I know there's a gripe amongst sports fans when the political world somehow finds it way into the world of sports. However, it's a fact of life. We thought that the NBA talk would cease after the LeBron James decision was finally made. However, that wasn't the case. When Jesse Jackson decides to bring the topic of slavery into the bitter divorce saga between LeBron James & Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, it's sports media gold. I would like to ask all of you wiser men and women; would Martin Luther King Jr. approve this kind of accusation of slaverunning/racism or would he scoff at it? I'm going to take a guess and say he would scoff at it. The Jesse Jackson & Al Sharpton's are the reason that the definition of racism has been perveted by frivolous interpretation after frivolous interpretation. This maybe one of his worst cries of racism and injustice in all of his pathetic career of attention whoring. Grasping for straws would be an understatement. Dan Gilbert maybe guilty of being the scorned lover, but not as a slaverunner. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream back in the 1960's, when real racism was being fought. My dream is for one day some telling Jesse Jackson to STFU on a public forum.
If that's not enough political flies in your sports soup, how about this. Fortunately, we will cross this bridge one year from now. We've also seen opposition of the Arizona immigration law being expressed in the NBA. When this story broke, it seemed to me that maybe the protest was overzealous and maybe a little misguided. Don't you think it's unfair for the state of Arizona to be wrongfully labeled for enforcing a federal law within a state level? Is this another example of frivolous accusations of racism and bigotry? I have no problem with Yovani Gallardo making a stand. The only explanation could be that he has friends or family members who came to this country illegaly. When it's all said and done, a law is broken and should be enforced. Why do you think Arizona proposed this law to begin with?
A new proposal by the NCAA could eliminate early scholarship offers. What took so long? We no longer have to hear recruitniks writing or talking about a scholarship off to a kid who is a junior in high school and won't time on a college yard 4 years from now. Everyone knows my stance on recruiting and I lay out 3 examples of why I only discuss it after the BCS Title Game until signing day.
Remember when there was talks about expanding the NCAA Tournament to 128 teams? It turned out to be only 68. The NCAA revealed it's 68 team tournament format which has a twist. The last 4 at large teams will be matched up with the last 4 automatic bids and play a "1st round game" to make the field 64. What could make this more pointless and hilarious? The fact that these "1st round games" will be played on TruTV (formerly CourtTV). Is that because it's a crime that these 8 teams are in the tournament? TBS couldn't bump Tyler Perry's House of Pain & re-runs of Family Guy? Nice to add a little twist to the "First Four" but this expansion seems more pointless and embarassing. So let's look through the check list.......Hockey on an Outdoor Channel (check), Pro Wrestling on the Sci-Fi Channel (check), Poker on ESPN (check). What's next? Saved by The Bell on Cartoon Network?....Oh wait, check!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Thoughts on MLB going to All-Star Break; More trouble at UT; LeBron aftermath
The first half of the Major League Season is over and we can sit back and watch the circus that is the All-Star Break. Here are some of the things we've realized.
1) The Cubs and the NL Central is garbage. When the Houston Astros have the 2nd best record within their division. There's no excuse for the St. Louis Cardinals to be trailing this division.
2) The Cincinnatti Reds are still an average team. Having Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips is nice, but this team is still average. To me, this team doesn't look like a playoff team. To have this team leading St. Louis is an absolute shock. I'm waiting for the Reds to fall from the wasteside in the division and in the Wild Card.
3) The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres have the best records in the National League. Has hell frozen over? I'm not ready yet to swallow my pride and acknowledge the Braves are the best team in the National League. Their pitching is great, but when you look at their lineup, is it really that intimidating? It still seems average. Does this team really get past a healthy Philadelphia team? I think not. Plus, the New York Mets will have Carlos Beltran back. Though the Braves are 4 games ahead in the NL East, this race is far from over.
4) The addition of Cliff Lee made the Texas Rangers a dangerous team. It's nice to have Vlad, Josh Hamilton, and Nelson Cruz. The Rangers have the speed and the bats, but they've always lacked pitching, and what better way to fix that problem to add Cliff Lee to your starting rotation. I was skeptic of the Rangers run. However, with the Cliff Lee addition, I'm now a believer. The race in the AL just got more interesting with Texas, New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Detroit, and Minnesota. The White Sox chances look grim with the loss of Jake Peavy. I now like the Rangers chances to dethrone the Yanks and appear in their first World Series.
What should we look for in the second half?
Can the Phillies and/or Mets make up ground from their injury plagued first half? I believe the Phillies will more than the Mets. There's a reason this team has made it to consecutive World Series. This roster is good, and when healthy, can be dangerous. Although watching them the past few weeks has been an abortion, this team will get healthy and show why they are the defending National League Champions.
Will Frank Wren make a move to get another bat or stay pat? He has no choice but to get another solid bat. The Braves are still an average team in a long marathon that is the Major League Season. Jason Heyward getting healthy helps, but they need another bat. Who will Frank Wren get and who will he send packing to get it? Stay tuned.
Are The San Diego Padres for real? They shouldn't be. In a divsion with the Dodgers, Giants, and a pesky Rockies team, it's a shock that this team is not only winning the NL West, but have one of the best records in the NL. Looking at this roster, you can't tell me that this is a playoff team. It won't surprise me to see San Diego take a dip in the second half. San Fransisco, Los Angeles, and maybe Colorado will eventually battle it out to win this division. Unless San Diego makes a blockbuster trade.
A friend of mine believes that Terry Francona should get AL Manager of the year. I tend to agree. A battered and bruised Red Sox team that was slow out of the gates at the beginning of the season still wins 50 games in the 1st half. The real question is can they get healthy and stay healthy? If the answer is yes, watch out Tampa Bay, your days maybe numbered. If you compare the pitching staff of New York, Tampa Bay, and Boston, you have to like the Red Sox. Tampa Bay's chances of duplicating 2008 look bad if this Red Sox team can avoid the injury bug.
The University of Tennessee's off the field issues can't seem to go away. Want more salt into the wound? University officials are now looking into VIP treatment of players at a local bar. The only question I ask is, what took so long??? By that I mean, why did it take so long for the UT brass to look into the local facilities and put their foot down? Let's look at the last few incidents involving UT athletes:
1) 3 UT players arrested for Armed Robbery
2) 4 UT basketball players face drug and weapons charges
and now our most recent incident.
The spotlight now shines heavily on Mike Hamilton. With each event, it shows the lack of control in this program. Is he powerless to avoid this time and time again? Derek Dooley has no blame in this, it's his job to clean up this mess.
King James has decided to join Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh to form the South Beach Superfriends. I don't understand why some people are labeling him the villian after all of those years of being an NBA hero. The only one to blame is the brass in Cleveland. The best you can get to support LeBron is Shaq and Antwan Jamison??? After seeing the letter Dan Gilbert wrote to the fans, I don't blame Chris Bosh or any future NBA Free Agent if they never wanted to play in Cleveland. I understand being hurt and disappointed that your meal ticket decided to go to Miami, but that letter was classless. How did LeBron betray you? Why is he being scorned for making a business move? Congrads Dan Gilbert, you just sealed the NBA Lottery fate for Cleveland for a very long time. How much blame do you put on Delonte West? Seeing all of the venom from fans about LeBron's decision, I look forward to cheering for the Miami Heat to win an NBA Championship.
1) The Cubs and the NL Central is garbage. When the Houston Astros have the 2nd best record within their division. There's no excuse for the St. Louis Cardinals to be trailing this division.
2) The Cincinnatti Reds are still an average team. Having Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips is nice, but this team is still average. To me, this team doesn't look like a playoff team. To have this team leading St. Louis is an absolute shock. I'm waiting for the Reds to fall from the wasteside in the division and in the Wild Card.
3) The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres have the best records in the National League. Has hell frozen over? I'm not ready yet to swallow my pride and acknowledge the Braves are the best team in the National League. Their pitching is great, but when you look at their lineup, is it really that intimidating? It still seems average. Does this team really get past a healthy Philadelphia team? I think not. Plus, the New York Mets will have Carlos Beltran back. Though the Braves are 4 games ahead in the NL East, this race is far from over.
4) The addition of Cliff Lee made the Texas Rangers a dangerous team. It's nice to have Vlad, Josh Hamilton, and Nelson Cruz. The Rangers have the speed and the bats, but they've always lacked pitching, and what better way to fix that problem to add Cliff Lee to your starting rotation. I was skeptic of the Rangers run. However, with the Cliff Lee addition, I'm now a believer. The race in the AL just got more interesting with Texas, New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Detroit, and Minnesota. The White Sox chances look grim with the loss of Jake Peavy. I now like the Rangers chances to dethrone the Yanks and appear in their first World Series.
What should we look for in the second half?
Can the Phillies and/or Mets make up ground from their injury plagued first half? I believe the Phillies will more than the Mets. There's a reason this team has made it to consecutive World Series. This roster is good, and when healthy, can be dangerous. Although watching them the past few weeks has been an abortion, this team will get healthy and show why they are the defending National League Champions.
Will Frank Wren make a move to get another bat or stay pat? He has no choice but to get another solid bat. The Braves are still an average team in a long marathon that is the Major League Season. Jason Heyward getting healthy helps, but they need another bat. Who will Frank Wren get and who will he send packing to get it? Stay tuned.
Are The San Diego Padres for real? They shouldn't be. In a divsion with the Dodgers, Giants, and a pesky Rockies team, it's a shock that this team is not only winning the NL West, but have one of the best records in the NL. Looking at this roster, you can't tell me that this is a playoff team. It won't surprise me to see San Diego take a dip in the second half. San Fransisco, Los Angeles, and maybe Colorado will eventually battle it out to win this division. Unless San Diego makes a blockbuster trade.
A friend of mine believes that Terry Francona should get AL Manager of the year. I tend to agree. A battered and bruised Red Sox team that was slow out of the gates at the beginning of the season still wins 50 games in the 1st half. The real question is can they get healthy and stay healthy? If the answer is yes, watch out Tampa Bay, your days maybe numbered. If you compare the pitching staff of New York, Tampa Bay, and Boston, you have to like the Red Sox. Tampa Bay's chances of duplicating 2008 look bad if this Red Sox team can avoid the injury bug.
The University of Tennessee's off the field issues can't seem to go away. Want more salt into the wound? University officials are now looking into VIP treatment of players at a local bar. The only question I ask is, what took so long??? By that I mean, why did it take so long for the UT brass to look into the local facilities and put their foot down? Let's look at the last few incidents involving UT athletes:
1) 3 UT players arrested for Armed Robbery
2) 4 UT basketball players face drug and weapons charges
and now our most recent incident.
The spotlight now shines heavily on Mike Hamilton. With each event, it shows the lack of control in this program. Is he powerless to avoid this time and time again? Derek Dooley has no blame in this, it's his job to clean up this mess.
King James has decided to join Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh to form the South Beach Superfriends. I don't understand why some people are labeling him the villian after all of those years of being an NBA hero. The only one to blame is the brass in Cleveland. The best you can get to support LeBron is Shaq and Antwan Jamison??? After seeing the letter Dan Gilbert wrote to the fans, I don't blame Chris Bosh or any future NBA Free Agent if they never wanted to play in Cleveland. I understand being hurt and disappointed that your meal ticket decided to go to Miami, but that letter was classless. How did LeBron betray you? Why is he being scorned for making a business move? Congrads Dan Gilbert, you just sealed the NBA Lottery fate for Cleveland for a very long time. How much blame do you put on Delonte West? Seeing all of the venom from fans about LeBron's decision, I look forward to cheering for the Miami Heat to win an NBA Championship.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Am I the only one that doesn't think bad of LeBron for having an ESPN Special?
So ESPN is going to have a one-hour special on LeBron's decision Thursday night. The question I ask is why are people so up in arms about it?
1) What else is ESPN going to broadcast??? World Series of Poker???? Seriously?? If you say you'd rather watch poker than a one hour special on one of the hottest stories in sports, you're an idiot!! I don't care if Phil Helmuth has pocket aces and I really don't give a damn if Phil Ivey is low on chips. I JUST DON'T! ESPN is cashing in on a hot story. You can make the same analogy of a local TV station breaking into wall-to-wall coverage during All My Children or The Young & Restless for Breaking News. If you call to bitch that you're missing your Soap Opera because of it, you're an idiot!
2) Why in our society do we expect superstar athletes to not have an ego? Does it have to do with wealth envy??? I think it does! You can say it doesn't matter, but why are the fans and brass of The New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls, and Miami Heat on pins and needles? If you don't want to watch it and you'd rather walk your dog, that's fine! I have no problem with that. But to hammer LeBron because ESPN wants to have a one-hour special is absolutely stupid. He's a star who craves attention, and he's not being arrested or going to drug rehab like the pop-culture celebutards in Hollywood. He's the hottest item among NBA owners and the attention is valid.
3) You may bring up how I've hammered Brett Favre in the past but I'm defending LeBron James. Okay, let's have that discussion. Brett Favre told the Green Bay Packers he wanted to retire, so the Packers moved on. In mid-stride, he decided to change his mind and come back after the Packers have moved on with Aaron Rodgers. You may ask, why aren't you hammering Favre this year? Because it's not the constant diva act this go around. I will not discuss Favre until he's in a NFL uniform in August. The problem I had with Favre is the constant indecision to the point I wanted to puke. At least LeBron is going to make a decision and stick with it. The only thing that will make this post invalid is if LeBron James doesn't make a decision.
Please...save with the bile towards arrogance to the ones who deserve it. Everyone craves attention from time to time. If they're breaking the law or acting like skanks and douchebags getting into club fights, or holding a pro team hostage with an indecision or holdout during training camp, then your words would be valid. To hammer someone for wanting attention because they're good at what they do is absolutely hypocritical.
1) What else is ESPN going to broadcast??? World Series of Poker???? Seriously?? If you say you'd rather watch poker than a one hour special on one of the hottest stories in sports, you're an idiot!! I don't care if Phil Helmuth has pocket aces and I really don't give a damn if Phil Ivey is low on chips. I JUST DON'T! ESPN is cashing in on a hot story. You can make the same analogy of a local TV station breaking into wall-to-wall coverage during All My Children or The Young & Restless for Breaking News. If you call to bitch that you're missing your Soap Opera because of it, you're an idiot!
2) Why in our society do we expect superstar athletes to not have an ego? Does it have to do with wealth envy??? I think it does! You can say it doesn't matter, but why are the fans and brass of The New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls, and Miami Heat on pins and needles? If you don't want to watch it and you'd rather walk your dog, that's fine! I have no problem with that. But to hammer LeBron because ESPN wants to have a one-hour special is absolutely stupid. He's a star who craves attention, and he's not being arrested or going to drug rehab like the pop-culture celebutards in Hollywood. He's the hottest item among NBA owners and the attention is valid.
3) You may bring up how I've hammered Brett Favre in the past but I'm defending LeBron James. Okay, let's have that discussion. Brett Favre told the Green Bay Packers he wanted to retire, so the Packers moved on. In mid-stride, he decided to change his mind and come back after the Packers have moved on with Aaron Rodgers. You may ask, why aren't you hammering Favre this year? Because it's not the constant diva act this go around. I will not discuss Favre until he's in a NFL uniform in August. The problem I had with Favre is the constant indecision to the point I wanted to puke. At least LeBron is going to make a decision and stick with it. The only thing that will make this post invalid is if LeBron James doesn't make a decision.
Please...save with the bile towards arrogance to the ones who deserve it. Everyone craves attention from time to time. If they're breaking the law or acting like skanks and douchebags getting into club fights, or holding a pro team hostage with an indecision or holdout during training camp, then your words would be valid. To hammer someone for wanting attention because they're good at what they do is absolutely hypocritical.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
NBA Free Agency; Purple Drank; Michael Vick isn't helping his case for redemtion; Jason Heyward shouldn't play in the All-Star Game
You may have had a time or two when someone told you "The world doesn't revolve around you". There is truth to that, unless you're LeBron James. The NBA World stopped on it's axis on July 1st awaiting if LeBron stays in Cleveland or sets up shop in New York, New Jersey, or Chicago. However, I await the decision of Chris Bosh. I believe he is the key in all of this speculation. If he goes to Cleveland, LeBron stays. If he goes to Chicago, D-Wade will follow. If he goes to New York, LeBron may be out of the picture. The New York Knicks and Amare Stoudamire agreed to a 5 year/$100 million deal this week. To the teams that don't land Chris Bosh, Carlos Boozer is the next best thing. In my opinion, for the sake of the NBA, LeBron should be a Knick, Chris Bosh is the missing piece in Chicago, and D-Wade would also be a good addition. The NBA needs New York and Chicago to be the powerhouses they were in the 90's, add Boston into that equation also. The Western Conference is too top heavy and the East is too weak. It's time for a Super Team in the East other than the Boston Celtics.
Former WHNT Sports Anchor John Pearson sent me a message on Twitter that "JaMarcus was the gift that keeps on giving." In reference to my tweet about JaMarcus Russell being arrested for possession of "The Purple Drank". Some people may ask why I'm so venomous towards Mr. Russell? I'm willing to admit that I pull for the Oakland Raiders again. When Al Davis drafted him, I cringed in anger. I always thought he had a rabbit's foot, a four-leaf clover, and a horseshoe stuck somewhere in his uniform because luck seem to cover for his lack of talent. Wait, he could throw a football 80 yards???? Really? Can he hit a reciever on a crossing route from 10 yards. He didn't do it much in Oakland. When Bruce Gradkowski and J.P. Lossman are better options than the 2007 1st overall draft pick, that should speak volumes. Maybe JaMarcus shouldn't have snubbed his nose at the UFL because that maybe his best option. Any team that considers signing this bum is a complete moron. Congrats JaMarcus, Ryan Leaf is no longer the biggest trainwreck in the NFL.
Michael Vick is in the spotlight again for all of the wrong reasons. An all white party turned violent and it was one that was held by Michael Vick. What happened to the changed person in hopes for redemption??? You're not helping you case Mikey!!! You went from a million dollar insurance policy to the man who maybe calling the signals for the Eagles now that Donovan McNabb has went to D.C. That was what he wanted, wasn't it?? The NFL has already got all of the mileage it can get on your dogfighting scandal and your tour of redemption. Now they want another headline, a positive one for a change.
I will admit that the Atlanta Braves have been one of the hottest teams in the MLB. However, they still seem average to me. Hell must be getting colder with the Braves, Reds, and Padres having the best records in the National League. Which brings me to the topic of Jason Heyward. I don't think he should play in the all-star game. Before you homers start defending your boy, let me explain. With a thumb injury and time on the DL, how does he benefit from playing in this game??? Risk reaggrevating that thumb for home field advantage for a game you may not play in? Jason Heyward is going to be an All-Star for many more times to come. If he wants to suit up and maybe pinch hit one time, that's fine. The fans may want to see you in this exhibition, but would it be wise to think more about the interest of the team now that the Division Race is in your favor for the time being?
The Countdown is on...........
Former WHNT Sports Anchor John Pearson sent me a message on Twitter that "JaMarcus was the gift that keeps on giving." In reference to my tweet about JaMarcus Russell being arrested for possession of "The Purple Drank". Some people may ask why I'm so venomous towards Mr. Russell? I'm willing to admit that I pull for the Oakland Raiders again. When Al Davis drafted him, I cringed in anger. I always thought he had a rabbit's foot, a four-leaf clover, and a horseshoe stuck somewhere in his uniform because luck seem to cover for his lack of talent. Wait, he could throw a football 80 yards???? Really? Can he hit a reciever on a crossing route from 10 yards. He didn't do it much in Oakland. When Bruce Gradkowski and J.P. Lossman are better options than the 2007 1st overall draft pick, that should speak volumes. Maybe JaMarcus shouldn't have snubbed his nose at the UFL because that maybe his best option. Any team that considers signing this bum is a complete moron. Congrats JaMarcus, Ryan Leaf is no longer the biggest trainwreck in the NFL.
Michael Vick is in the spotlight again for all of the wrong reasons. An all white party turned violent and it was one that was held by Michael Vick. What happened to the changed person in hopes for redemption??? You're not helping you case Mikey!!! You went from a million dollar insurance policy to the man who maybe calling the signals for the Eagles now that Donovan McNabb has went to D.C. That was what he wanted, wasn't it?? The NFL has already got all of the mileage it can get on your dogfighting scandal and your tour of redemption. Now they want another headline, a positive one for a change.
I will admit that the Atlanta Braves have been one of the hottest teams in the MLB. However, they still seem average to me. Hell must be getting colder with the Braves, Reds, and Padres having the best records in the National League. Which brings me to the topic of Jason Heyward. I don't think he should play in the all-star game. Before you homers start defending your boy, let me explain. With a thumb injury and time on the DL, how does he benefit from playing in this game??? Risk reaggrevating that thumb for home field advantage for a game you may not play in? Jason Heyward is going to be an All-Star for many more times to come. If he wants to suit up and maybe pinch hit one time, that's fine. The fans may want to see you in this exhibition, but would it be wise to think more about the interest of the team now that the Division Race is in your favor for the time being?
The Countdown is on...........
Monday, June 14, 2010
In the Chaos of Conference realignment, has Texas become The Equalizer?
Last week, with the departure of Nebraska & Colorado, it wasn't a matter of if the Big XII would disband, but when? However, the tables have turned. What looked iminent that Texas would join the Pac-10 and their quest for college football immortality, now is not the case.
Dan Beebe earned his money as Big XII Commissioner these past 2-3 weeks. This move makes sense to me. Why join a conference with 16 teams when you can join one with now ten teams and not play a Championship game? Not only does this work well for Texas and Oklahoma, but it helps OSU, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech by eliminating divisions.
If the Pac-16 would have happened, There wouldn't have been a Championship game anyway. Instead would look for 2 Automatic BCS Bids. Given the track record of the Pac-10 in the last decade, do they really feel they deserve 2 auto bids with the Big XII refugees joining their fold??? I think not. I think the Mountain West is more deserving of one auto bid rather than the Pac-10 getting two. When was the last time a Pac-10 ever recieved an at-large bid in the BCS? The Answer was Washington St. in 2002 when they tied USC for the Pac-10 Championship.
Not only would it not make sense geographically, but some of the most prestige rivalries, that make college football what it is, stay in tact.
I was never a fan of all of this mega-conference super shifting. Maybe Texas and Dan Beebe have finally played equalizer in stopping the madness before it's too late. Will there be more moves???? Probably So, but will the speculation be at a maddening pace??? Probably not.
You may ask, should Colorado and Nebraska feel stupid for their choice to jump what looked like a sinking ship???
Colorado: No
Nebraska: Yes
Colorado made the right move to go to the Pac-10, there's more opportunity for them to excell. The depth of the Pac-10 is not as broad with the sanctions of USC and the off-field troubles of Oregon. Plus, with no Championship Game (at least right now), they have a chance to make up some major ground.
Nebraska should feel dumb for their move to the Big Ten. Why?? They owned the Big XII North and will now have to travel to the likes of Penn St, Ohio St, and Michigan. Other than football, what can they offer The Big Ten other than the Lincoln, NE TV Market? The silver lining is it can ignite a nice conference rivalry with Iowa. Other than those two factors, it doesn't make sense to me.
Is this over? If not, who will make the next move??? I wouldn't be surprised if Dan Beebe comes knocking on the doors of LSU and Arkansas. Then, things will get even more interesting.
Dan Beebe earned his money as Big XII Commissioner these past 2-3 weeks. This move makes sense to me. Why join a conference with 16 teams when you can join one with now ten teams and not play a Championship game? Not only does this work well for Texas and Oklahoma, but it helps OSU, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech by eliminating divisions.
If the Pac-16 would have happened, There wouldn't have been a Championship game anyway. Instead would look for 2 Automatic BCS Bids. Given the track record of the Pac-10 in the last decade, do they really feel they deserve 2 auto bids with the Big XII refugees joining their fold??? I think not. I think the Mountain West is more deserving of one auto bid rather than the Pac-10 getting two. When was the last time a Pac-10 ever recieved an at-large bid in the BCS? The Answer was Washington St. in 2002 when they tied USC for the Pac-10 Championship.
Not only would it not make sense geographically, but some of the most prestige rivalries, that make college football what it is, stay in tact.
I was never a fan of all of this mega-conference super shifting. Maybe Texas and Dan Beebe have finally played equalizer in stopping the madness before it's too late. Will there be more moves???? Probably So, but will the speculation be at a maddening pace??? Probably not.
You may ask, should Colorado and Nebraska feel stupid for their choice to jump what looked like a sinking ship???
Colorado: No
Nebraska: Yes
Colorado made the right move to go to the Pac-10, there's more opportunity for them to excell. The depth of the Pac-10 is not as broad with the sanctions of USC and the off-field troubles of Oregon. Plus, with no Championship Game (at least right now), they have a chance to make up some major ground.
Nebraska should feel dumb for their move to the Big Ten. Why?? They owned the Big XII North and will now have to travel to the likes of Penn St, Ohio St, and Michigan. Other than football, what can they offer The Big Ten other than the Lincoln, NE TV Market? The silver lining is it can ignite a nice conference rivalry with Iowa. Other than those two factors, it doesn't make sense to me.
Is this over? If not, who will make the next move??? I wouldn't be surprised if Dan Beebe comes knocking on the doors of LSU and Arkansas. Then, things will get even more interesting.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
College Football Jumbalaya 06-10-2010
Mark this date down.....June 10th, 2010 could go down as one of the most historic days in NCAA athletics. The first move has been made in the chess match that has been conference realignment. We can finally stop grasping for straws with scenarios. The latest news of Nebraska moving to the Big Ten and Colorado abandoning the Big XII for the Pac-10. These moves now put all eyes on Texas and Notre Dame.
One program that should pray that Texas stays away from the Pac-10 is Southern Cal. With the recent reporting sanctions that could mean a 2 year postseason ban and loss of 30 scholarships (more on this later), the arrival of Colorado, Texas, and their siblings could mean a more uphill climb for Lane Kiffin (if he's still around) and the USC Trojans.
If Texas, does move to the Pac-10 and carry the convoy with them, this is not only a benefit for the conference in football. The level of competition in basketball has been enchanced dramatically. The Pac-10 was once a basketball haven. Last year, they were awful.
If this conference realignment is for all sports, then the Big East has no reason to disband. Their basketball programs are some of the best in the country. If the Big East disbanded, the ACC would become the powerhouse conference in College Basketball.
What about Notre Dame???? With the BCS contract still valid until 2014, they have the power play to lie in the weeds and watch what everyone else does before they are forced to a crucial decision.
The day we've all been waiting for the last 2 years has finally come. Southern California is finally hit with sanctions by the NCAA in regards to the Reggie Bush and O.J. Mayo investigations. Remember when Pete Carroll accepted the job to coach the Seattle Seahawks? That should have tipped you off there. I remember hearing about Alabama's punishment for textbooks and being asked, what about USC?? Here's your closure. The investigation went long in order to find damning evidence. Now, the punishment is damning. If the prognosticators are correct with the Southwestern convoy of Big XII teams to the Pac-10, Lane Kiffin's road to recovery could take longer than expected. Rick Neiuheisel, Jeff Tedford, and Jim Harbaugh are licking their chops right now. I will not be surprised if Lane Kiffin survives this ordeal due to the talent that has been recruited. I think USC will have a 9 win season at minimum next year and 2011. However, the slide should begin in 2012.
This punishment also leaves USC to vacate wins from at least 2004 (the year they won the BCS Championship). I don't want to hear (but I will) Auburn and Oklahoma claiming the 2004 National Championship. Sorry, you didn't win it. Do you want to get Jason Campbell, Carnell Williams, Ronnie Brown, Adrian Peterson, and the fantastic knees of Jason White to compose a second version of The Best of Times (1986) starring Kurt Russell and Robin Williams? GIVE ME A BREAK!
One program that should pray that Texas stays away from the Pac-10 is Southern Cal. With the recent reporting sanctions that could mean a 2 year postseason ban and loss of 30 scholarships (more on this later), the arrival of Colorado, Texas, and their siblings could mean a more uphill climb for Lane Kiffin (if he's still around) and the USC Trojans.
If Texas, does move to the Pac-10 and carry the convoy with them, this is not only a benefit for the conference in football. The level of competition in basketball has been enchanced dramatically. The Pac-10 was once a basketball haven. Last year, they were awful.
If this conference realignment is for all sports, then the Big East has no reason to disband. Their basketball programs are some of the best in the country. If the Big East disbanded, the ACC would become the powerhouse conference in College Basketball.
What about Notre Dame???? With the BCS contract still valid until 2014, they have the power play to lie in the weeds and watch what everyone else does before they are forced to a crucial decision.
The day we've all been waiting for the last 2 years has finally come. Southern California is finally hit with sanctions by the NCAA in regards to the Reggie Bush and O.J. Mayo investigations. Remember when Pete Carroll accepted the job to coach the Seattle Seahawks? That should have tipped you off there. I remember hearing about Alabama's punishment for textbooks and being asked, what about USC?? Here's your closure. The investigation went long in order to find damning evidence. Now, the punishment is damning. If the prognosticators are correct with the Southwestern convoy of Big XII teams to the Pac-10, Lane Kiffin's road to recovery could take longer than expected. Rick Neiuheisel, Jeff Tedford, and Jim Harbaugh are licking their chops right now. I will not be surprised if Lane Kiffin survives this ordeal due to the talent that has been recruited. I think USC will have a 9 win season at minimum next year and 2011. However, the slide should begin in 2012.
This punishment also leaves USC to vacate wins from at least 2004 (the year they won the BCS Championship). I don't want to hear (but I will) Auburn and Oklahoma claiming the 2004 National Championship. Sorry, you didn't win it. Do you want to get Jason Campbell, Carnell Williams, Ronnie Brown, Adrian Peterson, and the fantastic knees of Jason White to compose a second version of The Best of Times (1986) starring Kurt Russell and Robin Williams? GIVE ME A BREAK!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
An Expanding Headache!; Improving the system is not that hard
The more I seem to post, the more of the impression of cynicism I give to most people. However, I just can't sit back and pander to idiocy & speculation if I have a different opinion.
For the last few months we've heard the he said/he said over which teams are going to the Big Ten, or who the SEC will pick up. The Big Ten talks expansion and a firestorm ensues.
The talk of all of these mega-conferences with 16, or in some speculations, 22 teams has really started to strike a nerve with me. So you're telling me that we're going to have four conferences that are each near the size of the NFL and this is suppose to solve our problem to determine a National Champion? Wrong! This is all about money and I have no problem with that aspect. The problem I have with this expansion is that it could possibly dilute some elite programs to an average status.
The Big XII finally put an ultimatum on Nebraska & Missouri....to put up or shut up. Both schools have to make a decision by Friday whether they want to stay or go.
All I have to say is......about damn time!!!! This speculation has given me a headache. Why??? We don't know anything, all we've heard is talk. If you're going to go forward, somebody has to make a move.
In my opinion, before you talk expanding into mega-conferences, we should look at some smaller things.
What's the number one gripe amongst college football fans?? The answer is the BCS and how it determines a National Champion.
Question #1: Why are big time FBS schools playing these "prostitute schools" such as Western Carolina, Cal-Davis, Charleston Southern, and other FCS schools???
Yes you had Appalachian State upset Michigan in 2007, but how often does that really happen? I don't want to hear the argument that the conference schedule is so tough they need to play cupcakes. Please, that is a cop-out. If that was really the case, North Texas, Western Kentucky, Akron, Memphis, etc. are cupcakes you can schedule in the FBS. I'm sorry, if you pay 30 bucks to watch your team play Northern Arizona, you either have money to burn or you're a fiscal moron. I give credit to Alabama and Auburn, at least they have a Penn St. and Clemson on their schedule. Point is: IF YOU ARE THE BEST CONFERENCE IN THE COUNTRY, WHY ARE YOU PLAYING CHARLESTON SOUTHERN!?!?! Step up, man up, and stop playing FCS teams. It's time for these schools to man up and schedule 2 legits and maybe 2 creampuffs within the FBS, not FCS.
Question #2: What purpose does the Preseason Polls serve?
My answer is a conversation piece and that's it. How many teams have you seen ranked in the Top 5 drop a giant deuce during the season??? A good bit. How many teams have you seen unranked finish with a 12-0 or 11-1 record??? A good bit. You may ask, what's my point? The point is that the Preseason Polls should be done with. They only serve one purpose, and it's not to determine a new National Champion. Instead of having idiot legislators intervening where they don't need to be, let's make small steps to improve the process. I think the AP and USA Today should release their first poll in either Week 5 or 6, then you have a better idea of who's real or not. THAT ALONE, would give a FULL-PROOF determination of who belongs in the title game and the belly-aching would, if not stop, be very minimized.
For the last few months we've heard the he said/he said over which teams are going to the Big Ten, or who the SEC will pick up. The Big Ten talks expansion and a firestorm ensues.
The talk of all of these mega-conferences with 16, or in some speculations, 22 teams has really started to strike a nerve with me. So you're telling me that we're going to have four conferences that are each near the size of the NFL and this is suppose to solve our problem to determine a National Champion? Wrong! This is all about money and I have no problem with that aspect. The problem I have with this expansion is that it could possibly dilute some elite programs to an average status.
The Big XII finally put an ultimatum on Nebraska & Missouri....to put up or shut up. Both schools have to make a decision by Friday whether they want to stay or go.
All I have to say is......about damn time!!!! This speculation has given me a headache. Why??? We don't know anything, all we've heard is talk. If you're going to go forward, somebody has to make a move.
In my opinion, before you talk expanding into mega-conferences, we should look at some smaller things.
What's the number one gripe amongst college football fans?? The answer is the BCS and how it determines a National Champion.
Question #1: Why are big time FBS schools playing these "prostitute schools" such as Western Carolina, Cal-Davis, Charleston Southern, and other FCS schools???
Yes you had Appalachian State upset Michigan in 2007, but how often does that really happen? I don't want to hear the argument that the conference schedule is so tough they need to play cupcakes. Please, that is a cop-out. If that was really the case, North Texas, Western Kentucky, Akron, Memphis, etc. are cupcakes you can schedule in the FBS. I'm sorry, if you pay 30 bucks to watch your team play Northern Arizona, you either have money to burn or you're a fiscal moron. I give credit to Alabama and Auburn, at least they have a Penn St. and Clemson on their schedule. Point is: IF YOU ARE THE BEST CONFERENCE IN THE COUNTRY, WHY ARE YOU PLAYING CHARLESTON SOUTHERN!?!?! Step up, man up, and stop playing FCS teams. It's time for these schools to man up and schedule 2 legits and maybe 2 creampuffs within the FBS, not FCS.
Question #2: What purpose does the Preseason Polls serve?
My answer is a conversation piece and that's it. How many teams have you seen ranked in the Top 5 drop a giant deuce during the season??? A good bit. How many teams have you seen unranked finish with a 12-0 or 11-1 record??? A good bit. You may ask, what's my point? The point is that the Preseason Polls should be done with. They only serve one purpose, and it's not to determine a new National Champion. Instead of having idiot legislators intervening where they don't need to be, let's make small steps to improve the process. I think the AP and USA Today should release their first poll in either Week 5 or 6, then you have a better idea of who's real or not. THAT ALONE, would give a FULL-PROOF determination of who belongs in the title game and the belly-aching would, if not stop, be very minimized.
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