The Sideline

Vikings Linebacker E.J. Henderson Breaks Femur vs. Cardinals

Mon, 7 Dec, 2009 02:25:30 GMT

An already weakened Minnesota Vikings defense suffered another HUGE blow to their unit during Sunday nights loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Linebacker E.J. Henderson suffered a broken femur ending his season and possibly his career. Click here to see the video.

While trying to make a tackle in the fourth quarter, E.J. was struck accidently by his teammate breaking his leg which twisted violently while he flew through the air. This was quite possibly one of the worst breaks I have seen in many years! He was carted off the field while one of the team doctors held his leg in place and his brother and teammate, Erin, held his hand.

“I feel bad for E.J.,” Vikings quarterback Brett Favre said. “That’s awful for him and for our team.”

That is an understatement Favre!

Superfan "Barrel Man" Passes Away

Sun, 6 Dec, 2009 02:52:03 GMT

Superfan Tim McKernan, a.k.a "Barrel Man", passed away due to complications from terminal lung disease at the age of 67. "Barrel Man" had been a staple at Denver Broncos games for nearly three decades.

Tim was know for wearing a only a bright orange barrel and a cowboy hat. He is arguably more famous among the NFL sports fan world than the Washington Redskins superfans the "Hogettes".

The NFL lost a legend and the Broncos are in need of someone to fill his barrel!

Tiger Woods on Mistress's Voicemail

Thu, 3 Dec, 2009 04:43:39 GMT

Earlier this week US Weekly posted this video of Tiger woods allegedly begging his mistress, Jaimee Grubbs, to take her name off of her voicemail. He needs her to do this quickly because his wife got ahold of his phone and may be checking up on his calls.

The voice on this video sounds exactly like Woods but it has not been verified nor authenticated. However, Tiger recently admitted to some "trangressions" regarding his family which would lead one to believe this is him on this video.

Houston Texans Give RB Steve Slaton the Starting Gig

Mon, 23 Nov, 2009 03:16:27 GMT

Tonight's Monday Night Football game between the Houston Texans and the Tennessee Titans has far reaching implications both for the Houston Texans and my fantasy squad.

If the Texans win tonight they will pull into a four-way tie in the AFC wild card race with the Steelers, Broncos, and Jaguars. Of the four teams, Houston has the tougher schedule but they will face the Jaguars in week 13 giving them a shot at splitting the year with them and gaining the advantage in their division records.

Being right in the thick of the wild card chase, Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak regained his senses and named Steve Slaton the starting running back tonight. This will give their surprise RB in '08 a chance to redeem himself after losing his starting role due to fumble issues. Slaton is the most talented back on the Texans' roster and will help solidify their team just in time for the playoff push.

Of course this also bodes well for my fantasy team as I have both Slaton and his backup Ryan Moats but still need one of them to be the unchallenged starter. Should Slaton perform well tonight and regain the top RB spot for the rest of the season my fantasy team would have a very good shot at going deep in the playoffs and possibly repeat as Champions!

Buffalo Bills Sign QB Brian Brohm

Thu, 19 Nov, 2009 07:22:58 GMT

The Buffalo Bills are struggling for a multitude of reasons this season which led the ownership to fire their head coach this week. The team has struggled surprisingly not from the anticipated antics from their highly controversial addition of WR Terrell Owens but instead by the team's inability to get their star WR the ball thus making their offense vanilla and predictable. The Bills rotated quarterbacks numerous times both for injuries and poor performance.

Since they have little trust for their current QB situation, the Bills have signed quarterback Brian Brohm off the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad. Brohm a 2008 second round draft choice was beaten out for the No. 2 quarterback spot by seventh round pick Matt Flynn forcing the Packers to stash him on their practice squad for the '09 season.

Brohm has been a disappointment for the Packers but it doesn't mean they weren't hoping that he would come into his own as an NFL quarterback. You know what they say, "one man's trash is another's treasure". Just ask San Diego and Atlanta regarding Michael Turner.

League Wide Retirement of Jordan's Number

Fri, 13 Nov, 2009 06:59:49 GMT

LeBron James will be in a different jersey next year and not for the reason you think. James would like to retire Michael Jordan's number 23 jersey league wide and he will be starting the movement.

Thursday night, James scored 34 points to help the Cavs beat the Heat 111-104 in Miami, which Jordan happened to be watching from a third row seat. Afterward, James told TNT he plans to switch his number from 23 to 6 after this season.

If you are anything like me the first thing that jumped out at me was how far the mighty have fallen. Third row seat?!? There once was a day that Jordan was pulling in 500 trillion dollars a year in endorsements alone and now he is relegated to sitting in the THIRD ROW! Enough on that, now back to the story.

"I just think what Michael Jordan has done for the game has to be recognized some way soon," James said. "There would be no LeBron James, no Kobe Bryant, no Dwyane Wade if there wasn't Michael Jordan first.

"He can't get the logo [Hall of Famer Jerry West's silhouette adorns the NBA's logo], and if he can't, something has to be done. I feel like no NBA player should wear 23. I'm starting a petition, and I've got to get everyone in the NBA to sign it. Now, if I'm not going to wear No. 23, then nobody else should be able to wear it."

James wore No. 6 as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team at the Beijing Games. It has been widely speculated that James will be leaving Cleveland after this season and therefore he would be able to pick from any available number with his new team. This works for LeBron but how about everyone else? The question will be, How many superstitious players feel the same as James and would be willing to make a change? My guess is some but not everyone will be onboard.

It would be fitting for Jordan but not likely to happen!

Are Major College Football Programs Scared of Boise State?

Sun, 8 Nov, 2009 12:57:39 GMT

Remember those days in grade school when two kids wanted to fight, one would say to the other, "Meet me in the playground at 3 p.m."? By the time school was out the entire school was aware of the situation and it was a packed playground with everyone wanting to see the action. Well the modern day college version of that is happening right now.

Boise State athletic director Gene Bleymaier has advised all major collegiate football programs that his program will play "any school anywhere" and as icing on the cake the school doesn't even have to return the favor by playing at Boise State! This kind of offer is one that should have schools chomping at the bit. There has to be at least twenty schools that have taken this offer, right? NOPE! NOT ONE!

Why hasn't a major school taken their offer? Could it be that this game wouldn't be one of those non-conference cupcake games to pad your stats in hope of a major bowl game. Boise is 4-1 against major conference opponents. The only major program on Boise State's schedule this year they beat, Oregon, and Oregon is now 8-1.

ESPN has even offered to assist Boise State in finding major opponents but even they have had success! ESPN would love to find some because they are a huge draw nationally. People love to see their explosive offense unfold before their eyes on national television. Boise State's games have been on national television seven times this season and this trend will continue into the future. Just imagine the draw if they were playing a team like USC!

How can the major football programs claim they are superior if they will not even give Boise State a chance? This reminds me of a bully that will pick on the weak and defenseless but when confronted backs down like a coward!

Hey Goliath, David is calling!

Question for the Fans

Thu, 5 Nov, 2009 03:06:10 GMT

Sitting here watching Game 6 of the NY Yankees and Philladelphia Phillies World Series match up and thinking about a something Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. During one of his press interviews Manuel told reporters that he planned on using "anybody except Lee tonight". This I completely agree with since if they lose tonight they get the next few months to rest!

The question is that should there be a game 7, would you start the dominant Cliff Lee on TWO days rest? I am almost positive that Lee would be all for pitching but would it be wise for the Phillies? As dominant as he has been during this series, you can't ignore how many innings/pitches he has thrown in such a time period. He could be willing but would his arm still have some juice left in it?

I myself would let him start but would keep an close eye on him and pull him at the first sign of trouble.

What would you do if you were the skipper?

AFC East Heating Up

Sat, 31 Oct, 2009 12:56:16 GMT

I wonder what the NY Jets players are thinking about their coach's recent verbal jabs towards the Miami Dolphins about losing their star corner, Will Allen, for the season.

When he was asked by the Miami media about Allen's injury Ryan's response was: "I don't care about that. We lost a Pro Bowl nose tackle (Kris Jenkins) and a Pro Bowl running back (Leon Washington), so boo hoo hoo." Normally this wouldn't be a big deal but when you are talking about a division rival that has already beat you on a huge stage like Monday Night Football and your team has been struggling, not taking into account the win last week because it was the Raiders, it IS a big deal.

Of course NFL Network got wind of this slam towards the 'Phins and jumped all over the opportunity to stir up some more controversy on their show "Around the League". Miami linebacker Joey Porter just happened to be a guest on the show and during the interview he was asked about Ryan's most recent comment (Ryan and Dolphin LB Channing Crowder exchanged words during the preseason as well). "It didn’t mean nothing in preseason, when he was talking before," Porter said. "When he was taking shots, and making fun of a player being out for the season, as a player, you take that personal. That’s like talking about my family member, what he did. So he made a little comment about Will Allen being hurt, saying, ‘Boo hoo hoo,’ as if it’s a joke or something. We’ll see if it’s a joke on Sunday, because there’s nothing the coach can do about it. He’ll see his players out there with us on Sunday, that’s something they’ll have to deal with."

Jets players have to know that the Dolphins players will be gunning for them during this weekends grudge match. They can thank their coach for trying to motivate his team but in doing so waking a sleeping giant.

This should be a great game that will showcase some hard hitting old school (defensively) football!

Yankees & Angels Duel Delayed

Sun, 25 Oct, 2009 01:43:09 GMT

Saturday's Game 6 of the ALCS between the Yankees and Angels has been postponed until Sunday due to rain . The Yankees tried everything they could to play the game, opening the gates, and even did their pre-game exercises but the weather just wouldn't cooperate.

Even though most fans are probably disappointed this delay is lining up perfectly for my t.v. viewing schedule!

My Birthday - Sort Of

Sun, 18 Oct, 2009 01:58:35 GMT

It's like tomorrow is my birthday.

The plan if for my wife and I to waking up and enjoying some coffee together while reading the newspaper. After our son wakes up and interrupts this peaceful activity, normally we would get into our Sunday best and head off to church, followed by a wonderful family breakfast at the Original Pancake House. After breakfast we head home to let this food settle and get on with our day. However, this is where my fun really begins.

I will grab my 13 month old son and head down into the basement where our television sits ready to broadcast the NFL's lineup in crystal clear high definition picture. It's not just the football I look forward to it is also watching the "little man" laugh at his old man when he is cheering for something (usually related to his fantasy football team) that happened on the tv.

You must understand that for me watching football at home on a Sunday is a rarity as I usually have to work right during the meat of the action. My shift is a 9am - 5pm (and my commute is 45 minutes) which means that if I want to watch the games I have to set my DVR. This I live with this because my job is exciting and heart pounding trying to keep all of the planes in the sky moving safely across my radar scope. It is truly a pleasure so the complaining is usually held to a minimum from my end.

So hopefully now you can understand why I feel as if a day like tomorrow filled with plenty of family time and NFL action is like a birthday.

Gotta love Sundays!!

Owen Schmitt Has A New Superstition

Fri, 16 Oct, 2009 10:23:03 GMT

Check out this video of Owen Schmitt pumping himself up before the start of the Seahawks game versus the Jacksonville Jaguars this past weekend. Two problems with this move. First he injured himself to the point that he needed stitches and missed the first play of the game. Second, the Seahawks destroyed the Jags 41-0. What do you think his teammates (at least the superstitious ones) will be expecting this weekend?!? Let's just hope that he doesn't knock himself out next time.

Ted Williams is Going to Have a HUGE Headache

Mon, 5 Oct, 2009 12:30:11 GMT

If you thought the Ted Williams saga couldn't get any weirder, you were wrong. According to the The New York Daily News, baseball legend Ted Williams' cryogenically frozen head has been abused by the facility "sworn" to house and protect. Technicians at Alcor Life Extension Foundation in Scottsdale, Arizona had no formal medical training and handled Williams' head "roughly".

According to one whistleblower, a technician took "baseball-like" swings on Williams' using a monkey wrench. Obviously the fallout from these revelations will be devastating and could seriously jeopardize Alcor Life Extension's future in the business. Aside from the ethical ramifications they could possibly face criminal charges as well.

In light of this news, I will be skipping the batting practice session with Alcor and going with the "old school" burial.

Fan On Fan Violence

Fri, 25 Sep, 2009 12:25:00 GMT

Thanks to the World of Isaac for this extremely entertaining video of drunk female Detroit Lions fans getting ejected from a game!

Here is the scoop, the two girls were drunk and got into arguments with pretty much everyone sitting near them. It goes like any other story, after a few beers and a little NFL action a beer gets poured over someone's head and then the cops arrive to escort you home.

It is truly sad that Detroit Lions fans are so frustrated they resort to heavy drinking and then turning on their own. But hey that means more entertainment for us!

Urlacher Getting the Shaft

Mon, 21 Sep, 2009 01:58:30 GMT

You know it is not your year when you not only lose one job but TWO. First Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher dislocates his wrist knocking him out for the season, and now as a result of that injury a sports memorabilia company, Dreams Inc., has terminated their contract with the former Pro Bowl linebacker stating that this is a career ending injury. Of course this is a fabrication but Dreams Inc. is trying to save on their $1.2 million dollar agreement with Brian.

Brian is not taking this lying down. He responded with a lawsuit claiming the company has wrongfully broken their contractual agreement. It appears that this will be an easy win for Brian, unlike what the rest of his Chicago Bears teammates will have the rest of the season without him in the huddle.

Christmas Gifts

Fri, 18 Sep, 2009 06:28:15 GMT

It is that time of the year again when my wife and I keep an eye out for good gifts for Christmas to beat the insanity at the stores. This year I am trying to do most of my shopping online. I plan to blog about this experience, the trials and tribulations that we go through and an overall rating of the experience versus years past.

The first item will be for my father a huge Iowa Hawkeye fan. I am getting him an Iphone and plan to pimp it out with Hawk gear from accessorygeeks.com.

So far so good, my fear is when I get to the wife! What do I do then?!?!?!?!?

Do you take it "In the Can"?

Tue, 15 Sep, 2009 09:42:56 GMT

David Kahn on the Hook for Ricky Rubio?

Thu, 3 Sep, 2009 08:51:44 GMT

Who do the Timberwolves blame for the Ricky Rubio debacle?

Start with David Kahn! He went to Spain three times this summer in an attempt to broker a deal with Ricky Rubio. Unsuccessfully, as it turns out. The 18-year-old has signed a two year deal to remain in Barcelona, delaying his possible arrival in Minnesota until 2011. Kahn said that he had a deal in place with Rubio and his agent, however, Rubio decided to sign elsewhere.

This is just another tragedy in the history of the Timberwolves' franchise. Kahn should be on his knees in the front office begging for forgiveness and his job.

An Honor Indeed!

Thu, 6 Aug, 2009 04:02:27 GMT

According to ESPN, the Tennessee Titans will honor former QB Steve McNair by wearing a No. 9 decal on the back of their helmets. In case you have not read THIS, Steve McNair was shot and killed by his girlfriend on July 4th.

The Titans are looking into other ways to honor/celebrate McNair this season. With all the depressing/selfish stories coming out of the NFL this offseason, it is nice to finally hear about a gesture of this kind.

Maybe the NFL isn't that evil after all.

Is LenDale White on the Slimfast Diet?

Thu, 6 Aug, 2009 01:40:18 GMT

NOPE, instead of a traditional diet Tennessee Titan RB LenDale White stopped drinking tequila during the offseason and he lost 37 pounds.

“I really got to be honest. It wasn’t a lot of major diet changes. (It was) watching what I drink. I was a big Patron consumer. … That’s what it was. I was drinking a lot, drank a lot of alcohol. I cut that out of my diet all the way. I don’t drink at all. I cut the drinking, I stopped drinking for six months. It started falling off," LenDale stated to the media during training camp.

This weight loss is just another example of a NFL player making changes during a contract year. According to Titans owner Bud Adams White looks “like a brand new person”. LenDale wants more money and if the weight loss is any indication he is going to get it.

2010 NFL Draft Going Primetime

Sat, 25 Jul, 2009 09:24:46 GMT

Roger Goodell has made another brilliant business decision: Starting April 2010, the NFL Draft will be moving to a three-day format. Commissioner Roger Goodell notified teams Thursday that the draft will be running Thursday April 22nd, through Saturday April 24th.

Here is the key business decision: the first round will start in prime time at 7:30 p.m. ET. "We continue to look for ways to make the draft more accessible to more fans," Goodell said in a statement. "Moving the first round to prime time on Thursday night will make the first round of the draft available to fans on what is typically the most-watched night of television."

Of course ESPN and the NFL Network will still televise all rounds of the draft. The second and third rounds will start at 6:30 p.m. ET on April 23. Rounds 4 through 7 will be on April 24, starting at 10 a.m. ET.

Not only are they capitalizing on the viewership and fan availability their sights are dead locked on the advertising revenue. If the NFL could approach the nearly $206 Million advertising revenue generated during the Super Bowl this will turn out to be a brilliant maneuver!

Former NFL QB Steve McNair Found Dead

Mon, 13 Jul, 2009 03:28:40 GMT

Former NFL quarterback for the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens, Steve McNair, was found dead in his Nashville, TN condominium. According to the authorities he was shot multiple times, once in the head.

Police said a woman identified as Sahel Kazemi was found shot to death next to Steve. Kazemi had a single gun shot wound to the head and a pistol was found near her body.

Although investigators have not ruled out anything, they are not "actively looking at suspects". Police could not provide details about the circumstances of the shooting.

If you read between the lines, it is clearly a murder-suicide! Scary stuff!

Wave of the Future

Fri, 26 Jun, 2009 02:10:46 GMT

After returning from a brief hiatus, I decided to write about a recent article that caught me by surprise. While doing some much needed time killing, I stumbled across a copy of ESPN The Magazine and in this particular copy they highlighted a recent trend in the NFL: Playbooks are going digital.

Just try to imagine how many movies, episodes of NFL Hard Knocks you have seen that have the catch phrase "the coach wants to see you, bring your playbook". This playbook has notoriously been a encyclopedia thick binder full of the teams plays that will be practiced/played in live games that season.

The latest trend is to store these plays in Hudl Pro, an online database that allows teams to store their entire playbook and video library. Each player is now able to view the plays or videos from the comfort of their home and at a time they choose. This is clearly a benefit for the players and their families, but a what cost?

Not all teams have bought into this online playbook because they are concerned about storing their secrets online. Teams can actually pony up $40,000 to host secure servers at their own facilities. In case you didn't know owning an NFL franchise is a million dollar business and for those lucky enough to make it to the Super Bowl it can be a financial windfall. So the question becomes that with millions of people that have fallen victim to Identity theft and other online criminal activities, what would stop a hacker from breaking into the "secure" database to leak information for an advantage.

Just imagine the media frenzy that would come from a hacker leaking a playbook days before the Super Bowl!

The times-are-a-changin'!!

OchoCinco Out of His Mind?

Sat, 13 Jun, 2009 08:40:00 GMT

Ochocinco (or should it be LOCOcinco) has been sporting three new tattoos lately?

According to Profootballtalk.com, Ochocinco has on one cheek a small cross, the other cheek an image of the state of Florida, and finally, the letters "OC" appear on his forehead!!!

After creating a media frenzy with his tats, Ochocinco gave up the goods and admitted that the tattoos are fake.

Even though they are fake, Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson is in dire need of help. Perhaps Mr. Mike Tyson could put him in touch with his head doc.

Kobe and the Lakers Take Game 1

Fri, 5 Jun, 2009 01:27:09 GMT

Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers met the Orlando Magic obstacle like they are playing for their life!

Bryant dropped 40 points leading the the Lakers to a routing of the Orlando Magic 100-75 in Game 1 on Thursday night.

The last time the Lakers were seen in the finals, a bitter taste was left in their mouth as they watched Kevin Garnett and the rest of the Boston Celtics hoisting a trophy they felt was theirs! Bryant and his teammates have used that humiliation to motivate them all season and throughout these playoffs. Now, they are on a mission.

Orlando center Dwight Howard was engulfed by two and three Lakers every time he touched the ball and scored 12 points — 10 on free throws — on just 1-of-6 shooting.

"We did a good job on him, but he'll be ready to go Game 2," Bryant said. "We worked very hard on the perimeter, keeping those guys out of rhythm, then we did a good job on him inside — giving him different looks."

I still believe this will be a great series! The Magic will bounce back by figuring out a plan to get Howard the ball in the lane for some easy buckets and make the Lakers sweat for a night or two!

Vikings Without the Williams Duo

Wed, 27 May, 2009 05:05:15 GMT

Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams says he doesn’t know if he can trust the NFL anymore. Pat is attempting to place all on the blame on the NFL after the league failed to tell its players that the over-the-counter supplement StarCaps contained an ingredient banned by the NFL. Pat's teammate Kevin Williams also faces a four-game suspension to start the 2009 season.

This is what Pat had to say about the mistrust:

“Basically now I got to hold trust issues with the NFL. I don’t know if I can trust them now. If I did something wrong, I’m going to take it. But they knew about it and didn’t tell the players.”

A federal judge found their claims, under two specific Minnesota statutes, were not included in the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement. This fact has Pat and Kevin holding out hope that their suspension will be overturned. I would bet the entire Vikings organization is hoping as well!!

Miami Dolphins Playing at Land Shark Stadium

Fri, 15 May, 2009 01:27:12 GMT

New Miami Dolphins owner, Stephen Ross, has a new money making strategy, sell the naming rights of your stadium (temporarily) to the highest bidder regardless of the absurdity of the name. What was formerly known as Dolphin stadium will now be "Land Shark Stadium". Why yes that is the name of Jimmy Buffet's brand of beer.

What would a multimillionaire do to promote such a thing? For starters he would have Mr. Buffet create/perform a theme song for the Dolphins and cash in on the residuals from the sale of his beer. This move by Ross is yet another prime example why he purchases the Miami Dolphins franchise and I purchase the Miami Dolphins games on DirectTV's Sunday Ticket.

However, more important than collecting money for the naming rights is that Ross has the tenacity to stipulate that when the Super Bowl comes to town, Land Shark Stadium will revert back to its original name: Dolphin Stadium. We could all learn a thing or two from Mr. Ross.

Cowboys Practice Facility Collapses During Storm

Mon, 4 May, 2009 01:50:10 GMT

It seems the Dallas Cowboys are raising the ante when it concerns the hazing of rookies. The Cowboys indoor practice "bubble" facility collapsed during a thunderstorm injuring 12 people and scaring the scaring the sh@# out of most in attendance. Rookies and second-year players were working out at the complex during the storm.

All kidding aside, fire department officials said at least 70 individuals were inside the practice bubble when it collapsed. Officials said 10 people were transported to area hospitals and two were walk-ins. Luckily nobody was seriously injured and most the players escaped injury all together.

More details will follow.

Hard Knocks for Cincinnati Bengals?

Thu, 30 Apr, 2009 03:55:44 GMT

Say it ain't so joe. Rumor has it that HBO is targeting the Cincinnati Bengals for their successful series "Hard Knocks". The producers are obviously not doing their homework on this one, or maybe they have been turned down by everyone else.

Yes it is true that Marvin Lewis is familiar with the show and it's requirements since he was the defensive coordinator at Baltimore when the series premiered in 2000. However, it is widely known that the Bengals are one of the largest group of criminal misfits in the NFL today. Therefore, it makes no sense for HBO to reward this type of recruiting/character development with a very successful primetime series exposure that would come with this show.

Poor choice indeed for HBO but then again it could be genius. Look at the previous teams and their results = Not so successful. We could be talking about a "Madden"-type curse here.

Pressure Decision and Eric Devendorf FAILS

Fri, 24 Apr, 2009 10:17:14 GMT

Most of us have had a situation where we needed to make a decision that would change our lives forever and hopefully that decision was the correct one. Well, last week Syracuse guard Eric Devendorf had this happen to him. It just so happened that it occurred in the middle of his calculus exam.

“I wrote my name on top and then started looking at all the questions,” said Devendorf. “I was like: ‘You want me to integrate what to who? What are all these squiggly marks and stuff?’”

Squiggly marks, are you kidding me? There is a perception of our generation that we are less educated than the previous generation, unfortunately for us Eric proves that point. It is widely known that some star athletes don't attend classes during the season because that would get in the way of their training. All in the name of selling seats!

“I knew I should have gone to class before the final,” Eric admitted. Knowing he would surely fail the exam , "Screw it! I'm going pro!" thought Eric, so he balled up the exam and threw it at his professor's head. Unfortunately for Eric this is when your hope your decision is the correct one.

Most NBA scouts believe Devendorf has no chance of getting drafted at all. “He should have stayed in school,” said one team scout.

Looks like Eric may be looking into the Unemployment Office and how to get paid for doing nada!

Masters Magic

Tue, 14 Apr, 2009 09:52:05 GMT

While most of you were sitting in your Sunday best enjoying Easter dinner Angel Cabrera was having the stars align for him in The Masters.

Even though most of the cheers during this epic Sunday were for the powerhouse pairing of Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods (a sponsors dream) my eyes were glued to Kenny Perry. I was looking forward to seeing this "middle-aged white man" as my wife's uncle puts it slide on the coveted green jacket as the oldest Masters champion in history. It seemed a given after Perry hit a masterful shot on the par 3 16th to within inches giving him a 2 stroke lead with two to go. However, as Tin Cup puts it, the gods cost him.

Perry finished up bogey, bogey (after previously going 22 consecutive holes without a bogey) and forced a playoff with Cabrera and Chad Campbell. "It's a course that you can do a lot of birdies, a lot of bogeys," Cabrera said through an interpreter. "A lot of magical things happen. It's simply the Masters."

The golf gods came calling for Perry on the second hole when mud on his ball IN THE FAIRWAY led to a bogey and the even keeled Cabrera dropped his par put for the win.

"This is a great moment, the dream of any golfer to win the Masters," Cabrera said during the green jacket ceremony. "I'm so emotional I can barely talk."

This is why we love the Masters, the 69th ranked player in the world can hoist the jacket as the lowest ranked player in history!

Tiger Woods' Still Making Bank

Sun, 12 Apr, 2009 01:35:47 GMT

When was the last time you got paid to be ANYWHERE (except for jury duty that is)? Tiger Woods does not have that problem. The Australian Masters is reportedly paying Woods an appearance fee of $2 Million. The kicker is that half of this appearance fee will be paid by the tax payers!

A lot of dollar figures have been debated as to what Tiger will bring in for playing in the tournament. Premier John Brumby is hoping for around $19 Million. The catch is that now welfare groups have criticized the fact that taxpayers money is being spent on sport when, with the global financial crisis, many families are struggling. Hard to justify this payment, isn't it Mr. Brumby?

Tiger's got it pretty rough now-a-days!

Boldin Wants to Play for Miami

Fri, 3 Apr, 2009 04:00:17 GMT

According to Profootballtalk.com, Arizona Cardinals star wide receiver Anquan Boldin told ESPN Radio 760 that he wants to play for the Miami Dolphins. Anquan would like an opportunity to return to his home state and he would make a huge addition the Dolphins' receiving corps.

Arizona and Boldin have been in a contract dispute this offseason which you could read more here. The Cardinals are trying to keep their team intact but unless they give Boldin Larry Fitzgerald-type money it will not happen.

Arizona's loss could be Miami's gain!

TO Being TO...Should Be No Surprise to Buffalo

Thu, 26 Mar, 2009 02:07:30 GMT

What a way to start a relationship. It's all about me.

Terrell Owens has announced that he will be skipping Buffalo's offseason voluntary workouts which of course should be no surprise. TO phoned head coach Dick Jauron to inform him that he will be there when he is required to be there! Owens has never made a voluntary workout in his career and isn't about to start now in Buffalo.

"I have a personal trainer. I take very good care of myself. I take pride in coming into camp in shape", said Owens. It's not as if he needs to build personal relationships with your teammates and coaches.

Buffalo fans need to get used to this type of behavior from TO. He has left a long trail of disgruntled teammates, coaches, and fans in his wake.

How long will it be until he starts taking plays off in a game, a.k.a The Randy Moss Method?

Donte' Stallworth DUI?

Mon, 23 Mar, 2009 03:14:31 GMT

Multiple sources are reporting that Donte' Stallworth's tragic car accident that left a woman dead Saturday was the result of an increased Blood Alcohol level over the legal limit! Thursday the Miami police released a statement that Donte's level was .12 over the legal limit of .08.

It is important to note that no charges have been filed yet which begs the question, "Why?"

A Tool is Still a TOOL!

Thu, 19 Mar, 2009 07:22:27 GMT

I know this is March Madness and all but after seeing THIS I had to comment. You don't have to be a fan of "Lefty" but to yell out "get in the water" is some mickey mouse bulls$#t! I guess it is true what they say..."A tool is still a tool!"

Arizona Shopping Boldin?

Fri, 13 Mar, 2009 02:06:07 GMT

It is no secret that WR Anquan Boldin and the Arizona Cardinals don't see eye to eye lately which could lead to Boldin's departure from Arizona. Kurt Warner has gone out of his way to keep Boldin in town by offering to give up some money if it would keep his receiving core intact but with teammate Larry Fitzgerald making $10 million, Boldin would more than likely want at least $9 million (a $6.5 million dollar increase from his current salary). Not likely to happen in this lifetime. In steps the Minnesota Vikings, "I'm Your Huckelberry."

The Minnesota Vikings are making strides to try and correct their recent woes in both the draft room and offseason acquisitions. They have possibly upgraded their QB position by trading for QB Sage Rosenfels and now could be looking to give him someone to play catch with. Anything the Vikings could do to free up some space for their superstar RB Adrian Peterson would be a dramatic improvement. You put a receiving threat out there that demands respect and Peterson will have a field day on the rest of the defense.

At one point after the Super Bowl, Boldin said that he would not sign a new deal with the Cardinals, and that he wanted to be dealt to a new team. His wish could be coming true by the way of ZIGGY!

Vikings Add Sage Rosenfels

Fri, 6 Mar, 2009 02:12:26 GMT

Minnesota Vikings traded for Houston Texans QB Sage Rosenfels for a 4th round pick which has some fans crying foul. Can you blame them after striking gold with RB Adrian Peterson they have had to endure a failed experiment by the name of Tarvaris Jackson.

Rosenfels is no Peyton Manning but he is far better than Jackson. Rosenfels has a career completion percentage over 60 percent. He has been prone to turnovers but when he plays smart he is lethally accurate. Sage is just what the doctor ordered for Vikings fans.

Even though Jackson played well down the stretch, coach Brad Childress felt the need to upgrade at QB this offseason. Childress drafted Jackson with a highly controversial second round "reach" of a pick and has been criticized for Jackson's performance. If Sage doesn't pan out, is would spell the end of Childress's reign of terror.

Although, I believe that Childress should be shown the door, the addition of Sage will give Childress a "stay of execution"!

NFL Rumors have LT Moving?

Sun, 1 Mar, 2009 10:12:45 GMT

LT possibly on the move?

The New Orleans Saints might be trying to reunite QB Drew Brees with San Diego Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson. What it would cost and whether or not LT is interested is another story but I do love a juicy rumor.

With the turmoil the San Diego front office is having lately makes this previously outrageous rumor a little more believable. If you don't know already, LT has been in a public rift with General Manager A.J. Smith.

A.J. Smith might just be trying to fill Matt Millen's shoes as the greatest franchise destroyer in the NFL. Getting rid of LT is a good start!

Roger Goodell Taking a Paycut

Wed, 25 Feb, 2009 08:04:35 GMT

Last night President Obama spoke to the nation about his plan to get our economy back on track. A major part of that plan consisted of "major oversight" toward companies that will/have received a portion of the billions offered as a stimilus/bailout. So is it a coincidence that the next day the news broke that Roger Goodell will be taking a 20 to 25 percent paycut of the $11 million he is due to make for the 2008 season? I think not!

The NFL has already cut 169 jobs and has frozen pay for the 2009 season and it would be a tragedy for the commissioner to not do his part in the midst of this economic turmoil. Not that CEOs in the financial industry haven't failed to be a part of the cutbacks. The NFL is an "everyday" American's game and as a show of good faith the commissioner needs of take one for the team! As an additional effort the NFL will cut the price of playoff tickets by 10 percent.

How about this idea Roger, the majority of the nation is cutting back their expenses and they would love it if REGULAR season tickets weren't so expensive! You want to keep your fan base then start there!!

Blackball Attempt on Miles?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:31:23 GMT

This new economy of ours is not only hurting the little guy but it is also seems the BIG guy as well. In the most recent and obvious attempt at saving a buck, the Portland Trail Blazers sent an e-mail to all owners threatening legal action if a team signs Darius Miles. If Miles plays in two more games this season, the Blazers will owe him $18 Million and the team would have to pay the luxury tax.

Facing the very real possibility of being forced into forking out major dollars, the following email was sent to the other 29 NBA franchises, "Please be aware that if a team engages in such conduct, the Portland Trail Blazers will take all necessary steps to safeguard its rights, including, without limitation, litigation," part of Miller's e-mail reads, according to SI.com and Yahoo Sports!, which obtained it.

Unfortunately for Portland the Memphis Grizzlies have chosen to ignore the Portland Trail Blazers' demands.
The Grizzlies have re-signed Miles, who is attempting a comeback from major knee surgery, to a 10-day contract.

Team President Larry Miller said this about the email, "Our purpose here was not in any way to keep Darius from being able to play. If he can come back and help a team to win and play at a level on the court that helps the team, we have no problem with that at all. We were hearing a lot of rumblings and rumors that there were teams out there planning to sign Darius Miles specifically and maliciously to hurt our organization. This was our way of responding to that and letting folks know that we were not going to take it sitting down."

Say what you want Mr. Miller but it is too obvious of an attempt at Blackballing to talk your way out of this one!

Shanahan a Cowboy?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:30:02 GMT

Former Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan took over for Wade Phillips in 1995, and eventually brought the city of Denver two Super Bowl titles. Could it happen again?!?

Mike would be a perfect fit in Dallas. Mike has a history of taking on the unwanted, morally absent (too many to name), which is exactly what he will have in Dallas. However, Shanahan will have some options with the Browns, Lions, and Jets jobs open. The only logical position for him would be the bright lights of New York. Even the the allure of NY, there isn't a better fit than in Dallas. There he will have some serious talent and the freedom to motivate the unmotivated.

Only time will tell where he will end up but if it is Dallas it won't be long before he brings home the Lombardi.

Conspiracy Theorists Get Ready For T.O.

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:28:42 GMT

Terrell Owens is well known throughout the NFL as a cancer to the "Team" but usually that meant a rift between another player and himself. As if that's not bad enough, T.O. is recruiting other players to build a stronger case against the Dallas Cowboys. T.O.'s issue is with QB Tony Romo's relationship with TE Jason Witten. He believes that Romo is forcing the ball into tight situations for his "good friend" Witten. According to ESPN.com, "Owens believes Romo and Witten hold private meetings and create plays without including Owens which he believes have worked to his detriment as Romo seeks to deliver the ball to Witten regardless of whether Owens is open."

According to a Cowboy player that didn't want to be named, "He's insecure about it. The thing that bothers me more than anything about this problem is that it's always something with him -- San Fran, Philly and here, always something. And he brings other people into it. You know, he talks to Sam Hurd and Roy Williams, who just got here and doesn't really know these guys. T.O. talks to him and so now he probably thinks Witten politics with Tony for the ball."

Is T.O. right? Since Romo became Dallas' starter, he has completed more passes to Witten than to Owens, 201-186, although Owens has significantly more yards and three times as many touchdowns. Let's not forget to mention that Owens draws a crowd almost exclusively drawing double-teams while Witten is matched up with a linebacker. It is a matter of the matchup which most people realize.

Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys will have to get used to this sort of situation with T.O. as it is his MO. He is cancerous to an organization. They knew his history and they still paid him $34 Million to be a Cowboy. You make the bed now you must sleep in it!

Payback: Oklahoma vs. Missouri

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:26:55 GMT

If you have nothing to do tonight, I suggest you tune in to my alma mater's (Mizzou) pending upset win against Oklahoma for the Big 12 championship.

Last year Mizzou's national title hopes were destroyed by OU and now they are looking for some much needed payback. "I still think that we have to go out there and prove something to everyone and prove to them that we do deserve to be at this game," OU's star quarterback Bradford told media. "So I think it felt like it'll give us some extra motivation this week."

The chips are against OU as Bradford tore ligaments in his non-throwing hand against Oklahoma State and will have surgery after tonight's game. The kids' got heart but will playing with a soft cast cost OU their title hopes? Only time will tell.

"We should be able to do everything as normal," Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said. "We've had time to plan for it now and to get a brace or some kind of soft cast to protect it."

The payback begins tonight at 8 PM ET at Arrowhead stadium.

Plaxico's a Big Supporter of the NRA

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:26:02 GMT

Giants wideout Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg at a nightclub Friday night. Burress spent the night at the hospital, and his wound is not considered life-threatening. Specific details of the shooting are not available, and the Giants are not commenting on the incident.

Burress has been suspended and fined several times this season for missing meetings and arguing with officials. "I am not a distraction to my team," he insists. Burress is currently playing on a $35 million contract that he signed after the Giants won the Super Bowl last season. After all of his woes, this will likely be Plaxico's last season as a New York Giant.

I did hear there is an opening on 'Lil Wayne's crew but you need to good with a gun not just own one. Plaxico, you can always try the CFL.

The State of Ohio is in Disarray

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:24:25 GMT

What is going on in the state of Ohio. Both NFL franchises are in disarray. I am starting to believe that both teams need to be relocated for a fresh start and that would allow Ohio locals to focus on the always successful Buckeyes.

The Cincinnati Bengals have been in turmoil since the devastating knee injury to Carson Palmer in the 2005 playoffs ending their Super Bowl hopes and sending the team into a tailspin that stills exists today. They have been dealing with the extremely controversial Chad Johnson whom has statistically fallen off the face of the earth. His most recent headline was his deactivation for Thursday night's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers for, of all things, sleeping through a team meeting. Not only do they have to deal with Chad's shenanigans but the team as a whole has more player arrests than wins this season! That, my friends, is not they way to run a professional football franchise.

Then you have the Cleveland Browns. They are not nearly as bad as the Bengals but their GM has recently stooped to a all new low. General manager Phil Savage has apologized to a fan for sending a profane e-mail following Monday night's game against the Buffalo Bills. The fan criticized the GM in several e-mail exchanges which invoked a profane laced email aimed at silencing the fan for good. "There had been previous e-mails from him over the months and enough was enough." You can read more about this here.

There is only one way to solve this problem Ohio locals.....follow the Baltimore Colts example pack up in the middle of the night and relocate those substandard franchises. Hope for a good season from Ohio State because that is your only hope for a few smiles this holiday season!

Jerry Jones is in Denial!

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:20:10 GMT

In a recent interview Jerry Jones told reporters that he believes the Dallas Cowboys will make the playoffs and would welcome Adam "Pacman" Jones back to the team if he's reinstated. Jerry said he expects his struggling Cowboys to recover even though they have gone from Super Bowl favorites to a 5-4 team tied for third place in the NFC East after losing four of its past six games.

"That's not optimism," Jones said. "I certainly do feel we're going to be a team that plays well enough to be thinking about the playoffs." In this sentence "GOING TO BE" is key!

"I would say Romo gives you a legitimate reason to not have been your best or been what you might have expected over the last three games," Jones said. The problem Jerry is not losing Romo it is a suspect defense, an offense that has been figured out, and your team is not running the ball effectively. Even before Romo was injured the Cowboys were on a decline losing two of three and struggling on offense. It is about time to shake things up and replace Jason Garrett as your offensive coordinator!

Jerry you can't live in denial, let's wake up and right this ship.

The Million Dollar Shot

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:18:03 GMT

This golf shot won him ONE MILLION Dollars!!!

Let's Get Political

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:16:31 GMT

It's Official - Culpepper a LION

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:14:46 GMT

An update to my previous post, "Culpepper a LION?!?" ---- He is offically a Detroit Lion. He signed a two year contract that will give the Lions a QB to end the season with that won't run out of the back of the endzone while trying to avoid the pass rush. Let's hope that at least!

John Daly Drunk Again

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:12:59 GMT

Golfer John Daly was taken into custody Sunday morning by police in N.C., after he was found drunk outside a Hooters restaurant.

While at the restaurant, police said Daly "appeared extremely intoxicated and uncooperative," refused repeatedly to be taken to the hospital and was asked to leave the restaurant by several workers.

Daly was taken to the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center for a 24-hour stay until he was sober.

A two-time major champion has now been reduced to a street urchin! Oh how far they fall!

Culpepper a LION?!?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:11:37 GMT

After announcing that he was contemplating coming out of retirement, Daunte Culpepper worked out for the Detroit Lions. He believes he had a "good" workout. It went well enough that he is in contract talks with the club. However, he has not made any salary demands yet.

Earlier this week Culpepper informed the Kansas City Chiefs that we was meeting with the Lions and that he was leaning more towards the Lions than the Chiefs. How bad does a team have to be when the Lions are chosen over your team? That speaks volumes about the Chiefs!

The NFL is Getting SOFT

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:13:41 GMT

Have you been paying attention to the NFL's rule changes the last couple of years? Changes like not hitting a defenseless player, not hitting the QB in the head (or basically it seems hitting the QB at all), and not being able to touch a receiver more than 5 yards beyond the line of scrimmage (stemming from the NE Pats manhandling the Colts receivers) are changing the game. In my humble opinion these recent changes are for the worse and are making the today's players soft. Now I realize some of these changes are to protect the players from unnecessary harm (for the players own good right?). No, the underlying reason is to protect the league's money makers. You think the NFL isn't hurting that Golden-Boy Tom Brady is out for the year?!?

Here is a prime example of the players being soft (defensive players most notably). Click here to see a great block laid by one the most complete and underrated receivers in the league, Hines Ward. Hines knocked the Cincinnati Bengal out for the year with this CLEAN hit. Every receiver is taught to block when necessary and should take note of Ward's play. However, this has sparked controversary with a pretty good defensive player in his own right, Terrell Suggs. Suggs has voiced his displeasure with this hit, claiming that it was malicious and Hines should be fined. However, Suggs bragged when the Ravens ended Pittsburgh Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall's season, and now says that Ward is next. Defensive players are quick to unload on a defenseless receiver (hence the rule) but take huge offense when the shoe is on the other foot. They are possibly the softest of all players.

Where is the NFL headed, possibly two-hand touch or flag football? This is not your father's NFL!!

How About A Free Taco?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:09:31 GMT

"Steal A Base, Steal A Taco" they called it. For the second year in a row Taco Bell execs used one of the biggest stages to promote themselves. Their World Series offer was sealed in the 5th Inning by Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Jason Bartlett. He stole second base in Game 1. As a result, Americans will feast on millions of free Crunchy Seasoned Beef Tacos as Taco Bell's "Steal A Base, Steal A Taco" World Series promotion.

Fans can visit any participating Taco Bell location on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (local time) and claim their free Crunchy Seasoned Beef Taco.

Hines Ward DOES EVERYTHING

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:08:45 GMT

[Unfortunately, video has been removed due to terms of use violation]

It's Not My Coke!

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:07:00 GMT

A popular Minneapolis radio host was charged with felony possession of cocaine Wednesday. Jeff Dubay, of KFAN Sports radio, was arrested in Maplewood, MN for felony possession of a controlled substance on Oct. 15. According to police, an officer pulled Dubay over for driving with a suspended license. If that was not bad enough, the officer found .45 grams of cocaine inside his SUV.

Not missing a beat, Dubay allegedly told the officer that he had loaned his truck to a crack dealer over the weekend, and that a rock of crack was left behind. That was what he threw out of the truck while being pulled over. Why are the police messing with this guy, seriously it's not his coke! I have to remember to use this excuse when/if I get arrested.

Court records show this was Dubay's third run-in with police since September. He was charged in Ramsey County for three misdemeanor driving violations on Sept. 18, including driving after suspension, having improper lighting and having no proof of insurance. On Sept. 30, he was pulled over again in Dakota County for driving after suspension.
Dubay has been placed on leave from all his jobs. If convicted, Dubay faces up to five years in jail, a $10,000 fine, or both.

Romo Crazy or Dedicated?!?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:05:03 GMT

Reports suggest Tony Romo might be able to play this week versus the St. Louis Rams. Romo has received calls from Brett Favre, also has various sports writers suggesting he heed advice from Drew Bledsoe, and yet still he wants to play in this game.

I don't know about you but I am one of those individuals that cringed when Shawn Merriman decided to forgo surgery to help his team risking further (possible career ending) damage and believe that Mr. Romo should sit out as many games as it takes to get healthy and REALLY help his team!!

Tony it is commendable to play but not recommended!

Cubs vs. Dodgers Update

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:05:29 GMT

Mark Derosa gives the Cubs a 2 run lead over the Dodgers on his first swing in a week. After having sat out the previous week to rest his hammy, Derosa hits his first swing of the bat some 400 plus feet to plate pitcher Ryan Dempster along with himself.

Helmet-to-Helmet Hit........"No Good" Says NFL

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:03:03 GMT

New York Jets safety Eric Smith has been suspended one game and fined $50,000 for his illegal helmet-to-helmet hit on Arizona Cardinals receiver Anquan Boldin. A video of the vicious hit can be seen here.

After the hit, Boldin laid on the field for several minutes before being placed on a stretcher and carted away.
"Everybody was kind of telling me about it when we were in the locker room," said Smith, who was briefly knocked unconscious. "To see something like that and see him have to get carted off the field, you never want to see something like that. You feel awful when something like that happens."

I don't believe Smith was intentionally trying to injure Boldin but the fact that he led with his helmet doesn't help his case. This is just the beginning of the investigating by the NFL for hits of this magnitude. They are trying to shape a less violent league and will be "dropping the hammer" on players (and coaches that encourage this type of play) in the future.

The City of Chicago Has Lost It's Mind

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:01:20 GMT

You can't make this stuff up!! According to the Chicago Sun-Times: Bars and restaurants around Wrigley Field will be asked to stop serving alcohol after the seventh-inning stretch — just as they do inside the ballpark — to prevent Cubs playoff celebrations from turning ugly. Ray Orozco, executive director of the city's Office of Emergency Management and Communications, said the proposed seventh-inning cutoff — discussed at a playoff security meeting Monday — would occur "only if it's a clinch game." Liquor sales could resume once the game is over, he said. "We're asking bar owners in the area to participate in the interest of public safety so we celebrate in the most responsible manner possible," Orozco said.

It has been 100 decades since the Cubs have played in the World Series and now that they are one of the favorites to make it again the bar owners are asked to not capitalize on this. Sorry Cubbie faithful but this year you will not be able to drink yourself stupid and then riot like the good people of Boston. You will just have to soberly enjoy the game and then calmly walk home.

This is going to be sooo much fun.

Could This Man Be In A Chiefs Jersey Soon?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:01:40 GMT

Now that the Chiefs 2008 season in total disarray, 0-3 and having started three different Quarterbacks (one of which was their supposed QB of the future) Herm Edwards has called it a day or better yet called other teams. Called to ask for help! S.O.S. We need a QB STAT!

According to Jay Glazer of FOX, on Sunday the Chiefs called the Cleveland Browns about 2007 first-round draft pick - QB Brady Quinn, to see if he may be available for a trade. However, the Browns would not even talk to Herm as they have QB problems of their own and will soon be calling on Mr. Quinn to fill-in for Derek Anderson who has been in a major slump this year!

If the Chiefs are unable to secure even a serviceable QB this year, they might as well turn their eyes toward the first overall draft choice in 2009. Their team is that bad!

In Honor of the Ryder Cup

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 06:33:38 GMT

Gary Sheffield Is One Crazy Mo-Fo!!

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:56:58 GMT

Mark Cuban Outing Racists On His Blog

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:53:14 GMT

I am not a fan of Mark Cuban and certainly would hate to see him as an owner of my beloved Cubs. However, I give him mucho cudos for outing various individuals that sent hateful and some racists emails regarding Josh Howard disrespecting the Star Spangled Banner. I completely understand why people were so enraged over this but there is a certain way to air your grievance and these individuals went about it the WRONG way!

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban received a multitude hate-laced emails about Howard and he decided to post a sampling of the emails on his blog for all to read, with names and email addresses included.

One Example:

"You & Howard…two peas in a pod. Don’t think we’ve forgotten about that Brian De Palma anti-military propaganda film, “Redacted”, that you produced, Cuban. Ya might tell Howard the next time you talk to him, that if not for America, he’d probably be be throwing spears in Africa someplace instead of free-throws.
Semper Fi,
M.E. Heffernan"

Now of course I don't agree with Howard's actions but these various individuals deserve the repercussions!

In Honor Of The Upcoming Election

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:50:21 GMT

NFL Players Know NADA About Fantasy Football

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:48:09 GMT

Chris Cooley and other Washington Redskins players get together for their own Fantasy Football draft. However, other than Cooley, they don't have a clue what they are doing!!

Conflict Resolution?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:45:02 GMT

According to ProFootballTalk.com Tatum Bell has sunk to an all-time low by stealing the bags of the man that will replace him. You can read about it here. All you really need to know is that during Rudi Johnson's meeting/interview with the Lions' Front Office, surveilance cameras caught Tatum stealing Rudi's bags and taking them to an undisclosed location. This is how Detroit handles their problems.

Grow Up Me Boy...play harder not dirtier!!

Olympic Knockout

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:41:23 GMT

Olympic Silver Medalist Alicia Sacramone throwing a punch at a Brown University party. Look out boys....

Caption This.....

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:42:17 GMT

Little League - The Need For Speed

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:39:06 GMT

How good is too good in little league baseball? Turns out it starts at about a 40 mph fastball.

Nine-year-old, Jericho Scott, throws so hard that the Youth Baseball League of New Haven instructed his coach to not let him pitch again. The coach didn't listen and when Jericho took the mound last week, the opposing team forfeited the game.

Officials tried to disband Jericho's team, redistributing its players among other squads, and offered to refund $50 sign-up fees to anyone who asks for it. They say Jericho's coach, Wilfred Vidro, has resigned. However the truth is that Vidro didn't quit and says the team refuses to disband. Players and parents held a protest at the league's field on Saturday urging the league to let Jericho pitch.

Jericho's coach said the boy is being unfairly targeted because he turned down an invitation to join the defending league champion team, which is sponsored by an employer of one of the league's administrators.

League attorney Peter Noble says the only factor in banning Jericho from the mound is his pitches are just too fast.
Noble acknowledged that Jericho had not beaned any batters in the co-ed league of 8- to 10-year-olds, but say parents expressed safety concerns.

So which is it...too fast or not willing to join a winner that happens to have the "league" in its' pocket? Didn't know that politics began this early in a kid's baseball career!

Greg Maddux a Dodger?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:42:41 GMT

Greg Maddux traded to the Dodgers, again!? Dodger personnel decline to say whether the club is even in discussions about Maddux. Why? Major League Baseball forbids club officials from discussing possible trades involving players who have been placed on waivers. We will have to wait and see.

The Dodgers first acquired Maddux in 2006 and reached the playoffs that year. Could that happen this year? If this trade happens add in the the recent Manny Ramirez acquisition...it is possible. You can bet Joe Torre is hoping for a miracle this year.

Phelps is GOLDEN

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:37:27 GMT

Michael Phelps is the OLYMPIC MAN. He set out to break the all-time olympic record of eight gold medals in one "games". Task completed, he is the record holder and will be for quite awhile!

Of course, just like Jordan he couldn't be the champion without a little help from some friends most Jason Lezak. Mr. Lezak to everyone's amazement overcame a full body length in 50 Meters during the relays to ensure Michael would have a chance to reach eight gold medals.

Congratulations Mr. Phelps you are America's champion! Of course, now what do we watch? It seems that most of the excitement of this year's games was tied up in his run to break the record. Good thing that the state fairs, football, baseball playoffs will all be getting ramped up shortly!

Ask And You Shall Receive

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:36:12 GMT

Due to heavy viewer demand....here is the monster Alley-Oop ala D. Wade and K. Bryant

Wade Kobe
by bsap11

Ocho Cinco is Mucho Loco

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:29:31 GMT

We all knew Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson was a little "off" but this is a new realm of crazy! In 2006 "Ocho Cinco" was fined $5K for wearing that name on the back of his jersey. So in an effort to avoid having to pay this fine everytime (since he doesn't have a situation like Michael Jordan had where Nike paid all of the fines he received for wearing their shoes) Chad has decided to make a legal change. The NFL couldn't fine him if Ocho Cinco is his last name. Makes perfect sense, right?!?

According to reports Johnson has taken the first steps in the state of Florida toward legally changing his last name to Ocho Cinco.

Chad Johnson has made references/promises of actions that will change the way fans think about him in the future.

This is a start Chad!

The Chinese Inspired By Milli Vanilli?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:26:09 GMT

Chinese officials have admitted deceiving the public Milli Vanilli-style. At the last minute of the final rehearsal for the Olympic opening ceremony a member of the Chinese politburo decided that the original girl, Yang Peiyi, selected to sing their anthem "might have the perfect voice but was unsuited to the lead role because of her buck teeth!" Enter the Milli Vanilli dupe. On the biggest stage China trots out a 9 year-old cuttie in pigtails, Lin Miaoke, who proceeds to lip sync to Yang Peiyi's version of their anthem. Millions all over the world sat in their living rooms all over the world enjoying this farce while the Chinese help fuel the theory of only the beautiful will survive.

"This was a last-minute question, a choice we had to make," the ceremony's musical designer, Chen Qigang, said. "Our rehearsals had already been vetted several times - they were all very strict. When we had the dress rehearsals, there were spectators from various divisions, including above all a member of the politburo who gave us his verdict: we had to make the swap."

How are we as a society/world supposed to justify this decision by the Chinese hierarchy to our children or even ourselves?

NBA Crisis Level CODE RED

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:27:33 GMT

Just like a little kid chiming in on someone else's conversation (no surprise here) Kobe has said that he too would jump ship for Europe for $50 million a year. If Italy comes knocking with big money next summer, the NBA could lose its biggest star in Kobe Bryant. “I’d go. I’d probably go,” said Bryant, during a USA Basketball press conference on Friday morning. “Like Milan or something like that, where I grew up or something like that… Peace out.”

NBA commissioner David Stern must be calling LeBron and Kobe nonstop trying to keep them in the states and keeping money flowing in his pocket! Can the NBA survive losing their biggest stars to big pockets overseas? I don't think so! Do you possibly think there is a way that the NBA will be able to stop their players from jumping ship with the phone starts ringing?

Like Kobe says, "Do you know any reasonable person that would turn down $50 Million dollars?"

LeBron To Play in Europe?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:23:36 GMT

An absolute worst nightmare situation for the NBA has been suggested recently. By whom, you ask? Mr. LeBron James.

"A person close to James" (what ever that means) said Tuesday that the Cavaliers' superstar would strongly consider playing overseas if he was offered a salary of "around $50 million a year."

After the recent Greek team Olympiacos signing of Josh Childress to a contract close to $30 Million over three years would suggest that they would be more than willing to pay "The King" near his suggested $50 Million asking price. It has been leaked that the Russian team CSKA Moscow and the Greek team Olympiacos have already contacted James, however no monetary or contractual discussions have taken place.

You can just hear David Stern weeping in his pillow.

Should Golf Be In The Olympics?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:22:29 GMT

Mickelson and Furyk are now the newest (self-appointed) spokesmen for the PGA Tour. According to ESPN.com, they are arguing in favor of have Golf be the newest Olympic event.

"Having golf an Olympic sport is exponentially more important to the game of golf than the majors," Mickelson argues. "The reason for that is it would bring in 168 different countries and their Olympic foundation and all those revenues and that would be going towards the growth of the game."

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem, European Tour chief George O'Grady, LPGA Tour commissioner Carolyn Bivens, USGA executive director David Fay and Royal & Ancient chief executive Peter Dawson met in May with IOC president Jacques Rogge, making the case for golf in the Games.

"It's for growing the game around the world and something we can all do together," Finchem said at the time. "The value for the players is that the more people that play around the world, the more people will be watching. They'll be paid back eventually."

Mickelson is not arguing a case for himself since 2016 is the earliest that we could see a change and by then both Mickelson and Furyk would be 46, Tiger Woods would be 40.

I agree with Furyk, "I want to watch the [Olympic sports] where basically professionals aren't playing," he said. "Where that is the absolute pinnacle of their career and they had to wait four years for this one moment and they go out and they perform -- break a world record, win a gold medal and they were able to perform on the spot."

Tropic Thunder

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:21:25 GMT

I can't decide if this movie is going to be very good but this clip does make me want to see this film!!

[Unfortunately, link to video is no longer valid]

Brett Farve's Retirement

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:18:56 GMT

As you well know Brett Farve has been offered a dream package for retirement. In exchange for his not making a comeback, the Green Bay Packers have given him "an offer he can't refuse". The Pack are willing to pay him $20 Million to stay away. Of course, Brett has to seriously consider this offer but the question becomes, "Does he need the money or does the man just want to the play the game one more time?" Personally, I believe he just want to play.

If he takes the offer he will need to find something to fill his days. Will he turn into the jet setting millionaire or another Matthew McConaughey type getting his action on the beach! Only time will tell whether or not he takes the offer.

On A Serious Note.....

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:15:51 GMT

This is not sports related but this one hits home for me. Today a small charter jet crashed about 9:30 a.m. at Owatonna Degner Regional Airport in southern Minnesota after arriving from the East Coast, killing eight people and leaving one unaccounted for.

This airport borders the airspace I control and is controlled by my friends and colleagues. I feel terrible for the families and their loss but also the Air Traffic Controllers that were the last to speak to the pilots. Thankfully I have never "lost" a pilot but have been told by those that have it is a nightmare that some never recover nor forget!

Please keep everyone involved in your prayers.

Yanks Haven't Figured It Out Yet

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:13:10 GMT

The Yankees just haven't figured it out yet, game - set - match!! After losing Jorge Posada to season-ending surgery, the New York Yankees acquired catcher Ivan Rodriguez from the Tigers on Wednesday for right-handed pitcher Kyle Farnsworth.

"Honestly, I was shocked by this, but that's baseball," Rodriguez said. "Now, I'm just looking forward to playing for the Yankees and maybe I will play against Detroit again in the playoffs."

Rodriguez, who is in the final year of the contract he signed with the Tigers in 2004 that will ultimately pay him $50 million, waived his no-trade clause to join the Yankees.

"Pudge has always wanted to play in New York and Detroit felt it needed a relief pitcher, so both sides were able to get what they wanted to some degree," Rodriguez's agent Scott Boras told The Associated Press.

This is just not the year for the "Pinstripes"!

There is always next year.....

OUCH, That's Gotta Hurt

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:00:45 GMT

Hey man, you should have someone look at that ankle! Just a suggestion.

Bears and Hester Agree to 4-Year Deal

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:59:26 GMT

The Bears and KR/WR, Devin Hester, have agreed to a four-year deal effectively ending his very short holdout. Terms of the deal are unknown. Hester hasn't practiced with the team yet due to a "tight hamtring". Now that he has a new contract, we will find out just how bad his hamstring is hurting. All the Bears care about is that they now have their biggest playmaker hittin' the field happy and paid!!

Patriots Sign Lamont Jordan

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:57:33 GMT

Former Oakland Raider and New York Jet - Lamont Jordan has signed with the New England Patriots. It only took one day after being released for the crafty New England Patriots to solidify their backfield. The Raiders failed to trade Lamont and figured they would be better off just releasing him. Good news for the Pats. Lamont had 172 touches for 796 yards from scrimmage last year which will a nice addition to Laurence Maroney's 185 touches for 835 yards!

This is just another case of N.E. Patriots making solid additions to a team that seemingly doesn't need them.

Steelers Super Bowl Ring Has Flaw

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:55:29 GMT

An unidentified Steelers fan who didn't want to see pieces of the team's history leave town yesterday purchased two Steelers Super Bowl rings in an eBay auction for more than $66,000.

However, one of the pieces has a small but glaring flaw.

The rings, commemorating the team's victories in Super Bowls IX and X in 1975 and 1976, had been the property of a Steelers front-office employee whose estate is undergoing a bankruptcy sale.

The die-hard fan noticed that the score of the Steelers' first-round playoff game against Buffalo, engraved on the side of the ring, was wrong.

The final score of the game was Steelers 32, Bills 14.

The ring says Steelers 32, Bills 6.

Oops..one would think that such a storied franchise could afford someone to proofread the final version!

Future NFL Rookie Of The Year

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:49:50 GMT

These Girls Mean Business

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:48:11 GMT

"Get off me" should be the title of this video! The first ever WNBA brawl (if you can call it that...doesn't look like a punch was thrown) is here for your viewing pleasure. Sorry but this is just media hype trying to put fans in the seats, in my opinion. Yes it happened but looks pretty tame to me, but I'll let you be the judge of that.

Now may I present....

[Unfortunately, video has been removed from YouTube]

Shockey Traded

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:45:34 GMT

The Giants have agreed to trade tight end Jeremy Shockey to the New Orleans Saints for a second-round pick and a fifth-round pick. The deal is pending league approval and a physical, according to a league source.

"I have had a relationship with coach Payton and I appreciate what he has done as a head coach," Shockey said in a statement released by the Saints. "The Saints have a lot of weapons starting with Drew Brees and I look forward to joining my teammates at training camp. This will be a fun year."

"Jeremy is a player that we are excited to have on our roster. He is someone I am familiar with as a player," Payton said. "He brings a skill set to the position that I feel will be a tremendous benefit to our offense."

Benefit yes, but will he be more of a distraction? Only time will tell.

Darkness Prevails

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:43:08 GMT

For those of you that haven't seen Batman The Dark Knight yet - GO SEE IT NOW!!!

As expected, Dark Knight has outperformed every movie and is showing no signs of slowing down. I don't subscribe to the "if everyone is saying it then it must be true" theory but Heath Ledger deserves some serious Oscar consideration for best supporting actor for his role of the Joker. He was outstanding and by far my favorite villan in the Batman series (all of them)!

If you intend on seeing this movie you had better hurry before the film wears out from overuse! Seriously, the Dark Knight doesn't disappoint and you will thank me in the morning.

BREAKING NEWS: Jason Taylor Traded

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:38:46 GMT

After losing defensive end Phillip Daniels for the season, the Washington Redskins traded for arguably the greatest DE in the game. In exchange for Taylor the Dolphins will receive a second-round pick in 2009 and a sixth-rounder in 2010.

According to ESPN.com's John Clayton, Taylor told the Redskins he did not need to renegotiate and was willing to play for the final two years of his contract. He is scheduled to make $8.1 million this season. With around $9 million of cap room, the Redskins were able to work the trade quickly.

The Dolphins had been waiting for an opportunity to trade Taylor, who asked to be moved to a playoff contender at the beginning of the offseason. Before the draft, the Dolphins were asking for a first-round draft choice. They lowered the demand later to a second-rounder.

Fantasy Football News

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:37:35 GMT

Fantasy football owners all around the world take a seat. I have some bad news for you!

Brian Westbrook, the Eagles' All-Pro running back, recently suggested that he might hold out from training camp in an act of defiance over his contract.

Westbrook has fired his agent, Fletcher Smith, and is thinking of hiring Lamont Smith of All Pro Sports & Entertainment Inc., according to published reports citing an anonymous source.

The report also quoted Westbrook as saying he probably wouldn't hold out from training camp, but hadn't made up his mind.

This is not a good sign considering that most fantasy football drafts will be held over the next fews weeks. Owners proceed at your own risk.

A Golf Tragedy

Sat, 31 Jan, 2009 10:02:33 GMT

Charles Barkely is an embarrassment to the game of golf! There is nothing more unnatural that his golf swing, if you can even call it that!!!!

Trent Dilfer Joins ESPN

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:29:07 GMT

Super Bowl-winning quarterback Trent Dilfer has joined ESPN as an NFL analyst.

Dilfer, 36, is a 14-year NFL veteran who was a former No. 1 pick out of Fresno State by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later won a championship in 2000 with the Baltimore Ravens. He played last season for the San Francisco 49ers.

He will appear on several ESPN programs, including "NFL Live," "NFL PrimeTime," "SportsCenter" and "Monday Night Countdown."

Dilfer also will contribute to ESPN Radio and ESPN.com. He is the fourth former pro quarterback on ESPN's current roster of football analysts. The others are Steve Young, Ron Jaworski and Shaun King.

Record Breaking Home Run Derby

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:28:16 GMT

Your WOW moment of the day has to be Josh Hamilton pounding a record 28 balls out of the park in one round during tonight’s Home Run Derby! It took nearly a half hour to accomplish this feet creating an excitement in Yankee stadium that felt like it was “October”.

If you missed the Derby I feel for you! Hamilton out slammed the previous record of 24 set by Bobby Abreu and it appears that he could have gone on much longer if not for fatigue (imagine that)!

Justin Morneau ended up winning the Derby but he won’t be the one remembered, instead only Hamilton’s amazing night!!

Cubs Making Moves

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:25:02 GMT

We're Comin'!

The Cubs answered Milwaukee's acquisition of CC Sabathia by acquiring pitcher Rich Harden on Tuesday. The Cubs get Hardin and another serviceable pitcher, Gaudin, and only give up a Triple-A catcher, Eric Patterson, Matt Murton, and pitcher Gallagher. You could easily be argued that Chicago gave up a lot less than Milwaukee did in their trade. Chicago gave up four players in exchange for two, none of which are stars other than Harden.

The Cubs are trying to break the Curse of the Billy Goat, which is now in its 100th year.

Pictures Are Worth 1000 Words!!

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:23:53 GMT

Update on Darrion Scott

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:22:27 GMT

So it isn’t a good idea to hold a plastic bag over a kid’s head? I can’t believe it!!

Darrion Scott, 26, pleas guilty to child endangerment calling his act “stupid and reckless”. You can read more about the incident here, if you wish. According to the Pioneer Press, assault charges were dropped in return for Scott's admission to child endangerment. The gross misdemeanor carries a penalty of up to a year in prison, and prosecutors say it is unlikely that he will serve any jail time.

In his statement, Scott, who was a defensive lineman for the Vikings, said he was attempting to entertain the boy, identified in court as L.D., by putting the bag on his own head while dancing and pretending to be the "boogeyman."
Scott admitted he used poor judgment in using the bag as a toy, which was clearly marked as dangerous to children.
"There is no question in my mind that what I did was stupid and reckless," Scott said.

Scott's attorney, Joe Friedberg, said the child endangerment charge was something Scott "could plead guilty to in good conscience."

"It's bad enough for what it is," he said. "It's stupid to put a plastic bag over a youngster's head like that."

PGA Championship

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 05:27:12 GMT

A VERY early update on the the tourney has Robert Karlsson with a one stroke lead over three others through eight holes. Of course, nearly half the field has yet to tee off and there is no Tiger attack but that could leave the field fearless and hungry!

Stay tuned.....

The Busiest Man in Beijing

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:20:59 GMT

For those of you that have seen even one minute of Olympic coverage you know this man. Michael Phelps, a swimming prodigy, will be swimming in a total of EIGHT events at this year's Olympic Games. Does this man want to take over the world? Not really but close! Michael is trying to break a record of 7 gold medals that was set by Mark Spitz's in the 1972 Munich Games. Phelps just missed the record in 2004, winning six golds and two bronzes.

So close yet so far away! Stay tuned for an exciting games!!

Idiot of the Week

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:15:41 GMT

Former Chargers safety Terrence Kiel was found dead after hitting a wall and being thrown from his vehicle. Police indicate that numerous people tried to get him not to drive after a party he was leaving but he drove anyway. We will have to wait for the toxicology tests to know if he was under the influence and if there were any other drugs in his system. Kiel was cut by the Chargers after being arrested for pleading guilty to shipping codeine-based syrup to Texas.

Terrence is my favorite for IOTW!

"Gay" is now "Homosexual"

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 04:11:36 GMT

Gotta see this to believe it. A Christian news network One News Now apparently has a filter that changes the word "Gay" to "Homosexual". Obviously it does it for people who have the name Gay, like new 100-meter World Record holder Tyson Gay, and thus gives us the best headline ever....

One News Now needs to update it's editing software!!

Kevin Jones Works Out for 4 Teams

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 01:00:45 GMT

First they kick him to the curb, then they send a representative to witness his workout. Matt Millen and the Detroit Lions don't have a clue what they are doing!! We all knew this but it just keeps getting more and more stupid by the day.

Saturday Kevin Jones held a workout for all interested teams to display his ability after knee surgery. According to a report by Larry Lage the Lions sent Director of Pro Personnel Sheldon White to the workout who said, "what impressed him was Kevin's burst after standing still. He also liked how Kevin picked himself up and finished a drill when he slipped on the grass that was really slick because of a lot of rain." The Miami Dolphins, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Green Bay Packers were there as well.

Well known surgeon to the athletes, Dr. James Andrews, performed the surgery on Jones' right knee in January and told him it would take up to 10 months to get back on the field.

Millen is just shrewd enough to see who picks him up, so he can trade for him! You don't get to the top without having skills!

BREAKING NEWS

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:59:40 GMT

Pacers deal Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto for TJ Ford and the 17th overall pick in Thursday's draft! As well, Rasho Nesterovic and another player (to match O'Neal's salary) will be sent to Indiana.

Stay tuned for more action......

Shaq vs. Kobe

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:58:48 GMT

Shaq just loves Kobe! So much that he got onstage in a NYC club last night and began to tear Kobe a new one. He blames Kobe for ruining his marriage after Kobe called Shaq out for paying off a woman he had an affair with during Kobe's rape charge. That alone would create tension but then after Shaq was traded and won a championship with the Miami Heat it only got worse. Shaq raps that he can't do it without him and asks Kobe how his a#@ tastes during this session on stage. If you want to see this video it can be seen at Shaq's. Word of caution it contains language not suitable for minors, wife, mother, and even us! LOL

2008 Top 10 NFL Fantasy Football RBs

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:35:00 GMT

Are you ready for some football?!?!? It’s that time of the year when the numbers get crunched, players analyzed, teams scrutinized, sleepers pondered, and draft sheets formulated. As we enter NFL Fantasy Football Draft season, I will evaluate each position and lay out the blueprint for a championship team (if you are bold enough to follow sage advice).

First things first, the glue that holds the team together: RunningBacks!

RB:

1 LaDainian Tomlinson --- Need I say more?
2 Adrian Peterson --- Sophomore Slump?
3 Marion Barber III --- Splitting carries but will get the TDs
4 Joseph Addai --- Too much offense not to score tons
5 Larry Johnson --- Can’t tank two seasons in a row, right?
6 Steven Jackson --- His line will hurt him
7 Brian Westbrook --- Solid as always
8 Frank Gore --- Like the direction SF is going
9 Marshawn Lynch --- He is a beast
10 Willie Parker --- “Fast Willie” baby

When Did Mike Tyson Start Playing Soccer?

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:32:22 GMT

Cubs Lose By Stupidity

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:26:17 GMT

The Cubs match up against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Tuesday wasn’t that important to Reed Johnson, it appears. The Cubs have been cruising along all year and currently have a 3 ½ game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals. Tuesday they certainly didn’t play like it (at least Johnson didn’t).
The Cubbies were down by 1 run with 2 outs in the 7th and Johnson decided it was a good idea to try to teal 3rd with the top of the order coming up. Of course, Johnson doesn’t have blazing speed and he decided he could make it (he was out by a mile). Not a good decision on his part.
As if that wasn’t enough, again with 2 outs in the 9th runners on 1st and 3rd, still down 1 run Johnson decided to try to lay down a perfect bunt. Of course, without the speed he is thrown out at 1st ending the game. What was he thinking in that situation? He wasn’t thinking at all! If the Cubs are going to have a chance at winning the Series this year they will need better decision making from their players and coaching staff!!

Fortunately, the Cardinals lost keeping a 3½ lead in tact.

Willie Randolph Shown the Door

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:20:14 GMT

The Mets are cleaning house today. Around 3 a.m. Eastern time they announced the firing of coaches Willie Randolph, Rick Peterson, and Tom Nieto. Question is…..Why fire a coach with the second highest winning percentage in team’s history? And now, who will fill Randolph’s shoes? In their infinite wisdom, they have named bench coach Jerry Manuel the interim manager.

If you would like to learn more, New York Mets GM Omar Minaya will hold a press conference today a 5 p.m. EDT. Let’s see what excellent sound bites Omar will give us today. You know anything coming out of New York will be timeless.

Tiger Woods Not 100%

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:18:04 GMT

Tiger Woods should think about packing it in this weekend. If you have ever watched Tiger swing a golf club then you know that not all is well with his leg. He had two double bogeys in the first round and entered the clubhouse four shots off he lead at 1 over par. His knee has been surgically repaired but it is clearly not 100%, in fact, he probably should not be swinging a club at this point in his recovery. This begs the question, why did he take a spot in US Open that could have gone to a struggling/amateur golfer, which would probably be the highlight of his career/life?

Now don’t get me wrong, an 80% healthy Tiger Woods is better than a lot of golfers on the tour but why show up out there if you aren’t 100%? Tiger doesn’t need the money nor the publicity nor the strain on his leg and I realize that he needs to get out there sooner or later but on a MAJOR? Please Tiger, this may just be the tip of the iceberg of your personality (it has been widely speculated/reported that Tiger is a a*&hole when the camera isn’t on him).

If you can’t compete to your fullest ability then you shouldn’t step onto the first Tee Box!

Don't Let the Door Hit 'Ya......Mr. Benson

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:16:56 GMT

After the latest of his last two arrests, as reported here and here, Chicago Bears RB Cedric Benson has been sent packing. Jerry Angelo has had enough and at this point only the Oakland Raiders would be stupid enough to pick up an unproductive running back with numerous arrests involving alcohol (maybe the Chiefs, Broncos,.....well let's just say the entire AFC West)!

Any team can claim Benson once he clears waivers (now is your chance Chiefs...Go get 'em)!

Cedric Benson in Trouble Again

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:07:06 GMT

Another month goes by and we have another Cedric Benson arrest. This time Cedric wasn’t driving a boat like his Previous arrest, instead according to Benson’s attorney he had a few drinks with dinner but didn’t think he was intoxicated and decided to drive home. The police disagreed with his level of intoxication, therefore, placed the former first-round draft pick under arrest (he was later released on bond).

One of the best quotes I have heard in a long time pretty much sums up my (and many other’s) feelings regarding these types of incidents involving professional athletes: “Disappointment is too much an often-used word when we’re talking about Cedric, and the number one lesson for every player is protect your job.” Who said it?!? The boss that’s who. One Mr. Jerry Angelo, Bears general manager.

If your boss talked about you like this, it would only be a matter of time before you are sent packing. Right? So why should it be any different for someone that can run with the rock (even if not that successfully like Cedric)? It may not considering that Chicago spent a second round draft choice on Tulane running back Matt Forte this year.

Cedric better start watching his tail or he might just get thrown out on his!!!

OUCH.....

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:03:36 GMT

Who ever said that biking wasn't dangerous hasn't seen this picture.

This is a photo of a car plowing into a mexican bike race along the US-Mexico border killing one and injuring many others. According to investigators the driver of the vehicle (American) was drunk and fell asleep. I don't know about you but this is the craziest photo I have seen in a long time!

3 pts = $100 Million Swing

Fri, 27 Feb, 2009 12:19:49 GMT

My wife and I have somewhat of a gambling problem, that is to say that when we go to Las Vegas we ALWAYS end up gambling with much more money than planned! Sometimes we come out ahead which is great but most times we leave with less money than we arrived with after the room, meals, shows, etc. Of course, we play craps which is a quick way to make a lot of money and then once we are up we switch to card games/slots (my wife) to manage the money. It has worked for us over the years which is why we keep going back.

However, lately I have been doing a little sports gambling (i.e. betting on a team to win the World Series and yes it is the CUBS), so I can understand why there are many gamblers that want to punish L.A. Lakers back-up guard Sasha Vujacic. If you didn't see Game 5 between the Lakers and Spurs, you missed a 5 point lead by the Lakers with seconds left that would cover the spread for the Spurs turn into an 8 point lead and a $100 MILLION swing for gamblers!! You can read more about this in further detail here.

What if you were watching the game's final seconds thinking about what to do with your winnings and some bench player selfishly steps in and shoots a unnecessary three pointer with SECONDS left that knocks you out of the winners circle? I would scream at the tube asking what the league is coming to when these punk "kids" don't do the classy thing and dribble out the clock. Why can't they be professionals, where's the coaching, etc. Let's just say that it wouldn't be pretty. This is probably why I don't let myself bet on games because with my addictive personality it could easily turn into me betting my mortgage on the Cubs vs. Cardinals!!

Tragedy in Vancouver

Fri, 27 Feb, 2009 12:20:53 GMT

Will there soon be a new stipulation in professional sports contracts between teams and players?!?

Today Vancouver Canucks rookie, 21-year-old Luc Bourdon, was killed in a motorcycle accident in New Brunswick. "Luc was a winner, he was a competitor," said Kent Hughes, his agent. "There was no quit in him. He persevered through a lot. He was a great guy and a great teammate." Hughes added that he never knew about his client's new hobby. "I had no idea."

This tragedy reminds me of last year when Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had his motorcycle accident (not to mention the emergency apendectimy before the Monday night showdown with the Miami Dolphins and Joey Porter...a little fishy on Ben's part I know). It seems that there are a rise in the number of off-field incidents (ala Matt Birk, Mike Vick, Big Ben, etc.) that result in player's missing significant playing time or entire seasons. I know that the death of a player should not be compared to Big Ben's oops but there could and should be a change coming down the line.

Owners will not allow their "investment" to jeopardise itself anymore than necessary. Soon we will hear about contract clauses restricting any off field activities that could potentially harm the player and keep them from playing (motorcycle riding, skydiving, drag racing, basketball, basketweaving, etc.). Okay the last one was a joke but you get the point!

Do you agree or disagree?

Kobe's Little Angel

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:58:27 GMT

Kobe's angel of a wife has had encounters with numerous reporters but her latest takes the cake. While at a Lakers game with her two kids (ages 5 and 2) Vanessa cussed out an ESPN writer, Laura Lane. You can read the full story here but below you will find Vanessa's outburst (keep in mind this is in front of her two kids).

Vanessa: “Laura! F**k you! You f**king bitch!”

Laura: “Excuse me?”

Vanessa: “F**k you! How dare you write about me and my daughters and their schedule! You didn’t say you were writing an article! F**k you! You f**king bitch. You have no journalism ethics! F**k you! You bitch - ”

Kobe you got yourself a winner! Can't wait to see how these kids turn out with such great role models for parents. One talks like a sailor and the other is accused of rape not to mention destroys a dynasty!!

Pacman Jones the Next SLASH?

Thu, 2 Apr, 2009 08:57:11 GMT

Pacman Jones, a.k.a. Prisoner #45938, might get a chance to suit up for the Dallas Cowboys this year but on which side of the ball will he get the most action? Dallas Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, has hinted that he may play Pacman at wide receiver to relieve some of the pressure Terrell Owens faced last year. The Cowboys receiving corps was so dismal in ‘07 that their second leading receiver was Tight End Jason Witten who had 1145 yards on 96 receptions (15 more receptions than TO). That statistic doesn’t sound too bad until you consider that Witten had nearly 600 more yards than Patrick Crayton, the #2 WR. Crayton isn’t normally the #2 receiver but when Terry Glenn was injured that put Crayton front and center!

TO and the rest of the team really missed the production of Terry Glenn who missed 15 games last year due to injury. Many hopeful fantasy football owners were devastated by Glenn’s inactivity but that’s what you get when you bank your FF season on a 33-year-old receiver.

Now the ‘Boys don’t know when or if Pacman will be joining them but when he does it may begin with an introduction to the OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK!!

Jerry Jones just might be thinking that opposing cornerbacks may be hesitant to play bump-and-run coverage on Pacman considering his recent run-ins with the “law”. As far as I am concerned, Pacman should have been sent packing after his first arrest but then I am not writing the checks!

Game 1 Goes to Boston

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:55:32 GMT

The Boston Celtics have proved the analysts wrong by easily beating the Detroit Pistons 88-79 last night. Even though Boston shot 52% from the field compared to 42% by the Pistons, they also forced 15 turnovers and 10 steals. The Pistons are looking to rebound from this disappointing loss and hoping that the obviously lagging Chauncey Billups will break out of his slump and play like the days of old!

The Celtics are now 9-0 at home in the playoffs. Even though the Pistons had a longer rest between series, the Celtics looks fresher and seemed to want it more. Kevin Garnet and Paul Pierce proved to be too much for the veteran Pistons to handle. KG was 11-17 from the field ending 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks. PP ended up with 22 points. Detroit better watch out if Ray Allen starts to fire on all cylinders as he had in the regular season but it appears that the Celtics won’t need him this series.

Game 2 is Thursday night, stay tuned it should be an interesting series.

Dancing Queen

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:54:10 GMT

Jason Taylor’s dream of being a dancing champion has been squashed by Kristi Yamaguchi by a combined Judge and Viewer vote on the “hit” (how is this possible) show Dancing With The Stars. The two finalists had heated battle to determine…..hmmm….seriously, I can’t even continue writing about this!

Jason take off the tights and get back to what you do best for the Miami Dolphins. We’ll see you on the field.

$48 Million = World Series

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:52:35 GMT

For those of you that have not noticed, the Chicago Cubs are the hottest team in Major League Baseball. The Cubs are one game behind the Arizona Diamondbacks for the best in MLB with 26 wins and 16 losses. They are also the league's highest scoring team with 245 runs scored, 13 runs above the Diamondbacks.

As reported in an earlier post the Cubs are on pace to shatter the franchise record for walks in the season averaging 7 a game.

What is the reason for the change you ask? The Japanese player by the name of Kosuke Fukudome whom the Cubs signed this past off season for four years at $48 Million. Many questions whether the Cubs would regret signing an unproven player from Japan for such a big salary. This season to date Fukudome bating .322 have 16 RBI's and 27 walks averaging nearly a walk a game.

Fukudome has definitely proven himself this season, but more importantly he has the entire team playing the best baseball they have played in years. Leading their division, breaking the record for walks, scoring the most runs in the league, do we need any more proof? Only time will tell if Fukudome will be great, but for now the Cubs sure are.

Cubs on FIRE

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:51:05 GMT

The Cubs are on FIRE! Monday’s match up against the San Diego Padres was a laugher as the Cubs handed them a 12-3 loss. In this game the Cubs scored five or more runs in two of the innings and makes 13 innings this year in which the Cubs have done so. So to say that the Cubs are firing on all cylinders is an understatement, the Cubs are leading the majors in runs scored with 223.

It fun to watch the Cubs play this year, they are smiling and having fun out there, which is a definite change from previous years.

It is going to be a great year!

Goodell vs. Walsh

Fri, 30 Jan, 2009 12:21:15 GMT

Tuesday will mark the turning point for the NFL Spygate scandal as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will meet with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh to discuss his involvement with the illegal taping of opposing team's signs. Unless you have lived under a rock for the past several months you are well versed on the situation. SPN has scooped the interview and the following is an exerpt of the transcript from the meeting:

Goodell: Mr. Walsh what do you have to say for yourself?

Walsh: Uhh, Sorry?!?

Goodell: You cheatin' bastard, you make me look like a fool and you say sorry!

Walsh: Calm down Roger, you're getting a little crazy

Goodell: Shut your lying mouth or you're a dead man!

Walsh: Are you going to have me killed?

Goodell: That depends, are you going to give up the fishes or do you want to sleep with them?

Walsh: What do you mean?

Goodell: Do you see Mr. Ray Lewis in the corner?

Walsh: Yes

Goodell: Unless you tell me everything I want to hear, Ray is going to introduce you to his "friends" and you never be heard from again!

Walsh: Alright, Bilichick told me to do it and he told me if I got caught I was on my own!

Goodell: Ray, you know what to do!

Stay tuned for more.....

The Spaniard Wins

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:48:33 GMT

The final round would be the toughest of the weekend at this years TPC at Sawgrass. The wind was stronger than it had been all week, creating the potential for an exhilarating 18 holes.

Who would have thought Sergio Garcia would sink a 7-foot par putt on the 18th to force a playoff with Paul Goydos?!? That is exactly what he did. The intimidating island-green 17th would be the determining hole to crown this year’s TPC winner. It was all too easy for Sergio after Goydos hit into the water and that was enough of an opening for Sergio to sail to a victory. “It feels like a major, and it tests you like a major,” Garcia said.

The irony for the weekend: Goydos was the first to hit a ball into the water at the 17th and the last one during the most pivotal time, a playoff hole!!

Break Out the Brooms: It's a SWEEP

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:47:09 GMT

The chance for a sweep came down to Daryle Ward in the 8th inning after Alfonso Soriano was walked and the Diamondbacks were looking for the double play ball. They got a double but not the double they were looking for. Ward took a one out pitch deep to center field and scored Soriano from first base to take the lead for good.

Derrek Lee is coming on strong as of late hitting another homer in today’s match up. With Lee hitting well again and Kerry Wood coming into his own in the closer role the road will be paved with many more wins. Kerry finished off the DB’s 6-4 by converting his 7th save in 10 opportunities. Finally it is nice to see Kerry on the mound throwing some chin music!!

The Cubs will be hard to get past now that they are firing on all cylinders. They completed the sweep averaging 5 runs a game and a 2.33 ERA.

This will be a good year for the cubbies!!

Cubs Win

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:45:43 GMT

For those of you that missed Friday’s match up against the Arizona Diamondback, you missed an outstanding performance from Ted Lilly! Lilly allowed only three hits while walking two and striking out ten. That’s what can happen when you adjust your pitching well.

He did get a little help from the cubbies arms and bats including his own. Lilly had an RBI to tie the game and Derrek Lee hit his ninth homerun to give a little more breathing room. Once the game was in hand, Lilly turned the mound over to Carlos Marmol who needed a little assistance from the umpire to ensure nobody would score. In the 8th, Augie Ojeda tried to steal second and the umpire correctly called interference on Eric Byrnes with Geovany Soto’s throw to second. That was as close as the D’Backs would come to scoring for the rest of the game.

Kerry Wood finally had a strong performance getting a 1-2-3 for his ninth save of the season. Nine pitches were all he needed and that finished the 3-1 win over the D’Bs!

Move Over Sergio

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:44:20 GMT

We have a new leader!

Thursday was a nice day for golf but Friday turned ugly. The wind picked up and Sawgrass became a very unforgiving course. Considering the conditions Kenny Perry shot an excellent round of 2-under par to take a one-stroke lead. Despite the wind Perry still managed to make only one bogey.

35 MPH wind gusts certainly didn’t held Sergio keep the lead; however he held his own and is only one shot off the lead. He would still have the lead had it not been for a double bogey on the 17th. Sergio played some jungle golf after his tee shot went over the green and then chunked two chip shots and missed a 7-foot put for a smooth bogey. If that is his one stumble and still be only one shot off the lead then it still could be his tournament to win.

Is it the year of the Spaniard?!?

Boy Wears Jersey 4 Years Straight

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:40:50 GMT

Can you imagine wearing the same shirt everyday for four years? That is exactly what a Wisconsin boy has done. David Witthoft received his very own Brett Farve jersey for his seventh birthday and loved it so much that he wore it everyday for 1561 days. That is the true measure of a fan!

His mother would wash the jersey every other day and mend it when necessary. Why would his parents let him do this? His mother said that it was his passion and that he idolizes Farve. You would think that he stopped wearing the jersey because Farve retired this past offseason but it was only because it no longer fit him. He started becoming self conscious about his appearance since the jersey barely came down to his beltline.

We are still trying to confirm daily visits to the Witthoft household by numerous current franchise quarterbacks!!

The Players Championship

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:39:21 GMT

The Players Championship at the TPC Sawgrass, commonly referred to in the PGA Tour as the fifth major tournament, is underway. The weather cooperated and allowed for some exciting golf to be played with hopes of taking the $9 Million purse.

Sergio Garcia, 28, shot a 6-under-par 66 Thursday to take a 2-stroke lead which put a bulls-eye on his back. There are 21 players within 4 strokes of Sergio, including defending champion Phil Mickelson and my favorite Fred Couples at 2-under. With 54 holes to be played it is still anybody’s tournament.

Unfortunately, taking the lead after the first round has not proved to be a friendly situation for Sergio. In his six previous tournaments when leading after the first round, Garcia is 0-fer. But if you remember it was this same tournament in 1999 that Sergio finished 2nd as a rookie behind “little known” Tiger Woods. However, this time around Tiger Woods is out of action after undergoing surgery, which will make things a LITTLE easier for Sergio. Nevertheless, I’m thinking he is not going to have a good nights sleep tonight!

It is going to be an exciting weekend. Stay tuned for the recap of Friday’s second round.

Another Minnesota Vikings Player in Trouble

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:37:38 GMT

I am not sure if it is because I will soon be a father therefore these stories stand out more to me but here is another example of a father with excellent parenting skills. Now this is no laughing matter like the drinking baby at a baseball game, instead this is abuse plain and simple!

Former Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Darrion Scott was arrested on Tuesday and charged with assault of his 2-year-old son. According to the boy's mother, she arrived at Scott's home to pick her son when she heard him crying and found him with a dry cleaning bag over his head and Scott holding the bag around his neck! WHY YOU ASK? Because Scott wanted to see if the boy could get the bag off his head him self!!

This is not all; he is also accused of burning the boy in March and possibly beating the child in April (the boy came home with three lumps on his forehead). Scott, 26, was released on $100,000 bail and scheduled to appear in court today.

Is it the roids or is he just plain PSYCHOTIC??

Stay tuned......

Lower Drinking Age in Tennessee?

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:36:07 GMT

Now that my wife and I are expecting our first child in a few months, I have to say that this is a VERY disturbing video. The father claims that the bottle is empty but then why does he stop the kid from flipping the bottle over?!? I can't imagine a situation where I would allow my child to play with a beer bottle even if it were empty. Not only does this take place in front of others but the mascot comes over and waves at this baby holding the beer! Doesn't the mascot see something wrong with this situation?

It is terrible to think that there many people out there that would give everything to have a family and somehow this father is given the gift of a child instead!!!!

Freudian Slip by Kentucky Derby Announcer

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:22:10 GMT

Thanks to www.brightcove.tv you can witness this years Kentucky Derby announcer have a classic freudian slip on live TV. As he was trying to refer to the winning jockey's son's hearing devices, the announcer was distracted by the Mother's bouncing "implants". This illustrates one of the dangers of live TV and this poor man is paying the price!

Kentucky Derby Nightmare

Thu, 29 Jan, 2009 11:18:48 GMT

After watching the Kentucky Derby this afternoon and experiencing the excitement of Big Brown coming back from fifth place with three quarters of a mile left to win by 5 lengths but then witnessing the demise of a promising young philly named Eight Belles, I am saddened to say that I was apart of this fiasco. Don’t get me wrong, the act of horse racing is beloved by many and watched by millions but does the act of killing a three year old horse just because the recovery from an injury will be very painful for the horse seem right to you?!? I understand that when a horse is injured it is a long and painful recovery, which leads one to believe that it is cruel to allow the horse to live with this pain. So stop their pain by ending their life, right? Since this is the case, aren’t the owners, trainers, riders, etc. just gambling with the horses life for SPORT? Where is PETA when a horse needs them?

I for one do not want to be a part of this any longer! You will not catch another derby at my house!

Should NASCAR Be Worried?!?

Thu, 26 Feb, 2009 08:08:54 GMT

New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss is in the process of forming a NASCAR Craftsman Truck team, Moss Motorsports, LLC. "There are some pretty awesome challenges in building a program like this from the ground up, but I am looking forward to it," said Moss. Should NASCAR be worried? This is the same person that was arrested for "bumping and pushing" a meter maid with his Lexus for half of a block for trying to stop him from making an illegal turn!

Will he be good for NASCAR? Sure, they don't have illegal turns and bumping is ENCOURAGED!!

Bill Parcell's Rebuilding Project

Thu, 26 Feb, 2009 08:09:55 GMT

Bill Parcells' and the Miami Dolphins first priority this off-season was to fix some horrific mistakes that were made by the previous regimes.

Step one: Protect your Young Quarterback. To do that they used their #1 overall draft selection on OT Jake Long. How can you go wrong with someone that allowed only one sack and committed only one penalty his senior year?!? I am a huge fan of this pick.

Step two: Attack opposing quarterbacks. With their 2nd selection in this years draft they chose Phillip Merling, a defensive lineman from Clemson. Merling should fit perfectly in a 3-4 defense and is a tough run stuffing defensive lineman.

Bill Parcells' has started developing this team the same way he has his entire coaching career. Build a strong young nucleus and the rest will be easier to accomplish later on. He is trying to inject youth, size, speed, and strength to both the offensive and defensive lines. Six selections were made on linemen this year, a 50-50 split on both sides of the ball. In the NFL you can never have enough good lineman to rotate into the game. While these aren’t the most exciting picks, they are the ones that will pay dividends fighting in the trenches giving our QB the time to find an open receiver.