigan State- Rough week for the Spartans as they lost two games this week and Kalin Lucus couldn't play against Illinois. I think this game will be an absolute battle for the most part even if Lucus doesn't play. Although, Sparty needs to find another leader in big moments because no one seems to want the ball when Lucus isn't in there. I will say he plays in this one and they can beat the Boilermakers who are different team on the road. MSU 65-59
8. Georgetown at Providence- Is this the Friars' last stand? I never considered them on the bubble in the first place, but if they want to start making noise they need a win on Tuesday. I know the Hoyas can sometimes lose it mentally but I do not think the Dunkin' Donuts Center is that intimidating therefore they should win handily. GTOWN 71-57
12. Tennessee at 24. Vanderbilt- This game should be called the SEC battle for the second fiddle to the boys in Lexington. I am still impressed with what the Vols have done since losing Tyler Smith, but I think they do not have enough to beat Vandy, a great home team. VANDY 75-72
Illinois at 13. Wisconsin- The Badgers right now seem to be in the best position to win the Big Ten title with no having to play MSU, OSU, and Purdue for the rest of the year. Two games against the Illini are the two toughest games left and while I was impressed with Illinois on Saturday, no way they come into the Kohl Center and win. UW 64-56
Wednesday
UConn at 3. Syracuse- The first game since the six overtime classic and these teams seem to give their best against each other. The Huskies need this win to get them back into the NCAA tournament discussion but the Orange looked very impressive in a 17 pt win on the road against Cincinnati on Sunday. I think the combo of Wesley Johnson and Andy Rautins is the difference in this one. CUSE 78-69
7. Duke at North Carolina- I will be doing something about Carolina on Wednesday or Thursday. This obviously is a must win for the Heels and every other game really is from here on out. Duke played well on the road this weekend and I think Kyle Singler might be peaking. There is really no way I think the Dukies lose this one, but it will still be a close game. DUKE 89-82
-Charlie
Monday
1. Kansas at 14. Texas- If you didn't hear, this is the Rivalry week for ESPN so you get a ton of good games all week. There was so much anticipation for this game weeks ago but the Longhorns have fallen hard off the wagon. They shoot an abysmal 61 percent from the free-throw line and seem to fall apart in clutch situations. I like the Jayhawks in convincing fashion. KU 83-70
5. Villanova at 4. West Virginia- For the record, I call Georgetown's win last week but you have to believe me on that one. I think the Wildcats are at a big time disadvantage in this game with the Mountaineer lineup being all over 6'7 and the Cats have a relatively small lineup. I think we are looking at back-to-back loses from the Wildcats, just cannot see how they stop all their big guys. WVA 75-71
Tuesday
6. Purdue at 10. Michigan State- Rough week for the Spartans as they lost two games this week and Kalin Lucus couldn't play against Illinois. I think this game will be an absolute battle for the most part even if Lucus doesn't play. Although, Sparty needs to find another leader in big moments because no one seems to want the ball when Lucus isn't in there. I will say he plays in this one and they can beat the Boilermakers who are different team on the road. MSU 65-59
8. Georgetown at Providence- Is this the Friars' last stand? I never considered them on the bubble in the first place, but if they want to start making noise they need a win on Tuesday. I know the Hoyas can sometimes lose it mentally but I do not think the Dunkin' Donuts Center is that intimidating therefore they should win handily. GTOWN 71-57
12. Tennessee at 24. Vanderbilt- This game should be called the SEC battle for the second fiddle to the boys in Lexington. I am still impressed with what the Vols have done since losing Tyler Smith, but I think they do not have enough to beat Vandy, a great home team. VANDY 75-72
Illinois at 13. Wisconsin- The Badgers right now seem to be in the best position to win the Big Ten title with no having to play MSU, OSU, and Purdue for the rest of the year. Two games against the Illini are the two toughest games left and while I was impressed with Illinois on Saturday, no way they come into the Kohl Center and win. UW 64-56
Wednesday
UConn at 3. Syracuse- The first game since the six overtime classic and these teams seem to give their best against each other. The Huskies need this win to get them back into the NCAA tournament discussion but the Orange looked very impressive in a 17 pt win on the road against Cincinnati on Sunday. I think the combo of Wesley Johnson and Andy Rautins is the difference in this one. CUSE 78-69
7. Duke at North Carolina- I will be doing something about Carolina on Wednesday or Thursday. This obviously is a must win for the Heels and every other game really is from here on out. Duke played well on the road this weekend and I think Kyle Singler might be peaking. There is really no way I think the Dukies lose this one, but it will still be a close game. DUKE 89-82
-Charlie
Saturday, February 6, 2010
The Super Bowl Pick: WHO DAT vs. The Fightin' Peyton Mannings
I apologize that I am not like every blogger out there who probably has posts about the game every day of the week but to be honest, I have heard about the Super Bowl for the last two weeks, it started to wear on me therefore I decided to write nothing on it. I think this is going to be a great game (sorry Tony Dungy) for a variety of reasons.
It's very important that the New Orleans Saints hit the Indianapolis Colts right in the mouth in the first possession of the game. I am not saying they need a touchdown, but if they drive the ball down a bit maybe get stalled still okay for that to happen, rather than a simple three and out giving the Colts the immediate momentum. The Colts need a couple big plays, and they are off and running with the momentum, which they rarely lose after having it. All you have to do is look at the New York Jets game when they were down 17-6, Peyton Manning slices through the defense for a 2 minute drill touchdown.
People have began to question if Peyton wins this game does that make him the best ever? I hate to put someone in that category when they are still playing the game and you have a guy like New England Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady that has made it to three Super Bowls. In addition, former San Francisco 49er Joe Montana won three Super Bowls, which is something neither of them has done. Overall in America, we are too quick to say "so-so is the greatest ever" in whatever we are talking about. Yes, Manning heads into another level of the Best of All-Time, but he isn't the best.
The other thing that has been talked about more than me talking to people about Jersey Shore while intoxicated is the Dwight Freeney injury. Obviously, we all knew he is going to play this game because it's the Super Bowl, no brainer unless you are in a coma. Freeney will struggle in the game though, I cannot think of the pain that will take on him and you might see him great in spurts but in no way at his usual level. Good news for the Colts is they have a great defensive end in Robert Mathis who doesn't get enough love and Raheem Brock is a hell of a back-up. I think the injury doesn't hurt the Colts as much as people are making it out to be.
The reason people feel the injury affects things is because of the Saints' three-headed rushing monster known as Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, and Pierre Thomas. I think if you are the Saints, you need to think run first. Keep Manning on the sidelines as much as possible and let the clock drain. I know Drew Brees is a difference maker but if you try down the Colts defense, that will do wonders for the passing game as well.
Lets also talk about Reggie Bush. I love the guy, one of my favorite college players and followed him pretty closely in the pros. In big games, Reggie wants the ball and to be the center of attention. Remember the botched lateral in the National Championship game versus Texas? Sometimes Bush tries too hard in the spotlight. But I do agree with some who feel he can have a Desmond Howard-like impact on the game and maybe wind up Super Bowl MVP if the Saints do win this one.
Now for the prediction, I think this game is somewhat like the 2002 Super Bowl between the St. Louis Rams and New England Patriots. You have one team who people do not really want to see win and a team everyone was pulling for (remember, the whole team concept and Tom Brady rise to glory?). The exact same thing is happening with the Saints, people want this for a tortured franchise and a city who got destroyed by Hurricane Katrina four short years ago. Even though, I do not like him Peyton Manning is almost too good to say he will lose. The team could have been undefeated and Manning is a mastermind behind center. I have a hard time seeing the Saints stopping him and especially, Dallas Clark after the kind of game Vishante Shincoe had in the NFC Championship. But I love the underdog and I love the passion Brees brings to the game so I am going with my heart not my brain. WHO DAT.
Saints 41 Colts 38
PS: Don't worry you are getting a good Super Bowl because I am getting Eric, my roommate as drunk as possible to ensure a great game.
-Charlie.
It's very important that the New Orleans Saints hit the Indianapolis Colts right in the mouth in the first possession of the game. I am not saying they need a touchdown, but if they drive the ball down a bit maybe get stalled still okay for that to happen, rather than a simple three and out giving the Colts the immediate momentum. The Colts need a couple big plays, and they are off and running with the momentum, which they rarely lose after having it. All you have to do is look at the New York Jets game when they were down 17-6, Peyton Manning slices through the defense for a 2 minute drill touchdown.
People have began to question if Peyton wins this game does that make him the best ever? I hate to put someone in that category when they are still playing the game and you have a guy like New England Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady that has made it to three Super Bowls. In addition, former San Francisco 49er Joe Montana won three Super Bowls, which is something neither of them has done. Overall in America, we are too quick to say "so-so is the greatest ever" in whatever we are talking about. Yes, Manning heads into another level of the Best of All-Time, but he isn't the best.
The other thing that has been talked about more than me talking to people about Jersey Shore while intoxicated is the Dwight Freeney injury. Obviously, we all knew he is going to play this game because it's the Super Bowl, no brainer unless you are in a coma. Freeney will struggle in the game though, I cannot think of the pain that will take on him and you might see him great in spurts but in no way at his usual level. Good news for the Colts is they have a great defensive end in Robert Mathis who doesn't get enough love and Raheem Brock is a hell of a back-up. I think the injury doesn't hurt the Colts as much as people are making it out to be.
The reason people feel the injury affects things is because of the Saints' three-headed rushing monster known as Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, and Pierre Thomas. I think if you are the Saints, you need to think run first. Keep Manning on the sidelines as much as possible and let the clock drain. I know Drew Brees is a difference maker but if you try down the Colts defense, that will do wonders for the passing game as well.
Lets also talk about Reggie Bush. I love the guy, one of my favorite college players and followed him pretty closely in the pros. In big games, Reggie wants the ball and to be the center of attention. Remember the botched lateral in the National Championship game versus Texas? Sometimes Bush tries too hard in the spotlight. But I do agree with some who feel he can have a Desmond Howard-like impact on the game and maybe wind up Super Bowl MVP if the Saints do win this one.
Now for the prediction, I think this game is somewhat like the 2002 Super Bowl between the St. Louis Rams and New England Patriots. You have one team who people do not really want to see win and a team everyone was pulling for (remember, the whole team concept and Tom Brady rise to glory?). The exact same thing is happening with the Saints, people want this for a tortured franchise and a city who got destroyed by Hurricane Katrina four short years ago. Even though, I do not like him Peyton Manning is almost too good to say he will lose. The team could have been undefeated and Manning is a mastermind behind center. I have a hard time seeing the Saints stopping him and especially, Dallas Clark after the kind of game Vishante Shincoe had in the NFC Championship. But I love the underdog and I love the passion Brees brings to the game so I am going with my heart not my brain. WHO DAT.
Saints 41 Colts 38
PS: Don't worry you are getting a good Super Bowl because I am getting Eric, my roommate as drunk as possible to ensure a great game.
-Charlie.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Why I Probably Hate your 21st Birthday Party
I would consider this my rant of the week and this stems from the first couple weekends of the spring semester. It also comes from my friend and interviewee this week Eric and I's conversation about this very topic.
Girls have made their 21st birthday party like it's their goddamn super sweet sixteen party and they just need to have every one of their friends there. They really could care less about getting drunk rather let's go out to dinner for drinks, then they head back to whosever house throwing this mega rager.
Now I will say that obviously when you turn 21, you are going to throw some sort of party with your friends because you want to get drunk wtih them like other weekends except do it legally without having the cops breathe down your necks.
I just feel that girls like most things in life take it over the top with their celebrations. Yes, it's a special birthday but I feel they act like it is the most important date of the year. You have to wish them happy birthday on their Facebook wall and include something in your status about "going out with my girl so-so legally!!!!! OMFG!!!!." What is this a National Holiday? I understand your excitement but it's completely unnecessecary to let your friends know exactly what they will be doing lately.
Birthday wishes are another thing, I stopped that doing that shit after my first year of using Facebook. I find it weird and creepy if someone who I haven't talk to in awhile wishes me a Happy Birthday. On another note, I try to thank people who do wish me a Happy Birthday because I am a nice guy, simple as that.
So ladies you can keep inviting me to your birthdays but at the same time, I am going to be bitching the entire time I am there.
-Charlie.
Girls have made their 21st birthday party like it's their goddamn super sweet sixteen party and they just need to have every one of their friends there. They really could care less about getting drunk rather let's go out to dinner for drinks, then they head back to whosever house throwing this mega rager.
Now I will say that obviously when you turn 21, you are going to throw some sort of party with your friends because you want to get drunk wtih them like other weekends except do it legally without having the cops breathe down your necks.
I just feel that girls like most things in life take it over the top with their celebrations. Yes, it's a special birthday but I feel they act like it is the most important date of the year. You have to wish them happy birthday on their Facebook wall and include something in your status about "going out with my girl so-so legally!!!!! OMFG!!!!." What is this a National Holiday? I understand your excitement but it's completely unnecessecary to let your friends know exactly what they will be doing lately.
Birthday wishes are another thing, I stopped that doing that shit after my first year of using Facebook. I find it weird and creepy if someone who I haven't talk to in awhile wishes me a Happy Birthday. On another note, I try to thank people who do wish me a Happy Birthday because I am a nice guy, simple as that.
So ladies you can keep inviting me to your birthdays but at the same time, I am going to be bitching the entire time I am there.
-Charlie.
The Top Five of the Week: Super Bowl Moments
Because it's the Super Bowl this Sunday, I am doing a top five of my personal favorite Super Bowl moments that have stuck with me. I would recommended for something to read that you check out the Lil Wayne article done by the Rolling Stone. I will also have an interview with Eric from the Daily Sports Grind and my rant about 21st birthday parties then a full-on Super Bowl breakdown with my final pick of the year.
1. Favre to Rison 1997 Super Bowl- The Packers Super Bowl win is probably in the top three of coolest sports moments for me (right there with making the playoffs with Tosa West, and Marquette to the Final Four). This play symbolizes the 90s version of Favre and the type of team the Packers were that year. They took a headcase and made him into a legitimate second option.
2. Desmond Howard's Return 1997 Super Bowl- All year Howard had been the game changer for the Packers and really was the reason the Packers were so good that year because of their excellent special teams. Howard took from the goal line and found the seam to take it to the house putting a dagger in the Pats. It also gave his career hope after looking like it had gone nowhere after winning the Heisman.
3. Kevin Dyson One-Yard Short 2000 Super Bowl- I apologize for no Packer links but they really do not have anything on YouTube. This was probably the best Super Bowl I have watched for many reasons and it featured everything you had wanted. Both teams were virtually Cinderellas to begin the year and ended up in the Super Bowl with one yard from getting a touchdown.
4. Adam Vinateri Field Goal Winner 2002 Super Bowl- I watched the game with a bunch of people and they asked to put the score on the board. As a young kid, I went with 31 Pats 28 Rams. For some strange reason in my 13 year old mind, I felt confidence that an underdog could win this game. This also could explain why I still to this day love the underdog (foreshadowing!??!?!?!)
5. David Tyree's Catch 2008 Super Bowl- Probably the most improbable Super Bowl in a long time when the six-seeded Giants beat the then-undefeated New England Patriots. It was ironic that the Pats were once the underdogs who everybody loved and by this time, there was such a hatred for them. When Tyree made that catch, only one time was my 10 floor dormitory.
-Charlie.
1. Favre to Rison 1997 Super Bowl- The Packers Super Bowl win is probably in the top three of coolest sports moments for me (right there with making the playoffs with Tosa West, and Marquette to the Final Four). This play symbolizes the 90s version of Favre and the type of team the Packers were that year. They took a headcase and made him into a legitimate second option.
2. Desmond Howard's Return 1997 Super Bowl- All year Howard had been the game changer for the Packers and really was the reason the Packers were so good that year because of their excellent special teams. Howard took from the goal line and found the seam to take it to the house putting a dagger in the Pats. It also gave his career hope after looking like it had gone nowhere after winning the Heisman.
3. Kevin Dyson One-Yard Short 2000 Super Bowl- I apologize for no Packer links but they really do not have anything on YouTube. This was probably the best Super Bowl I have watched for many reasons and it featured everything you had wanted. Both teams were virtually Cinderellas to begin the year and ended up in the Super Bowl with one yard from getting a touchdown.
4. Adam Vinateri Field Goal Winner 2002 Super Bowl- I watched the game with a bunch of people and they asked to put the score on the board. As a young kid, I went with 31 Pats 28 Rams. For some strange reason in my 13 year old mind, I felt confidence that an underdog could win this game. This also could explain why I still to this day love the underdog (foreshadowing!??!?!?!)
5. David Tyree's Catch 2008 Super Bowl- Probably the most improbable Super Bowl in a long time when the six-seeded Giants beat the then-undefeated New England Patriots. It was ironic that the Pats were once the underdogs who everybody loved and by this time, there was such a hatred for them. When Tyree made that catch, only one time was my 10 floor dormitory.
-Charlie.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Consider me on the Kevin Durant Bandwagon
Most of you who know me would probably say "Oh you are just joining the KD bandwagon because your boy Simmons is all over him like J-Woww with some guido at the club." False. I almost picked the Oklahoma City Thunder to get to the playoffs but I honestly couldn't see them winning enough games in the Western Conference. But oh how wrong I was.
The Thunder are currently sitting in seven place in the Western Conference and Kevin Durant has been the reason why the Thunder are the NBA's version of the Milwaukee Brewers threatening to make the playoffs this season with such a young nucleus. Durant has had over twenty-five points in the last twenty-three games. That is something that only a few players have done in the past couple of decades. The names are Michael Jordan, and Allen Iverson, two of the most prolific scorers in the NBA.
What mind boggles me about his scoring ability is the fact he can do all of this with only being 205 looking softer than the Rosanne's son as Lil Wayne once said in a song. I never thought he would be this good in the NBA because he was too skinny and I gave him plenty of shit for not being able to bench 185. In my opinion, the reason he is so good is because like LeBron, he is a matchup disaster for teams. Not many teams have a 6'5 and taller guy who is a good defender to keep up with Durant during an NBA game. This begs the question...
Is Durant the best young player in the NBA today? Absolutely, there is no question about that when a 21-year old is averaging 27.9 points 7 rebounds 3 assists a game and when this season is over, he may be a top five player in the league. That is a scary thought, but in all honesty, a guy at 6'9 doing some things that a 6'2 point guard cannot do.
Right now, he is on the LeBron James level of the NBA. Only James and Durant are on that level right now, no Dwight Howard, no Kobe Bryant, and no Dwyane Wade. That might seem crazy to some of you but look at the things, those two guys are doing compared to the rest of the league. It's not even funny the level of basketball these two guys are playing at therefore it's making their teams ten times better.
The other great thing about Durant is he is a likable guy just like the other newcomers that have come before him (see Chris Paul, Howard, James, Wade). He doesn't have an attitude just yet and he seems happy to be playing with the Thunder. In addition, just playing basketball in general seems to put a smile on Durant's face.
I really hope that ESPN leads with Durant as they do LeBron so much because we are that point with him. He needs that LeBron-Kobe level of attention and I would like to think Durant should be apart of that equation. Yes, he is that good.
-Charlie.
The Thunder are currently sitting in seven place in the Western Conference and Kevin Durant has been the reason why the Thunder are the NBA's version of the Milwaukee Brewers threatening to make the playoffs this season with such a young nucleus. Durant has had over twenty-five points in the last twenty-three games. That is something that only a few players have done in the past couple of decades. The names are Michael Jordan, and Allen Iverson, two of the most prolific scorers in the NBA.
What mind boggles me about his scoring ability is the fact he can do all of this with only being 205 looking softer than the Rosanne's son as Lil Wayne once said in a song. I never thought he would be this good in the NBA because he was too skinny and I gave him plenty of shit for not being able to bench 185. In my opinion, the reason he is so good is because like LeBron, he is a matchup disaster for teams. Not many teams have a 6'5 and taller guy who is a good defender to keep up with Durant during an NBA game. This begs the question...
Is Durant the best young player in the NBA today? Absolutely, there is no question about that when a 21-year old is averaging 27.9 points 7 rebounds 3 assists a game and when this season is over, he may be a top five player in the league. That is a scary thought, but in all honesty, a guy at 6'9 doing some things that a 6'2 point guard cannot do.
Right now, he is on the LeBron James level of the NBA. Only James and Durant are on that level right now, no Dwight Howard, no Kobe Bryant, and no Dwyane Wade. That might seem crazy to some of you but look at the things, those two guys are doing compared to the rest of the league. It's not even funny the level of basketball these two guys are playing at therefore it's making their teams ten times better.
The other great thing about Durant is he is a likable guy just like the other newcomers that have come before him (see Chris Paul, Howard, James, Wade). He doesn't have an attitude just yet and he seems happy to be playing with the Thunder. In addition, just playing basketball in general seems to put a smile on Durant's face.
I really hope that ESPN leads with Durant as they do LeBron so much because we are that point with him. He needs that LeBron-Kobe level of attention and I would like to think Durant should be apart of that equation. Yes, he is that good.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
February Goes to the Big East
I am dedicating the month of February to the Big East because in my opinion, it figures to be the most exciting conference with multiple teams on the bubble or hanging on to tourney hopes by a thread. Now, I am not saying it's the best conference this year (that belongs to the Big 12), but there are many teams who need a big February to be dancing come March. Let's look at these teams.
Marquette Golden Eagles (13-8, 4-5)- Best win: vs. Georgetown, at 19. UConn Worst defeat: at DePaul. Hardest games left: a three-game road trip versus two bubble teams potentially a third. Cincinnati, St. Johns, and Seton Hall. Outlook: I think they will be a solid position going into the Big East Conference Tournament likely needing one win to help their cause and another to solidify it. In addition, they cannot drop a home game to South Florida or DePaul. CHANCES: Probably
Cincinnati Bearcats (14-7, 5-4)- Best win: vs. Vanderbilt, vs. Maryland Worst defeat: at St. Johns Hardest games left: Ending the year at 6. West Virginia, vs. 2. Villanova, and at 8. Georgetown. Outlook: They still have to play Cuse and Nova albeit it both at home, also add in the other two top 10 teams. It could be shaky for the Bearcats come March. If they could win one of two against the Orange or the Cats, they would be in great shape. CHANCES: Maybe
Louisville Cardinals (14-8, 5-4)- Best win: vs. Cincinnati Worst defeat: at Seton Hall Hardest games left: home/away with 4. Syracuse Outlook: Also the Cards have to face Georgetown, UConn, Marquette, and the Orange to end the year. Likely, if they can come out 3-1 in that stretch and win the games they are suppose to, they may become locks for the tourney. CHANCES: Not Likely
Notre Dame Fightin' Irish (15-7, 4-5)- Best win: vs. West Virginia Worst defeat: at Rutgers Hardest games left: at 8. Georgetown Outlook: They have some tough games like Marquette but only two ranked teams left in Gtown/Pittsburgh on their schedule with a variety of road/home games. The Irish cannot afford any more hiccups on the road like last Saturday. CHANCES: Probably
South Florida Bulls (15-7, 5-5)- Best win: at 8. Georgetown Worst defeat: vs. Central Michigan Hardest games left: at 2. Villanova Outlook: The Bulls might be the suprirse team of the season now winning five straight games, they face one ranked team left plus the equal amount of home/road games. I think this team needs to split those four road games for them to be a factor. CHANCES: Maybe
UConn Huskies (13-9, 3-6)- Best win: vs. (then) 1. Texas Worst defeat: at Louisville Hardest games left: at 4. Syracuse, at 2. Villanova Outlook: The Huskies have a ton of tough road games left and with the uncertainty of Jim Calhoun, it doesn't look promising for UConn. CHANCES: Not good.
If you are scoring at home, I think the two teams who can control their own destiny are Marquette and Notre Dame. In addition, I think South Florida and Cincinnati both have chances to make some waves of their own. When it's all said and done I think the Big East only gets seven teams in.
-Charlie.
Marquette Golden Eagles (13-8, 4-5)- Best win: vs. Georgetown, at 19. UConn Worst defeat: at DePaul. Hardest games left: a three-game road trip versus two bubble teams potentially a third. Cincinnati, St. Johns, and Seton Hall. Outlook: I think they will be a solid position going into the Big East Conference Tournament likely needing one win to help their cause and another to solidify it. In addition, they cannot drop a home game to South Florida or DePaul. CHANCES: Probably
Cincinnati Bearcats (14-7, 5-4)- Best win: vs. Vanderbilt, vs. Maryland Worst defeat: at St. Johns Hardest games left: Ending the year at 6. West Virginia, vs. 2. Villanova, and at 8. Georgetown. Outlook: They still have to play Cuse and Nova albeit it both at home, also add in the other two top 10 teams. It could be shaky for the Bearcats come March. If they could win one of two against the Orange or the Cats, they would be in great shape. CHANCES: Maybe
Louisville Cardinals (14-8, 5-4)- Best win: vs. Cincinnati Worst defeat: at Seton Hall Hardest games left: home/away with 4. Syracuse Outlook: Also the Cards have to face Georgetown, UConn, Marquette, and the Orange to end the year. Likely, if they can come out 3-1 in that stretch and win the games they are suppose to, they may become locks for the tourney. CHANCES: Not Likely
Notre Dame Fightin' Irish (15-7, 4-5)- Best win: vs. West Virginia Worst defeat: at Rutgers Hardest games left: at 8. Georgetown Outlook: They have some tough games like Marquette but only two ranked teams left in Gtown/Pittsburgh on their schedule with a variety of road/home games. The Irish cannot afford any more hiccups on the road like last Saturday. CHANCES: Probably
South Florida Bulls (15-7, 5-5)- Best win: at 8. Georgetown Worst defeat: vs. Central Michigan Hardest games left: at 2. Villanova Outlook: The Bulls might be the suprirse team of the season now winning five straight games, they face one ranked team left plus the equal amount of home/road games. I think this team needs to split those four road games for them to be a factor. CHANCES: Maybe
UConn Huskies (13-9, 3-6)- Best win: vs. (then) 1. Texas Worst defeat: at Louisville Hardest games left: at 4. Syracuse, at 2. Villanova Outlook: The Huskies have a ton of tough road games left and with the uncertainty of Jim Calhoun, it doesn't look promising for UConn. CHANCES: Not good.
If you are scoring at home, I think the two teams who can control their own destiny are Marquette and Notre Dame. In addition, I think South Florida and Cincinnati both have chances to make some waves of their own. When it's all said and done I think the Big East only gets seven teams in.
-Charlie.
Hey There It's Been Awhile
I am sorry for my absence from the blog because I am lazy, school has started, and I drink more up here then in Milwaukee, which leads to my priorities changing while up here. I will try to do something this week on the NFL, College Basketball, and NBA this week plus I promise you that I will stay updated with the sports world in the month of February.
I will keep doing interviews on the weekends (many reasons why it took me forever for Fant's interview) but we are bringing back Eric on Friday. The links will also be frequent and a rant from me on Friday hopefully. I was going to go apeshit on non-traditional students last week after some lady really pissed me off in class, yet I didn't get a chance to. Bummer, hopefully she does something later today that will get me angry. But I think this week will be something on drinking and the college life who knows really what I have in store for that post.
Anyways, keep reading and I will try to bring you my opinions on the sports world.
-Charlie.
I will keep doing interviews on the weekends (many reasons why it took me forever for Fant's interview) but we are bringing back Eric on Friday. The links will also be frequent and a rant from me on Friday hopefully. I was going to go apeshit on non-traditional students last week after some lady really pissed me off in class, yet I didn't get a chance to. Bummer, hopefully she does something later today that will get me angry. But I think this week will be something on drinking and the college life who knows really what I have in store for that post.
Anyways, keep reading and I will try to bring you my opinions on the sports world.
-Charlie.
Interview with Fant, Top 3 Coolest Former Illinois Residents I Know
The ranking would be probably 1. My father Tied for second would be Brett, and Fant. Both are Cubs fans unlike my dad who was never a Cubs fan (White Sox) and really didn't like the Bears that much. Therefore he brought me up the proper way... I kid. Here we go...
1. First off, your thoughts on the Championship weekend?
The first thing I'll mention is I was correct in my predictions of the games (I have no proof, but take my word for it.). In the AFC, I was surprised at how the Jets started off hotter than a pistol. Their blitzing really seemed to get at Manning, but like the great QB he is, he started to pick a part the Jets secondary in the second half. In the NFC, I was cheering for the Saints to win but not as much as my roommates seemed to be. More or less they were cheering for the demise of Brett Favre, but needless to say we were all cheering for the Saints. I think that had this game been played in Minnesota, that the outcome might have been different.
2. Pretty standard question this week but did the Saints win the game or did the Vikes screw the pooch?
I think the Vikings screwed the pooch more so than the Saints winning the game. I mean, how many times can you play with fire before you get burnt? All the turnovers the Vikings had you knew that it could eventually bite them in the rear.
3. One person that impressed you the most during the playoffs and why?
I'd have to go with Darrelle Revis. To be truthful here, I had never heard of Darrelle Revis before the playoffs because of my lack of enthusiasm in following anything that has to do with Jets. I was impressed in his playmaking skills and how teams were afraid to pass his way.
4. Quick Super Bowl comment, do you think it's smart for Gregg Williams to talk shit to Peyton Manning? (If you didn't hear about it, he said they need to get "remember me" hits)
I did not hear the comments that Gregg Williams made, but I don't think it is a good idea to talk shit about Peyton Manning. He is the best qb in the league and it is not smart to give players more motivation than necessary.
5. Is Mark Sanchez the next great quarterback in the NFL or will he fall by the waste side like Joe Flacco?
I wouldn't say Joe Flacco has fallen by the waste side just yet. He just completed his second year in the league and helped his team get to the playoffs in both of those years. I think that Flacco is going to be a good quarterback in this league. Nothing too special, just a quarterback you can win with from time to time. I think that Mark Sanchez will fall more into that category than be an elite quarterback in the league. Sanchez is a guy you can win with, but also could be expendable if an upgrade is available.
6. Who is more tortured as sports fans, Minnesota Vikings fans or Chicago Cub fans?
Seeming how I am a Cub fan, I'll go with the Cubs on this one. I know both teams have had their fair share of heartbreaking misses but this one hits close to home for me. I was heartbroken in 2003 and in 2008 when they lost in the playoffs. I wasn't around for the 1969 and 1984 collapses but have heard they were gut wrenching as well.
7. Speaking of the Cubs, you are a fan of the Cubbies... Have you liked what they have done this season so far? And would there be something they could do?
I think they have done a fair job this offseason upgrading the team. I like the signings of Marol Byrd and Xavier Nady. I think they can provide some depth in the outfield. Byrd is going to take command of centerfield and Fukudome is going to move back to right field, which is his better position. Getting rid of Milton Bradley was a necessary maneuver that they took care of this winter. I also am excited about the signing of Chad Tracy to a minor league contract. If he rights his ship, I think he can be a sleeper on this team. I do think however that they can still upgrade in the bullpen and also add another arm in the rotation to have as an insurance policy because of Ted Lilly's surgery.
8. Where do you think the Cubs will finish this season in the NL Central this season and what will take for the Cubs to overtake the Cardinals?
Being the optimist that I am, I have no doubts the Cubs will win the NL Central this season. The Cubs one 83 games last season and there were many things that went wrong for them. Soriano, Soto, and Bradley vastly under produced and were a major reason why the offense struggled throughout the season. Another reason was Aramis Ramirez missed a significant chunk of the season. He is the Cubs best hitter and not having him in the lineup hurt them. A third reason was having Milton Bradley on the team. At first I was open to having him on the team and I thought I would give him a chance. Instead, Bradley proved to be what he always has been: a real tool bag. He was a cancer in the locker room, and when he was sent home for the season in the middle of September there was applause in the Cub clubhouse from the players about the suspension. If Soriano and Soto have numbers close to their career averages there will be no doubt that the Cubs will win the division.
9. On to the NBA, what are your thoughts on the season so far?
I have really been impressed with the current hot streak the Bulls are on in the current west coast road trip. Even during the Jordan years, the west coast trip was notorious for giving the Bulls problems. They have won 4 in a row against some quality teams and I hope their improved play continues. A big surprise to me this year is how well the Grizzlies have played. With a 25-19 record, they are one of the most improved teams in the league. The nucleus of Gay, Mayo, and Randolph has the Grizzlies playing really well. The Thunder are also another surprise team. Kevin Durant is turning out to be an absolute stud and is going to make Portland look foolish yet again for passing on an elite basketball player (Man, it must be tough being a Blazer fan watching the draft.).
10. Are you happy to see Derrick Rose improve after what appeared to be a sophomore slump for November/December?
Well of course I am happy to see Derrick Rose improve his play over last season. He was still a little bothered by an injured ankle in the early goings of the season but now it appears that he is 100%. He is really beginning to blossom into an elite point guard in this league and was recently named to the Eastern Conference All-Star team. He is learning how to take over at the end of games and finishing them off. His strength and quickness makes him one of the unique talents in this league. If the Bulls can somehow land either Chris Bosh or Amare Stodamire through a trade or the free agent market this offseason, I look for the Bulls to be a real contender in the East for a long time.
11. Do you think the Gilbert Arenas suspension was justified or would you have liked to see something more severe?
I think that Arenas got what he deserved. There is no room for a person to bring weapons into the workplace. He used to be one of my favorite players in the league, but this sitatuation really makes me disappointed in him. If he felt that he was threatened at the arena then he should have hired additional security and/or notified current stadium security of any threat that he might have faced. As for the other guy, Crittenton, you are already a no name player in the league already. Why would you also bring a gun into the workplace? Both guys got what they deserved.
12. Now, you wrote on your blog that you have no problem with A.I. getting into the All-Star game, why is it okay for a player who has only scored 14.6 to start in an All-Star Game.
Let me clarify things here because it sounds like people got the wrong message. With how the current system is set up in having fans vote in players to start the all-star game, fans should vote in players that they want to see play in the game. Me personally, I would not vote in Iverson to start or even play in the game. I have never been a huge Iverson fan, but I respect a fans decision to vote him in the game if he/she wants to see him play.
13. The blog, could you tell us on what you are working on and what is your goal with the blog?
Absolutely. It is a collaboration blog between Eric Nohelty and myself. We wanted to have a blog where we would discuss current topics in the sports world and give our opinions on the subject. We feel that we can give some insight and just our overall opinions. If you would like to check out our blog here is a link http://www.dailysportsgrind.blogspot.com/
-Charlie.
1. First off, your thoughts on the Championship weekend?
The first thing I'll mention is I was correct in my predictions of the games (I have no proof, but take my word for it.). In the AFC, I was surprised at how the Jets started off hotter than a pistol. Their blitzing really seemed to get at Manning, but like the great QB he is, he started to pick a part the Jets secondary in the second half. In the NFC, I was cheering for the Saints to win but not as much as my roommates seemed to be. More or less they were cheering for the demise of Brett Favre, but needless to say we were all cheering for the Saints. I think that had this game been played in Minnesota, that the outcome might have been different.
2. Pretty standard question this week but did the Saints win the game or did the Vikes screw the pooch?
I think the Vikings screwed the pooch more so than the Saints winning the game. I mean, how many times can you play with fire before you get burnt? All the turnovers the Vikings had you knew that it could eventually bite them in the rear.
3. One person that impressed you the most during the playoffs and why?
I'd have to go with Darrelle Revis. To be truthful here, I had never heard of Darrelle Revis before the playoffs because of my lack of enthusiasm in following anything that has to do with Jets. I was impressed in his playmaking skills and how teams were afraid to pass his way.
4. Quick Super Bowl comment, do you think it's smart for Gregg Williams to talk shit to Peyton Manning? (If you didn't hear about it, he said they need to get "remember me" hits)
I did not hear the comments that Gregg Williams made, but I don't think it is a good idea to talk shit about Peyton Manning. He is the best qb in the league and it is not smart to give players more motivation than necessary.
5. Is Mark Sanchez the next great quarterback in the NFL or will he fall by the waste side like Joe Flacco?
I wouldn't say Joe Flacco has fallen by the waste side just yet. He just completed his second year in the league and helped his team get to the playoffs in both of those years. I think that Flacco is going to be a good quarterback in this league. Nothing too special, just a quarterback you can win with from time to time. I think that Mark Sanchez will fall more into that category than be an elite quarterback in the league. Sanchez is a guy you can win with, but also could be expendable if an upgrade is available.
6. Who is more tortured as sports fans, Minnesota Vikings fans or Chicago Cub fans?
Seeming how I am a Cub fan, I'll go with the Cubs on this one. I know both teams have had their fair share of heartbreaking misses but this one hits close to home for me. I was heartbroken in 2003 and in 2008 when they lost in the playoffs. I wasn't around for the 1969 and 1984 collapses but have heard they were gut wrenching as well.
7. Speaking of the Cubs, you are a fan of the Cubbies... Have you liked what they have done this season so far? And would there be something they could do?
I think they have done a fair job this offseason upgrading the team. I like the signings of Marol Byrd and Xavier Nady. I think they can provide some depth in the outfield. Byrd is going to take command of centerfield and Fukudome is going to move back to right field, which is his better position. Getting rid of Milton Bradley was a necessary maneuver that they took care of this winter. I also am excited about the signing of Chad Tracy to a minor league contract. If he rights his ship, I think he can be a sleeper on this team. I do think however that they can still upgrade in the bullpen and also add another arm in the rotation to have as an insurance policy because of Ted Lilly's surgery.
8. Where do you think the Cubs will finish this season in the NL Central this season and what will take for the Cubs to overtake the Cardinals?
Being the optimist that I am, I have no doubts the Cubs will win the NL Central this season. The Cubs one 83 games last season and there were many things that went wrong for them. Soriano, Soto, and Bradley vastly under produced and were a major reason why the offense struggled throughout the season. Another reason was Aramis Ramirez missed a significant chunk of the season. He is the Cubs best hitter and not having him in the lineup hurt them. A third reason was having Milton Bradley on the team. At first I was open to having him on the team and I thought I would give him a chance. Instead, Bradley proved to be what he always has been: a real tool bag. He was a cancer in the locker room, and when he was sent home for the season in the middle of September there was applause in the Cub clubhouse from the players about the suspension. If Soriano and Soto have numbers close to their career averages there will be no doubt that the Cubs will win the division.
9. On to the NBA, what are your thoughts on the season so far?
I have really been impressed with the current hot streak the Bulls are on in the current west coast road trip. Even during the Jordan years, the west coast trip was notorious for giving the Bulls problems. They have won 4 in a row against some quality teams and I hope their improved play continues. A big surprise to me this year is how well the Grizzlies have played. With a 25-19 record, they are one of the most improved teams in the league. The nucleus of Gay, Mayo, and Randolph has the Grizzlies playing really well. The Thunder are also another surprise team. Kevin Durant is turning out to be an absolute stud and is going to make Portland look foolish yet again for passing on an elite basketball player (Man, it must be tough being a Blazer fan watching the draft.).
10. Are you happy to see Derrick Rose improve after what appeared to be a sophomore slump for November/December?
Well of course I am happy to see Derrick Rose improve his play over last season. He was still a little bothered by an injured ankle in the early goings of the season but now it appears that he is 100%. He is really beginning to blossom into an elite point guard in this league and was recently named to the Eastern Conference All-Star team. He is learning how to take over at the end of games and finishing them off. His strength and quickness makes him one of the unique talents in this league. If the Bulls can somehow land either Chris Bosh or Amare Stodamire through a trade or the free agent market this offseason, I look for the Bulls to be a real contender in the East for a long time.
11. Do you think the Gilbert Arenas suspension was justified or would you have liked to see something more severe?
I think that Arenas got what he deserved. There is no room for a person to bring weapons into the workplace. He used to be one of my favorite players in the league, but this sitatuation really makes me disappointed in him. If he felt that he was threatened at the arena then he should have hired additional security and/or notified current stadium security of any threat that he might have faced. As for the other guy, Crittenton, you are already a no name player in the league already. Why would you also bring a gun into the workplace? Both guys got what they deserved.
12. Now, you wrote on your blog that you have no problem with A.I. getting into the All-Star game, why is it okay for a player who has only scored 14.6 to start in an All-Star Game.
Let me clarify things here because it sounds like people got the wrong message. With how the current system is set up in having fans vote in players to start the all-star game, fans should vote in players that they want to see play in the game. Me personally, I would not vote in Iverson to start or even play in the game. I have never been a huge Iverson fan, but I respect a fans decision to vote him in the game if he/she wants to see him play.
13. The blog, could you tell us on what you are working on and what is your goal with the blog?
Absolutely. It is a collaboration blog between Eric Nohelty and myself. We wanted to have a blog where we would discuss current topics in the sports world and give our opinions on the subject. We feel that we can give some insight and just our overall opinions. If you would like to check out our blog here is a link http://www.dailysportsgrind.blogspot.com/
-Charlie.
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