I have no idea where I am going with this so bear with me as we go on this new journey. Because the NBA is goofy, they have one semifinal starting on Saturday and the rest start on various times therefore you will get multiple posts about different series. We are playing the alphabet with LeBron James, the Cleveland Cavalier superstar... the letter is E.
Elbow- The biggest thing that came out of the Chicago-Cleveland was the fact LeBron may be hurt. It seemed his elbow bothered him after he shot the second free throw with his left hand. This is raising the question, how hurt is he really? I cannot say nor can any of us because only LBJ knows. If they run through the Boston Celtics then we are convinced that LeBron's elbow doesn't really bother him. But if they struggle, it's a clear problem. The biggest problem with the injury is it's his right arm, which makes it tougher for him to score. I predict more jump shots and less takes to the basket. Cavs fans are throwing rocks at me right now because this would be the worst case scenario.
Exciting- I think this could be most entertaining series if the Bucks do not win tonight or Sunday for me. I like the Celtics for a variety of reasons... a.) Very physical, brings back old memories b.) Paul Pierce has been a favorite of mine for years because for some reason I loved Pierce as a kid, I keep my loyalties. c.) Ray Allen falls under letter b. and add he was a former Milwaukee Bucks holds a soft spot. I think they can take the Cavs to six or seven games and they could even win this series. All of these will be close battles and be shocked if either team gets a blowout win. I think it will be a fun-filled series even if the game is 88-85, the defense will be great with a complete slugfest and an enjoyable game.
Excuses- Let's play oddsmakers... what are the odds people use LeBron's elbow as a cop out if they lose to Boston? 4 to 1? 3 to 1? This is a built-in excuse waiting to happen and James seems to be on the wrong end of the stick every May for whatever reason. I can just see it now, "Well LeBron was hurt, that's why they lost." Personally, I would rather have the Cavs lost a series where LBJ was healthy so there is no room for the E we are describing.
Prediction: I think the Cavs take it in 7. I cannot see them losing at home right now and would be stunned if it happened in the first two games. The most intriguing thing other than LBJ's elbow is the matchups inside. Shaq-Big Z-Sideshow Bob vs. KG-Perkins-Big Baby, that is a 6 man tag-team match I would love to see on Monday Night Raw. Even with his injury, Pierce/Allen don't have enough in the tank to keep up with LeBron in a deep physical series.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Friday, April 30, 2010
Deer Has Been Feared
Let's go back to the Milwaukee Bucks-Atlanta Hawks Game 5 fourth quarter, the Bucks are down six at this point... I am sitting on my computer looking mindlessly at various tweets and then realize that I am nowhere focused enough so I put my computer down, then switch my snus from my left upper lip to my right lip... There you have how the Bucks won because they went on that crazy roll after that.
If you were to tell me in November that I would be pumped in the morning looking forward to the game tonight, I would reply with 'yeah and I am jumping off of the Chippewa River for shits and giggles.' Seriously, every fan of Wisconsin professional sports has bought in and now makes even more especially with how piss-poor the Milwaukee Brewers have been (we aren't going there... yet). People want to see this team advance as far as possible and Friday could be the knockout punch for the Atlanta Hawks.
Scott Skiles deserves all the credit in the world, and I am willing to bet maybe a couple of the bigger markets might want to lure him in. I hope this isn't the case but I could totally see a team have an admiration for what he is doing. Skiles figured out a way to have an ability close out a playoff series with Kurt Thomas and Dan Gadzuric as their big men, amazing. Not to mention, the Bucks' version of Mark Titus (Primoz Brezec) gets a ton of clock with Thomas/Gadz get into foul trouble, yet he still made a basket late. I love everything Skiles has done this playoff series.
What's funny about a deep playoff series is you begin to hate the opposing team. I mean I had no beef whatsoever with Atlanta, actually sort of like them... Mike Bibby invokes memories of those Sacramento Kings teams of the early 2000s, love Josh Smith's game (poor man's LeBron doesn't get the credit), and Al Hortford is a great post player. Except for Hortford, I really cannot stand Bibby/Smith.
Bibby is getting exposed every night defensively by Brandon Jennings, and no one is calling him out for it. Does Jennings need to drop 40 for everyone to realize, wow Mike Bibby is way past his prime? Just because the guy still rains threes and has a tendency to make clutch baskets, doesn't mean the media has to bit their tongue about his atrocious defense.
Smith is a whole other situation, he first runs his mouth about Milwaukee, which I addressed in the last post and the other thing, the guy whines more than a spoiled rich kid that doesn't get his/her way. Every call that goes against Smith, he thinks is the worst call in America that night (arguably if it's Dick Bavetta or Joey Crawford, it might be.) and the crazy thing is... he hasn't got a technical! I swear he has done Rasheed Wallace-level bitching and not been T'd up is beyond me. If there is one thing I hope for Game 6 other than a Bucks win is seeing a ref hit Josh Smith with a technical hopefully Squad 6 will encourage this.
The crowd will be a fever pitch for multiple reasons: 1.) First close-out game since 2001, 2.) Friday Night , 3) Early start (6 PM) meaning the beers will be flowing from various bars around the Bradley Center by about 3 pm. This will be an unruly crowd and wanting blood from the Hawks. To think, I could have went. I got offered twice to buy tickets before Game 5, and turned it down due to money issues plus a three and a half hour drive. All of the things I cited above make me yearn to be in Milwaukee tonight, a lot like it was two years with the Brewers short playoff stint. I really regret not taking both of my friends up on this opportunity but I know I will be heavily intoxicated by the final buzzer hopefully celebrating in a victory.
One thing I worry about tonight is the fact the Bucks might get swept up in all of the emotion and come out flatter than Kate Moss (look her up, yes there are naked ones). I could totally see it happening but the other thing I could see the Hawks struggling mightily. They are a team full of head cases I am starting to believe that Milwaukee can struggle and still be okay. Both teams might come out tight and the true question will be who comes out of it? As my buddy E told me, "If the Bucks don't win tonight, no way they win in Atlanta." Completely agree.
-Charlie.
If you were to tell me in November that I would be pumped in the morning looking forward to the game tonight, I would reply with 'yeah and I am jumping off of the Chippewa River for shits and giggles.' Seriously, every fan of Wisconsin professional sports has bought in and now makes even more especially with how piss-poor the Milwaukee Brewers have been (we aren't going there... yet). People want to see this team advance as far as possible and Friday could be the knockout punch for the Atlanta Hawks.
Scott Skiles deserves all the credit in the world, and I am willing to bet maybe a couple of the bigger markets might want to lure him in. I hope this isn't the case but I could totally see a team have an admiration for what he is doing. Skiles figured out a way to have an ability close out a playoff series with Kurt Thomas and Dan Gadzuric as their big men, amazing. Not to mention, the Bucks' version of Mark Titus (Primoz Brezec) gets a ton of clock with Thomas/Gadz get into foul trouble, yet he still made a basket late. I love everything Skiles has done this playoff series.
What's funny about a deep playoff series is you begin to hate the opposing team. I mean I had no beef whatsoever with Atlanta, actually sort of like them... Mike Bibby invokes memories of those Sacramento Kings teams of the early 2000s, love Josh Smith's game (poor man's LeBron doesn't get the credit), and Al Hortford is a great post player. Except for Hortford, I really cannot stand Bibby/Smith.
Bibby is getting exposed every night defensively by Brandon Jennings, and no one is calling him out for it. Does Jennings need to drop 40 for everyone to realize, wow Mike Bibby is way past his prime? Just because the guy still rains threes and has a tendency to make clutch baskets, doesn't mean the media has to bit their tongue about his atrocious defense.
Smith is a whole other situation, he first runs his mouth about Milwaukee, which I addressed in the last post and the other thing, the guy whines more than a spoiled rich kid that doesn't get his/her way. Every call that goes against Smith, he thinks is the worst call in America that night (arguably if it's Dick Bavetta or Joey Crawford, it might be.) and the crazy thing is... he hasn't got a technical! I swear he has done Rasheed Wallace-level bitching and not been T'd up is beyond me. If there is one thing I hope for Game 6 other than a Bucks win is seeing a ref hit Josh Smith with a technical hopefully Squad 6 will encourage this.
The crowd will be a fever pitch for multiple reasons: 1.) First close-out game since 2001, 2.) Friday Night , 3) Early start (6 PM) meaning the beers will be flowing from various bars around the Bradley Center by about 3 pm. This will be an unruly crowd and wanting blood from the Hawks. To think, I could have went. I got offered twice to buy tickets before Game 5, and turned it down due to money issues plus a three and a half hour drive. All of the things I cited above make me yearn to be in Milwaukee tonight, a lot like it was two years with the Brewers short playoff stint. I really regret not taking both of my friends up on this opportunity but I know I will be heavily intoxicated by the final buzzer hopefully celebrating in a victory.
One thing I worry about tonight is the fact the Bucks might get swept up in all of the emotion and come out flatter than Kate Moss (look her up, yes there are naked ones). I could totally see it happening but the other thing I could see the Hawks struggling mightily. They are a team full of head cases I am starting to believe that Milwaukee can struggle and still be okay. Both teams might come out tight and the true question will be who comes out of it? As my buddy E told me, "If the Bucks don't win tonight, no way they win in Atlanta." Completely agree.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Can't Say I Told You So
I want to know where all of the people were before the NBA Playoffs started? I mean you all joined the bandwagon like I did, but once Andrew Bogut goes down, add to the fact the Milwaukee Bucks were playing the Atlanta Hawks, people believed they were going to get swept. Well, I didn't and now I think the Bucks may be able to win in Game 5 in Atlanta.
I know the Hawks are comparable to Kristen Cavallari of the Hills who at home is kinda of a bitch, but seems to run things smoothly at Laguna Beach also everyone thinks she is super hot, then on the road (Malibu) she is this sex-crazed girl destroying the lives of men and women in sight plus she looks completely coked out in turn making her less attractive. Basically, my poor analogy that probably has you confused is saying the Hawks cannot play away from home. I blame my lack of research for not bringing that up making the five arguments for the Bucks taking the Hawks to six or seven games. I have a feeling this series is headed to seven if the Bucks lose tomorrow but if they win.... rut roh.
Who says they cannot beat the Hawks at the Highlight Factory as they like to call it? I know Scott Skiles believes they can do it, Brandon Jennings said they aren't a true playoff team until they win on the road, and after winning two straight without Andrew Bogut, they believe they can do it. Someone like to tell me where Al Hortford has been the last two games? Maybe, getting knocked out by Bango (best viral video ever by a Milwaukee team, I loved every minute of it) but seriously, he didn't do shit for the Hawks in Game 3 or 4. The steady rotation of Kurt Thomas and Dan Gadzuric (who knew!) is appearing to soften and frustrate Hortford. He isn't the only suspect in the crime of the disappearance of the Atlanta Hawks.
Josh Smith is the next offender, the guy who ran his mouth about Milwaukee being boring and cannot find a restaurant. First off, Josh if I took you out for a Milwaukee night you would have a helluva time and probably head back to the hotel with a Milwaukee 10. Now that isn't hot as an Atlanta 10 but let's admit why you hate Milwaukee, the strippers at Arts aren't as hot as what you see in the Gold Room in ATL... that's the reason. Now on to the basketball game, Luc Richard Mbah Moute has locked you down like a clingy girlfriend on the weekend. Mbah Moute needs more respect from the NBA media community, the man is a game changer on the defensive end. You cannot get a good shot to save your soul and you are taking many ill-advised shots hurting you team. The final offender is a former playoff clutch performer...
Mike Bibby is getting exposed by Brandon Jennings as the series continued. BJ3 is running circles around Bibby making him look silly and appears clearly lost on the defensive end. Jennings is doing things that are spreading the defenses and the Hawks haven't figured him out. If the Hawks were smart (let's hope not), they put Joe Johnson on Jennings tonight, a lot like the Los Angeles Lakers did with Kobe Bryant putting him on Russell Westbrook causing big problems for the Thunder last night. Jennings is figuring out how to play playoff basketball and the true X-factor for the Bucks.
With all this being said, if the Bucks get the same effort out of all their role players just like the last two games. Nobody seemed nervous to be there like the first two games, and they were composed ready to play. I have been telling my friends this is the most excited I have been about an NBA basketball game since May of 2001. I cannot wait for tonight, I just pray if the Bucks lose, it's a hard fought battle to the finish. Fear The Deer.
-Charlie.
I know the Hawks are comparable to Kristen Cavallari of the Hills who at home is kinda of a bitch, but seems to run things smoothly at Laguna Beach also everyone thinks she is super hot, then on the road (Malibu) she is this sex-crazed girl destroying the lives of men and women in sight plus she looks completely coked out in turn making her less attractive. Basically, my poor analogy that probably has you confused is saying the Hawks cannot play away from home. I blame my lack of research for not bringing that up making the five arguments for the Bucks taking the Hawks to six or seven games. I have a feeling this series is headed to seven if the Bucks lose tomorrow but if they win.... rut roh.
Who says they cannot beat the Hawks at the Highlight Factory as they like to call it? I know Scott Skiles believes they can do it, Brandon Jennings said they aren't a true playoff team until they win on the road, and after winning two straight without Andrew Bogut, they believe they can do it. Someone like to tell me where Al Hortford has been the last two games? Maybe, getting knocked out by Bango (best viral video ever by a Milwaukee team, I loved every minute of it) but seriously, he didn't do shit for the Hawks in Game 3 or 4. The steady rotation of Kurt Thomas and Dan Gadzuric (who knew!) is appearing to soften and frustrate Hortford. He isn't the only suspect in the crime of the disappearance of the Atlanta Hawks.
Josh Smith is the next offender, the guy who ran his mouth about Milwaukee being boring and cannot find a restaurant. First off, Josh if I took you out for a Milwaukee night you would have a helluva time and probably head back to the hotel with a Milwaukee 10. Now that isn't hot as an Atlanta 10 but let's admit why you hate Milwaukee, the strippers at Arts aren't as hot as what you see in the Gold Room in ATL... that's the reason. Now on to the basketball game, Luc Richard Mbah Moute has locked you down like a clingy girlfriend on the weekend. Mbah Moute needs more respect from the NBA media community, the man is a game changer on the defensive end. You cannot get a good shot to save your soul and you are taking many ill-advised shots hurting you team. The final offender is a former playoff clutch performer...
Mike Bibby is getting exposed by Brandon Jennings as the series continued. BJ3 is running circles around Bibby making him look silly and appears clearly lost on the defensive end. Jennings is doing things that are spreading the defenses and the Hawks haven't figured him out. If the Hawks were smart (let's hope not), they put Joe Johnson on Jennings tonight, a lot like the Los Angeles Lakers did with Kobe Bryant putting him on Russell Westbrook causing big problems for the Thunder last night. Jennings is figuring out how to play playoff basketball and the true X-factor for the Bucks.
With all this being said, if the Bucks get the same effort out of all their role players just like the last two games. Nobody seemed nervous to be there like the first two games, and they were composed ready to play. I have been telling my friends this is the most excited I have been about an NBA basketball game since May of 2001. I cannot wait for tonight, I just pray if the Bucks lose, it's a hard fought battle to the finish. Fear The Deer.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Ride or Die With Tebow
Remember when it was cool to like DMX? I personally still do listen to him a lot in the gym because it gets me going but honestly, I feel this is a perfect title for the Denver Broncos and Tim Tebow. Either, Josh McDaniels is a genius living in world where he becomes one of the best coaches in the NFL or he is "that guy" for drafting Tebow too high never living up to the expectations.
I can almost guarantee you this is how the pitch went from McDaniels to Denver Management....
"I want to trade up for Tebow because I think we need to install a type of leadership that hasn't been here since John Elway (you know he was used to bait them into this) and look what I did with Matt Cassel! He won 10 games for the Patriots in a tough as nails AFC East and we play in a dogshit AFC West with the Chargers on the way out, the Raiders who knows, and Chiefs are still building. Let's give Tebow two or three years and he will deliver."
People argued that Tebow will be no better than a third-string quarterback for the Broncos, which would make sense if he was a true pocket-passer. Look what he did for the Florida Gators his freshman year, he would be in on goal line sets and Wildcat stuff. The combination of Knoshown Moreno and Tebow in a backfield running a pseudo-Wildcat will be a scary thing in the NFL. Basically, it's a more powerful version of having Chris Johnson and Vince Young in the same backfield. Tebow will contribute to this team even if it's in minor ways at first. Also anyone worried about Tebow not taking direction from McDaniels is sadly mistaken.
The bromance that Tebow and McDaniels seem to have is could be the football version of "I Love You Man." They both gush about how great each other are and you know damn well that McDaniels will do everything in his power to make Tebow into a NFL quarterback. He is probably one of the most popular college athletes ever and it's never a lock they become a superstar in the pros although I believe McDaniels sees himself as the answer to all of Tebow's problems as a quarterback. I think he can do it too personally.
I am a big believer in guys who just win and do well no matter their disadvantages. The perfect example for the now is Stephen Curry. He is an undersized two-guard who really cannot play the point unless the offense features a score first point guard. People thought no way would he do anything in the NBA with his lack of size and honestly, he really isn't that quick. Yet Curry will probably be in the top four in Rookie of the Year when it's all said and done and he had a fantastic year with the Golden State Warriors. Tebow, I feel can have that same Curry dent into the Broncos in a couple of years because I think the NFL takes more time to develop than the NBA (reason #1 why first year players aren't allowed out). Trust me, Tebow will succeed.
-Charlie.
I can almost guarantee you this is how the pitch went from McDaniels to Denver Management....
"I want to trade up for Tebow because I think we need to install a type of leadership that hasn't been here since John Elway (you know he was used to bait them into this) and look what I did with Matt Cassel! He won 10 games for the Patriots in a tough as nails AFC East and we play in a dogshit AFC West with the Chargers on the way out, the Raiders who knows, and Chiefs are still building. Let's give Tebow two or three years and he will deliver."
People argued that Tebow will be no better than a third-string quarterback for the Broncos, which would make sense if he was a true pocket-passer. Look what he did for the Florida Gators his freshman year, he would be in on goal line sets and Wildcat stuff. The combination of Knoshown Moreno and Tebow in a backfield running a pseudo-Wildcat will be a scary thing in the NFL. Basically, it's a more powerful version of having Chris Johnson and Vince Young in the same backfield. Tebow will contribute to this team even if it's in minor ways at first. Also anyone worried about Tebow not taking direction from McDaniels is sadly mistaken.
The bromance that Tebow and McDaniels seem to have is could be the football version of "I Love You Man." They both gush about how great each other are and you know damn well that McDaniels will do everything in his power to make Tebow into a NFL quarterback. He is probably one of the most popular college athletes ever and it's never a lock they become a superstar in the pros although I believe McDaniels sees himself as the answer to all of Tebow's problems as a quarterback. I think he can do it too personally.
I am a big believer in guys who just win and do well no matter their disadvantages. The perfect example for the now is Stephen Curry. He is an undersized two-guard who really cannot play the point unless the offense features a score first point guard. People thought no way would he do anything in the NBA with his lack of size and honestly, he really isn't that quick. Yet Curry will probably be in the top four in Rookie of the Year when it's all said and done and he had a fantastic year with the Golden State Warriors. Tebow, I feel can have that same Curry dent into the Broncos in a couple of years because I think the NFL takes more time to develop than the NBA (reason #1 why first year players aren't allowed out). Trust me, Tebow will succeed.
-Charlie.
WILTW: A Fresh Dose of What I Like
Starting today, I am beginning a post every Monday where I like you know "What I Like This Week" featuring a post with some music I am enjoying, movies or television, and overall thoughts from my head really, hope you like it.
Music: Chiddy Bang: They are a fresh hip-hop group out of Philadelphia who I have been listening to as much as I can and informing people at an alarming rate about how good they are. They fall into the group of great new artists out there (see Wale, Kid Cudi, Wiz Khalifa, J. Cole, many others) I will post my three personal favorite songs
1. Flying By Them Haters
2.Truth (using a Passion Pit sample, I know many are big fans, me personally am not.)
3. Under the Sheets
Also this song is on Itunes, known as Opposite of Adults
TV: If you are not watching Fresh Meat II on MTV, you are missing out on the greatest rivalry since Bird vs. Magic. That rivalry would be Kenny-Wes, two meat heads just going at each other throats and ready to rumble as much as possible. I think this show has everything you want; competition, drunkenness, sex, and hot girls, any other questions? I mean look at Wes' partner Mandi, granted she would turn me down quicker than Usian Bolt, she still is about as hot as you can get for Reality TV.
Movies: Finally saw Avatar, which in my opinion was a solid movie and one I enjoyed for the most part. Mostly for the breath-taking special effects and the way they set up Pandora. I think Jim Cameron (like Vinny Chase, I can call you Jim too right?) overhyped this movie worse than the Justin Biebler phenomenon in our society and no it didn't deserve Best Picture. The acting wasn't really there at all and the plot reminded me of any movies surrounding Native Americans or Europe into Africa. Once again, I like the movie but I think America as a whole had this over-the-top orgasm about it that wasn't need whatsoever.
Final Thoughts: I want to know the obsession with the Hills. I am going to lay my man card in question, but I have watched the Hills, in fact back-to-back episodes because I tend to get sucked it for whatever reason. I mean these people did NOTHING yet they cover US Weekly and all those other magazines. I can't put a finger on why it swept America like it did. Also no I will not be watching on Tuesday night when it premieres in case you were wondering.
-Charlie.
Music: Chiddy Bang: They are a fresh hip-hop group out of Philadelphia who I have been listening to as much as I can and informing people at an alarming rate about how good they are. They fall into the group of great new artists out there (see Wale, Kid Cudi, Wiz Khalifa, J. Cole, many others) I will post my three personal favorite songs
1. Flying By Them Haters
2.Truth (using a Passion Pit sample, I know many are big fans, me personally am not.)
3. Under the Sheets
Also this song is on Itunes, known as Opposite of Adults
TV: If you are not watching Fresh Meat II on MTV, you are missing out on the greatest rivalry since Bird vs. Magic. That rivalry would be Kenny-Wes, two meat heads just going at each other throats and ready to rumble as much as possible. I think this show has everything you want; competition, drunkenness, sex, and hot girls, any other questions? I mean look at Wes' partner Mandi, granted she would turn me down quicker than Usian Bolt, she still is about as hot as you can get for Reality TV.
Movies: Finally saw Avatar, which in my opinion was a solid movie and one I enjoyed for the most part. Mostly for the breath-taking special effects and the way they set up Pandora. I think Jim Cameron (like Vinny Chase, I can call you Jim too right?) overhyped this movie worse than the Justin Biebler phenomenon in our society and no it didn't deserve Best Picture. The acting wasn't really there at all and the plot reminded me of any movies surrounding Native Americans or Europe into Africa. Once again, I like the movie but I think America as a whole had this over-the-top orgasm about it that wasn't need whatsoever.
Final Thoughts: I want to know the obsession with the Hills. I am going to lay my man card in question, but I have watched the Hills, in fact back-to-back episodes because I tend to get sucked it for whatever reason. I mean these people did NOTHING yet they cover US Weekly and all those other magazines. I can't put a finger on why it swept America like it did. Also no I will not be watching on Tuesday night when it premieres in case you were wondering.
-Charlie.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
The Black Hole Will Be Great for Campbell
Something weird happened this NFL Draft weekend, the Oakland Raiders actually made moves to make their team better than just screw them for a couple of years. Granted, the Richard Seymour trade will come back to haunt them next year if they struggle but maybe they are making sure that will not happen. They acquire Jason Campbell from the Washington Redskins and now I have to ask could the Raiders actually play with the big boys?
I think Campbell gets a bad rap from the D.C. media for various reasons because he hasn't been able to carry the Skins to any success but here's the thing... He has had constant change to deal with every year. Campbell has had six offensive coordinators in six years, you cannot tell me a player will rise to their true potential if they are dealing with that shit learning a new offense every July. If that was me, I know I would have struggled as much as Campbell did and the other thing people fail to realize...
He isn't a guy that will light up the scoreboard like an Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, or a Philip Rivers but he can lead your team on long drives if you let him. I would not like Campbell throw the ball pass 20 yards because he tends to get in trouble when he throws it vertically down the field. Campbell's system needs to have a plethora of slants, screens, posts, ins, and everything else close. Obviously, the occasional fly route needs to happen to keep the defense at bay but Campbell doesn't need all of to be successful.
I am pulling for Campbell because I think we got an unbelievably unfair shake in Washington due to the fact, the hype around him was the type of a top 10 quarterback. He isn't that, so let R.I.P. that argument and just know he is an above average quarterback who can maybe get you to the playoffs with the right combination of tools. I do not think the Raiders will get to the playoffs this year but I think Campbell has added three to five wins at least for Raider nation.
-Charlie.
I think Campbell gets a bad rap from the D.C. media for various reasons because he hasn't been able to carry the Skins to any success but here's the thing... He has had constant change to deal with every year. Campbell has had six offensive coordinators in six years, you cannot tell me a player will rise to their true potential if they are dealing with that shit learning a new offense every July. If that was me, I know I would have struggled as much as Campbell did and the other thing people fail to realize...
He isn't a guy that will light up the scoreboard like an Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, or a Philip Rivers but he can lead your team on long drives if you let him. I would not like Campbell throw the ball pass 20 yards because he tends to get in trouble when he throws it vertically down the field. Campbell's system needs to have a plethora of slants, screens, posts, ins, and everything else close. Obviously, the occasional fly route needs to happen to keep the defense at bay but Campbell doesn't need all of to be successful.
I am pulling for Campbell because I think we got an unbelievably unfair shake in Washington due to the fact, the hype around him was the type of a top 10 quarterback. He isn't that, so let R.I.P. that argument and just know he is an above average quarterback who can maybe get you to the playoffs with the right combination of tools. I do not think the Raiders will get to the playoffs this year but I think Campbell has added three to five wins at least for Raider nation.
-Charlie.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Running Diary of the 2010 NFL Draft
Welcome to my first running diary for the NFL Draft. I will be drunk probably by pick 25, especially since we are creating a drinking game right now. 10 drinks for getting offense/defense wrong, 5 drinks just getting offense/defense 3 drinks for getting the right position, and if you get it right, you are handing out 10 drinks. This should be exciting.
6:30- It has begun and Roger Goodell has let us known that the draft will be begin. There are some rumors about Cleveland trading up to St. Louis and here we go.
6:33- We have it on our big TV which is a big accomplishment for Eric, Seet, and special guest Koz. B-squared demanded to watch LeBron and Cavs on the big TV and we had a struggle comparable to the Cold War. I would call B-squared Russia because he is a communist and we love America.
6:36- First pick is in and I am guessing Sam Bradford will be the selection or as I like to call him the Native American version of Ryan Reynolds. I think if Bradford ever gets to a stature to make a movie, Reynolds will be the actor.
6:39- Well we all got the first pick right and 22 drinks were handed to me, fair to say… Rut roh.
6:41- I wish Matt Millen was there so he could draft Dez Bryant. He is the only GM in history to be dumb enough to draft a wide receiver. Detroit Lions are on the clock now…
6:42 We are locked into Ndamukong Suh for the Lions and I didn’t realize that him/Gerald McCoy are both 6’4, wow.
6:44: Lions take Suh, we all get right and drinks are distributed to everybody, not just me rejoice! I said in my mock draft, the Lions become very scary now with their front seven, also he is a class act, good guy. Now the Bucs are on the clock.
6:47 They ask Suh the following question, How does it feel to finally be there? “It feels great, just tingles down your body.” “So like an orgasm?”-Eric. Classic response.
6:50 Yes there is a video of my weight loss on YouTube, no I will not link it but you can search for it if you choose to. Screw you Eric.
6:51 Gerald McCoy starts crying as he probably knows he will be a Buccaneer, not soon after… B-Squared calls him a “pussy”. He does it with every player that cries, I cannot explain it… he just does it. There is a hope that I come home one day to see B-Squared crying to a Lifetime movie because that would be the funniest thing in the world.
6:56 One of Mel Kiper’s best available left is Derrick Morgan and he is wearing a bowtie in his picture. High comedy, Seth replies with “Dude give him a break it’s his band picture.”
6:59 I am now 4/4. Call the Trent Williams pick when everyone had Russell Okung in the room. I am pumped to say the least. Handed out drinks and they took three for just getting the offensive line.
7:01 Suzy Kolber is discussing about how the players are all hugging Goodell. Seet replies with “They are making sure to get on his good side so when they fuck up it will not be a big deal.”
7:06 Well It’s looking like Eric Berry, I went with Okung. You cannot make this stuff up, I am owed 40 drinks, not good. He is a helluva player though, reminds me much more of Sean Taylor than Ed Reed though like everyone is saying.
7:08 Ball skills makes us all giggle and then E telling B-Squared that in fact, Brett has ball-skills. His response? “I play pocket-pool with the best of them.”
7:14 Russell Okung looks like he is getting drafted and that means we are going 5 for 6 at least watching the draft but not in the blog, we are 4/6. Koz guessed Derrick Morgan which will cost him 10 beers. I think he will be a good player going up against the big boys of the Big 12.
7:18 The guesses for the Browns 7th pick... E: Earl Thomas (Texas) Me/Brett: Derrick Morgan (GA Tech) Koz: Jimmy Clausen, his reason? Well, I think Del-homie sucks so they have to go with Clausen. You know it’s Delhomme right? Yeah, but I like how Del-Homie sounds… well then.
7:22 Shocked with Joe Haden pick, he is a helluva player but I think the Browns could have got him in the middle of the first round instead of the 7th pick of the draft. Now, we get Mitchy Raiders which will be more unpredictable than a trip to the bars on Water Street.
7:25 We tried to get Mitch on the phone to hear this thoughts on this Raider pick. A couple of them are convinced that Jimmy Clausen is going here and I am going with Bruce Campbell, E says Rolando McClain. Who knows really.
7:27 I agree with B-Squared, Gruden had a chance to beat up on Al Davis and he said good things about him. This guy fired your ass! CMOOOOOON MAAAAAAAN
7:28 Discussing the fact of Tim Tebow begin a Raider, high comedy thinking about this situation. This would not be a good situation.
7:30 Rolando McClain got drafted by the Raiders and Eric acted like he just boned Megan Fox. He got so excited, I cannot believe this happen. Once again, completely wrong meaning I am drowning in beers right now.
7:34 Another surprising pick, the Bills decided to take C.J. Spiller. It really makes no sense to me, they have so many other needs. Somewhere Joe Mead, producer of the B.S. Report is crying.
7:35 On another note, the Cavs are getting ass-blasted by the Bulls. My sports week has been fantastic so far, hopefully this leads into the weekend.
7:37 TYSON ALUALU?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?? You have got to be kidding me, the Jaguars are the new Raiders, Jesus what a dogshit pick. No wonder they have no fans. Also I wonder if Matt Millen is secretly running their team.
7:39 The Niners just traded up to the 11th pick, I think this is a Jimmy Clausen pick. I am finally buying in to this, I know I said the opposite in the Mock Draft but it doesn’t matter because I am starting to feel it.
7:42 So much for that Clausen pick, they are going with Anthony Davis at Rutgers. I do not think that is the wise decision but whatever they feel it is the right choice for them, I think he is a super young dude.
7:46 San Diego Chargers just traded up big time to get to the 12th pick and we are all stumped. Berman thought they had the details, but he didn’t. Hopefully, a rant is coming soon.
7:47 Seet just drilled Koz with a water bottle, and now he is playing Forrest Gump tennis with his bottle. I don’t think I can explain how funny this is on paper.
7:48: No one knows what going to happen. I thought it was Bulaga but then I realized they lost Jamal Williams, they are taking Dan Williams, shit.
7:50: They decide to go with Ryan Matthews, interesting decision. Many guys who were supposed to go lower are going much higher, he will do some good things for the Bolts.
7:52: The Eagles traded up for the Broncos pick and that induces the third straight social for us as a group. I wish Berman would announce the drinking game that we are doing or at least listed on the right-hand corner.
7:55: Dear Ed Werder, you have a fantastic mustache, and Cowboy Chris thinks you are a hack.
7:57 We all were riding the Earl Thomas bandwagon, and they take Brandon Graham of Michigan. Once again, we are stunned. None of us had Graham, he is the first OLB /DE hybrid to go in the draft.
8:00 Once again, everyone is on the Jimmy Clausen bandwagon for the Seahawks on the first round but I am going with Derrick Morgan.
8:05 We suck at this, but this is making for a helluva drinking game. The Seahawks take Earl Thomas, he is a great player. I love the pick for the ‘Hawks. Good job by Pete Carroll.
8:07 Jon Gruden’s orgasm for C.J. Spiller and Earl Thomas is comparable to Peter North. (Kids if you don’t know who that is, look it up.)
8:08 Comparison with A.C. Slater and Earl Thomas is absolutely ridiculous, I will leave it at that. Horrible, that is one of the worst comparison ever made. First, one is Hispanic and the other one is an African-American. How does that work?
8:09 Taco Bell conversation about how much we spend, I think people believe that we all high when we drop 10 dollars or greater on simple tacos and fat.
8:10 We all believe that the Giants are taking Derrick Morgan, the bowtie man should go here because the rumors of their Osi Unimonurya (spelling big time)
8:11 B-Squared- “We are all football fans fat?” I could answer this simply, they all love beer and fried food. Simple as that.
8:13 Jason Pierre-Paul gets drafted instead of Derrick Morgan. Please explain to me why this is good decision? Just because he does back flips? What an awful choice by the Giants.
8:14 Seal is being broken, as the Joker once said, “Here we go….”
8:19 WE FINALLY GOT ANOTHER RIGHT! Derrick Morgan to the Titans, send the drinks around baby.
8:23 At first, we were all going with Clausen and now we are starting to reconsider… Jerry Hughes, Sergio Kindle, and Dan Williams. I think no one really knows what the Niners are going to do but I am telling you they will regret not taking Clausen.
8:25 Interesting, they go with Mike Iupati and they have decided to load up on offensive line with Davis and him. Frank Gore should have a big season this year with all of these first-round o-lineman.
8:27 Dear Steelers, please draft a quarterback so I can laugh really hard. Tim Tebow would be an awesome selection. Holy shit, it’s already coming. I am taking Maurkice Pouncey
8:29 The Steelers took Pouncey and him and his brother looked like Fat Joe/Big Pun. Jesus, I wonder which Florida booster hooked you up with that chain?
8:32 Interesting the Atlanta Falcons went with Sean Weatherspoon. Everyone had him going him in the late round and he goes in the mid-round… side note.. The Bulls are choking bad right now, holy shit.
8:37 The Chicago Bulls choke is taking over our TV Screen right now, I cannot say I agree. If LeBron is known as the closer, he needs to make this shot.
8:38 They foul Sideshow Bob, I hate when teams do this. Such a cop out, let your defense win. I hate this decision so much.
8:40 While we were away, the Texans took Kareem Jackson and Cincinnati Jermaine Gersham. Still watching the game and the Broncos traded up to get the Pats pick. Somewhere Bill Simmons is crying.
8:43 Mo Williams hits an unstoppable three and now they are only down one with 3.8. This is unreal channel flipping sequence going on right now.
8:45 The Broncos decided to take the Demaryius Thomas instead of Dez Bryant. This is an obvious decision because they do not want a head case receiver after dealing Brandon Marshall.
8:48 Now the Packers are on the clock, I am hoping for Bryan Bulaga. An Iowa lineman who will be a great player and they will have some depth on the offensive lineman.
8:49 I could also see Jerry Hughes, Sergio Kindle, and who the hell knows? I mean maybe Taylor Mays. But the pick is in!!!!
8:50 I hope they take an OLB just to see Eric go on a complete rant. It would be rant of epic proportions.
8:52: BULLLLLLLAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGAAAAAAAA I am pumped. So happy right now.
8:54 Odds that I replace Lady Gaga’s name with Bulaga in the Bad Romance song? Off the table, because that will happen when I hear it at the bars.
8:57 Pats trade down again, I have to think Bill Simmons is just pissed right now and the Cowboys are taking Dez Bryant. Wow, that is a scary wide receiver core with him and Miles Austin. He is the prototypical wide out for the Cowboys. Great choice.
9:01 I cannot believe Bryant fell to the Cowboys, he will be the guy that I will try to pick up in the fantasy leagues. Trust me,
9:04 IS TEBOW GOING TO BALTIMORE?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?! OR DENVER I HAVE NO IDEA WHATS GOING ON?!?!?!?!?!?!
9:05 My god he is going to the Broncos. Now, you have a three quarterback race between Brady Quinn, Tebow, and Kyle Orton. He will be such a class act for this team, I love this move.
9:07 Mel Kiper doubting Tebow being a quarterback, but let me ask you a question, has Kiper ever played a football game? I think not.
9:08 I cannot believe that Tebow went over Jimmy Clausen though, such a surprise to me. I cannot believe that happened, the Notre Dame thing is scaring people.
9:12 What a dick to the guy in the back behind Tebow that is wearing the exact same thing. I mean unless Tebow is trotting out God Threads, I do not believe this dude should wear the same shirt. C’MON MANNN.
9:13 Brett can still be a Colts fan because Tebow is a Bronco. I also now have to become a Bronco fan after hating them for years due to my love of Tebow.
9:18 Someone explain to me why Dan Williams has a jersey with a #1 on there for the Arizona Cardinals? That is stupid.
9:23 All the sudden, we are on Jimmy Clausen watch. Now, the question is will teams trade up to get Clausen? Because none of the other teams that are left will take Clausen, unless it’s Minnesota.
9:25 Another unpredictable pick with Devin McCourty, I had him out of my first round but I think they should have went with Kyle Wilson.
9:27 Oh SHIT, I have to wish my mom a happy birthday!-Eric Haha, classic because he is probably nine beers deep right now. I hope his mom reads Chuck’s Corner.
9:30 Dolphins go with Jared Odrick, and he will probably shift to DE with the 3-4 system with the Phins. It basically replaces losing Jason Taylor.
9:31 While I wait for the fans of the Jets to boo whoever they pick, according to Michael Smith they might be trading down with the Cleveland Browns.
9:37 The Jets take Kyle Wilson who people compared to Darrelle Revis. I think this is a good move, they get a good special teams player and they have some depth at corner if Antonio Cromartie gets hurt.
9:43 The Vikings traded to the Lions, what the hell? They do not need Clausen, so who are they going to take. I have no idea, even though I like Clausen… I find it very funny if he doesn’t make it out of the first round.
9:46 They take Jahvid Best, which will help them out with the Lions but you have to worry about the Brian Westbrook thing with him. Way too many concussions for me
9:52 Colts pick is in, Rodger Safford would be the correct choice right now. But they go with Jerry Hughes, good pick for them.
9:55 The Saints are the last one on the clock, they will not take Caulsen so we will have to wait til next day, wow.
10:00 We will probably be about a couple minutes left. I cannot believe Sergio Kindle is still around at 32, I personally had him at 12.
10:03 Drew Brees is everywhere, and they take a guy from Florida State. Well, off to get even more drunk.
-Charlie.
6:30- It has begun and Roger Goodell has let us known that the draft will be begin. There are some rumors about Cleveland trading up to St. Louis and here we go.
6:33- We have it on our big TV which is a big accomplishment for Eric, Seet, and special guest Koz. B-squared demanded to watch LeBron and Cavs on the big TV and we had a struggle comparable to the Cold War. I would call B-squared Russia because he is a communist and we love America.
6:36- First pick is in and I am guessing Sam Bradford will be the selection or as I like to call him the Native American version of Ryan Reynolds. I think if Bradford ever gets to a stature to make a movie, Reynolds will be the actor.
6:39- Well we all got the first pick right and 22 drinks were handed to me, fair to say… Rut roh.
6:41- I wish Matt Millen was there so he could draft Dez Bryant. He is the only GM in history to be dumb enough to draft a wide receiver. Detroit Lions are on the clock now…
6:42 We are locked into Ndamukong Suh for the Lions and I didn’t realize that him/Gerald McCoy are both 6’4, wow.
6:44: Lions take Suh, we all get right and drinks are distributed to everybody, not just me rejoice! I said in my mock draft, the Lions become very scary now with their front seven, also he is a class act, good guy. Now the Bucs are on the clock.
6:47 They ask Suh the following question, How does it feel to finally be there? “It feels great, just tingles down your body.” “So like an orgasm?”-Eric. Classic response.
6:50 Yes there is a video of my weight loss on YouTube, no I will not link it but you can search for it if you choose to. Screw you Eric.
6:51 Gerald McCoy starts crying as he probably knows he will be a Buccaneer, not soon after… B-Squared calls him a “pussy”. He does it with every player that cries, I cannot explain it… he just does it. There is a hope that I come home one day to see B-Squared crying to a Lifetime movie because that would be the funniest thing in the world.
6:56 One of Mel Kiper’s best available left is Derrick Morgan and he is wearing a bowtie in his picture. High comedy, Seth replies with “Dude give him a break it’s his band picture.”
6:59 I am now 4/4. Call the Trent Williams pick when everyone had Russell Okung in the room. I am pumped to say the least. Handed out drinks and they took three for just getting the offensive line.
7:01 Suzy Kolber is discussing about how the players are all hugging Goodell. Seet replies with “They are making sure to get on his good side so when they fuck up it will not be a big deal.”
7:06 Well It’s looking like Eric Berry, I went with Okung. You cannot make this stuff up, I am owed 40 drinks, not good. He is a helluva player though, reminds me much more of Sean Taylor than Ed Reed though like everyone is saying.
7:08 Ball skills makes us all giggle and then E telling B-Squared that in fact, Brett has ball-skills. His response? “I play pocket-pool with the best of them.”
7:14 Russell Okung looks like he is getting drafted and that means we are going 5 for 6 at least watching the draft but not in the blog, we are 4/6. Koz guessed Derrick Morgan which will cost him 10 beers. I think he will be a good player going up against the big boys of the Big 12.
7:18 The guesses for the Browns 7th pick... E: Earl Thomas (Texas) Me/Brett: Derrick Morgan (GA Tech) Koz: Jimmy Clausen, his reason? Well, I think Del-homie sucks so they have to go with Clausen. You know it’s Delhomme right? Yeah, but I like how Del-Homie sounds… well then.
7:22 Shocked with Joe Haden pick, he is a helluva player but I think the Browns could have got him in the middle of the first round instead of the 7th pick of the draft. Now, we get Mitchy Raiders which will be more unpredictable than a trip to the bars on Water Street.
7:25 We tried to get Mitch on the phone to hear this thoughts on this Raider pick. A couple of them are convinced that Jimmy Clausen is going here and I am going with Bruce Campbell, E says Rolando McClain. Who knows really.
7:27 I agree with B-Squared, Gruden had a chance to beat up on Al Davis and he said good things about him. This guy fired your ass! CMOOOOOON MAAAAAAAN
7:28 Discussing the fact of Tim Tebow begin a Raider, high comedy thinking about this situation. This would not be a good situation.
7:30 Rolando McClain got drafted by the Raiders and Eric acted like he just boned Megan Fox. He got so excited, I cannot believe this happen. Once again, completely wrong meaning I am drowning in beers right now.
7:34 Another surprising pick, the Bills decided to take C.J. Spiller. It really makes no sense to me, they have so many other needs. Somewhere Joe Mead, producer of the B.S. Report is crying.
7:35 On another note, the Cavs are getting ass-blasted by the Bulls. My sports week has been fantastic so far, hopefully this leads into the weekend.
7:37 TYSON ALUALU?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?? You have got to be kidding me, the Jaguars are the new Raiders, Jesus what a dogshit pick. No wonder they have no fans. Also I wonder if Matt Millen is secretly running their team.
7:39 The Niners just traded up to the 11th pick, I think this is a Jimmy Clausen pick. I am finally buying in to this, I know I said the opposite in the Mock Draft but it doesn’t matter because I am starting to feel it.
7:42 So much for that Clausen pick, they are going with Anthony Davis at Rutgers. I do not think that is the wise decision but whatever they feel it is the right choice for them, I think he is a super young dude.
7:46 San Diego Chargers just traded up big time to get to the 12th pick and we are all stumped. Berman thought they had the details, but he didn’t. Hopefully, a rant is coming soon.
7:47 Seet just drilled Koz with a water bottle, and now he is playing Forrest Gump tennis with his bottle. I don’t think I can explain how funny this is on paper.
7:48: No one knows what going to happen. I thought it was Bulaga but then I realized they lost Jamal Williams, they are taking Dan Williams, shit.
7:50: They decide to go with Ryan Matthews, interesting decision. Many guys who were supposed to go lower are going much higher, he will do some good things for the Bolts.
7:52: The Eagles traded up for the Broncos pick and that induces the third straight social for us as a group. I wish Berman would announce the drinking game that we are doing or at least listed on the right-hand corner.
7:55: Dear Ed Werder, you have a fantastic mustache, and Cowboy Chris thinks you are a hack.
7:57 We all were riding the Earl Thomas bandwagon, and they take Brandon Graham of Michigan. Once again, we are stunned. None of us had Graham, he is the first OLB /DE hybrid to go in the draft.
8:00 Once again, everyone is on the Jimmy Clausen bandwagon for the Seahawks on the first round but I am going with Derrick Morgan.
8:05 We suck at this, but this is making for a helluva drinking game. The Seahawks take Earl Thomas, he is a great player. I love the pick for the ‘Hawks. Good job by Pete Carroll.
8:07 Jon Gruden’s orgasm for C.J. Spiller and Earl Thomas is comparable to Peter North. (Kids if you don’t know who that is, look it up.)
8:08 Comparison with A.C. Slater and Earl Thomas is absolutely ridiculous, I will leave it at that. Horrible, that is one of the worst comparison ever made. First, one is Hispanic and the other one is an African-American. How does that work?
8:09 Taco Bell conversation about how much we spend, I think people believe that we all high when we drop 10 dollars or greater on simple tacos and fat.
8:10 We all believe that the Giants are taking Derrick Morgan, the bowtie man should go here because the rumors of their Osi Unimonurya (spelling big time)
8:11 B-Squared- “We are all football fans fat?” I could answer this simply, they all love beer and fried food. Simple as that.
8:13 Jason Pierre-Paul gets drafted instead of Derrick Morgan. Please explain to me why this is good decision? Just because he does back flips? What an awful choice by the Giants.
8:14 Seal is being broken, as the Joker once said, “Here we go….”
8:19 WE FINALLY GOT ANOTHER RIGHT! Derrick Morgan to the Titans, send the drinks around baby.
8:23 At first, we were all going with Clausen and now we are starting to reconsider… Jerry Hughes, Sergio Kindle, and Dan Williams. I think no one really knows what the Niners are going to do but I am telling you they will regret not taking Clausen.
8:25 Interesting, they go with Mike Iupati and they have decided to load up on offensive line with Davis and him. Frank Gore should have a big season this year with all of these first-round o-lineman.
8:27 Dear Steelers, please draft a quarterback so I can laugh really hard. Tim Tebow would be an awesome selection. Holy shit, it’s already coming. I am taking Maurkice Pouncey
8:29 The Steelers took Pouncey and him and his brother looked like Fat Joe/Big Pun. Jesus, I wonder which Florida booster hooked you up with that chain?
8:32 Interesting the Atlanta Falcons went with Sean Weatherspoon. Everyone had him going him in the late round and he goes in the mid-round… side note.. The Bulls are choking bad right now, holy shit.
8:37 The Chicago Bulls choke is taking over our TV Screen right now, I cannot say I agree. If LeBron is known as the closer, he needs to make this shot.
8:38 They foul Sideshow Bob, I hate when teams do this. Such a cop out, let your defense win. I hate this decision so much.
8:40 While we were away, the Texans took Kareem Jackson and Cincinnati Jermaine Gersham. Still watching the game and the Broncos traded up to get the Pats pick. Somewhere Bill Simmons is crying.
8:43 Mo Williams hits an unstoppable three and now they are only down one with 3.8. This is unreal channel flipping sequence going on right now.
8:45 The Broncos decided to take the Demaryius Thomas instead of Dez Bryant. This is an obvious decision because they do not want a head case receiver after dealing Brandon Marshall.
8:48 Now the Packers are on the clock, I am hoping for Bryan Bulaga. An Iowa lineman who will be a great player and they will have some depth on the offensive lineman.
8:49 I could also see Jerry Hughes, Sergio Kindle, and who the hell knows? I mean maybe Taylor Mays. But the pick is in!!!!
8:50 I hope they take an OLB just to see Eric go on a complete rant. It would be rant of epic proportions.
8:52: BULLLLLLLAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGAAAAAAAA I am pumped. So happy right now.
8:54 Odds that I replace Lady Gaga’s name with Bulaga in the Bad Romance song? Off the table, because that will happen when I hear it at the bars.
8:57 Pats trade down again, I have to think Bill Simmons is just pissed right now and the Cowboys are taking Dez Bryant. Wow, that is a scary wide receiver core with him and Miles Austin. He is the prototypical wide out for the Cowboys. Great choice.
9:01 I cannot believe Bryant fell to the Cowboys, he will be the guy that I will try to pick up in the fantasy leagues. Trust me,
9:04 IS TEBOW GOING TO BALTIMORE?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?! OR DENVER I HAVE NO IDEA WHATS GOING ON?!?!?!?!?!?!
9:05 My god he is going to the Broncos. Now, you have a three quarterback race between Brady Quinn, Tebow, and Kyle Orton. He will be such a class act for this team, I love this move.
9:07 Mel Kiper doubting Tebow being a quarterback, but let me ask you a question, has Kiper ever played a football game? I think not.
9:08 I cannot believe that Tebow went over Jimmy Clausen though, such a surprise to me. I cannot believe that happened, the Notre Dame thing is scaring people.
9:12 What a dick to the guy in the back behind Tebow that is wearing the exact same thing. I mean unless Tebow is trotting out God Threads, I do not believe this dude should wear the same shirt. C’MON MANNN.
9:13 Brett can still be a Colts fan because Tebow is a Bronco. I also now have to become a Bronco fan after hating them for years due to my love of Tebow.
9:18 Someone explain to me why Dan Williams has a jersey with a #1 on there for the Arizona Cardinals? That is stupid.
9:23 All the sudden, we are on Jimmy Clausen watch. Now, the question is will teams trade up to get Clausen? Because none of the other teams that are left will take Clausen, unless it’s Minnesota.
9:25 Another unpredictable pick with Devin McCourty, I had him out of my first round but I think they should have went with Kyle Wilson.
9:27 Oh SHIT, I have to wish my mom a happy birthday!-Eric Haha, classic because he is probably nine beers deep right now. I hope his mom reads Chuck’s Corner.
9:30 Dolphins go with Jared Odrick, and he will probably shift to DE with the 3-4 system with the Phins. It basically replaces losing Jason Taylor.
9:31 While I wait for the fans of the Jets to boo whoever they pick, according to Michael Smith they might be trading down with the Cleveland Browns.
9:37 The Jets take Kyle Wilson who people compared to Darrelle Revis. I think this is a good move, they get a good special teams player and they have some depth at corner if Antonio Cromartie gets hurt.
9:43 The Vikings traded to the Lions, what the hell? They do not need Clausen, so who are they going to take. I have no idea, even though I like Clausen… I find it very funny if he doesn’t make it out of the first round.
9:46 They take Jahvid Best, which will help them out with the Lions but you have to worry about the Brian Westbrook thing with him. Way too many concussions for me
9:52 Colts pick is in, Rodger Safford would be the correct choice right now. But they go with Jerry Hughes, good pick for them.
9:55 The Saints are the last one on the clock, they will not take Caulsen so we will have to wait til next day, wow.
10:00 We will probably be about a couple minutes left. I cannot believe Sergio Kindle is still around at 32, I personally had him at 12.
10:03 Drew Brees is everywhere, and they take a guy from Florida State. Well, off to get even more drunk.
-Charlie.
Trying Not To Get Too Excited
I would really like to believe that the Milwaukee Brewers will keep this hot hitting and dominate this weekend against the listless Chicago Cubs. But I feel like I am falling in a trap if I believe that the Brewers will do well this weekend. The reason? Well it's pretty simple when you throw Jeff Suppan and Doug Davis back-to-back, I really cannot see it turning out well, the pitching matchups for the weekend...
Friday: Ryan Dempster vs. Jeff Suppan
Saturday: Ted Lilly vs. Doug Davis (Slow left-handed pitchers rejoice!)
Sunday: Randy Wells vs. Dave Bush
The Brewers will probably need to put up 7 to 9 runs on Friday and Saturday to win those games. Which I do not doubtr the Brewers can do this, but it's hard to believe that the Brewers will continue to kill the baseball. I mean everyone is hitting... Weeks/Gomez/Edmonds/Hart/Escobar to name a few and especially, Ryan Braun.
Usually, Braun is a guy who gets going come May and he really goes off for a couple months thus the reason why the Brewers have struggled in the past couple years in April. But Braun has found his stroke already, and it's beautiful. He is playing so well, and is T.J. Lavin level of killing it. I expect him to go on a cold streak some time in the middle of May but right now, it's scary time to face Braun.
The two positives that can be taken away from this series is Ted Lilly is making his first start of the season so you never really know what you are going to get from the first start. I believe Lilly's numbers against the Brewers is pretty good but with the way Braun is hitting, he might hit three homers off his candy ass. The other is I smell a Carlos Zambrano meltdown because if you didn't hear, he is going to the bullpen. Fantastic news, I expect him to struggle there this weekend with the rowdy crowd tonight or tomorrow. Cubs fans and the Brewers can both boo him mercifully this weekend... fun times.
Brewers-Cubs series are a ton of debauchery and a lot of drunken fights. Add in a "Fuck the Cubbies" and other chants that are pretty sweet. But when it's on the weekend, all of these things get amplified about ten-fold. Add to the fact, the Brewers are hitting the ball well the crowds will be on full tilt. It should be an exciting weekend.
-Charlie.
Friday: Ryan Dempster vs. Jeff Suppan
Saturday: Ted Lilly vs. Doug Davis (Slow left-handed pitchers rejoice!)
Sunday: Randy Wells vs. Dave Bush
The Brewers will probably need to put up 7 to 9 runs on Friday and Saturday to win those games. Which I do not doubtr the Brewers can do this, but it's hard to believe that the Brewers will continue to kill the baseball. I mean everyone is hitting... Weeks/Gomez/Edmonds/Hart/Escobar to name a few and especially, Ryan Braun.
Usually, Braun is a guy who gets going come May and he really goes off for a couple months thus the reason why the Brewers have struggled in the past couple years in April. But Braun has found his stroke already, and it's beautiful. He is playing so well, and is T.J. Lavin level of killing it. I expect him to go on a cold streak some time in the middle of May but right now, it's scary time to face Braun.
The two positives that can be taken away from this series is Ted Lilly is making his first start of the season so you never really know what you are going to get from the first start. I believe Lilly's numbers against the Brewers is pretty good but with the way Braun is hitting, he might hit three homers off his candy ass. The other is I smell a Carlos Zambrano meltdown because if you didn't hear, he is going to the bullpen. Fantastic news, I expect him to struggle there this weekend with the rowdy crowd tonight or tomorrow. Cubs fans and the Brewers can both boo him mercifully this weekend... fun times.
Brewers-Cubs series are a ton of debauchery and a lot of drunken fights. Add in a "Fuck the Cubbies" and other chants that are pretty sweet. But when it's on the weekend, all of these things get amplified about ten-fold. Add to the fact, the Brewers are hitting the ball well the crowds will be on full tilt. It should be an exciting weekend.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Mock Draft Part II
Well after enjoying a double overtime hockey game, and the greatness that is Fresh Meat II, I fimally added my second part of the draft. Keep scrolling down the page if you want the first half.
17.) San Francisco 49ers- Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- Once again, they will have a chance at Jimmy Clausen and they will fail. I am telling you I see no chance of them taking Clausen. They will upgrade their front seven by adding a guy like Hughes, he was a sack machine and people feel he is good enough to play outside linebacker like the rest of the prospects.
18.) Pittsburgh Steelers- Maurkice Pouncey C Florida- How funny would it be if they take Clausen or Tim Tebow here? I would be laughing for probably the whole weekend and making as many Big Ben jokes as possible (harder than you think ask Seet). Anyways, they need offensive line help bad no matter who their quarterback is and Pouncey is a pure badass in the middle, doesn’t mind getting dirty. He will fit perfectly in a blue-collar city and have an impact in his first two years.
19.) Atlanta Falcons- Brandon Graham OLB Michigan- The Falcons need to address some problems on the front seven and Graham will be the best available player at number nineteen. They may move up to get a guy like Kindle, Hughes, or heaven-forbid Pierre-Paul but Graham will be the fit here. Although he would be more suitable with a 3-4, I think he could be fine.
20.) Houston Texans- Ryan Matthews RB Fresno State- With Steve Slaton coming back from injury plus the weird stuff that happens middle season with their running backs, you figure this is a need of theirs. Matthews has shot up in the draft in the past couple of weeks and he is definetly a physical guy with breakaway. I am would worry about how much he has carried the ball over his college career but his speed is tough to pass up.
21.) Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma- I struggled with this one for awhile between him and Dez Bryant but the Bengals have seen no production out of their tight ends in the past couple of years. Their passing offense looks pretty scary with Chad OchoCinco, Antonio Bryant, and Gresham as their main threats. Also he has that Jermichael Finley type built who was a player that helped the Packers out greatly.
22.) New England Patriots- Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- Maybe I am granting Bill Simmons’ wish to get Bryant here but I really think it would be a wise decision for the Pats here. He will fall because people look way too much into all his personal shit and New England is comfortable with the head case receivers (see Randy Moss). Take away his NCAA Suspension this season, he would have been a top seven pick without question.
23.) Green Bay Packers- Taylor Mays S USC- I debated over Wilson or Mays but really when thinking about it, Ted Thompson loves taking the best guy available. I think TT will love his size and speed. He will make an immediate difference on special teams and he will be a guy you put in during certain situations in the game. Also I still think he could play OLB like Thomas Davis of the Carolina Panthers did who played safety at Georgia.
24.) Philadelphia Eagles- Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- The Eagles are down a corner from last year as they dealt Sheldon Brown and could use a guy like Wilson. Undersized, but he can return punts plus everything I have read, he is the closest thing you will come to Darrelle Revis this draft. He will also make a very big impact for the
25.) Baltimore Ravens- Jared Odrick DT Penn State- The Ravens who upgraded their offense with Anquan Boldin earlier this offseason and you could argue USC’s Charles Brown might be a good choice here giving them two future tackles for years to come but they need to shore up their D-Line after losing Dwan Edwards. As the Big Ten player of the year, Odrick has seen some great linemen and will probably be pushed out to defensive end in the 3-4 set.
26.) Arizona Cardinals- Sean Weatherspoon OLB Missouri- The general consensus is the Cards will take an OLB to replace Karlos Dansby. Now, I think they would be wise to trade up and get one of the hybrids who will be long gone by twenty-six. Weatherspoon will be a solid fix but I really do not see him pushing a guy like Joey Porter or Clark Haggans right away.
27.) Dallas Cowboys- Charles Brown OT USC- I know Jerry Jones has made it known that he already has a left tackle in mind to replace Flozell Adams but I think they could add another tackle on the safe side. Brown is one of the most unpredictable players in the draft, some have him as high as 8 others have him right around these spots.
28.) San Diego Chargers- Terrence Cody DT Alabama- I cannot believe I am putting him in the first round but the Bolts need a big run stopper as it’s looking like Jamal Williams will not be the same player. I think Cody is a waste of time for any team bringing him in, look at Andre Smith of Cincinnati. Another overweight Bama player who held out then broke his foot no more than five days in training camp. I am not a big fan of Cody personally.
29.) New York Jets- Demaryius Thomas WR Georgia Tech- I really do not know what the Jets need because of all their free agent signings so maybe they will trade down, but they could use a strong slot receiver to add into the Braylon Edwards-Santonio Holmes combination.
30.) Minnesota Vikings- Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Wow does this suck. I have the distinct feeling that this will actually happen. People will be weary to draft him because of the Irish failures at quarterback in the NFL and he is kind of a head case. The Vikes need to have the “Brett Favre Replacement” ready to go. Although let me add, someone may trade up if they see Clausen hanging around that 20 to 30 spot.
31.) Indianapolis Colts- Rodger Safford OT Indiana- Can’t say I know much about this guy, only thing I know is Todd McShay said he was “underrated”. But he is the next best tackle available and the Colts have been talking about taking an offensive lineman in the first round since they lost to the New Orleans Saints.
32.) New Orleans Saints- Everson Griffin DE USC- He will be a great player I think in about two years. He fits the physical play of the Saints and might not be the best rookie this season yet a couple years from now, he will be a force.
My take on Tim Tebow because you all care, he will be a Buffalo Bill in the second round. I think I mentioned Chan Gailey’s track record of athletic quarterbacks and Tebow fits the prototype too easily for the Bills not to take him in the second round. I would be floored if he was a first round pick.
BEST AVAILABLE ROUND 2: DT Brian Price (UCLA) CB Kareem Jackson (BAMA) CB Devin McCourty (RUTGERS) WR Golden Tate (Notre Dame)
Running Diary for the first round, should be fun.
-Charlie.
17.) San Francisco 49ers- Jerry Hughes DE/OLB TCU- Once again, they will have a chance at Jimmy Clausen and they will fail. I am telling you I see no chance of them taking Clausen. They will upgrade their front seven by adding a guy like Hughes, he was a sack machine and people feel he is good enough to play outside linebacker like the rest of the prospects.
18.) Pittsburgh Steelers- Maurkice Pouncey C Florida- How funny would it be if they take Clausen or Tim Tebow here? I would be laughing for probably the whole weekend and making as many Big Ben jokes as possible (harder than you think ask Seet). Anyways, they need offensive line help bad no matter who their quarterback is and Pouncey is a pure badass in the middle, doesn’t mind getting dirty. He will fit perfectly in a blue-collar city and have an impact in his first two years.
19.) Atlanta Falcons- Brandon Graham OLB Michigan- The Falcons need to address some problems on the front seven and Graham will be the best available player at number nineteen. They may move up to get a guy like Kindle, Hughes, or heaven-forbid Pierre-Paul but Graham will be the fit here. Although he would be more suitable with a 3-4, I think he could be fine.
20.) Houston Texans- Ryan Matthews RB Fresno State- With Steve Slaton coming back from injury plus the weird stuff that happens middle season with their running backs, you figure this is a need of theirs. Matthews has shot up in the draft in the past couple of weeks and he is definetly a physical guy with breakaway. I am would worry about how much he has carried the ball over his college career but his speed is tough to pass up.
21.) Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma- I struggled with this one for awhile between him and Dez Bryant but the Bengals have seen no production out of their tight ends in the past couple of years. Their passing offense looks pretty scary with Chad OchoCinco, Antonio Bryant, and Gresham as their main threats. Also he has that Jermichael Finley type built who was a player that helped the Packers out greatly.
22.) New England Patriots- Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State- Maybe I am granting Bill Simmons’ wish to get Bryant here but I really think it would be a wise decision for the Pats here. He will fall because people look way too much into all his personal shit and New England is comfortable with the head case receivers (see Randy Moss). Take away his NCAA Suspension this season, he would have been a top seven pick without question.
23.) Green Bay Packers- Taylor Mays S USC- I debated over Wilson or Mays but really when thinking about it, Ted Thompson loves taking the best guy available. I think TT will love his size and speed. He will make an immediate difference on special teams and he will be a guy you put in during certain situations in the game. Also I still think he could play OLB like Thomas Davis of the Carolina Panthers did who played safety at Georgia.
24.) Philadelphia Eagles- Kyle Wilson CB Boise State- The Eagles are down a corner from last year as they dealt Sheldon Brown and could use a guy like Wilson. Undersized, but he can return punts plus everything I have read, he is the closest thing you will come to Darrelle Revis this draft. He will also make a very big impact for the
25.) Baltimore Ravens- Jared Odrick DT Penn State- The Ravens who upgraded their offense with Anquan Boldin earlier this offseason and you could argue USC’s Charles Brown might be a good choice here giving them two future tackles for years to come but they need to shore up their D-Line after losing Dwan Edwards. As the Big Ten player of the year, Odrick has seen some great linemen and will probably be pushed out to defensive end in the 3-4 set.
26.) Arizona Cardinals- Sean Weatherspoon OLB Missouri- The general consensus is the Cards will take an OLB to replace Karlos Dansby. Now, I think they would be wise to trade up and get one of the hybrids who will be long gone by twenty-six. Weatherspoon will be a solid fix but I really do not see him pushing a guy like Joey Porter or Clark Haggans right away.
27.) Dallas Cowboys- Charles Brown OT USC- I know Jerry Jones has made it known that he already has a left tackle in mind to replace Flozell Adams but I think they could add another tackle on the safe side. Brown is one of the most unpredictable players in the draft, some have him as high as 8 others have him right around these spots.
28.) San Diego Chargers- Terrence Cody DT Alabama- I cannot believe I am putting him in the first round but the Bolts need a big run stopper as it’s looking like Jamal Williams will not be the same player. I think Cody is a waste of time for any team bringing him in, look at Andre Smith of Cincinnati. Another overweight Bama player who held out then broke his foot no more than five days in training camp. I am not a big fan of Cody personally.
29.) New York Jets- Demaryius Thomas WR Georgia Tech- I really do not know what the Jets need because of all their free agent signings so maybe they will trade down, but they could use a strong slot receiver to add into the Braylon Edwards-Santonio Holmes combination.
30.) Minnesota Vikings- Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame- Wow does this suck. I have the distinct feeling that this will actually happen. People will be weary to draft him because of the Irish failures at quarterback in the NFL and he is kind of a head case. The Vikes need to have the “Brett Favre Replacement” ready to go. Although let me add, someone may trade up if they see Clausen hanging around that 20 to 30 spot.
31.) Indianapolis Colts- Rodger Safford OT Indiana- Can’t say I know much about this guy, only thing I know is Todd McShay said he was “underrated”. But he is the next best tackle available and the Colts have been talking about taking an offensive lineman in the first round since they lost to the New Orleans Saints.
32.) New Orleans Saints- Everson Griffin DE USC- He will be a great player I think in about two years. He fits the physical play of the Saints and might not be the best rookie this season yet a couple years from now, he will be a force.
My take on Tim Tebow because you all care, he will be a Buffalo Bill in the second round. I think I mentioned Chan Gailey’s track record of athletic quarterbacks and Tebow fits the prototype too easily for the Bills not to take him in the second round. I would be floored if he was a first round pick.
BEST AVAILABLE ROUND 2: DT Brian Price (UCLA) CB Kareem Jackson (BAMA) CB Devin McCourty (RUTGERS) WR Golden Tate (Notre Dame)
Running Diary for the first round, should be fun.
-Charlie.
Mock Draft Part I
Someone at the bar asked me to do another mock draft like last year so naturally I took his request.
1.) St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma- This is pretty much the obvious answer even though I would argue he isn’t the best player in this draft but the Rams have to go quarterback. They have passed on Mark Sanchez and Matt Ryan in the last two years so this year is the time to reel in their franchise quarterback.
2.) Detroit Lions- Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- In my opinion, the best player in the draft and Suh I think has a chance to be a pass rusher like Reggie White. I think he is a class act and a hell of a player. Suh will help the Lions immediately and now they have Kyle Vanden Bosch, plus former Packer Corey Williams. I think the Lions have a scary front line now and honestly if they have a good draft, they will be close to 8-8.
3.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- The Bucs ranked dead last in rush defense last year and they have been looking for the next Warren Sapp since he left. I think McCoy is a good player but I do not see the potential that everyone is talking about. I might be wrong but I could see him not panning out in Tampa. I am not convinced Raheem Morris is even close to being a good coach in the NFL.
4.) Washington Redskins- Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- Before we start, I find it amazing that three out of the first five picks are Sooners, unreal. I am reading more and more that Williams will fit in better with Mike Shanahan’s system. This makes sense to me because take away all of the Donovan McNabb hype, the running backs are the biggest parts of his system. The Williams pick would make sense much more than Russell Okung.
5.) Kansas City Chiefs- Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State- Let me remind you that no one outside of the Big 12 goes top five this year, I am sure Warren G. Harding roamed the earth when the last time this happened. I really cannot see Scot Pioli knowing his past drafts taking a guy like Eric Berry and any rebuilding team could use a tackle. The other reason why I love teams taking offensive lineman is they seem to work out more times than not. I like Okung, I think he has a good frame and did good things against guys like McCoy/Suh.
6.) Seattle Seahawks- Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa- Pretty weird to see all of these tackles go off the board so quick but the Bulaga is a great option for the Hawks’ at number six. He played in a zone-blocking system at Iowa and the O-Line mastermind Alex Gibbs will be running that same system with the Seahawks. He will be a force for them right away and I think he can contribute for them.
7.) Cleveland Browns- Eric Berry S Tennessee- People rank Berry as the fourth-best player in this draft and I understand that you do not take a safety that early in the draft usually…BUT Berry will be special. I think the Ed Reed comparison works but I think the late great Sean Taylor is a better one; someone who can hit harder than a semi and cover the field. ProFootballTalk had a stat that the Browns allowed 62 plays over 20 yards. They need secondary help like you wouldn’t believe.
8.) Oakland Raiders- Mike Iupati G Idaho- I have been hearing all over Twitter that this is going to happen and to be honest, I wouldn’t doubt it. The Raiders are the most unpredictable team in the draft, they could take Dan Williams/Jason Pierre-Paul/Bruce Campbell, which all probably would be a stretch at eight. Do not hold out the chance that they trade this pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for Big Ben, I have this sneaky suspicion that they will pull the trigger on this trade. I demand that Big Ben brings back his pro wrestling haircut if this happens, please God do this one for me.
9.) Buffalo Bills- Dan Williams DT Tennessee- People all were saying that Jimmy Clausen will be chosen at this spot but on Bill Simmons’ podcast I believe Mike Lombardi of NFL Network said that coach Chan Gailey always has had an athletic quarterback like Quincy Carter, Ray Lucas, Kordell Stewart, and even Reggie Ball at Georgia Tech. They need a strong defensive tackle and make their D even better. I wouldn’t be surprised if they get another high second round for Marshawn Lynch.
10.) Jacksonville Jaguars- Earl Thomas S Texas- I do not think Thomas will get drafted here rather the Jags will probably trade down to get him but I really do not think the Jags need a guy like Derrick Morgan after already drafting Derrick Harvey, a couple years ago. Thomas will be a good player for years to come, I like him as a player and think he could contribute right away.
11.) Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain ILB Alabama- People are all over Dez Bryant going here and wouldn’t that be repeating the Brandon Marshall situation with just a higher pick? McClain is a guy I liked at Bama and thought he had all the abilities to be a stud in the NFL. They make a scary combination with Elvis Dumervil, D.J. Williams, and now McClain.
12.) Miami Dolphins- Sergio Kindle OLB Texas- I think if the draft goes this way then the Phins will trade down, I mean ideally they would love Earl Thomas but if he is not there, I don’t think it makes sense to take any of the OLB/DE hybrids that are available in the draft. I personally like Kindle, I think Brian Orakpo of the Washington Redskins is proof that the Longhorn defensive ends can make the conversion to outside linebacker.
13.) San Francisco 49ers- Joe Haden DB Florida- The Niners really should take Jimmy Clausen here but they are convinced that Alex Smith is still the future of their team, which would disappoint me as a Niner fan. It has been shown that these rookie quarterback can be average, yet assist a good team into a contender for the playoffs especially in the NFC West. Alas, they will take Haden to hopefully replace the disaster that is Nate Clements. Haden impressed me greatly throughout his college football career dating back to the Gators’ National Championship
14.) Seattle Seahawks- C.J. Spiller RB Clemson- This is probably the most obvious pick other than the Top 3. Can you name me a Seahawk running back? Julius Jones? Who? Spiller will give Pete Carroll dreams of Reggie Bush’s career at USC and his offense will be able to exploit the skills of Spiller. Personally my favorite player in the draft, ever since his huge game at Miami this season I have been on his bandwagon for the Packers to draft, but no way he falls that low. In my opinion, Spiller is the type of guy who could be Rookie of the Year.
15.) New York Giants- Anthony Davis OT Rutgers- Once considered to be a top 10 pick by some in the beginning stages of the draft process, now see himself as a guy who could be 10-20, or 20-30. I think Davis addresses some issues the Giants have on the offensive line who always seem to be banged up or give up sacks against Eli Manning. To me, Davis seems sort of soft and playing in the Big East isn’t saying much. I think he will need some time to mature.
16.) Tennessee Titans- Jason Pierre-Paul DE South Florida- Yes this is the guy who can do back flips, and yes he is the guy who only played one year of D1. He is extremely raw but I think if the Titans give him some time to progress, he could be really good. Tennessee has done a great job producing home-grown defensive lineman and letting Kyle Vanden Bosch walk this offseason is a sign to me this is where they are going in the draft.
Keep reading for Part II
-Charlie.
1.) St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma- This is pretty much the obvious answer even though I would argue he isn’t the best player in this draft but the Rams have to go quarterback. They have passed on Mark Sanchez and Matt Ryan in the last two years so this year is the time to reel in their franchise quarterback.
2.) Detroit Lions- Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska- In my opinion, the best player in the draft and Suh I think has a chance to be a pass rusher like Reggie White. I think he is a class act and a hell of a player. Suh will help the Lions immediately and now they have Kyle Vanden Bosch, plus former Packer Corey Williams. I think the Lions have a scary front line now and honestly if they have a good draft, they will be close to 8-8.
3.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma- The Bucs ranked dead last in rush defense last year and they have been looking for the next Warren Sapp since he left. I think McCoy is a good player but I do not see the potential that everyone is talking about. I might be wrong but I could see him not panning out in Tampa. I am not convinced Raheem Morris is even close to being a good coach in the NFL.
4.) Washington Redskins- Trent Williams OT Oklahoma- Before we start, I find it amazing that three out of the first five picks are Sooners, unreal. I am reading more and more that Williams will fit in better with Mike Shanahan’s system. This makes sense to me because take away all of the Donovan McNabb hype, the running backs are the biggest parts of his system. The Williams pick would make sense much more than Russell Okung.
5.) Kansas City Chiefs- Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State- Let me remind you that no one outside of the Big 12 goes top five this year, I am sure Warren G. Harding roamed the earth when the last time this happened. I really cannot see Scot Pioli knowing his past drafts taking a guy like Eric Berry and any rebuilding team could use a tackle. The other reason why I love teams taking offensive lineman is they seem to work out more times than not. I like Okung, I think he has a good frame and did good things against guys like McCoy/Suh.
6.) Seattle Seahawks- Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa- Pretty weird to see all of these tackles go off the board so quick but the Bulaga is a great option for the Hawks’ at number six. He played in a zone-blocking system at Iowa and the O-Line mastermind Alex Gibbs will be running that same system with the Seahawks. He will be a force for them right away and I think he can contribute for them.
7.) Cleveland Browns- Eric Berry S Tennessee- People rank Berry as the fourth-best player in this draft and I understand that you do not take a safety that early in the draft usually…BUT Berry will be special. I think the Ed Reed comparison works but I think the late great Sean Taylor is a better one; someone who can hit harder than a semi and cover the field. ProFootballTalk had a stat that the Browns allowed 62 plays over 20 yards. They need secondary help like you wouldn’t believe.
8.) Oakland Raiders- Mike Iupati G Idaho- I have been hearing all over Twitter that this is going to happen and to be honest, I wouldn’t doubt it. The Raiders are the most unpredictable team in the draft, they could take Dan Williams/Jason Pierre-Paul/Bruce Campbell, which all probably would be a stretch at eight. Do not hold out the chance that they trade this pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for Big Ben, I have this sneaky suspicion that they will pull the trigger on this trade. I demand that Big Ben brings back his pro wrestling haircut if this happens, please God do this one for me.
9.) Buffalo Bills- Dan Williams DT Tennessee- People all were saying that Jimmy Clausen will be chosen at this spot but on Bill Simmons’ podcast I believe Mike Lombardi of NFL Network said that coach Chan Gailey always has had an athletic quarterback like Quincy Carter, Ray Lucas, Kordell Stewart, and even Reggie Ball at Georgia Tech. They need a strong defensive tackle and make their D even better. I wouldn’t be surprised if they get another high second round for Marshawn Lynch.
10.) Jacksonville Jaguars- Earl Thomas S Texas- I do not think Thomas will get drafted here rather the Jags will probably trade down to get him but I really do not think the Jags need a guy like Derrick Morgan after already drafting Derrick Harvey, a couple years ago. Thomas will be a good player for years to come, I like him as a player and think he could contribute right away.
11.) Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain ILB Alabama- People are all over Dez Bryant going here and wouldn’t that be repeating the Brandon Marshall situation with just a higher pick? McClain is a guy I liked at Bama and thought he had all the abilities to be a stud in the NFL. They make a scary combination with Elvis Dumervil, D.J. Williams, and now McClain.
12.) Miami Dolphins- Sergio Kindle OLB Texas- I think if the draft goes this way then the Phins will trade down, I mean ideally they would love Earl Thomas but if he is not there, I don’t think it makes sense to take any of the OLB/DE hybrids that are available in the draft. I personally like Kindle, I think Brian Orakpo of the Washington Redskins is proof that the Longhorn defensive ends can make the conversion to outside linebacker.
13.) San Francisco 49ers- Joe Haden DB Florida- The Niners really should take Jimmy Clausen here but they are convinced that Alex Smith is still the future of their team, which would disappoint me as a Niner fan. It has been shown that these rookie quarterback can be average, yet assist a good team into a contender for the playoffs especially in the NFC West. Alas, they will take Haden to hopefully replace the disaster that is Nate Clements. Haden impressed me greatly throughout his college football career dating back to the Gators’ National Championship
14.) Seattle Seahawks- C.J. Spiller RB Clemson- This is probably the most obvious pick other than the Top 3. Can you name me a Seahawk running back? Julius Jones? Who? Spiller will give Pete Carroll dreams of Reggie Bush’s career at USC and his offense will be able to exploit the skills of Spiller. Personally my favorite player in the draft, ever since his huge game at Miami this season I have been on his bandwagon for the Packers to draft, but no way he falls that low. In my opinion, Spiller is the type of guy who could be Rookie of the Year.
15.) New York Giants- Anthony Davis OT Rutgers- Once considered to be a top 10 pick by some in the beginning stages of the draft process, now see himself as a guy who could be 10-20, or 20-30. I think Davis addresses some issues the Giants have on the offensive line who always seem to be banged up or give up sacks against Eli Manning. To me, Davis seems sort of soft and playing in the Big East isn’t saying much. I think he will need some time to mature.
16.) Tennessee Titans- Jason Pierre-Paul DE South Florida- Yes this is the guy who can do back flips, and yes he is the guy who only played one year of D1. He is extremely raw but I think if the Titans give him some time to progress, he could be really good. Tennessee has done a great job producing home-grown defensive lineman and letting Kyle Vanden Bosch walk this offseason is a sign to me this is where they are going in the draft.
Keep reading for Part II
-Charlie.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Young Money Ushers in a New Era
I am trying to decide whether I need pictures in my blog... I know some of you that read it, if you could hit me up on Facebook or Twitter giving your opinion on it. I am going to throw up a picture for the next couple of posts see what happens...
With the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs for the first time in four years, I didn't know what to expect as the Bucks took on the Atlanta Hawks today. To my dismay, the Bucks played a nervous first half where they took every mid-range shot that was available and never took it to the paint. Not to mention, they played awful defense that led to the Bucks being down nineteen points at halftime. The only player who decided to step up all day was Brandon Jennings.
Jennings had 34 points in his rookie debut, which made people reminisce of Derrick Rose's performance last season against the Boston Celtics. He played probably the best I have seen in the last couple of months and really showed that he can lead this team even at a young age. There were times this season where I would be worried if Brandon shot the ball, but last night, I wanted him to take every shot that was open to him. He played fantastic and I think it shows that Jennings has the sort of swagger you want in the NBA Playoffs. I think if John Salmons, Carlos Delfino, or Ersan Ilyasova can get going, the Bucks could beat the Hawks a couple of times. But I cannot say, that I feel very confident about beating the Hawks even once now.
When I made my picks, I completely forgot about Mike Bibby's complete transformation in the playoffs. A guy who looked washed up throughout the year, looked like the Bibby we all loved in the 2002 playoffs for the Sacramento Kings. He is a clutch performer and wants the ball in the fourth quarter. He isn't the only one on the Hawks who is like that, Joe Johnson made every big shot he took in the late third quarter and into the fourth. I know one thing if the Bucks-Hawks get a close game, I pray to the Basketball Gods that Johnson or Bibby has the ball in the last possession.
-Charlie.
Jennings had 34 points in his rookie debut, which made people reminisce of Derrick Rose's performance last season against the Boston Celtics. He played probably the best I have seen in the last couple of months and really showed that he can lead this team even at a young age. There were times this season where I would be worried if Brandon shot the ball, but last night, I wanted him to take every shot that was open to him. He played fantastic and I think it shows that Jennings has the sort of swagger you want in the NBA Playoffs. I think if John Salmons, Carlos Delfino, or Ersan Ilyasova can get going, the Bucks could beat the Hawks a couple of times. But I cannot say, that I feel very confident about beating the Hawks even once now.
When I made my picks, I completely forgot about Mike Bibby's complete transformation in the playoffs. A guy who looked washed up throughout the year, looked like the Bibby we all loved in the 2002 playoffs for the Sacramento Kings. He is a clutch performer and wants the ball in the fourth quarter. He isn't the only one on the Hawks who is like that, Joe Johnson made every big shot he took in the late third quarter and into the fourth. I know one thing if the Bucks-Hawks get a close game, I pray to the Basketball Gods that Johnson or Bibby has the ball in the last possession.
-Charlie.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Eastern Conference Picks
Looking over my picks for where teams would finish, my glaring mistake of the year was thinking the Washington Wizards would be in the playoffs and the Bobcats would finish close to dead last in the Eastern Conference, whooops.
1. Cleveland vs. 8. Chicago- I am watching this game right now and it realy doesn't sway my opinion either way really. I believe this will just be your classic 1-8 matchup where you have a team far superior than the other one. The Bulls do not have the bench to keep up with the Cavs right now and the fact Cleveland gets Shaq back is huge, that will be a big time difference maker. I think the Bulls get one in the Windy City but that's it. CLEV in 5
4. Boston vs. 5. Miami- I also picked the Celtics back to the NBA Finals, once again not one of my best moments. I really like this series with the matchups of Paul Pierce-Dwyane Wade, a young Michael Beasley versus an old Kevin Garnett. I have no idea what Boston team will we see, the one who looks tired and there is a sort of unwillingness? Or the KG-curse laden teams who act like the biggest bullies on the court? I think the Heat do not have enough to keep up with the Celtics for a full series plus the inexperience of Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra could run them into big time trouble. BOS in 7
3. Atlanta vs. 6. Milwaukee- It feels good to have the Bucks back and I know most of you think the Bucks will not do much in the playoffs without Andrew Bogut but I am a firm believer they can at least win one game in Milwaukee, with some distant hope they can do something in Atlanta. I think they need to cut off Joe Johnson as much as possible especially in late games and they do have a good matchup for Josh Smith in the Prince of Cameroon. Fear the Deer, but they come up short this year with high hopes next year. ATL in 6
2. Orlando vs. 7. Charlotte- A very enticing series with a Charlotte team making their first trip to the playoffs but they have some veterans who have been there before like Stephen Jackson, Boris Diaw, and Tyson Chandler. Also they have the Larry Brown card and he always seem to make the right decisions in the playoffs. People also need to remember how bad Vince Carter has been in the playoffs, he is never been that guy who ends game like Bryant, Johnson, Melo, LeBron, and Wade do. I think the Magic win but this will be the equivalent of the Lakers/Thunder series, a dogfight with the better team winning game seven. ORL in 7
-Charlie
1. Cleveland vs. 8. Chicago- I am watching this game right now and it realy doesn't sway my opinion either way really. I believe this will just be your classic 1-8 matchup where you have a team far superior than the other one. The Bulls do not have the bench to keep up with the Cavs right now and the fact Cleveland gets Shaq back is huge, that will be a big time difference maker. I think the Bulls get one in the Windy City but that's it. CLEV in 5
4. Boston vs. 5. Miami- I also picked the Celtics back to the NBA Finals, once again not one of my best moments. I really like this series with the matchups of Paul Pierce-Dwyane Wade, a young Michael Beasley versus an old Kevin Garnett. I have no idea what Boston team will we see, the one who looks tired and there is a sort of unwillingness? Or the KG-curse laden teams who act like the biggest bullies on the court? I think the Heat do not have enough to keep up with the Celtics for a full series plus the inexperience of Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra could run them into big time trouble. BOS in 7
3. Atlanta vs. 6. Milwaukee- It feels good to have the Bucks back and I know most of you think the Bucks will not do much in the playoffs without Andrew Bogut but I am a firm believer they can at least win one game in Milwaukee, with some distant hope they can do something in Atlanta. I think they need to cut off Joe Johnson as much as possible especially in late games and they do have a good matchup for Josh Smith in the Prince of Cameroon. Fear the Deer, but they come up short this year with high hopes next year. ATL in 6
2. Orlando vs. 7. Charlotte- A very enticing series with a Charlotte team making their first trip to the playoffs but they have some veterans who have been there before like Stephen Jackson, Boris Diaw, and Tyson Chandler. Also they have the Larry Brown card and he always seem to make the right decisions in the playoffs. People also need to remember how bad Vince Carter has been in the playoffs, he is never been that guy who ends game like Bryant, Johnson, Melo, LeBron, and Wade do. I think the Magic win but this will be the equivalent of the Lakers/Thunder series, a dogfight with the better team winning game seven. ORL in 7
-Charlie
Western Conference NBA Playoff Picks
I am a bit late but still that doesn't matter. Honestly, pretty exciting times for me because I really have got myself into the NBA this season, the Milwaukee Bucks are one of the 16 teams in there, and I think the playoffs are WIIIIIDE OOOPENN. I think this will as unpredictable as ever.
1. Los Angeles Lakers vs. 8. Oklahoma City Thunder- Other than the Bucks, I am pretty pumped for this series because of the Durant-Kobe matchup and the youth of the Thunder could be a preview of things to come. I think the Thunder could push this series to the sixth or seventh game of this series but I do think they need to get one win in L.A. to really believe they can actually do it. The difference maker will be Russell Westbrook because he will be facing a washed-up Derek Fisher therefore he could run him all over the court throughout the series. I think the Lakers win but this will be a bloodbath for sure. LA in 7
4. Denver vs. 5. Utah- A series that could have been a lot better if the Jazz had Andrei Kirinlinko and you have to worry about Carlos Boozer's rib injury. The Jazz do have Deron Williams who has been playing out of this world lately and they have a mismatch with Chauncey Billups which they could expose. I hate to bet against Carmelo Anthony because I think he is one of the best late-game closer and continues to not get enough love by the national media. I think this will be a dogfight but the injuries of Utah pull me towards the Nugs. DEN in 7
3. Phoenix vs. 6.Portland- Once again, a better series if Brandon Roy was healthy. The Suns have arguably been the best team since the All-Star Break. I hate to bring it up like everyone else but Amar'e Stoudamire decided to play basketball again. He looks like a tyrant out there and will create problems for the Trailblazers. I will give Portland a game at home due to their rabid homecourt advantage but Steve Nash will take control of this one. PHX in 5
2. Dallas vs. 7. San Antonio- Two teams that have had some epic series in the past couple of years and I think this will be the proving point that the Spurs are indeed washed-up. I haven't seen anything from them that makes me think they can beat a much-improved Maverick team with the additions of Caron Butler and Brenden Haywood. BUT remember when I wrote how Butler/Haywood have not delivered results in the playoffs? Just keep that in mind if the Spurs find a way to win on in the Big D. I think both teams win at home then the Mavs get knocked out in the final two. DAL in 6
-Charlie.
1. Los Angeles Lakers vs. 8. Oklahoma City Thunder- Other than the Bucks, I am pretty pumped for this series because of the Durant-Kobe matchup and the youth of the Thunder could be a preview of things to come. I think the Thunder could push this series to the sixth or seventh game of this series but I do think they need to get one win in L.A. to really believe they can actually do it. The difference maker will be Russell Westbrook because he will be facing a washed-up Derek Fisher therefore he could run him all over the court throughout the series. I think the Lakers win but this will be a bloodbath for sure. LA in 7
4. Denver vs. 5. Utah- A series that could have been a lot better if the Jazz had Andrei Kirinlinko and you have to worry about Carlos Boozer's rib injury. The Jazz do have Deron Williams who has been playing out of this world lately and they have a mismatch with Chauncey Billups which they could expose. I hate to bet against Carmelo Anthony because I think he is one of the best late-game closer and continues to not get enough love by the national media. I think this will be a dogfight but the injuries of Utah pull me towards the Nugs. DEN in 7
3. Phoenix vs. 6.Portland- Once again, a better series if Brandon Roy was healthy. The Suns have arguably been the best team since the All-Star Break. I hate to bring it up like everyone else but Amar'e Stoudamire decided to play basketball again. He looks like a tyrant out there and will create problems for the Trailblazers. I will give Portland a game at home due to their rabid homecourt advantage but Steve Nash will take control of this one. PHX in 5
2. Dallas vs. 7. San Antonio- Two teams that have had some epic series in the past couple of years and I think this will be the proving point that the Spurs are indeed washed-up. I haven't seen anything from them that makes me think they can beat a much-improved Maverick team with the additions of Caron Butler and Brenden Haywood. BUT remember when I wrote how Butler/Haywood have not delivered results in the playoffs? Just keep that in mind if the Spurs find a way to win on in the Big D. I think both teams win at home then the Mavs get knocked out in the final two. DAL in 6
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Marshall Heads to the 305
A couple days after the New York Jets brought in a troubled wide receiver Santonio Holmes, the Miami Dolphins did their own version by bringing in Brandon Marshall. Even though, the Phins had to give up more to get him, Marshall > Holmes without any doubt in my mind.
In the past couple of years, I thought Marshall seemed like a head case and a guy who was much more of a distraction than a helpful member of my team. Then when I learned that Marshall might have had a lot to do with Darrent Williams' death a couple years back and that Denver area brings back those memories. I cannot help but to feel for Marshall in that situation, although the domestic abuse stuff I cannot stand for or put up with. BUT will he make the Dolphins better and make a super competitive AFC East... yes it does.
If you click on the Marshall label at the end of the post, you will see that I haven't been the biggest Marshall fan but I will not argue against his huge numbers in three consecutive seasons, I mean these are numbers that are so hard to argue with. It's really hard to believe that the Denver Broncos had to part ways with him.
First off having 100 receptions in three straight games is pretty impressive meaning that he will be a reliable guy for whoever is his quarterback. I have wondered a couple times if Marshall made Jay Cutler a better quarterback than he really was? (Somewhere Fant is smashing his head on the keyboard) I think the same thing is going to happen with Chad Henne. I always thought when he played at Michigan that he had a chance to be a very good quarterback. He hasn't had a receiver to save his soul in his full year and I am going to say Henne will have a break-out year.
The other thing I like about Marshall is he isn't just getting a bunch of catches, rather he is averaging over 10 yards a catch and obviously, this means that Marshall is getting a first down most of the time he is catching the ball. That is a huge assist to your team and this probably means he is doing big things after he catches the football. He averaged 5.4 and ended up in the top five in YAC in 2009 this season, arguably one of the biggest assists for a team to have. The other thing that Marshall does especially for the Dolphins is that opposing defenses cannot crowd the box to stop the rushing attack of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams like teams did the last couple of years. You do have to wonder if as the years go on, will Tony Sparano be better in the time management category and play calling?
Now, the Patriots have to do something I believe because if they do not, I think they will finish no higher than third. The Phins now have a powerful offense with a pretty solid defense who added Karlos Dansby from the Arizona Cardinals and we already went over a couple of days ago about how good the New York Jets will be next year. The ball is in The Hooded One corner and if he stubbornly goes through the draft plus the next couple of months, that will be the official end of the Patriots dynasty.
-Charlie.
In the past couple of years, I thought Marshall seemed like a head case and a guy who was much more of a distraction than a helpful member of my team. Then when I learned that Marshall might have had a lot to do with Darrent Williams' death a couple years back and that Denver area brings back those memories. I cannot help but to feel for Marshall in that situation, although the domestic abuse stuff I cannot stand for or put up with. BUT will he make the Dolphins better and make a super competitive AFC East... yes it does.
If you click on the Marshall label at the end of the post, you will see that I haven't been the biggest Marshall fan but I will not argue against his huge numbers in three consecutive seasons, I mean these are numbers that are so hard to argue with. It's really hard to believe that the Denver Broncos had to part ways with him.
First off having 100 receptions in three straight games is pretty impressive meaning that he will be a reliable guy for whoever is his quarterback. I have wondered a couple times if Marshall made Jay Cutler a better quarterback than he really was? (Somewhere Fant is smashing his head on the keyboard) I think the same thing is going to happen with Chad Henne. I always thought when he played at Michigan that he had a chance to be a very good quarterback. He hasn't had a receiver to save his soul in his full year and I am going to say Henne will have a break-out year.
The other thing I like about Marshall is he isn't just getting a bunch of catches, rather he is averaging over 10 yards a catch and obviously, this means that Marshall is getting a first down most of the time he is catching the ball. That is a huge assist to your team and this probably means he is doing big things after he catches the football. He averaged 5.4 and ended up in the top five in YAC in 2009 this season, arguably one of the biggest assists for a team to have. The other thing that Marshall does especially for the Dolphins is that opposing defenses cannot crowd the box to stop the rushing attack of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams like teams did the last couple of years. You do have to wonder if as the years go on, will Tony Sparano be better in the time management category and play calling?
Now, the Patriots have to do something I believe because if they do not, I think they will finish no higher than third. The Phins now have a powerful offense with a pretty solid defense who added Karlos Dansby from the Arizona Cardinals and we already went over a couple of days ago about how good the New York Jets will be next year. The ball is in The Hooded One corner and if he stubbornly goes through the draft plus the next couple of months, that will be the official end of the Patriots dynasty.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Big Ben Situation
If you were to ask somebody who grew up in the 70's or 80's would be stunned to see what has happened to the Pittsburgh Steelers. I apologize for writing two consecutive about the Steelers but right now, this is what is important in the nation right now. I think the Steelers are now the bad boys of football, worse than the Cincinnati Bengals because this is a team whose top two or three biggest stars have found themselves in trouble.
I can no longer support Big Ben, I never really liked him in the first place but here's the thing releasing a statement looking like a complete dirtball comparable to a professional wrestler's haircut in the late 80s then cut your hair when you meet the commissioner, I feel like that is poor PR move. You should have looked as clean-cut as possible because you want to make the impression of looking like a stand-up guy rather than the creepy guy hanging out in the corner at the Pickle (for those not living Eau Claire, it's the dirtiest bar in EC but they give bigger shots, stronger drinks, and sluttier girls... most of us love it!) He showed this I still do not care what you think about me when he kept driving motorcycles and when he got in trouble the first time, he still decided to go out all the time.
I am not saying it's a bad thing to go out on the town because I understand people love to have a good time yet he went to college bars. My God if a dumb girl knows she can get her 15 minute of fame if she claims that a two-time Super Bowl Winning Quarterback forced her to give her a hummer, they will do it. Not to mention if he was a dick like people have claimed, they are totally doing it. Why not try to reshape your life somewhat to fix things that people would embrace more. He needed to this after the first one came up (no matter how bat shit crazy this woman was) and start to become somebody that more people like.
Brett Favre is the absolutely perfect example of this transformation. I truly believe that Favre would have been suspended if Roger Goodell was the commissioner back then. Before Favre, he was this reckless guy who got drunk all the time (I had a teacher one time tell me she saw Favre fall down a full flight of stairs at a Milwaukee bar), popped pills, and basically was a redneck hillbilly. After his wife told him she would leave him if he kept doing some of the things he did, he reshaped his life into the person we know doing the Wrangler and Sears' commercials. The one difference is that Big Ben is a single guy and seemingly prides himself on being this sort of playboy unlike his counterparts. He needs to examine the moves that Favre made in the past and maybe even seek out Favre's advice for what to do. The question is will the Pittsburgh Steelers handle the issue at hand as well as the Green Bay Packers did?
Those two NFL franchises are probably in the top five of classy franchises in the NFL. Teams that rarely if ever put up with any shit, it's basically do it our way or find another job. Remember when the Indianapolis Colts, another class franchise had problems with Marvin Harrison,one of the best wide receiver ever in Colts history got released. Nothing coming into my head but I am positive the New England Patriots have done the exact same thing. These teams aren't the Dallas Cowboys, Oakland Raiders, or the New York Jets. They do not just take in any guy who is willing to play for them, they need to be absolutely convinced he can fit into their personal system. The ball is seriously in the court of the Steelers and how they handle it will be either scrutinized or praised.
Something that caught my eye today on Twitter was Dave Dameshek, a former ESPN Page 2 writer and did an awesome podcast who is a big Pittsburgh fan called for "Getting rid of Big Ben, I am done with him." Also hearing how sponsorrs are pulling him in Pittsburgh and he isn't getting as much hometown love, is it time to let go of a two-time Super Bowl Champion? I would lean towards yes because I begin to feel the fans aren't behind him right now, and I truly believe he would be booed 70-30%. It's hard for a female Steeler fan to cheer for a guy like Big Ben, he doesn't deserve to have any female fans after the things he has done and to have your quarterback hated, it's hard to see the team flourishing under him.
The Steelers or the NFL will suspend Big Ben. I know people feel he doesn't deserve the punishment, he still was accused of a felony multiple times and a guy like PacMan Jones had the same thing happen leading to his suspension. You mean to tell me the Rev. Jessie Jackson will not be breathing down the neck of the NFL if they decide to treat a white superstar different than a middle of the road black athlete? You are crazy if you think otherwise, the African-American community will be up in arms if Big Ben is not suspended. No matter who does it, it has to happen.
-Charlie.
I can no longer support Big Ben, I never really liked him in the first place but here's the thing releasing a statement looking like a complete dirtball comparable to a professional wrestler's haircut in the late 80s then cut your hair when you meet the commissioner, I feel like that is poor PR move. You should have looked as clean-cut as possible because you want to make the impression of looking like a stand-up guy rather than the creepy guy hanging out in the corner at the Pickle (for those not living Eau Claire, it's the dirtiest bar in EC but they give bigger shots, stronger drinks, and sluttier girls... most of us love it!) He showed this I still do not care what you think about me when he kept driving motorcycles and when he got in trouble the first time, he still decided to go out all the time.
I am not saying it's a bad thing to go out on the town because I understand people love to have a good time yet he went to college bars. My God if a dumb girl knows she can get her 15 minute of fame if she claims that a two-time Super Bowl Winning Quarterback forced her to give her a hummer, they will do it. Not to mention if he was a dick like people have claimed, they are totally doing it. Why not try to reshape your life somewhat to fix things that people would embrace more. He needed to this after the first one came up (no matter how bat shit crazy this woman was) and start to become somebody that more people like.
Brett Favre is the absolutely perfect example of this transformation. I truly believe that Favre would have been suspended if Roger Goodell was the commissioner back then. Before Favre, he was this reckless guy who got drunk all the time (I had a teacher one time tell me she saw Favre fall down a full flight of stairs at a Milwaukee bar), popped pills, and basically was a redneck hillbilly. After his wife told him she would leave him if he kept doing some of the things he did, he reshaped his life into the person we know doing the Wrangler and Sears' commercials. The one difference is that Big Ben is a single guy and seemingly prides himself on being this sort of playboy unlike his counterparts. He needs to examine the moves that Favre made in the past and maybe even seek out Favre's advice for what to do. The question is will the Pittsburgh Steelers handle the issue at hand as well as the Green Bay Packers did?
Those two NFL franchises are probably in the top five of classy franchises in the NFL. Teams that rarely if ever put up with any shit, it's basically do it our way or find another job. Remember when the Indianapolis Colts, another class franchise had problems with Marvin Harrison,one of the best wide receiver ever in Colts history got released. Nothing coming into my head but I am positive the New England Patriots have done the exact same thing. These teams aren't the Dallas Cowboys, Oakland Raiders, or the New York Jets. They do not just take in any guy who is willing to play for them, they need to be absolutely convinced he can fit into their personal system. The ball is seriously in the court of the Steelers and how they handle it will be either scrutinized or praised.
Something that caught my eye today on Twitter was Dave Dameshek, a former ESPN Page 2 writer and did an awesome podcast who is a big Pittsburgh fan called for "Getting rid of Big Ben, I am done with him." Also hearing how sponsorrs are pulling him in Pittsburgh and he isn't getting as much hometown love, is it time to let go of a two-time Super Bowl Champion? I would lean towards yes because I begin to feel the fans aren't behind him right now, and I truly believe he would be booed 70-30%. It's hard for a female Steeler fan to cheer for a guy like Big Ben, he doesn't deserve to have any female fans after the things he has done and to have your quarterback hated, it's hard to see the team flourishing under him.
The Steelers or the NFL will suspend Big Ben. I know people feel he doesn't deserve the punishment, he still was accused of a felony multiple times and a guy like PacMan Jones had the same thing happen leading to his suspension. You mean to tell me the Rev. Jessie Jackson will not be breathing down the neck of the NFL if they decide to treat a white superstar different than a middle of the road black athlete? You are crazy if you think otherwise, the African-American community will be up in arms if Big Ben is not suspended. No matter who does it, it has to happen.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Another Problem Child Hits New York
The New York Jets have been acquiring guys seemingly every week of the NFL Offseason, they brought in guys like LaDanian Tomlinson, Brodney Pool, and Antonio Cromartie who all played major roles on their team last season and now they bring in Santonio Holmes for a 5th round pick?! WHAAAAAAT?!
People have stated the reasons why this happened. He has always had a bad rap sheet with the off-the-field issues, never developed as a person... could be perceived as immature, and he didn't fit the Steeler family a lot like Plaxico Burress (more to come on the next post). There is one big reason why this doesn't bother me as much as it does for others is that tell me when Holmes has done anything bad on the field? When has he been a problem like T.O. or Brandon Marshall? Never. Despite having all these issues (look it up, it's stunning), he just plays football, but this has came with consequences.
The off-the-field issues have gotten Holmes suspended for the first four games and I think this needs to be the time to wise up because another suspension means a full year suspension. He needs to not pull a Burress as he is heading in to New York City, which is a weird comparison to make but it definitely can be made. He needs to be just a player out there who does what he does and focus on football. People talk about how great Rex Ryan is as a coach for players and I think having a guy like Holmes might be respond to Ryan. But I do agree dealing with all of these guys who have some issues could become very stressful for the coach.
I think this is going to be a huge assist for the Jets who all the sudden have arguably the best free agent haul of the NFL. There was an article out somewhere that was publish this week maybe the Chicago Tribune, cannot find it anywhere saying that bringing in all these free agents will not transfer to more wins. I think the Jets will win the AFC East because I doubt Mark Sanchez will have a sophomore slump and I loved their defense at the beginning of the year, still do. The Patriots are starting to fall off a bit, the Dolphins seem to be alright yet not that impressed, and finally Buffalo is well... Buffalo. The Jets need to be done, don't bring Jason Taylor in, or anyone else. I have no idea how many draft picks they have, but draft those guys, that's it.
-Charlie.
People have stated the reasons why this happened. He has always had a bad rap sheet with the off-the-field issues, never developed as a person... could be perceived as immature, and he didn't fit the Steeler family a lot like Plaxico Burress (more to come on the next post). There is one big reason why this doesn't bother me as much as it does for others is that tell me when Holmes has done anything bad on the field? When has he been a problem like T.O. or Brandon Marshall? Never. Despite having all these issues (look it up, it's stunning), he just plays football, but this has came with consequences.
The off-the-field issues have gotten Holmes suspended for the first four games and I think this needs to be the time to wise up because another suspension means a full year suspension. He needs to not pull a Burress as he is heading in to New York City, which is a weird comparison to make but it definitely can be made. He needs to be just a player out there who does what he does and focus on football. People talk about how great Rex Ryan is as a coach for players and I think having a guy like Holmes might be respond to Ryan. But I do agree dealing with all of these guys who have some issues could become very stressful for the coach.
I think this is going to be a huge assist for the Jets who all the sudden have arguably the best free agent haul of the NFL. There was an article out somewhere that was publish this week maybe the Chicago Tribune, cannot find it anywhere saying that bringing in all these free agents will not transfer to more wins. I think the Jets will win the AFC East because I doubt Mark Sanchez will have a sophomore slump and I loved their defense at the beginning of the year, still do. The Patriots are starting to fall off a bit, the Dolphins seem to be alright yet not that impressed, and finally Buffalo is well... Buffalo. The Jets need to be done, don't bring Jason Taylor in, or anyone else. I have no idea how many draft picks they have, but draft those guys, that's it.
-Charlie.
Masters Made For Phil
I probably watched the most Masters I have ever watched because I wanted to see how Tiger Woods responded to all the pressure and I saw that plus a ton of great golf. Truly a special weekend in Augusta for multiple people.
Before we talk about Phil, I was impressed with how good Tiger Woods played. I understand he had multiple bogeys and yo-yoed more than Jessica Simpson's weight but seriously to finish fourth with the media breathing down your neck is pretty awesome. He made some great shots but you could tell he was rusty with the short game. I felt if he had made birdie on 14, he could eagle and birdie the next which would have made a push at Mickelson yet probably wouldn't have won it. I will bet a bunch of cash that Tiger wins at least one this year.
On to Phil Mickelson's great play, a guy who buried all the talk of him being a choke by dominating the course on Sunday with a bogey-free round. Granted, Phil had some dogshit shots especially off the tee but still he found a way to make par or even birdie (that shot on 13 ranks in my top ten of the best shots). Because of various reasons, I missed Phil's back-to-back eagles which disappoints me to say but I had no one in the room who wanted to watch golf, sad times. Even watching the replays, I had the feeling that Phil was going to win this thing going into Sunday. Then you see all the breaks he caught during the final round, I knew Phil was going to win this thing, no way was he choking this one away like he has done at multiple US Opens.
I believe that to complete Phil's career, he wants that US Open badly. He could definitely win at Pebble Beach, where I believe he has won before. I think after all the hardships the US Open has caused him throughout his career and he would want that US Open. Phil is no longer in the category of Greg Norman and others who have choked in the past, I can no longer call Phil a choke... This saddens me but I still have Sergio Garcia.
I am not in any way a Phil fan but I did love to see him win because of all of the things he has gone through this year with both his mom and wife battling breast cancer. I am sure golf seems so trivial when that stuff is happening but Mickelson found a way to win the biggest tournament for the golf season.
-Charlie.
Before we talk about Phil, I was impressed with how good Tiger Woods played. I understand he had multiple bogeys and yo-yoed more than Jessica Simpson's weight but seriously to finish fourth with the media breathing down your neck is pretty awesome. He made some great shots but you could tell he was rusty with the short game. I felt if he had made birdie on 14, he could eagle and birdie the next which would have made a push at Mickelson yet probably wouldn't have won it. I will bet a bunch of cash that Tiger wins at least one this year.
On to Phil Mickelson's great play, a guy who buried all the talk of him being a choke by dominating the course on Sunday with a bogey-free round. Granted, Phil had some dogshit shots especially off the tee but still he found a way to make par or even birdie (that shot on 13 ranks in my top ten of the best shots). Because of various reasons, I missed Phil's back-to-back eagles which disappoints me to say but I had no one in the room who wanted to watch golf, sad times. Even watching the replays, I had the feeling that Phil was going to win this thing going into Sunday. Then you see all the breaks he caught during the final round, I knew Phil was going to win this thing, no way was he choking this one away like he has done at multiple US Opens.
I believe that to complete Phil's career, he wants that US Open badly. He could definitely win at Pebble Beach, where I believe he has won before. I think after all the hardships the US Open has caused him throughout his career and he would want that US Open. Phil is no longer in the category of Greg Norman and others who have choked in the past, I can no longer call Phil a choke... This saddens me but I still have Sergio Garcia.
I am not in any way a Phil fan but I did love to see him win because of all of the things he has gone through this year with both his mom and wife battling breast cancer. I am sure golf seems so trivial when that stuff is happening but Mickelson found a way to win the biggest tournament for the golf season.
-Charlie.
Call Me a Believer.
Before we get started on the Milwaukee Bucks' playoff chances, a few thoughts about Fresh Meat 2. The fifth sport in America the Real World-Road Rules Challenge begun yesterday and my intial thoughts is this will be awesome, the Wes-Kenny rivalry will be great plus add in a girl is confused who she wants to bang, add one of the best looking girls ever... Mandi and she fights with Jenn another babe. All the makings of a great season, cannot wait.
Most people believed that after the Milwaukee Bucks lost Andrew Bogut that they would not be able to continue the season they were having. I mean Bogut was the biggest reason why the Bucks were so good this season and had developed into a legitimate center. People considered them dead in the water and probably headed for a four game sweep, or done in five. But after watching the last two nights, I think the Bucks could at least have a competitve playoff series with either Boston or Atlanta maybe a six or seven game series. Here are five good reasons why.
1.) John Salmons=Workhorse- I think people are forgetting that Salmons is a lot like a pitcher who has a rubber arm, it seems like he can last way longer than others. He logged the most minutes with the Bulls last season in their marathon series against the Boston Celtics. Add that to he has been playing better than most in the NBA right now and seems to really fit in the offense, he seems like a game changer for the playoffs.
2.) Defense, Defense, Defense- This is a team that has no probably playing in the seventies or eighties plus hitting you in the mouth a couple times to know they are playing. I think Atlanta is a team that struggles when shots aren't falling for them and they seem to get frustrated easily. Boston can do the low scoring affair, but the Bucks can take them out mentally. Look what Brandon Jennings did to Glenn "Big Baby" Davis, the C's like to get involve with all their squirmishes without really recognizing the consequences.
3.) Brandon Jennings/Luke Rindour Combination- I think if the Bucks want to win a couple games in the playoffs, they need to have both of those guys out there at the same time. I love the idea of having two floor generals running the court at the same time because it means there is a better chance of finding the open man and spreading the floor.
4.) Mr. Hustle- Honestly, this award could go to anyone on the Bucks but really belongs to Ersan Ilyasova who takes more charges that I did in my two-year stint with Tosa West, talk to anyone I love taking charges. I am huge fan of Ilyasova and those are the type of players that you need in playoff series that are willing to drive on the loose ball, take charges, and do a bunch of things that do not show up in the box score. The other big thing about Ersan is he will hit the big shot when you call on him.
5.) Brandon Jennings' Coming Out Party?- People would say Young Money was known to the world after he had 55 points in a game but let's not forget about how much people got behind Derrick Rose after his huge playoff series. I think the inconsistency of BJ3 is because he isn't comfortable with every team in the league yet, and playing a single team for maybe seven games will propel his stats. I have the belief that Jennings will be a big part of the playoffs, maybe more than people think.
-Charlie.
Most people believed that after the Milwaukee Bucks lost Andrew Bogut that they would not be able to continue the season they were having. I mean Bogut was the biggest reason why the Bucks were so good this season and had developed into a legitimate center. People considered them dead in the water and probably headed for a four game sweep, or done in five. But after watching the last two nights, I think the Bucks could at least have a competitve playoff series with either Boston or Atlanta maybe a six or seven game series. Here are five good reasons why.
1.) John Salmons=Workhorse- I think people are forgetting that Salmons is a lot like a pitcher who has a rubber arm, it seems like he can last way longer than others. He logged the most minutes with the Bulls last season in their marathon series against the Boston Celtics. Add that to he has been playing better than most in the NBA right now and seems to really fit in the offense, he seems like a game changer for the playoffs.
2.) Defense, Defense, Defense- This is a team that has no probably playing in the seventies or eighties plus hitting you in the mouth a couple times to know they are playing. I think Atlanta is a team that struggles when shots aren't falling for them and they seem to get frustrated easily. Boston can do the low scoring affair, but the Bucks can take them out mentally. Look what Brandon Jennings did to Glenn "Big Baby" Davis, the C's like to get involve with all their squirmishes without really recognizing the consequences.
3.) Brandon Jennings/Luke Rindour Combination- I think if the Bucks want to win a couple games in the playoffs, they need to have both of those guys out there at the same time. I love the idea of having two floor generals running the court at the same time because it means there is a better chance of finding the open man and spreading the floor.
4.) Mr. Hustle- Honestly, this award could go to anyone on the Bucks but really belongs to Ersan Ilyasova who takes more charges that I did in my two-year stint with Tosa West, talk to anyone I love taking charges. I am huge fan of Ilyasova and those are the type of players that you need in playoff series that are willing to drive on the loose ball, take charges, and do a bunch of things that do not show up in the box score. The other big thing about Ersan is he will hit the big shot when you call on him.
5.) Brandon Jennings' Coming Out Party?- People would say Young Money was known to the world after he had 55 points in a game but let's not forget about how much people got behind Derrick Rose after his huge playoff series. I think the inconsistency of BJ3 is because he isn't comfortable with every team in the league yet, and playing a single team for maybe seven games will propel his stats. I have the belief that Jennings will be a big part of the playoffs, maybe more than people think.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Where Did the Old Times Go?
Last night before I headed to bed, I checked my Facebook and see the Daily Dose's main man Mitch say that he heard boos for Trevor Hoffman tonight who blew his second save in as many days. I understand why some Brewer fans would be upset but I cannot believe how early the boobirds have started. The new Brewer fan base shouldn't be known as loyal rather a bunch of over reactors.
I am not talking about the guys who have seen many games at County Stadium when the likes of Ricky Bones, Matt Mieske, Dave Nilsson, and Jamie Narravo to name a few where trotted out and there was a beer mug for Bernie Brewer. I and others my age endured many years of shitty baseball yet we still stood by our team. Even into Miller Park in the first couple years, the Crew struggled and people like my friends and I would just go on a whim to get tickets because we knew they would be available on any night plus all we wanted to do is watch baseball. Those days are gone, and so are seeing the Brewers as the awkward kid in our professional family, so there goes the full on support we once had at County Stadium.
I would say this all started when the Brewers made their original run to the playoffs in the summer of 2007 and people really started to support the Crew in droves although when the collapse happened there were only a few of us to catch them showing the support. The next year the Brewers made the playoffs and everyone was taking their family to the games, the JJ Hardy shirt jersey girls with short skirts were all over the place (Can't say I didn't love that part), and the obnoxious fans that do not know baseball. I realize that in any sport there will be those people but this is getting ridiculous, I just want to see the Brewers' fans get behind a guy when he struggles for a couple days or a week.
I completely get booing a guy if he sucks for more than two weeks because in my opinion, that is much more than a slump. I saw it out of J.J. Hardy, and Bill Hall, but I think the fans expect so much that the pressure these guys are under is tremendous. People need to relax a bit and realize that it's very rare to have everyone hitting at the same time. Drastic changes are not needed right away because these guys are professionals who will figure out how to rite the ship.
-Charlie.
I am not talking about the guys who have seen many games at County Stadium when the likes of Ricky Bones, Matt Mieske, Dave Nilsson, and Jamie Narravo to name a few where trotted out and there was a beer mug for Bernie Brewer. I and others my age endured many years of shitty baseball yet we still stood by our team. Even into Miller Park in the first couple years, the Crew struggled and people like my friends and I would just go on a whim to get tickets because we knew they would be available on any night plus all we wanted to do is watch baseball. Those days are gone, and so are seeing the Brewers as the awkward kid in our professional family, so there goes the full on support we once had at County Stadium.
I would say this all started when the Brewers made their original run to the playoffs in the summer of 2007 and people really started to support the Crew in droves although when the collapse happened there were only a few of us to catch them showing the support. The next year the Brewers made the playoffs and everyone was taking their family to the games, the JJ Hardy shirt jersey girls with short skirts were all over the place (Can't say I didn't love that part), and the obnoxious fans that do not know baseball. I realize that in any sport there will be those people but this is getting ridiculous, I just want to see the Brewers' fans get behind a guy when he struggles for a couple days or a week.
I completely get booing a guy if he sucks for more than two weeks because in my opinion, that is much more than a slump. I saw it out of J.J. Hardy, and Bill Hall, but I think the fans expect so much that the pressure these guys are under is tremendous. People need to relax a bit and realize that it's very rare to have everyone hitting at the same time. Drastic changes are not needed right away because these guys are professionals who will figure out how to rite the ship.
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
2010 Masters Selections
I am known for picking one, Tiger Woods on the blog many times. Just click on the PGA label and you will see how many times I have selected Woods to win a Major. I think this year is probably his best chance to complete the Grand Slam of Golf but sadly, I am not picking him in the largest sporting event of the year. I said that in November and I am sticking to that.
1.) Paddy Harrington- A guy who I do not think a lot of people are talking about and they really need to be. He hasn't had the greatest 2010 but honestly, I think people including me sometimes look too much into that. They need to see how well they have done in Major tournaments because I really feel it takes a certain golfer to win a major. I think Harrington will hoist the Green Jacket for the first time in his career.
2.) Tiger Woods- I really think everything needs to fall into place for Woods to win this major. I think he needs to play about even or a little better above par in the first two rounds, then make his strike on the weekend if he wants to win. If he comes out there with 65-67 on day 1 or day 2, the hype will be suffocating and something I am unsure Woods will be able to handle. It sounds weird to say that but the hype is already at an all-time high, I couldn't fathom what it will be like if he is leading going into the weekend.
3.) Steve Stricker- It's crazy that someone who wasn't even on the map a couple years ago now has the title of Best Guy Without a Major. He is an excellent putter, which as we all know could be the difference from the Green Jacket or second place. I think Stricker, unlike Woods needs to have a good couple of rounds to convince himself that he can win this tournament. In my opinion, the confidence level for Stricker is shot at Augusta, he doesn't feel that he can win the Masters.
4.) Ernie Els- He might be the sexy pick of the Masters but the Big Easy has his shit together for the first time in a long while. He is a great ball-striker and can really do some pretty things along the green. I do believe he tends to wilt under pressure when Tiger is breathing down his neck so it would be very interesting to see if Els could maintain a lead with Woods a stroke behind or be able to catch Woods if he was leading.
5.) Anthony Kim- Not really a wild card because he has won a couple times on the tour and is playing good golf (still hate that statement!) but he would come out of nowhere if he wins this tournament. No one expects the young Kim to withstand the pressure of the Masters but honestly, I think he is the type of player whose fearless attitude could win him the Masters. He isn't scared and sometimes that is a good thing.
I can only hope/pray that Tiger Woods is in the final group on the back nine Sunday. It might be wishful thinking but still, one can hope.
-Charlie.
1.) Paddy Harrington- A guy who I do not think a lot of people are talking about and they really need to be. He hasn't had the greatest 2010 but honestly, I think people including me sometimes look too much into that. They need to see how well they have done in Major tournaments because I really feel it takes a certain golfer to win a major. I think Harrington will hoist the Green Jacket for the first time in his career.
2.) Tiger Woods- I really think everything needs to fall into place for Woods to win this major. I think he needs to play about even or a little better above par in the first two rounds, then make his strike on the weekend if he wants to win. If he comes out there with 65-67 on day 1 or day 2, the hype will be suffocating and something I am unsure Woods will be able to handle. It sounds weird to say that but the hype is already at an all-time high, I couldn't fathom what it will be like if he is leading going into the weekend.
3.) Steve Stricker- It's crazy that someone who wasn't even on the map a couple years ago now has the title of Best Guy Without a Major. He is an excellent putter, which as we all know could be the difference from the Green Jacket or second place. I think Stricker, unlike Woods needs to have a good couple of rounds to convince himself that he can win this tournament. In my opinion, the confidence level for Stricker is shot at Augusta, he doesn't feel that he can win the Masters.
4.) Ernie Els- He might be the sexy pick of the Masters but the Big Easy has his shit together for the first time in a long while. He is a great ball-striker and can really do some pretty things along the green. I do believe he tends to wilt under pressure when Tiger is breathing down his neck so it would be very interesting to see if Els could maintain a lead with Woods a stroke behind or be able to catch Woods if he was leading.
5.) Anthony Kim- Not really a wild card because he has won a couple times on the tour and is playing good golf (still hate that statement!) but he would come out of nowhere if he wins this tournament. No one expects the young Kim to withstand the pressure of the Masters but honestly, I think he is the type of player whose fearless attitude could win him the Masters. He isn't scared and sometimes that is a good thing.
I can only hope/pray that Tiger Woods is in the final group on the back nine Sunday. It might be wishful thinking but still, one can hope.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
An Ode to the 2010 NCAA Tournament
I know we are a couple days late, but give me a break I had much more to do for school. I believe this 2010 NCAA Tournament was the best tourney that I have seen in my 21 years. I enjoyed it so much and thought about how saddened I am that there is no basketball this weekend.
The tournament had everything that you want when you go into March Madness... People always love upsets, which we had plenty of them. The runs that Northern Iowa, St. Mary's, and Cornell made into the Sweet 16 were the reason why we all collectively jump on the bandwagon in hopes that maybe this team can make a George Mason-type run. The fact is we got that team in Butler.
Now, some will argue because they were in the top ten during the season therefore they shouldn't be considered part of that fraternity. I would agrue the fact they play in the Horizon League seeing the level of competition they play for two months is pretty weak and doesn't prepare them in the way for March like the six power conferences receive. Gonzaga is basically the same type of team like Butler who always seems to get in the tournament but can never make it to the Final Four. What the Bulldogs knocking off Syracuse, Kansas State, and Michigan State plus almost a half-court shot falling in to beat Duke. They proved that they can play with any team in the nation with their fearless attitude.
While Duke was the last 1 seed standing, I loved that they were the only ones in the Final Four. Anyone can predict all four ones getting into the Final Four and while those games would probably have been exciting, I would much rather watch two teams playing above expectations. The fact that a team that can get hot at the right now and create a deep dent makes this tournament so fun. I think the TV ratings of the final game would prove that I am not only one who enjoys these versions of the NCAA Touranment.
Quickly, my thoughts on Duke's National Championship season. I said in November how impressed I was with Duke early on (but I also dissed Butler pretty hard, yikes). So I always kept a close eye on Duke because I thought they had enough to win the National Championship this year. They dominated the ACC for the most part and then getting probably the easiest bracket out of the four, it almost felt like this tournament was made for the Dukies.
The play of Kyle Singler was unmatched by anyone else because not only did he play excellent on the offensive end, but the defense end as well, which sometimes you do not see from the star player. I think Singler should go pro with the chance of an NBA lockout in 2011, but who knows the opportunity playing again with Smith (expect him to come back), Seth Curry, Andre Dawkins, and the Plumlee Brothers.. that is a team with the abilty of compete for another National Championship.
-Charlie.
The tournament had everything that you want when you go into March Madness... People always love upsets, which we had plenty of them. The runs that Northern Iowa, St. Mary's, and Cornell made into the Sweet 16 were the reason why we all collectively jump on the bandwagon in hopes that maybe this team can make a George Mason-type run. The fact is we got that team in Butler.
Now, some will argue because they were in the top ten during the season therefore they shouldn't be considered part of that fraternity. I would agrue the fact they play in the Horizon League seeing the level of competition they play for two months is pretty weak and doesn't prepare them in the way for March like the six power conferences receive. Gonzaga is basically the same type of team like Butler who always seems to get in the tournament but can never make it to the Final Four. What the Bulldogs knocking off Syracuse, Kansas State, and Michigan State plus almost a half-court shot falling in to beat Duke. They proved that they can play with any team in the nation with their fearless attitude.
While Duke was the last 1 seed standing, I loved that they were the only ones in the Final Four. Anyone can predict all four ones getting into the Final Four and while those games would probably have been exciting, I would much rather watch two teams playing above expectations. The fact that a team that can get hot at the right now and create a deep dent makes this tournament so fun. I think the TV ratings of the final game would prove that I am not only one who enjoys these versions of the NCAA Touranment.
Quickly, my thoughts on Duke's National Championship season. I said in November how impressed I was with Duke early on (but I also dissed Butler pretty hard, yikes). So I always kept a close eye on Duke because I thought they had enough to win the National Championship this year. They dominated the ACC for the most part and then getting probably the easiest bracket out of the four, it almost felt like this tournament was made for the Dukies.
The play of Kyle Singler was unmatched by anyone else because not only did he play excellent on the offensive end, but the defense end as well, which sometimes you do not see from the star player. I think Singler should go pro with the chance of an NBA lockout in 2011, but who knows the opportunity playing again with Smith (expect him to come back), Seth Curry, Andre Dawkins, and the Plumlee Brothers.. that is a team with the abilty of compete for another National Championship.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Be Careful What You Wish For...
The biggest story in the NFL Offseason happened on Sunday night when the Eagles decided to trade their franchise player, Donovan McNabb to the Washington Redskins for a second-round pick and some other things. The trade left me wondering and scratching my head for various reasons.
Now let be known that I am not the biggest McNabb fan and personally feel he is slightly overrated. I understand getting to the conference championship is special but it isn't the Super Bowl. At least Jim Kelly, and John Elway got to the Super Bowl multiple times even though in defeat. Dan Marino is the only quarterback that I would categorize as someone who was a premier franchise QB yet not many Super Bowl appearances.
Despite all of that, it is still a mind-blowing trade. I cannot believe the Eagles traded him to a rival and more so the ravenous fans being completely okay with it. I mean this is your rival who you see twice a year and the face of your franchise for the last 10 years will be playing on the other teams. I would be up in arms if this happened with the Packers, but I really think it shows how much the city of Brotherly Love never got behind McNabb.
They never were for his entire career, I mean hell he was booed from the get-go on draft day when the Eagles decided to take McNabb over Ricky Williams (great decision looking back on it today). No matter that he almost always delivered a winner with the Eagles, the fans still found some room in their cold hearts to dislike him after one mistake. The pressure kept building to finally give Kevin Kolb a chance at quarterback and now many Eagles' fans have got their wish. Fans are baseing his success off two 300 yard performances against weak defenses, I think no one has a harder job than him next season. Easily comparable to Aaron Rodgers but I feel it might be harder since he already showed some glimmer of hope in the regular season.
As for the Redskins, I cannot see how this doesn't help them out once they find some wide receivers. Curious question, would the Skins' ask McNabb if they would entertain the possibility of bringing Terrell Owens into D.C.? Hmm.... Very interesting if you ask me. Anyways, he will have a three-headed attack of Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson, and Willie Parker in the backfield, which I think is risky but all of those guys have something to prove this season a lot like McNabb. He is working with an offensive mastermind in Mike Shanahan who has made pretty much every quarterback look good and another guy with something to prove in the National Football League.
I still think their offensive line will be the biggest question mark and if they can figure it out after they likely draft Russell Okung in the first round, this team becomes very dangerous. They already have a average to above average defense and now they have an offense to put points up on the board, look out NFC East. Further, I think their division is pretty much wide open, all teams have the same sort of questions marks headed into the draft and it should be an exciting season in the NFC East.
All I know is the McNabb back to Philly is a must-see TV game to see how big of an FU moment it will be for the former superstar. I just think there will be a large chip on McNabb shoulder and he will bring the noise at Lincoln Financial Field. Not to mention, I think this sort of thing amplifies tenfold in football because you only see them once or twice instead of 2 to 4 times in the NBA, or multiple times in baseball.
The one thing I wonder today is will the reaction be the same come late October?
-Charlie.
Now let be known that I am not the biggest McNabb fan and personally feel he is slightly overrated. I understand getting to the conference championship is special but it isn't the Super Bowl. At least Jim Kelly, and John Elway got to the Super Bowl multiple times even though in defeat. Dan Marino is the only quarterback that I would categorize as someone who was a premier franchise QB yet not many Super Bowl appearances.
Despite all of that, it is still a mind-blowing trade. I cannot believe the Eagles traded him to a rival and more so the ravenous fans being completely okay with it. I mean this is your rival who you see twice a year and the face of your franchise for the last 10 years will be playing on the other teams. I would be up in arms if this happened with the Packers, but I really think it shows how much the city of Brotherly Love never got behind McNabb.
They never were for his entire career, I mean hell he was booed from the get-go on draft day when the Eagles decided to take McNabb over Ricky Williams (great decision looking back on it today). No matter that he almost always delivered a winner with the Eagles, the fans still found some room in their cold hearts to dislike him after one mistake. The pressure kept building to finally give Kevin Kolb a chance at quarterback and now many Eagles' fans have got their wish. Fans are baseing his success off two 300 yard performances against weak defenses, I think no one has a harder job than him next season. Easily comparable to Aaron Rodgers but I feel it might be harder since he already showed some glimmer of hope in the regular season.
As for the Redskins, I cannot see how this doesn't help them out once they find some wide receivers. Curious question, would the Skins' ask McNabb if they would entertain the possibility of bringing Terrell Owens into D.C.? Hmm.... Very interesting if you ask me. Anyways, he will have a three-headed attack of Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson, and Willie Parker in the backfield, which I think is risky but all of those guys have something to prove this season a lot like McNabb. He is working with an offensive mastermind in Mike Shanahan who has made pretty much every quarterback look good and another guy with something to prove in the National Football League.
I still think their offensive line will be the biggest question mark and if they can figure it out after they likely draft Russell Okung in the first round, this team becomes very dangerous. They already have a average to above average defense and now they have an offense to put points up on the board, look out NFC East. Further, I think their division is pretty much wide open, all teams have the same sort of questions marks headed into the draft and it should be an exciting season in the NFC East.
All I know is the McNabb back to Philly is a must-see TV game to see how big of an FU moment it will be for the former superstar. I just think there will be a large chip on McNabb shoulder and he will bring the noise at Lincoln Financial Field. Not to mention, I think this sort of thing amplifies tenfold in football because you only see them once or twice instead of 2 to 4 times in the NBA, or multiple times in baseball.
The one thing I wonder today is will the reaction be the same come late October?
-Charlie.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Final Four Picks
I had to make sure I got my picks in and surprised that I am even writing to you as I am pulling it out while hungover. I will put it to you this way, I met a guy from Djibouti which was something on my bucket lists of things to do.
Butler vs. Michigan State- People including myself have called the Bulldogs the "real life Hoosiers" and now the question is can they carry this run into the final game? I feel they aren't scared of anyone especially after knocking off Syracuse/Kansas State. Gordan Hayward could be a mismatch disaster for the Spartans as they really don't have a player his size to compete with. Also Matt Howard's foul trouble problems probably will not be as much of worry with the Spartans due to the lack of size of their big men. Now for Michigan State I feel they have that same sort of never scared attitude because they know they can win without Kalin Lucas. Korie Lucious played fantastic in last year's Final Four and he played a great tournament so far. Also do not sleep on Durrell Summers because he hits key shots and always seems to have the ball at the end of the game. I haven't picked Butler the entire year, and I want them to win tonight although I do not think they enough... so I will continue to doubt them. MSU 65-60
West Virginia vs. Duke- Some people in the media think that this should be the National Championship game and people have pointed out the inabilities of the Dukies against Big East teams (lost the last four times they have seen Big East opponents in the tourney, they have lost). I think Nolan Smith is the key individual in this game because the only guy that can guard him is Joe Mazzulla and if he gets in foul trouble, the Mountaineers are in trouble with Smith. The Mountaineers have the ability inside to beat Duke which I do not think I could say about a lot of the teams they faced. The one thing that should concern Blue Devil fans is Da'Sean Butler's big time moments. I do not think Duke has that guy who can make take over the game, but I think the overall depth of Duke pulls them to victories late in the game. I could see this game going down to the wire and somebody making the difference. I am going with Jon Scheyer hitting a big three with under twenty seconds. DUKE 75-73
Butler vs. Michigan State- People including myself have called the Bulldogs the "real life Hoosiers" and now the question is can they carry this run into the final game? I feel they aren't scared of anyone especially after knocking off Syracuse/Kansas State. Gordan Hayward could be a mismatch disaster for the Spartans as they really don't have a player his size to compete with. Also Matt Howard's foul trouble problems probably will not be as much of worry with the Spartans due to the lack of size of their big men. Now for Michigan State I feel they have that same sort of never scared attitude because they know they can win without Kalin Lucas. Korie Lucious played fantastic in last year's Final Four and he played a great tournament so far. Also do not sleep on Durrell Summers because he hits key shots and always seems to have the ball at the end of the game. I haven't picked Butler the entire year, and I want them to win tonight although I do not think they enough... so I will continue to doubt them. MSU 65-60
West Virginia vs. Duke- Some people in the media think that this should be the National Championship game and people have pointed out the inabilities of the Dukies against Big East teams (lost the last four times they have seen Big East opponents in the tourney, they have lost). I think Nolan Smith is the key individual in this game because the only guy that can guard him is Joe Mazzulla and if he gets in foul trouble, the Mountaineers are in trouble with Smith. The Mountaineers have the ability inside to beat Duke which I do not think I could say about a lot of the teams they faced. The one thing that should concern Blue Devil fans is Da'Sean Butler's big time moments. I do not think Duke has that guy who can make take over the game, but I think the overall depth of Duke pulls them to victories late in the game. I could see this game going down to the wire and somebody making the difference. I am going with Jon Scheyer hitting a big three with under twenty seconds. DUKE 75-73
Ramblings From an Average NBA Fan
I decided since we are two weeks away from the NBA Playoffs that I might as well write about something other than Major League Baseball getting going. I would consider myself average because I do not watch a random game who aren't the Milwaukee Buck so these are just a bunch of random thoughts about the season.
-I was impressed with the Bucks performance in a defeat against Cleveland. Take away that they lost, they showed the heart it will take to win on the road. This team can win in the first round and push a team in the second round. John Salmons is a complete game changer for the Bucks and if Brandon Jennings can shine in the playoffs... look out.
- I would like to buy stock in the Cleveland Cavaliers winning the NBA Championship but there is something about them that worries me. I can't explain yet and maybe I need to watch more of them to really form an opinion. The one thing I do know is LeBron James is playing head and shoulders above almost anyone in the league.
-Almost wrote about the Lakers' struggles this week, I do not think it's a good thing heading into the playoffs. I know teams especially in the NBA can turn it on whenever they want but still there appears to be a disconnect that wasn't there last year. Maybe Ron Artest who knows?
-I wonder when the national media will realize that Vince Carter will do the magic act of disappearing. I give 2 to 1 odds that happen, a notorious choke in the playoffs. The Magic could be saved by Matt Barnes, helluva a defender and a scrappy player.
-Does it bother anyone else that Robin Lopez and Joakim Noah are both intricate parts of their teams? Two of the most hated guys when in college, now needed parts on Chicago and Phoenix. In addition, the Suns will be in trouble come playoffs if Lopez isn't there.
-I do not want the Bucks to play Atlanta. I think they are as dangerous as any team in the Eastern Conference because they have bounds athleticism and they have Joe Johnson who seemingly hits every clutch shot possible.
-Another team I wouldn't want to play if I were an Eastern Conference team is the Bobcats. Larry Brown might not have many championships but he is known for deep runs. I think he has a nucleus of players that work for his system making them very dangerous. Even though most of the nation wouldn't be intrigued, I would love to see Atlanta vs. Charlotte.
-My vote for Rookie of the Year is Tyreke Evans. I would love to give it to Brandon Jennings because he is leading a playoff team right now but inconsistent nights do not garner an award. Evans has come with it, night in and night one.
-A subset of this, I love that Jennings has said publicly that basically he doesn't give a shit about the award and wants to lead this team in the playoffs a la Derrick Rose.
-Despite having former Marquette guard Wes Matthews, I just cannot pull for Utah. Wes is the only guy I liked straight out of college, couldn't stand Deron Williams or Carlos Boozer plus I never liked the Jazz when they were good in the nineties, cannot explain why.
-Now both guys haven't came out but there will be discussions about John Wall or Evan Turner. I think most in the lottery will take Wall but I feel if New Orleans/Utah (via New York) get that pick, they select Turner.
-Last thought I love the Russian Billionaire that is ready to own the New Jersey Nets. He seems like an awesome guy and I am submitting my resume to him so I can work for him plus get loads of Eastern European women.
-Charlie.
-I was impressed with the Bucks performance in a defeat against Cleveland. Take away that they lost, they showed the heart it will take to win on the road. This team can win in the first round and push a team in the second round. John Salmons is a complete game changer for the Bucks and if Brandon Jennings can shine in the playoffs... look out.
- I would like to buy stock in the Cleveland Cavaliers winning the NBA Championship but there is something about them that worries me. I can't explain yet and maybe I need to watch more of them to really form an opinion. The one thing I do know is LeBron James is playing head and shoulders above almost anyone in the league.
-Almost wrote about the Lakers' struggles this week, I do not think it's a good thing heading into the playoffs. I know teams especially in the NBA can turn it on whenever they want but still there appears to be a disconnect that wasn't there last year. Maybe Ron Artest who knows?
-I wonder when the national media will realize that Vince Carter will do the magic act of disappearing. I give 2 to 1 odds that happen, a notorious choke in the playoffs. The Magic could be saved by Matt Barnes, helluva a defender and a scrappy player.
-Does it bother anyone else that Robin Lopez and Joakim Noah are both intricate parts of their teams? Two of the most hated guys when in college, now needed parts on Chicago and Phoenix. In addition, the Suns will be in trouble come playoffs if Lopez isn't there.
-I do not want the Bucks to play Atlanta. I think they are as dangerous as any team in the Eastern Conference because they have bounds athleticism and they have Joe Johnson who seemingly hits every clutch shot possible.
-Another team I wouldn't want to play if I were an Eastern Conference team is the Bobcats. Larry Brown might not have many championships but he is known for deep runs. I think he has a nucleus of players that work for his system making them very dangerous. Even though most of the nation wouldn't be intrigued, I would love to see Atlanta vs. Charlotte.
-My vote for Rookie of the Year is Tyreke Evans. I would love to give it to Brandon Jennings because he is leading a playoff team right now but inconsistent nights do not garner an award. Evans has come with it, night in and night one.
-A subset of this, I love that Jennings has said publicly that basically he doesn't give a shit about the award and wants to lead this team in the playoffs a la Derrick Rose.
-Despite having former Marquette guard Wes Matthews, I just cannot pull for Utah. Wes is the only guy I liked straight out of college, couldn't stand Deron Williams or Carlos Boozer plus I never liked the Jazz when they were good in the nineties, cannot explain why.
-Now both guys haven't came out but there will be discussions about John Wall or Evan Turner. I think most in the lottery will take Wall but I feel if New Orleans/Utah (via New York) get that pick, they select Turner.
-Last thought I love the Russian Billionaire that is ready to own the New Jersey Nets. He seems like an awesome guy and I am submitting my resume to him so I can work for him plus get loads of Eastern European women.
-Charlie.
Friday, April 2, 2010
NL Central Preview
Here is the final preview for the Major Leagues and now I read Bill Simmons' column about all of the advance stats. I am intrigued by all of this and Teddy P recommended to me that I buy Baseball Prospectus which I might have to do. Anyways here are my basic opinions about the NL Central.
1. St. Louis Cardinals- KEY ACQ: SP Brad Penny I LIKE: Colby Rasmus- Here in Brewer land, we give him a bad rap because he is a poor man's Ryan Braun yet I think he is a really good player for the Cards. I could see him having a big year. I HATE: Chris Carpenter- Even though he is the ace of the staff, is anyone worried that he might break down again? He never is a sure thing for an entire year so that worries me. PREDICTION: They have the ability to make the World Series and Dave Duncan is the master of reshaping guys like Penny so this could be all the making of a three pitchers dominating. Also Albert Pujols will not be pitched around anymore.
2. Milwaukee Brewers- KEY ACQ: CF Carlos Gomez, SP Randy Wolf, C Gregg Zaun I LIKE: Yovani Gallardo- I think Yo's numbers were bit down because his walks plus little run support. I think he could have a huge year if he doesn't nibble the corners. I HATE: Doug Davis- Honestly, I want to see everybody do well but I worry that Davis will just nibble like a small mouse around the corners. He eats innings I like that but he is just an average pitcher. PREDICTION: I will talk more about this in the next days, but they will win the Wild Card... More to come later.
3. Cincinnati Reds- KEY ACQ: SP Aroldis Chapman, SS Orlando Cabrera. I LIKE: Jay Bruce- Still a young guy and another player who is their team version of Braun nonetheless, he could have a big year. If he works out being patient at the plate his average could go up by 15 points. I HATE: Joey Votto- No real reason for this only because my buddy Mike has the same last name and it gets pronounced Joey's way instead of him. This one for you Mike. PREDICTION: They could be flip-flopped with the Cubs because both have gaping holes in their pitching/batting. I like Cabrera, he is a great clubhouse leader and he might be able to set the table for the big bats.
4. Chicago Cubs- KEY ACQ: SP Carlos Silva, CF Marlon Byrd. I LIKE: Geovanny Soto- I cannot believe they project him hitting eighth, I don't like the guy but I think he is a valued talent poised for a big year. I HATE: Carlos Marmol- I might be the only one but I feel like teams are figuring out Marmol slowly. I cannot see him being a dominating closer for the whole year. PREDICTION: Silva and Tom Gorzelanny as your fours/fives? That doesn't impress me at all and I cannot see Byrd doing well hitting in the five spot, he is an upgrade only in character to Milton Bradley.
5. Houston Astros- KEY ACQ: 3B Pedro Feliz, SP Brett Myers, RP Matt Lindstorm I LIKE: Wandy Rodriguez- He pitched so well against the Brew Crew for years and he now is pitching well against everybody. I HATE: Myers- I have no idea what this guy has left and a part of the Ed Wade All-Stars who could be awful this year for the Stros. I expect an ugly season from him. PREDICTION: I could see the Astros possibly finishing last in the NL Central, they have a lot of questions plus a ton of guys prone for injury.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- KEY ACQ: 2B Akinori Iwamura, RP Octovio Dotel I LIKE: Andrew McCutchen- I don't know if he qualifies for Rookie of the Year but he might be a strong nominee for that award. He does it all for their team and is the future of the Pirates. I HATE: Ronny Cedeno- I mean all of these Pirates could be woeful this season but Cedeno is notoriously bad on offense. PREDICTION: The Pirates have all young guys so they could be bad but I think they will grow as a team and like the Lions, they can be a better team in a few years.
-Charlie.
1. St. Louis Cardinals- KEY ACQ: SP Brad Penny I LIKE: Colby Rasmus- Here in Brewer land, we give him a bad rap because he is a poor man's Ryan Braun yet I think he is a really good player for the Cards. I could see him having a big year. I HATE: Chris Carpenter- Even though he is the ace of the staff, is anyone worried that he might break down again? He never is a sure thing for an entire year so that worries me. PREDICTION: They have the ability to make the World Series and Dave Duncan is the master of reshaping guys like Penny so this could be all the making of a three pitchers dominating. Also Albert Pujols will not be pitched around anymore.
2. Milwaukee Brewers- KEY ACQ: CF Carlos Gomez, SP Randy Wolf, C Gregg Zaun I LIKE: Yovani Gallardo- I think Yo's numbers were bit down because his walks plus little run support. I think he could have a huge year if he doesn't nibble the corners. I HATE: Doug Davis- Honestly, I want to see everybody do well but I worry that Davis will just nibble like a small mouse around the corners. He eats innings I like that but he is just an average pitcher. PREDICTION: I will talk more about this in the next days, but they will win the Wild Card... More to come later.
3. Cincinnati Reds- KEY ACQ: SP Aroldis Chapman, SS Orlando Cabrera. I LIKE: Jay Bruce- Still a young guy and another player who is their team version of Braun nonetheless, he could have a big year. If he works out being patient at the plate his average could go up by 15 points. I HATE: Joey Votto- No real reason for this only because my buddy Mike has the same last name and it gets pronounced Joey's way instead of him. This one for you Mike. PREDICTION: They could be flip-flopped with the Cubs because both have gaping holes in their pitching/batting. I like Cabrera, he is a great clubhouse leader and he might be able to set the table for the big bats.
4. Chicago Cubs- KEY ACQ: SP Carlos Silva, CF Marlon Byrd. I LIKE: Geovanny Soto- I cannot believe they project him hitting eighth, I don't like the guy but I think he is a valued talent poised for a big year. I HATE: Carlos Marmol- I might be the only one but I feel like teams are figuring out Marmol slowly. I cannot see him being a dominating closer for the whole year. PREDICTION: Silva and Tom Gorzelanny as your fours/fives? That doesn't impress me at all and I cannot see Byrd doing well hitting in the five spot, he is an upgrade only in character to Milton Bradley.
5. Houston Astros- KEY ACQ: 3B Pedro Feliz, SP Brett Myers, RP Matt Lindstorm I LIKE: Wandy Rodriguez- He pitched so well against the Brew Crew for years and he now is pitching well against everybody. I HATE: Myers- I have no idea what this guy has left and a part of the Ed Wade All-Stars who could be awful this year for the Stros. I expect an ugly season from him. PREDICTION: I could see the Astros possibly finishing last in the NL Central, they have a lot of questions plus a ton of guys prone for injury.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates- KEY ACQ: 2B Akinori Iwamura, RP Octovio Dotel I LIKE: Andrew McCutchen- I don't know if he qualifies for Rookie of the Year but he might be a strong nominee for that award. He does it all for their team and is the future of the Pirates. I HATE: Ronny Cedeno- I mean all of these Pirates could be woeful this season but Cedeno is notoriously bad on offense. PREDICTION: The Pirates have all young guys so they could be bad but I think they will grow as a team and like the Lions, they can be a better team in a few years.
-Charlie.
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