It's the day after the conference championships, which means its the day where everyone complains about the BCS. This year, it's not feisty non-BCS school looking for a shot, it's a team that blew a 17-point lead against an unranked opponent. Boo Hoo. You want a shot at LSU? You should have won the games you were supposed to.
As far as Alabama, yes, they didn't win their conference, but their only loss was to the clear best team in the country which happens to play in the same division of the same conference. Is it Alabama's fault they have LSU in their division? Should that penalize them from another shot at a team that they could have beaten?
The fact of the matter is BCS is about who you lose to and when you lose to. Alabama lost to the best team in the country in overtime at home. Oklahoma State lost to an unranked Iowa State on the road. Which loss is worse? Anybody defending Oklahoma State is doing so because they want to see a different match-up and not the two best teams in the country. Hate to break it to you, but this is the National Championship Game. Not just a post season exhibition like all the other bowls.
Everyone wants to champion the regular season of college football for every game mattering, and they are right. Each game matters. So what if Alabama already played LSU, THAT'S THEIR ONLY LOSS! They took the clear best team to the limit while everyone else lost to teams weren't as good. People want to make this controversial, but it's really not. It's extremely clear who the best two teams are. If you don't like it, well don't watch.
I did a silly boycott of BCS games, and even now, I don't really watch them. But the system makes sense. Don't get upset. Don't lose late in the season. Pretty simple formula. Sure, it's flawed, but a playoff would be flawed. If we had a playoff and Boise State and Houston didn't get in, people would cry. If Alabama was the number 2 seed, people would cry.
Again, to all the outcry for BCS changed, shut up. That's how it works, it's how it always works. Stop whining because the team you wanted didn't get in. The USC-Auburn controversy aside, I can't think of a BCS year that got it wrong. Great teams always rise to the top. Or, they go 2001 Hurricanes on the country. Win or Shut up.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Tebow!
Tim Tebow isn't a person. Tim Tebow is a character. Tim Tebow is old school grit, rah-rah attitude, and wholesome American values. Sure, there is a man named Tim Tebow, but people aren't polarized by him, but the character that has been built up since ESPN showed a high school game of his. That's what I'm writing about, the TV character Tim Tebow.
When Tim was a Florida Gator, nobody cared about his throwing style. Nobody cared that he couldn't read Cover 2 schemes or blitz packages. College Tebow was a winner. College Tebow fired up his teammates, he threw jump passes, wrote Bible verses under his eyes, and played football in a way that made your grandma proud. The media loved Tim Tebow, so much so that they turned a lot of sports fans off.
This isn't the first (or last) time this will happen. Remember Tyler Hansbrough? I hate that guy. ESPN raved about him for four years at UNC to the point it turned me into a Hansbro-hater. We live in a world now where it is easy to over saturate the market with stories and fluff pieces about a certain player, especially one who isn't even a pro yet.
Anyway, back to Tebow. Last year in the draft, something bad happened. Tim Tebow was drafted in the 1st round of the NFL Draft. We as sports fans had watched Tebow play in Gainesville with the mindset that Tim Tebow would fade away after he graduated. He might get drafted, but like a lot of QBs of his type, would fade away quickly. Like a bad guy in a horror movie, Tebow wouldn't die. And this year, he found new life, as the NFL version of Sanjaya.
The new version of Tim Tebow is a culmination of media over-hype and 24/7 over analyzation. We've been told he's great, not ready for next level, best college player ever, won't know NFL defenses, ultimate team player, horrible mechanics, devout Christian, better career chance if he changes positions, super awesome guy, and will set your franchise back 5 years with him as QB.
So after being told he's great, then told he sucks, what are we supposed to think about Tim Tebow? I feel like opinions of Tebow, more than any athlete ever, have been shaped by what other people have told us about him. We've hated him because people loved him too much, we loved him because of all the wonderful things we're told about him, we've hated him for not fitting the mold we were told makes an NFL quarterback, and we've loved him because people hate him so much.
None of this makes sense, and yet it all makes sense. That's Tim Tebow. I've face-palmed at least a half-dozen times writing this post. I can't put my finger on what I want to say about what I think Tebow is, and it's probably for the best.
When Tim was a Florida Gator, nobody cared about his throwing style. Nobody cared that he couldn't read Cover 2 schemes or blitz packages. College Tebow was a winner. College Tebow fired up his teammates, he threw jump passes, wrote Bible verses under his eyes, and played football in a way that made your grandma proud. The media loved Tim Tebow, so much so that they turned a lot of sports fans off.
This isn't the first (or last) time this will happen. Remember Tyler Hansbrough? I hate that guy. ESPN raved about him for four years at UNC to the point it turned me into a Hansbro-hater. We live in a world now where it is easy to over saturate the market with stories and fluff pieces about a certain player, especially one who isn't even a pro yet.
Anyway, back to Tebow. Last year in the draft, something bad happened. Tim Tebow was drafted in the 1st round of the NFL Draft. We as sports fans had watched Tebow play in Gainesville with the mindset that Tim Tebow would fade away after he graduated. He might get drafted, but like a lot of QBs of his type, would fade away quickly. Like a bad guy in a horror movie, Tebow wouldn't die. And this year, he found new life, as the NFL version of Sanjaya.
The new version of Tim Tebow is a culmination of media over-hype and 24/7 over analyzation. We've been told he's great, not ready for next level, best college player ever, won't know NFL defenses, ultimate team player, horrible mechanics, devout Christian, better career chance if he changes positions, super awesome guy, and will set your franchise back 5 years with him as QB.
So after being told he's great, then told he sucks, what are we supposed to think about Tim Tebow? I feel like opinions of Tebow, more than any athlete ever, have been shaped by what other people have told us about him. We've hated him because people loved him too much, we loved him because of all the wonderful things we're told about him, we've hated him for not fitting the mold we were told makes an NFL quarterback, and we've loved him because people hate him so much.
None of this makes sense, and yet it all makes sense. That's Tim Tebow. I've face-palmed at least a half-dozen times writing this post. I can't put my finger on what I want to say about what I think Tebow is, and it's probably for the best.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Pay 'Em!
Brandon Philips wants to get paid. He's the best Second Baseman in the game, he's just 30, and he's coming off a solid season where he hit for over .300. He has made it clear he'd like to stay in Cincinnati, but isn't giving the "homeboy discount". I can understand that. It seems like a lot of people can't.
Fans use the argument all the time, "Boy, if I got paid a million bucks to play a kids game, I wouldn't complain and ask for more money". I hate that mentality. Any fan that thinks that is a hypocrite. There are a lot of problems I have with that sentiment and I'm going to address it here. *Gets on soapbox*
Do the Reds want to pay @DatDudeBP? We'll find out. But whether they do or not, Brandon Philips deserves to get paid. We all do.
Fans use the argument all the time, "Boy, if I got paid a million bucks to play a kids game, I wouldn't complain and ask for more money". I hate that mentality. Any fan that thinks that is a hypocrite. There are a lot of problems I have with that sentiment and I'm going to address it here. *Gets on soapbox*
- Players can't play forever - Sure, these guys make a TON of money, but they can't play pro sports forever. Most guys might not make it to 30, and with steroids banned, very few hit 40. Athletes need to make their money when they can.
- Look at your peers - I worked at a gas station making 5.25 an hour, I was fine with it. Then another guy came in that I felt didn't work as hard as me and he made 5.75 an hour. 10% more than me? The rest of the time he worked there, I felt disrespected. We did the same work and he made more. If at your job a new guy came in and did the same thing as you and made 10% more and you had seniority, I bet you wouldn't like it.
- It's all about your industry - If the good people in your industry made between 12-20 million dollars a year, and you fit in that category, don't you deserve that money too?
Do the Reds want to pay @DatDudeBP? We'll find out. But whether they do or not, Brandon Philips deserves to get paid. We all do.
Ace of Spades
Quick, name a Motorhead song. (Waiting) Ok, raise your hand if you said the following: 1. Ace of Spades 2. Who's Motorhead? Most people know Motorhead for that one song, Ace of Spades (or maybe through Triple H). Lemmy, the rock legend and frontman for Motorhead, hates that song. He's played it a million times.
That's what this blog turned into for me. It was my Ace of Spades. I didn't want to write anymore, but I felt like I had to pump SOMETHING out every day or every other day. Eventually, I got to the point that instead of writing once a week or so, I quit altogether. Which sucked. I like writing, I like being opinionated, and letting you know what I'm about. So from now on, I'm writing a couple times a week, or really whenever I feel like it. Which I hope is enough to keep you checking out the blog and telling you loved ones to read my posts.
So what's happened to me since I've last posted? Well, I'm married to a lovely lady, Jessica. I'm busy as a producer at 700WLW and as Slakk on 102.7 WEBN. I've been playing video games, much to my wife's chagrin. That's about it.
Expect a burst of posts within the next week or so, I've got a lot to say. I look forward to making my spot on the Internet a good one. If you have a topic or question for me, randyaslack@gmail.com is my e-mail and I'm consistently on Twitter @RandySlack
That's what this blog turned into for me. It was my Ace of Spades. I didn't want to write anymore, but I felt like I had to pump SOMETHING out every day or every other day. Eventually, I got to the point that instead of writing once a week or so, I quit altogether. Which sucked. I like writing, I like being opinionated, and letting you know what I'm about. So from now on, I'm writing a couple times a week, or really whenever I feel like it. Which I hope is enough to keep you checking out the blog and telling you loved ones to read my posts.
So what's happened to me since I've last posted? Well, I'm married to a lovely lady, Jessica. I'm busy as a producer at 700WLW and as Slakk on 102.7 WEBN. I've been playing video games, much to my wife's chagrin. That's about it.
Expect a burst of posts within the next week or so, I've got a lot to say. I look forward to making my spot on the Internet a good one. If you have a topic or question for me, randyaslack@gmail.com is my e-mail and I'm consistently on Twitter @RandySlack
Friday, September 2, 2011
NFL 2011 Preview
The NFL season is finally here. There was talk that the season might not happen, (yea right) but we made it through the preseason and we should have a pretty good idea of who is good (Packers, Ravens, Eagles, etc) and who sucks. (Bengals, Broncos, Panthers, etc) Normally, these things don't pan out, and the guy making the predictions ends up getting things wrong. Well, nobody reads this anyway, but for those that do, they'll forget by November anyway. Besides, if I get things right, I can toot my own horn. So without further ado, here is my 2011 NFL Preview. Enjoy.
NFC South:
Big Question - Are the Bucs for real?
I think they are. They have a lot of player makers on both sides of the ball and I think Josh Freeman can be Big Ben 2.0. Not to mention they drafted one of the best players available in the draft in DaQuan Bowers. If he can play half a season at full strength, they got a steal. Atlanta is still the class of the division, but they aren't as good as last year. The Saints are a little overrated, but could outscore anyone any week. Carolina confuses me because even though they have two solid RBs and Pro Bowlers at the O-line, I can't see them doing much.
Falcons: 11-5
Bucs: 10-6
Saints: 8-8
Panthers: 3-13
NFC West:
Big Question - Are any of these teams any good?
A question as old as time, but it still rings true. I could see all four teams going 8-8, 4-12, or somehow 0-16. The best team in my mind is the Rams. I don't think Lynch can run in "beast mode" for 16 weeks. So Darren Sharper, you're safe. San Francisco doesn't jump out at me in any way other than their sweet unis. The Cards upgraded from Derek Anderson to Kevin Kolb. Which is like upgrading from a sewer to a garbage dump.
Rams: 9-7
Seahawks: 6-10
49ers: 6-10
Cardinals: 5-11
NFC East:
Big Question: Will Mike Vick's encore be as good?
Quick, name all the big games Andy Reid and Mike Vick have won in their careers. Vick's win at Lambeau and Reid's 4th try at an NFC title come to mind. That's it. This team has 2010 Vikings written all over it. Other than the fact that Philly has no real running game. Don't be surprised if they blow some leads and if they are one and done in the playoffs. Dallas looks to rebound and I can see them making the playoffs this season. The Giants are in the same boat as Dallas and could be a potential playoff team. Washington looks like they might win the Andrew Luck sweepstakes.
Giants: 10-6
Cowboys: 10-6
Eagles: 8-8
Redskins: 3-13
NFC North:
Big Question: Can Matt Stafford stay healthy?
If he can, I think the Lions make the playoffs this year. Will he? I can't say that he will. Of all the NFC teams, I could see them winning 11 or losing 11 games. The Packers will still be the top team in the NFC North. I think the Bears were all in last year and overachieved a little. The Vikings continue their regression to the bottom of the NFC.
Packers: 12-4
Lions: 9-7
Bears: 7-9
Vikings: 4-12
NFC Playoffs:
Wildcard Round:
Cowboys over Rams
Giants over Bucs
Divisional Round:
Packers over Cowboys
Giants over Falcons
NFC Title Game:
Packers over Giants
AFC South:
Biggest Question: Will Peyton Manning be healthy?
It's tolling on your body to play in the NFL, if you've played as long as Manning and not missed time, it will catch up to you. I think Manning's consecutive game streak ends in 2011. With that opening, this is the Texans chance to finally jump out and take over the division. The Titans will be a tough out, but won't make much noise. The Jags don't strike me as a team to worry much about.
Texans: 11-5
Colts: 8-8
Titans: 8-8
Jags: 5-11
AFC West:
Big Question: Can the Chargers put it together?
The kickoff rule helped the Chargers out more than anyone else. The leagues best offense and defense was hamstrung by the worst special teams ever.Kansas City looks frisky, but I can't see them winning the division again. Oakland lost their best player, but they are still a solid team. Denver sucks.
Chargers: 13-3
Chiefs 9-7
Raiders: 8-8
Broncos: 4-12
AFC East:
Big Question: Are the J-E-T-s the B-E-S-T?
This season, yes. I think they go from a wildcard to a first round bye team. The Patriots will fight, but they will be battling for a wildcard spot. The Bills and Dolphins will be jobbers to the bigger teams.
Jets: 13-3
Pats: 11-5
Bills: 6-10
Dolphins: 6-10
AFC North:
Biggest Question: Will the Steelers offensive line hold up?
The Achilles' heel to the potentially best offense in the AFC. I think the Ravens and Bengals will be getting a lot of pressure on Big Ben. Even though the Steelers will be good, their line will hold them back. The Ravens and Joe Flaaco look to get over the hump. The Browns have a future star in Colt McCoy, but they need more weapons. The Bengals? They need more players, period.
Ravens: 11-5
Steelers: 10-6
Browns: 7-9
Bengals: 4-12
AFC Playoffs:
Wildcard Round:
Ravens over Steelers
Patriots over Texans
Divisional Round:
Chargers over Ravens
Patriots over Jets
AFC Title Game:
Chargers over Patriots
Super Bowl:
Packers over Chargers
Look, the Packers didn't really lose anything and other than Woodson, they have a core that should maintain or improve production. Barring an Aaron Rogers injury, this team looks poised to make a run at a repeat.
NFC South:
Big Question - Are the Bucs for real?
I think they are. They have a lot of player makers on both sides of the ball and I think Josh Freeman can be Big Ben 2.0. Not to mention they drafted one of the best players available in the draft in DaQuan Bowers. If he can play half a season at full strength, they got a steal. Atlanta is still the class of the division, but they aren't as good as last year. The Saints are a little overrated, but could outscore anyone any week. Carolina confuses me because even though they have two solid RBs and Pro Bowlers at the O-line, I can't see them doing much.
Falcons: 11-5
Bucs: 10-6
Saints: 8-8
Panthers: 3-13
NFC West:
Big Question - Are any of these teams any good?
A question as old as time, but it still rings true. I could see all four teams going 8-8, 4-12, or somehow 0-16. The best team in my mind is the Rams. I don't think Lynch can run in "beast mode" for 16 weeks. So Darren Sharper, you're safe. San Francisco doesn't jump out at me in any way other than their sweet unis. The Cards upgraded from Derek Anderson to Kevin Kolb. Which is like upgrading from a sewer to a garbage dump.
Rams: 9-7
Seahawks: 6-10
49ers: 6-10
Cardinals: 5-11
NFC East:
Big Question: Will Mike Vick's encore be as good?
Quick, name all the big games Andy Reid and Mike Vick have won in their careers. Vick's win at Lambeau and Reid's 4th try at an NFC title come to mind. That's it. This team has 2010 Vikings written all over it. Other than the fact that Philly has no real running game. Don't be surprised if they blow some leads and if they are one and done in the playoffs. Dallas looks to rebound and I can see them making the playoffs this season. The Giants are in the same boat as Dallas and could be a potential playoff team. Washington looks like they might win the Andrew Luck sweepstakes.
Giants: 10-6
Cowboys: 10-6
Eagles: 8-8
Redskins: 3-13
NFC North:
Big Question: Can Matt Stafford stay healthy?
If he can, I think the Lions make the playoffs this year. Will he? I can't say that he will. Of all the NFC teams, I could see them winning 11 or losing 11 games. The Packers will still be the top team in the NFC North. I think the Bears were all in last year and overachieved a little. The Vikings continue their regression to the bottom of the NFC.
Packers: 12-4
Lions: 9-7
Bears: 7-9
Vikings: 4-12
NFC Playoffs:
Wildcard Round:
Cowboys over Rams
Giants over Bucs
Divisional Round:
Packers over Cowboys
Giants over Falcons
NFC Title Game:
Packers over Giants
AFC South:
Biggest Question: Will Peyton Manning be healthy?
It's tolling on your body to play in the NFL, if you've played as long as Manning and not missed time, it will catch up to you. I think Manning's consecutive game streak ends in 2011. With that opening, this is the Texans chance to finally jump out and take over the division. The Titans will be a tough out, but won't make much noise. The Jags don't strike me as a team to worry much about.
Texans: 11-5
Colts: 8-8
Titans: 8-8
Jags: 5-11
AFC West:
Big Question: Can the Chargers put it together?
The kickoff rule helped the Chargers out more than anyone else. The leagues best offense and defense was hamstrung by the worst special teams ever.Kansas City looks frisky, but I can't see them winning the division again. Oakland lost their best player, but they are still a solid team. Denver sucks.
Chargers: 13-3
Chiefs 9-7
Raiders: 8-8
Broncos: 4-12
AFC East:
Big Question: Are the J-E-T-s the B-E-S-T?
This season, yes. I think they go from a wildcard to a first round bye team. The Patriots will fight, but they will be battling for a wildcard spot. The Bills and Dolphins will be jobbers to the bigger teams.
Jets: 13-3
Pats: 11-5
Bills: 6-10
Dolphins: 6-10
AFC North:
Biggest Question: Will the Steelers offensive line hold up?
The Achilles' heel to the potentially best offense in the AFC. I think the Ravens and Bengals will be getting a lot of pressure on Big Ben. Even though the Steelers will be good, their line will hold them back. The Ravens and Joe Flaaco look to get over the hump. The Browns have a future star in Colt McCoy, but they need more weapons. The Bengals? They need more players, period.
Ravens: 11-5
Steelers: 10-6
Browns: 7-9
Bengals: 4-12
AFC Playoffs:
Wildcard Round:
Ravens over Steelers
Patriots over Texans
Divisional Round:
Chargers over Ravens
Patriots over Jets
AFC Title Game:
Chargers over Patriots
Super Bowl:
Packers over Chargers
Look, the Packers didn't really lose anything and other than Woodson, they have a core that should maintain or improve production. Barring an Aaron Rogers injury, this team looks poised to make a run at a repeat.
Monday, August 22, 2011
What's your number?
There has been a big issue brought up about numbers lately. Andy Dalton is wearing number 14, Kenny Anderson's old number. A number that should probably be retired. Not only that, Bruce Gradkowsi is wearin number 7 and LeFevour is wearing number 8.
In need of a topic, and the fact that lists always get people riled up, I'm making a list of the best numbers in Bengal history. Basically, what number makes me instantly think of a player and how weird it would be to see someone else wear it.
Let's get it started, from worst to first.
In need of a topic, and the fact that lists always get people riled up, I'm making a list of the best numbers in Bengal history. Basically, what number makes me instantly think of a player and how weird it would be to see someone else wear it.
Let's get it started, from worst to first.
- #11 - Akili Smith. How could a guy so bad, be worth so many draft picks?
- #32 - Ki-Jana Carter. was an overrated bust. What I mean is, yea his career didn't pan out. But he got hurt, it wasn't because he wasn't good. He still played in the NFL for several years, he just wasn't a stud.
- #81 - Carl Pickens. A very good reciever that became the first in a long line to really complain about the Bengals. Remember when he seemed like a cry baby? The guy was a forerunner.
- #14 - Kenny Anderson. I didn't see Kenny play, but if you ask older Bengals fans, the fact that Dalton wears his number makes 'em mad.
- #8 - Jeff Blake. The king of the deep ball.
- #30 - Ickey Woods. The most overrated Bengal of all time. In fact, I'm going to start calling him the Los Del Rios of Bengals players.
- #71 - Willie Anderson. Maybe the only good player of the Mike Brown era to stick around and not talk bad. Willie was the kind of guy that did his job and expected his teammates to do the same. Great guy.
- #78 - Anthony Munoz. The Hall of Famer. Most offensive linemen don't get pub. But when Anthony will always have a place in our hearts.
- #85 - Chad Johnson. You're not going to believe this, but Chad is the most underrated Bengal of All-Time (more on that on a later date)
- #7 - Boomer Esaison. He was the QB during the good times. Even his run in 1997 was pretty awesome.
- #28 - Corey Dillon. Corey is my favorite Bengal of all time. A great player on bad teams. Unlike most Bengals, I have more positive memories of him than neative. Which says a lot. The Thursday night game as a rookie. The Denver game. The game were he threw his equipment in my section as the crowd chanted his name. I was so happy he got a ring. Congrats Corey, you're number one in my book.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Meet Jimmy Clausen 2.0
It's only been a year, so I'll shorten the history lesson. Jimmy Clausen fell the Carolina Panthers in round 2 of last years draft. Seemed like they were going to make him their starter. Of course, they had the worst record in his first season so now the Panthers drafted a new QB, franchiser Cam Newton. Maybe Jimmy wasn't the guy they thought he was (and they let 'em off the hook). But one year is all he gets? It's not like the rest of the team was so good he brought him down, and for a project like Cam Newton? That just seems silly.
The reason I bring it up is because of Bengals rookie QB Andy "The Orange Outlaw" Dalton. In my first ever blog post, I said that the Bengals need to ride him out this year. After all, if you really think he's going to be your guy, why not? The problem lies with what happens next year.
Presumably, Andrew Luck, QB out of Stanford will go in the draft and be the number one pick. And the Bengals could own that pick. Do they take Luck? Of course they do, but then they basically wasted a second round pick on a guy that will never see the field again for that team. A team like the Bengals can't just throw away high draft picks.
The worst part? The 2012 Bengals looks A LOT like the 2011 Bengals. A rookie QB has to learn the ropes, again. The problem is that the only other good players we have are going to be a year older, which could mean they are running on fumes or left on free agency. And the fans get another season of 5-11 football. It's not about the money, Dalton's cap number is small. It's about time. Time Dalton needs to develop, time before certain players clocks run out, and buffer time between Mike Brown hitting the reset button.
The reason I bring it up is because of Bengals rookie QB Andy "The Orange Outlaw" Dalton. In my first ever blog post, I said that the Bengals need to ride him out this year. After all, if you really think he's going to be your guy, why not? The problem lies with what happens next year.
Presumably, Andrew Luck, QB out of Stanford will go in the draft and be the number one pick. And the Bengals could own that pick. Do they take Luck? Of course they do, but then they basically wasted a second round pick on a guy that will never see the field again for that team. A team like the Bengals can't just throw away high draft picks.
The worst part? The 2012 Bengals looks A LOT like the 2011 Bengals. A rookie QB has to learn the ropes, again. The problem is that the only other good players we have are going to be a year older, which could mean they are running on fumes or left on free agency. And the fans get another season of 5-11 football. It's not about the money, Dalton's cap number is small. It's about time. Time Dalton needs to develop, time before certain players clocks run out, and buffer time between Mike Brown hitting the reset button.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Somewhere Over Yonder
It's been a long time, too long, since I've written a blog post. I've had marginal ideas about what to write, but I knew it would take something big for me to get back into it. Today, I found my cause. I found my reason to write, Joey Votto.
Joey Votto is the best player the Cincinnati Reds have had since Barry Larkin, but if you ask certain people around town, he needs to go. See, the Reds have a rookie named Yonder Alonso that can hit the ball really well, too. He's a rookie, so we don't know how well. Like Joey, he's made to play first base. The Reds have tried him out in left and may try him at third base, but the fact is, he's a first bagger like Joey.
So what to do? You can't play them both at first, and I don't think the Reds will most to the American League anytime soon, so there are a few options being thrown around. Let's take a look at them.
I think there is a conspiracy going on. Call me crazy, but there has been a lot of negative Votto talk this season. Is it because certain people know that he's going to be moved and if the general fan has a negative taste in their mouth anyway, it'll make the move easier? All I can say is remember Josh Hamilton? This could be that times 10.
Why mess with a good thing? You KNOW Joey Votto is great. You THINK Yonder Alonso is great. There is a difference.
Joey Votto is the best player the Cincinnati Reds have had since Barry Larkin, but if you ask certain people around town, he needs to go. See, the Reds have a rookie named Yonder Alonso that can hit the ball really well, too. He's a rookie, so we don't know how well. Like Joey, he's made to play first base. The Reds have tried him out in left and may try him at third base, but the fact is, he's a first bagger like Joey.
So what to do? You can't play them both at first, and I don't think the Reds will most to the American League anytime soon, so there are a few options being thrown around. Let's take a look at them.
- Move Yonder Alonso to another position - So far, this has been the option the Reds have been using. Yonder has been playing out in LF for the Louisville Bats and had a handful of tries in the majors. Apparently, the Reds found out what the Bats didn't know, Yonder sucks in left. They also might try him at third, but we'll see.
- Trade Joey Votto - Joey is a big time player. And the Reds aren't a big time money team. It looks like down the road, Joey Votto will likely be moved somewhere else. I guess if you know you're going to lose him, why not move him to another team and get some prospects along with giving Alonso first base?
- Move Votto to Another Position - This has to be the silliest idea I've ever heard. Joey isn't a great defensive first baseman. What makes you think he can play somewhere else? People say that if he wants to help the team he'll move. HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE????
I think there is a conspiracy going on. Call me crazy, but there has been a lot of negative Votto talk this season. Is it because certain people know that he's going to be moved and if the general fan has a negative taste in their mouth anyway, it'll make the move easier? All I can say is remember Josh Hamilton? This could be that times 10.
Why mess with a good thing? You KNOW Joey Votto is great. You THINK Yonder Alonso is great. There is a difference.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The Amazing Happens
People sometimes ask me, what's my fascination with sports? A few things come to mind. I am a little obsessed with statistics, and using them to formulate why something is or isn't what it seems. Another reason would be that I like to play a lot of them. While I'm not very good, I enjoy working as a team and maybe in my mind, pretending that the game is bigger than it actually is.
But neither of those are the reason I am writing today. There is a third reason I love sports, especially watching them. You never know when you are going to see something special. A lot of times, you can feel that something could happen. It's a "wouldn't it be cool if..." moment. Sometimes, its an epic play or a huge upset, or a post game tirade. My favorite of all, is the late game comeback. You've seen or heard of the big ones, Bills-Oilers, Mavs-Heat, Yankees-Red Sox, among others, but the most amazing comeback I've ever seen wasn't on a field, or a court, or on a rink, but an octagon.
I'm not a huge MMA fan. It's fast pace and high action does make it more appealing than boxing. On Sunday, the UFC had an event in Pittsburgh, and what happened might be the most amazing 30 seconds ever. Cheick Kongo is a veteran MMA fighter. He's not the best, but he's still a pretty good fighter. His opponent, Pat Barry, (Not the FOX 19 Weatherman) is not a slouch either. They are the main event of the evening, and boy, was that a good call.
The round starts out with the two men sizing each other up, landing a few probing shots to figure out what their game plan is. After some slow building, Barry comes in and with one big punch sends Kongo down hard. As Barry tries to get on him, but Kongo gets to his knees and while he tries to stand, Barry continues the assault. Kongo gets to his feet and after another shot, he falls. Hard. He looks like Jenga blocks toppling over. And for a second he's on his back. Then, something happens.
Kongo struggles to get to his feet. Barry is trying to hold him down but allows Kongo to stand again. And honestly, how can you blame him? The last two punches Kongo took while standing floored him. It's going to happen again, right? Barry rushes in on his dazed opponent and gets caught with a punch while he is coming in. And then an uppercut, and wait... Pat Barry is out. He's out like VHS, Myspace, and Charlie Sheen's acting career.
On the video between 4:37 and 5:05, Pat Barry seemingly knocks his opponent out TWICE only to lose. It's an amazing comeback. It's an amazing series of events. And it's stuff like that fight that make sports so fun. Because for every blowout, late comeback that's thwarted, and just plain boring game, there is a Chieck Kongo becoming the Semi-Conscience Superman. And that's what makes sports the most rewarding form of entertainment. If you stick it out long enough, the amazing happens.
But neither of those are the reason I am writing today. There is a third reason I love sports, especially watching them. You never know when you are going to see something special. A lot of times, you can feel that something could happen. It's a "wouldn't it be cool if..." moment. Sometimes, its an epic play or a huge upset, or a post game tirade. My favorite of all, is the late game comeback. You've seen or heard of the big ones, Bills-Oilers, Mavs-Heat, Yankees-Red Sox, among others, but the most amazing comeback I've ever seen wasn't on a field, or a court, or on a rink, but an octagon.
I'm not a huge MMA fan. It's fast pace and high action does make it more appealing than boxing. On Sunday, the UFC had an event in Pittsburgh, and what happened might be the most amazing 30 seconds ever. Cheick Kongo is a veteran MMA fighter. He's not the best, but he's still a pretty good fighter. His opponent, Pat Barry, (Not the FOX 19 Weatherman) is not a slouch either. They are the main event of the evening, and boy, was that a good call.
The round starts out with the two men sizing each other up, landing a few probing shots to figure out what their game plan is. After some slow building, Barry comes in and with one big punch sends Kongo down hard. As Barry tries to get on him, but Kongo gets to his knees and while he tries to stand, Barry continues the assault. Kongo gets to his feet and after another shot, he falls. Hard. He looks like Jenga blocks toppling over. And for a second he's on his back. Then, something happens.
Kongo struggles to get to his feet. Barry is trying to hold him down but allows Kongo to stand again. And honestly, how can you blame him? The last two punches Kongo took while standing floored him. It's going to happen again, right? Barry rushes in on his dazed opponent and gets caught with a punch while he is coming in. And then an uppercut, and wait... Pat Barry is out. He's out like VHS, Myspace, and Charlie Sheen's acting career.
On the video between 4:37 and 5:05, Pat Barry seemingly knocks his opponent out TWICE only to lose. It's an amazing comeback. It's an amazing series of events. And it's stuff like that fight that make sports so fun. Because for every blowout, late comeback that's thwarted, and just plain boring game, there is a Chieck Kongo becoming the Semi-Conscience Superman. And that's what makes sports the most rewarding form of entertainment. If you stick it out long enough, the amazing happens.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Support Your Local Sports Team
Cincinnati isn't the biggest city around. When it comes to national sports scene, people know us for Ochocinco, Bengals going to jail (which doesn't happen NEARLY as much as people would like to believe), the Reds, and college basketball. Success and star power is usually not seen outside of the 275 loop.
We have a chance to put Cincinnati in the spotlight. We know the Reds are good. We know guys like Brandon Philips, Joey Votto, and Jay Bruce are some of the best position players in the National League. Those guys are doing their part to get into the national spotlight, we need to do ours.
Last year, Joey Votto, the eventual National League MVP only made the All Star game because of the last man in vote. The final vote showed that we can rally for our guys, but we shouldn't put them behind the 8 ball in the first place. Vote Reds
We like to complain, myself included, that we don't get enough respect or attention in the national media. But at the same time, maybe WE don't give our own teams, other than the Bengals, enough attention. People say they don't go to Reds games because it's too high. You don't have to buy 8 dollar beers. In fact, you can bring your own drinks in. You can get really cheap tickets if you want. I'm not saying that everyone should by 10 game ticket packs. Just don't say, "(Insert Media Outlet) doesn't care about the Reds," when you haven't really supported the team yourself.
Vote Reds. Support our guys. Watch them on TV, vote for them in the All Star Game, and why not come to a game or two?
We have a chance to put Cincinnati in the spotlight. We know the Reds are good. We know guys like Brandon Philips, Joey Votto, and Jay Bruce are some of the best position players in the National League. Those guys are doing their part to get into the national spotlight, we need to do ours.
Last year, Joey Votto, the eventual National League MVP only made the All Star game because of the last man in vote. The final vote showed that we can rally for our guys, but we shouldn't put them behind the 8 ball in the first place. Vote Reds
We like to complain, myself included, that we don't get enough respect or attention in the national media. But at the same time, maybe WE don't give our own teams, other than the Bengals, enough attention. People say they don't go to Reds games because it's too high. You don't have to buy 8 dollar beers. In fact, you can bring your own drinks in. You can get really cheap tickets if you want. I'm not saying that everyone should by 10 game ticket packs. Just don't say, "(Insert Media Outlet) doesn't care about the Reds," when you haven't really supported the team yourself.
Vote Reds. Support our guys. Watch them on TV, vote for them in the All Star Game, and why not come to a game or two?
Friday, June 24, 2011
Unnecessary Changes
This weekend the Cincinnati Reds have their long awaited rematch from the 1970 World Series against the Baltimore Orioles. My memories of that series are... yea, I wasn't really around then. This is series marks the Reds playing at all of the American League parks. Great.
Look, I see the appeal to Inter-league play. Battle of Ohio is cool. Being able to see the Yankees play the Reds is definitely an attraction. The Reds had their first non-opening day Monday sell-out because of it. Money is to be made. Besides, the more teams that play each other, the less we have to hear about Red Sox versus Yankees. So that's a plus
I guess my gripe is that other than when we play the Indians or a marquee team like the Yankees or Red Sox, it's just another game. Sure, the Texas Rangers were in the World Series last year, but I wouldn't be clamoring to get tickets because the Rangers are in town.
More than any other pro sport, baseball has more tradition in the US than any other sport. There are a lot of things that make it unique. The DH Rule, 7th inning stretch, and not playing the other league. That's what makes it cool. I know that there are 162 games and that people might not want to see the Astros 14 times a year, but that's baseball. The fact that the team we play in the World Series may be the only time we play that team is pretty cool. And adds to the lore of baseball.
But in a world that likes to change things just because they feel like it, it was only a matter of time until inter-league play happened. And now there is talk of realignment and going from 2 leagues and 3 divisions to 2 leagues and 2 divisions. That's got an old school feel to it, and really makes winning a division mean a lot. I would be a big fan of realignment. Why should the Reds be in a 6 team division and the Rangers be in a 4 team one? So it'll be interesting to see how that pays out.
Just don't talk to me about an 18 game schedule.
Look, I see the appeal to Inter-league play. Battle of Ohio is cool. Being able to see the Yankees play the Reds is definitely an attraction. The Reds had their first non-opening day Monday sell-out because of it. Money is to be made. Besides, the more teams that play each other, the less we have to hear about Red Sox versus Yankees. So that's a plus
I guess my gripe is that other than when we play the Indians or a marquee team like the Yankees or Red Sox, it's just another game. Sure, the Texas Rangers were in the World Series last year, but I wouldn't be clamoring to get tickets because the Rangers are in town.
More than any other pro sport, baseball has more tradition in the US than any other sport. There are a lot of things that make it unique. The DH Rule, 7th inning stretch, and not playing the other league. That's what makes it cool. I know that there are 162 games and that people might not want to see the Astros 14 times a year, but that's baseball. The fact that the team we play in the World Series may be the only time we play that team is pretty cool. And adds to the lore of baseball.
But in a world that likes to change things just because they feel like it, it was only a matter of time until inter-league play happened. And now there is talk of realignment and going from 2 leagues and 3 divisions to 2 leagues and 2 divisions. That's got an old school feel to it, and really makes winning a division mean a lot. I would be a big fan of realignment. Why should the Reds be in a 6 team division and the Rangers be in a 4 team one? So it'll be interesting to see how that pays out.
Just don't talk to me about an 18 game schedule.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Xbox Love Triangle
I have to admit something. I've been with Jess for six years, but there has always been another love in my life. It's been an affair that I hope to get out in the open and see if I can make it work with Jessica. I love video games.
Jess has never been a big fan of video games. Sure, she plays the occasional Wii party game, and she loves them on her iPhone, but the Xbox360 and Jess have been rivals for years. I hope that I have found a way to bridge the gap between the two. LA Noire.
As I've written before, I really like LA Noire. And one thing Jess and I like to watch are police shows. I feel like this game could be a happy medium for both of us enjoy. I've been through a complete playthrough before, so I know we can make it 'til the end. It will be interesting to see how her detective work is compared to mine. She'll probably blow my scores away.
We'll see how this works. I'm excited, and she's... on board. It'll be an interesting experiment to see if I can make my two loves love each other. Maybe not love each other, but at least not be at each others throats.
Is there anything you've tried to get your significant other interested in? Did it work? Did it fail with hilarious consequences? Let me know. Post a comment or leave a message on Facebook. (I'd prefer you leave the message here.)
Jess has never been a big fan of video games. Sure, she plays the occasional Wii party game, and she loves them on her iPhone, but the Xbox360 and Jess have been rivals for years. I hope that I have found a way to bridge the gap between the two. LA Noire.
As I've written before, I really like LA Noire. And one thing Jess and I like to watch are police shows. I feel like this game could be a happy medium for both of us enjoy. I've been through a complete playthrough before, so I know we can make it 'til the end. It will be interesting to see how her detective work is compared to mine. She'll probably blow my scores away.
We'll see how this works. I'm excited, and she's... on board. It'll be an interesting experiment to see if I can make my two loves love each other. Maybe not love each other, but at least not be at each others throats.
Is there anything you've tried to get your significant other interested in? Did it work? Did it fail with hilarious consequences? Let me know. Post a comment or leave a message on Facebook. (I'd prefer you leave the message here.)
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Father's Day
Today is Father's Day and I wanted to take the time to talk about my dad. When it comes to athletics my dad was an awesome baseball player. Then again, Peebles didn't have football, he was too short for basketball, and my dad hates hockey (he can't skate). He did get his hitting genes from his dad. Big Ralph could hit a ton and listening to people talk about it is like hearing a tall tale. "One time, Ralph hit a ball so hard it went over the Peebles High School and reports were that it was spotted in Maysville." Who am I to judge? He was hitting balls better than me the last time we were at the diamond. They say talent skips a generation, which is why I royally suck at baseball more than anything else.
Nowadays my dad doesn't play baseball much, but usually you can find him playing horseshoes. He used to have a three-wheeler, thankfully he got rid of it. He was crazy dangerous on it, and if we didn't get rid of it, I'd probably not be writing this today. So thanks dad and mom for getting rid of it. I appreciate it. So does Jess.
When it comes to watching sports, my dad isn't a big pro sports fan. He loves College Sports and the Little League World Series. My dad actually buys the College Football Package from DirectTV. That might not seem like a big deal to you, dear reader, but let me tell you. That is HUGE. It's like 200 bucks! I can't tell you the last time my dad spent 200 bucks on anything else. Maybe their car. My parents have no movie channels, but on Saturday if you want to see Northern Illinois vs Middle Tennessee State, come to their house.
College Sports fit my dad's personality. He's not one to boast, other than about the computer he built. He doesn't like the pro sports because its all about the money. He's an honest man, and I think that's one reason he doesn't like Pete Rose. Even though Pete is a lot like my dad with his work ethic, he cheated. My dad won't tolerate a cheater, no matter what else they did. I respect that. You know what you're getting with my dad. He's a fine husband, (I'm told) a great guy, and a super dad. One day I hope that I can be as good at those three things as he is, because I'll never be that good of a ball player, sorry dad.
Happy Father's Day, to my dad and all the other Dads out there.
Nowadays my dad doesn't play baseball much, but usually you can find him playing horseshoes. He used to have a three-wheeler, thankfully he got rid of it. He was crazy dangerous on it, and if we didn't get rid of it, I'd probably not be writing this today. So thanks dad and mom for getting rid of it. I appreciate it. So does Jess.
When it comes to watching sports, my dad isn't a big pro sports fan. He loves College Sports and the Little League World Series. My dad actually buys the College Football Package from DirectTV. That might not seem like a big deal to you, dear reader, but let me tell you. That is HUGE. It's like 200 bucks! I can't tell you the last time my dad spent 200 bucks on anything else. Maybe their car. My parents have no movie channels, but on Saturday if you want to see Northern Illinois vs Middle Tennessee State, come to their house.
College Sports fit my dad's personality. He's not one to boast, other than about the computer he built. He doesn't like the pro sports because its all about the money. He's an honest man, and I think that's one reason he doesn't like Pete Rose. Even though Pete is a lot like my dad with his work ethic, he cheated. My dad won't tolerate a cheater, no matter what else they did. I respect that. You know what you're getting with my dad. He's a fine husband, (I'm told) a great guy, and a super dad. One day I hope that I can be as good at those three things as he is, because I'll never be that good of a ball player, sorry dad.
Happy Father's Day, to my dad and all the other Dads out there.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
I Hope It Was Worth It, Bill
In 2001, Bill Simmons was starting to come into his own at ESPN. Still new with the company, his Page 2 Column started to take off. In the 10 years since, Bill has been a writer for Jimmy Kimmel Live, moved to LA, become the biggest writer for ESPN, produced huge documentaries, and now launched his own site, grantland.com. Besides his accomplishments, sports and entertainment from Boston has exploded. Take a look at this:
Even if my theory isn't true, I think Boston has become what we always pictured New York to be. The city that has all the winners, the city that can put something over your head because they are better than your city. One day, I plan to meet Bill Simmons and ask him myself if this is true. And if it is, I'm going to then find Jerry Springer and find out why he did the same thing but only got a trashy talk show and a few years as host of America's Got Talent.
- New England Patriots, 3 Time Superbowl Champs
- Boston Celtics, 1 NBA Title
- Boston Red Sox, 2 World Series wins
- Boston Bruins, 1 Stanley Cup
- Dana White and UFC explode
- Jay Leno gets his job back from Conan
- The Departed wins best picture
- The Fighter and The Town, also about Boston come out
- John Cena (from West Newberry, Mass) wins estimated 45,000 matches and 1,000 WWE championships
- Sam Adams beer becomes super popular
- People listen to the Flogging Mollys
Even if my theory isn't true, I think Boston has become what we always pictured New York to be. The city that has all the winners, the city that can put something over your head because they are better than your city. One day, I plan to meet Bill Simmons and ask him myself if this is true. And if it is, I'm going to then find Jerry Springer and find out why he did the same thing but only got a trashy talk show and a few years as host of America's Got Talent.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Game 7
A few summers ago I went to a Cyclones hockey game. The game happened to start around the same time as the Reds were playing next door. A Cubs fan looked at my jersey and asked me if there was a playoff hockey game going on. I told him yes, it was Game 7. When I told him it was Game 7, he told his friends there was a change of plans, they were going to see two minor league hockey teams play a Game 7 instead of his favorite team playing the Reds.
That is one story of how big a Game 7 in hockey is. I have more, and any hockey fan can tell you how big these games are. Game 7 isn't just the final game in a series, its the most intense 60 minutes (or more) in sports. Hockey players are already wired differently. They are mentally and physically tough. They always play with intensity and that ratchets up in the playoffs. And for Game 7? For the greatest trophy in pro sports? To have your name forever etched on Lord Stanley's Cup? Hide your kids, hide your wife...
The Canucks play the Bruins tonight in Vancouver at 8pm on NBC. Or CBC, watch it on there if you can. Don Cherry is awesome. He's like a reverse Jackie Robinson, breaking the color barrier on crazy looking suits. The entire spectacle of the Stanley Cup Final is fantastic to watch. And as for the teams, there is a TON of side storys.
USA versus Canada. Will Luongo look like games 1, 2, and 5 (2 goals) or 3, 4, and 6 (15 goals)? The Canucks are the faster team, and came in statistically better. But Boston has shown to be very tough. And in the playoffs, toughness and goal tending is the name of the game.
I think this game will be decided by one man. Roberto Luongo, the Canucks goaltender. When he has been on, they don't lose. But when he is off, man is he off. So far, he's been able to handle the pressure when he's at home. But will those 15 goals allowed, and the Boston crowd chanting his name all night Monday. That has to get to him, that has to break him down eventually. And in the biggest moment of the biggest game of his life, will he be able to handle it? We will find out tonight. Game 7.
That is one story of how big a Game 7 in hockey is. I have more, and any hockey fan can tell you how big these games are. Game 7 isn't just the final game in a series, its the most intense 60 minutes (or more) in sports. Hockey players are already wired differently. They are mentally and physically tough. They always play with intensity and that ratchets up in the playoffs. And for Game 7? For the greatest trophy in pro sports? To have your name forever etched on Lord Stanley's Cup? Hide your kids, hide your wife...
The Canucks play the Bruins tonight in Vancouver at 8pm on NBC. Or CBC, watch it on there if you can. Don Cherry is awesome. He's like a reverse Jackie Robinson, breaking the color barrier on crazy looking suits. The entire spectacle of the Stanley Cup Final is fantastic to watch. And as for the teams, there is a TON of side storys.
USA versus Canada. Will Luongo look like games 1, 2, and 5 (2 goals) or 3, 4, and 6 (15 goals)? The Canucks are the faster team, and came in statistically better. But Boston has shown to be very tough. And in the playoffs, toughness and goal tending is the name of the game.
I think this game will be decided by one man. Roberto Luongo, the Canucks goaltender. When he has been on, they don't lose. But when he is off, man is he off. So far, he's been able to handle the pressure when he's at home. But will those 15 goals allowed, and the Boston crowd chanting his name all night Monday. That has to get to him, that has to break him down eventually. And in the biggest moment of the biggest game of his life, will he be able to handle it? We will find out tonight. Game 7.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Don't Take This Personal
There is a disconnect between most athletes and fans. The most recent example was LeBron's post game tirade. If you haven't seen it, here's a sample:
"Because at the end of the day, all the people that was rooting on me to fail, at the end of the day they have to wake up tomorrow and have the same life that they had before they woke up today. They have the same personal problems they had today." - LeBron James
And he's right, when I woke up after they lost, I still was without a full-time job. My bank account still only contains 3 digits. I still don't have a BMW in the driveway of my 30,000 square foot compound. There were two things that really bothered me about what he said, he didn't take responsibility for his team losing and instead of addressing supporters, he addresses his haters.
Why feed to the trolls? If you are so worry more about the people that don't like you, eventually, nobody will like you. Instead of making remarks like that, hit the gym and make yourself better. LeBron, you CAN be the "Chosen 1" you CAN dominate any and every game. That's what drives me crazy. I want to hate you because I know you will dismantle my favorite team effortlessly, not because you cowardly hide behind your words.
LeBron is the latest in a long line of athletes that play the, "you're just jealous you aren't me" card. Sure, I'd love to make that kind of money, I'd like to make Jerome Simpson money. But that's not the reason for the hate. This is a career for athletes; it's their livelihood. However to sports fans, this is entertainment. At the end of the day, pro sports are something we like to talk about, argue about, and just watch like any other form of entertainment.
I have no personal issues with LeBron James. Or any other athlete, except maybe Kimo. (Curse you Kimo) Athletes that take what we say personally need to get over it. If you're on TV, people are going to dissect you. That's how it works. Instead of taking shots at the people that make you relevant, change their opinions by proving them wrong. Show them you are willing to put in the time to earn your spot.
There was a time that I hated Kobe Bryant. He was an arrogant ball hog that only got to where he was because of Shaq. He was a diva, that drove his teammate and coach out of town. Even prompting Phil Jackson to write a book about him. But then something happened, Kobe starting winning again. Kobe didn't seemed to let his play do the talking for him. He worked his butt off and became the best player in the world. What a concept.
"Because at the end of the day, all the people that was rooting on me to fail, at the end of the day they have to wake up tomorrow and have the same life that they had before they woke up today. They have the same personal problems they had today." - LeBron James
And he's right, when I woke up after they lost, I still was without a full-time job. My bank account still only contains 3 digits. I still don't have a BMW in the driveway of my 30,000 square foot compound. There were two things that really bothered me about what he said, he didn't take responsibility for his team losing and instead of addressing supporters, he addresses his haters.
Why feed to the trolls? If you are so worry more about the people that don't like you, eventually, nobody will like you. Instead of making remarks like that, hit the gym and make yourself better. LeBron, you CAN be the "Chosen 1" you CAN dominate any and every game. That's what drives me crazy. I want to hate you because I know you will dismantle my favorite team effortlessly, not because you cowardly hide behind your words.
LeBron is the latest in a long line of athletes that play the, "you're just jealous you aren't me" card. Sure, I'd love to make that kind of money, I'd like to make Jerome Simpson money. But that's not the reason for the hate. This is a career for athletes; it's their livelihood. However to sports fans, this is entertainment. At the end of the day, pro sports are something we like to talk about, argue about, and just watch like any other form of entertainment.
I have no personal issues with LeBron James. Or any other athlete, except maybe Kimo. (Curse you Kimo) Athletes that take what we say personally need to get over it. If you're on TV, people are going to dissect you. That's how it works. Instead of taking shots at the people that make you relevant, change their opinions by proving them wrong. Show them you are willing to put in the time to earn your spot.
There was a time that I hated Kobe Bryant. He was an arrogant ball hog that only got to where he was because of Shaq. He was a diva, that drove his teammate and coach out of town. Even prompting Phil Jackson to write a book about him. But then something happened, Kobe starting winning again. Kobe didn't seemed to let his play do the talking for him. He worked his butt off and became the best player in the world. What a concept.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Maybe Next Time, LeBron (Alternate Version)
During Game 4 of the NBA Finals, I wrote this blog about if Miami won. I really felt like LeBron was in a lose-lose situation. Even if he won, he didn't.
In the 1980's, Ted Dibiase was always trying to get the WWF Title. He had the money, the skills, and everything it took to get that belt, but he never could. And then, "The Million Dollar Man" came up with his most devious plan. He had Andre the Giant fight, and defeat, WWF World Champion Hulk Hogan. Once he was awarded the belt, he gave to Ted DiBiase. A dastardly move by a dastardly man. Of course, it didn't last long, we soon found out that an evil twin ref was used and there was a fast count, and the Million Dollar Man's plan was foiled.
This time there was no "evil ref". (2006, anyone?) But when LeBron couldn't win the title on his own, he joined his own version of the Million Dollar Team. (Chris Bosh as Virgil) And like Ted DiBiase, even though he held the title, everyone knew it wasn't his. Maybe to him it doesn't matter. Being a champion is being a champion. No matter how you got there, it's yours.
Am I calling LeBron a fraud? Not exactly. His team won the title and he was a major contributor. He is a big reason they made it as far as they did. But nobody that has watched this NBA Finals can tell you LeBron carried this team. This has been D Wade's team. He's been the fire, he's been the reason they won. He's the reason the team is even together.
LeBron is too good to not have a title. Many times, he's the best player on the court. He's the most amazing physical force in the NBA since a young Shaq. If it wasn't this year, it could be next year, or the next. As long as he's healthy, any team with LeBron James in the lineup is a legit title contender. But maybe this time, it wasn't really his. It's a shame for him that people won't let him enjoy it the way he will want to, but he's still the champ. For now.
In the 1980's, Ted Dibiase was always trying to get the WWF Title. He had the money, the skills, and everything it took to get that belt, but he never could. And then, "The Million Dollar Man" came up with his most devious plan. He had Andre the Giant fight, and defeat, WWF World Champion Hulk Hogan. Once he was awarded the belt, he gave to Ted DiBiase. A dastardly move by a dastardly man. Of course, it didn't last long, we soon found out that an evil twin ref was used and there was a fast count, and the Million Dollar Man's plan was foiled.
This time there was no "evil ref". (2006, anyone?) But when LeBron couldn't win the title on his own, he joined his own version of the Million Dollar Team. (Chris Bosh as Virgil) And like Ted DiBiase, even though he held the title, everyone knew it wasn't his. Maybe to him it doesn't matter. Being a champion is being a champion. No matter how you got there, it's yours.
Am I calling LeBron a fraud? Not exactly. His team won the title and he was a major contributor. He is a big reason they made it as far as they did. But nobody that has watched this NBA Finals can tell you LeBron carried this team. This has been D Wade's team. He's been the fire, he's been the reason they won. He's the reason the team is even together.
LeBron is too good to not have a title. Many times, he's the best player on the court. He's the most amazing physical force in the NBA since a young Shaq. If it wasn't this year, it could be next year, or the next. As long as he's healthy, any team with LeBron James in the lineup is a legit title contender. But maybe this time, it wasn't really his. It's a shame for him that people won't let him enjoy it the way he will want to, but he's still the champ. For now.
Maybe Next Time, LeBron
In the 1980's, Ted Dibiase was always trying to get the WWF Title. He had the money, the skills, and everything it took to get that belt, but he never could. And then, "The Million Dollar Man" came up with his most devious plan. He had Andre the Giant fight, and defeat, WWF World Champion Hulk Hogan. Once he was awarded the belt, he gave to Ted DiBiase. A dastardly move by a dastardly man. Of course, it didn't last long, we soon found out that an evil twin ref was used and there was a fast count, and the Million Dollar Man's plan was foiled.
And over twenty years later, the good guys won again. No matter how good Ted DiBiase's team was, (Chris Bosh is Virgil) Hulk Hogan prevailed. Like he always does, Hulk showed up in the end. The bad guys can try to beat him, physically or mentally, but Dirk wouldn't let his team or his fans (Mavamaniacs?) down. Fadeaways, free throws, spin move layups, and three pointers. It seemed like whatever the situation, Dirk has the answer.
Over a decade of 50 plus win seasons, coaches and players changed around him, but Dirk was a constant in Dallas. When they blew a series against the 8th Golden State Warriors a few years back, it seemed like Dirk's chance was 2006. A postseason marred by a referee scandal, a 2-0 series lead was blown, and that seemed like that's the last time we'd hear from the Mavs. The Lakers got better, much better, the Spurs wouldn't die, the Hornets showed flashes, as did the Suns and Nuggets. The Mavs seemed lost in the shuffle.
Then came the summer of 2010. A ton of star players could, and would move around. One player didn't move, Dirk. The Mavs were an older team, and a lot of people thought Dirk might leave to chase a ring, but he was too loyal to the team that took him 13 years earlier. When the playoffs came around, the Mavs looked like an also ran. The Lakers looked to three-peat in Phil's last hoorah, the Thunder were a sexy pick, and the Spurs had the best record in the league. The Celtics, Heat, and Bulls loomed in the Eastern Conference. But, in Hulk Hogan fashion, Dirk took his team to another level. No matter the odds, they just couldn't be stopped.
One day, I'll be writing about LeBron's championship, he's just too good to not have a title. Many times, he's the best player on the court. He's the most amazing physical force in the NBA since a young Shaq. If it wasn't this year, it could be next year, or the next. As long as he's healthy, any team with LeBron James in the lineup is a legit title contender. It didn't work out this year. Maybe next time, LeBron
And over twenty years later, the good guys won again. No matter how good Ted DiBiase's team was, (Chris Bosh is Virgil) Hulk Hogan prevailed. Like he always does, Hulk showed up in the end. The bad guys can try to beat him, physically or mentally, but Dirk wouldn't let his team or his fans (Mavamaniacs?) down. Fadeaways, free throws, spin move layups, and three pointers. It seemed like whatever the situation, Dirk has the answer.
Over a decade of 50 plus win seasons, coaches and players changed around him, but Dirk was a constant in Dallas. When they blew a series against the 8th Golden State Warriors a few years back, it seemed like Dirk's chance was 2006. A postseason marred by a referee scandal, a 2-0 series lead was blown, and that seemed like that's the last time we'd hear from the Mavs. The Lakers got better, much better, the Spurs wouldn't die, the Hornets showed flashes, as did the Suns and Nuggets. The Mavs seemed lost in the shuffle.
Then came the summer of 2010. A ton of star players could, and would move around. One player didn't move, Dirk. The Mavs were an older team, and a lot of people thought Dirk might leave to chase a ring, but he was too loyal to the team that took him 13 years earlier. When the playoffs came around, the Mavs looked like an also ran. The Lakers looked to three-peat in Phil's last hoorah, the Thunder were a sexy pick, and the Spurs had the best record in the league. The Celtics, Heat, and Bulls loomed in the Eastern Conference. But, in Hulk Hogan fashion, Dirk took his team to another level. No matter the odds, they just couldn't be stopped.
One day, I'll be writing about LeBron's championship, he's just too good to not have a title. Many times, he's the best player on the court. He's the most amazing physical force in the NBA since a young Shaq. If it wasn't this year, it could be next year, or the next. As long as he's healthy, any team with LeBron James in the lineup is a legit title contender. It didn't work out this year. Maybe next time, LeBron
Saturday, June 11, 2011
The Rocky Awards
Since the Rocky franchise is my favorite movie franchise, its was just a matter of time for me to do an article about it. So here they are the Rocky Awards.
Worst Movie: Um. Really? Rocky 5
Best Song: One thing that is big is Rocky movies, the music. From the instrumentals, to the classic 80's rock songs. Of all the memorable songs in the series. I have to go with the Original Theme. Classic. Unmistakeable. And gives you hope.
Most Overrated: When I was playing intramural sports at OU we played Eye of the Tiger before everyone flag football game. We lost every one. It's so overdone and I just don't like it. It's super overrated.
Worst Fight: Rocky 5 versus Tommy Gunn. In the street, and that move just sucks.
Best Story: The original. Rocky was a Million to One story. It wasn't about winning. It was about going the distance and you can't quit on your dreams.
Best Action: Rocky 3. Clubber Lang times two AND a fight against Thunderlips? Great stuff. The first two were dramas, the next two were action movies.
Most Dated Movie: Rocky 4. I don't care that the original movie mentions the year 1976 and that is a theme of the movie. NOTHING is more dated than Rocky 4. Which adds to its charm.
Best Bad Guy: Clubber Lang. It's not even close. If you have Drago, Lang, Creed, and Gunn in front of you, the LAST guy you would want to fight is Lang. Mr. T was terrifying. He really would knock you into tomorrow.
Best Montage: Rocky 4. The entire movie is a montage.
Most Ridiculous Moment: Rocky 4. The entire movie is ridiculous.
Best Fight: The Original. You really think Rocky might win. He hurts Creed, and maybe he could do it. But he doesn't. Rocky 2 is a close second.
Best 80's Song: No Easy Way Out. If I'm driving at night, there is a good chance I reenact that scene.
Best Training Montage: Rocky 2. When he's running and runs with the kids. He flies up those stairs. Rocky 2 went from OK to amazing after Mick says, "Well what are we waiting for?"
Best Comedy: The fight with Thunderlips. It's a good time.
Best Side Character: Paulie. Mick is great and Creed is really good too, but Paulie is a loveable dirtbag. Hard to pull off.
Worst Character: Adrian. I wish Drago punched her instead of Apollo.
Lost Plot Item: In Rocky 2, Rocky is practically blind on one side, forcing him to fight Apollo right handed, yet this blindness is never talked about again even though Rocky fights like another 16 times.
Most Underrated: Rocky 2. People don't realize that its a really good movie. Yea, slow at first, but it's good. Really good.
No Homo Moment: The Beach Scene.
Best Movie: The first four are all great in their own way. Three is a great action movie. Four is such an
easily mindless entertaining movie. And two is right there. But the first is the best. It usually is.
Worst Movie: Um. Really? Rocky 5
Best Song: One thing that is big is Rocky movies, the music. From the instrumentals, to the classic 80's rock songs. Of all the memorable songs in the series. I have to go with the Original Theme. Classic. Unmistakeable. And gives you hope.
Most Overrated: When I was playing intramural sports at OU we played Eye of the Tiger before everyone flag football game. We lost every one. It's so overdone and I just don't like it. It's super overrated.
Worst Fight: Rocky 5 versus Tommy Gunn. In the street, and that move just sucks.
Best Story: The original. Rocky was a Million to One story. It wasn't about winning. It was about going the distance and you can't quit on your dreams.
Best Action: Rocky 3. Clubber Lang times two AND a fight against Thunderlips? Great stuff. The first two were dramas, the next two were action movies.
Most Dated Movie: Rocky 4. I don't care that the original movie mentions the year 1976 and that is a theme of the movie. NOTHING is more dated than Rocky 4. Which adds to its charm.
Best Bad Guy: Clubber Lang. It's not even close. If you have Drago, Lang, Creed, and Gunn in front of you, the LAST guy you would want to fight is Lang. Mr. T was terrifying. He really would knock you into tomorrow.
Best Montage: Rocky 4. The entire movie is a montage.
Most Ridiculous Moment: Rocky 4. The entire movie is ridiculous.
Best Fight: The Original. You really think Rocky might win. He hurts Creed, and maybe he could do it. But he doesn't. Rocky 2 is a close second.
Best 80's Song: No Easy Way Out. If I'm driving at night, there is a good chance I reenact that scene.
Best Training Montage: Rocky 2. When he's running and runs with the kids. He flies up those stairs. Rocky 2 went from OK to amazing after Mick says, "Well what are we waiting for?"
Best Comedy: The fight with Thunderlips. It's a good time.
Best Side Character: Paulie. Mick is great and Creed is really good too, but Paulie is a loveable dirtbag. Hard to pull off.
Worst Character: Adrian. I wish Drago punched her instead of Apollo.
Lost Plot Item: In Rocky 2, Rocky is practically blind on one side, forcing him to fight Apollo right handed, yet this blindness is never talked about again even though Rocky fights like another 16 times.
Most Underrated: Rocky 2. People don't realize that its a really good movie. Yea, slow at first, but it's good. Really good.
No Homo Moment: The Beach Scene.
Best Movie: The first four are all great in their own way. Three is a great action movie. Four is such an
easily mindless entertaining movie. And two is right there. But the first is the best. It usually is.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Hello America, it's me, the NBA.
I have a lot of friends that watch sports. We can talk for hours about them, debate topics, and make fun of each others teams. A lot of my friends don't watch the NBA. Somewhere down the line, something happened that turned them off. Here are a few examples.
These two teams have been doing everything to win these first four games. And while the big stars, Dirk and Dwyane especially, have been major factors, role players have been a story this series. Mario Chalmers and Deshawn Stevenson have hit some big threes to start or to end runs. Guys like Bosh and Jason Terry have had moments of greatness as well. We're still waiting on LeBron's big game, and it's coming.
Tonight at 9 is game 5 of the NBA Finals. And as far as I'm concerned, it's the biggest game of the series. For Dallas, winning at home means only needing one win in Miami, a place that has only one home playoff loss this year, For the Heat, it's a chance to break Dallas and know they have two chances to finish them off at home. Dirk said that this is their game 7 and he's right. The Dallas Mavericks shouldn't be in this situation. they should have been out already. But they are too tough, too gritty, and just won't die.
One guy can kill them. LeBron. There has been a ton of talk about LeBron's lack of heroics at the end of the game, including this LeBron James game 4 highlight reel. If LeBron wants to be taken more seriously, and not just as Wade's sidekick, he needs a big game. Tonight. This is the biggest game of the year and if he doesn't come out tonight with a killer instinct, then I don't know if he really has it.
Look, it's summer time. And unless you love CSI reruns, you need to be watching the NBA Finals tonight on ABC. The last three games have come down to the final shot. There is star power, pure basketball skill, and athleticism by the truckload. You want passion? You've got a veteran team looking at maybe their last shot at being a winner, and another team wanting to shut all their detractors up. This game is going to be huge. It should almost be on PPV. Don't tell the NBA I said that, though. Free is good.
I'll see you at 9.
- They whine and cry to the refs.
- The refs slow the game way down.
- It's all just one-on-one, not real basketball.
- The college game has more passion.
These two teams have been doing everything to win these first four games. And while the big stars, Dirk and Dwyane especially, have been major factors, role players have been a story this series. Mario Chalmers and Deshawn Stevenson have hit some big threes to start or to end runs. Guys like Bosh and Jason Terry have had moments of greatness as well. We're still waiting on LeBron's big game, and it's coming.
Tonight at 9 is game 5 of the NBA Finals. And as far as I'm concerned, it's the biggest game of the series. For Dallas, winning at home means only needing one win in Miami, a place that has only one home playoff loss this year, For the Heat, it's a chance to break Dallas and know they have two chances to finish them off at home. Dirk said that this is their game 7 and he's right. The Dallas Mavericks shouldn't be in this situation. they should have been out already. But they are too tough, too gritty, and just won't die.
One guy can kill them. LeBron. There has been a ton of talk about LeBron's lack of heroics at the end of the game, including this LeBron James game 4 highlight reel. If LeBron wants to be taken more seriously, and not just as Wade's sidekick, he needs a big game. Tonight. This is the biggest game of the year and if he doesn't come out tonight with a killer instinct, then I don't know if he really has it.
Look, it's summer time. And unless you love CSI reruns, you need to be watching the NBA Finals tonight on ABC. The last three games have come down to the final shot. There is star power, pure basketball skill, and athleticism by the truckload. You want passion? You've got a veteran team looking at maybe their last shot at being a winner, and another team wanting to shut all their detractors up. This game is going to be huge. It should almost be on PPV. Don't tell the NBA I said that, though. Free is good.
I'll see you at 9.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
MLB Draft, It's a Real Thing
In case you didn't notice, the MLB Draft started yesterday. The Cincinnati Reds took a pitcher by the name of Robert (don't call me Louis) Stephenson. Apparently, he's out of high school. He is also right handed. He can throw up to 97 miles per hour. He has a curveball. And a change up. Zzzzzz... Let me know when you wake up.
There are a lot of things that work against the MLB Draft. It's in the middle of the season, it doesn't include international players, these guys might not see the Majors for at least a season or two. By the time he gets drafted, the buzz (if there was one) is probably gone by anyone not a hardcore fan.With so much working against the draft, Major League Baseball can't do things to make it worse.
Mo Egger (of ESPN 1530 fame) has a great idea of having the draft the day after the All-Star Game. Which makes sense, because its the only day in the US that none of the four major sports are in action. Basically, a perfect oppurtunity for them to capitalize on sports boredom. Also, with no sports being on, ESPN or some other sports network might pick it up for America to watch.
I have a few more ideas, can we get mock drafts? Big boards? A combine? A guy like Mel Kiper, Jr with too much hair gel and an "I'm way smarter than the other guy I'm arguing with" aura? We care about football because if we watch sports TV enough, we feel like we learn who the top 5 weak side linebackers and which running back could be a Day 2 sleeper. Knowledge equals intrest, intrest equals demand, demand equals TV time, and TV time equals money. See how that works?
Another thing that would help would be ease of info. If you don't want talking heads, give me numbers. Give me stats and ratings on things like curveballs or fielding range. Why should I have to pay ESPN to find out any in depth info? 40 times and bench reps are all over when it comes to football.
MLB needs to take this seriously if they want us to take it seriously. Draft coverage was at the bottom of the page. Their headline story was about the Red Sox and Yankees, two things that are more worn out than (insert joke here). I want to care about Robert Stephenson, and in time, maybe I will. But the draft is supposed to rejuvenate hope in your team. That a certain prospect will take your team to the next level, or become a franchise player. If the Reds didn't draft a guy named after an author, I never would remember him. Maybe later they'll take shortshop Ralph Emerson.
There are a lot of things that work against the MLB Draft. It's in the middle of the season, it doesn't include international players, these guys might not see the Majors for at least a season or two. By the time he gets drafted, the buzz (if there was one) is probably gone by anyone not a hardcore fan.With so much working against the draft, Major League Baseball can't do things to make it worse.
Mo Egger (of ESPN 1530 fame) has a great idea of having the draft the day after the All-Star Game. Which makes sense, because its the only day in the US that none of the four major sports are in action. Basically, a perfect oppurtunity for them to capitalize on sports boredom. Also, with no sports being on, ESPN or some other sports network might pick it up for America to watch.
I have a few more ideas, can we get mock drafts? Big boards? A combine? A guy like Mel Kiper, Jr with too much hair gel and an "I'm way smarter than the other guy I'm arguing with" aura? We care about football because if we watch sports TV enough, we feel like we learn who the top 5 weak side linebackers and which running back could be a Day 2 sleeper. Knowledge equals intrest, intrest equals demand, demand equals TV time, and TV time equals money. See how that works?
Another thing that would help would be ease of info. If you don't want talking heads, give me numbers. Give me stats and ratings on things like curveballs or fielding range. Why should I have to pay ESPN to find out any in depth info? 40 times and bench reps are all over when it comes to football.
MLB needs to take this seriously if they want us to take it seriously. Draft coverage was at the bottom of the page. Their headline story was about the Red Sox and Yankees, two things that are more worn out than (insert joke here). I want to care about Robert Stephenson, and in time, maybe I will. But the draft is supposed to rejuvenate hope in your team. That a certain prospect will take your team to the next level, or become a franchise player. If the Reds didn't draft a guy named after an author, I never would remember him. Maybe later they'll take shortshop Ralph Emerson.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Jerome-mania
I want to start off by saying that I have nothing against Jerome Simpson as a person. In fact, you have to pull for a guy that goes to a school like Coastal Carolina and instead of getting money for his jersey, he got money by delivering pizzas. To make it to the NFL, drafted in the 2nd round no less, takes talent and hard work.
Having said that, he's been in the league for 3 years, and up until this season, he had one catch for two yards. In 2010, he "exploded" for 20 catches, 277 yards and 3 TDs. Not bad, though in 2009, Brandon Marshall had 21 catches for 200 yards and 2 scores... in one game. In his defense, Jerome basically did all of his magic in the last few games of the season, but the question needs asked, WHAT TOOK SO #$%& LONG?
We've been keeping this guy on the roster, while letting other WRs go and bringing in tons of new faces. drafting seven wideouts, two tight ends, and bringing in TO and Antonio Bryant since drafting Jerome Simpson. The Bengals have desperatly been looking for more weapons and a future successor to Chad Ochocinco as the number one wideout.
Side Note: Not that it matters, but if the Bengals had drafted small size DeSean Jackson over small school Jerome Simpson, we would have our big play guy. And if we would have made a better offer to Mike Vick, we wouldn't be discussing Carson at all. Of course, two years ago I would have thought bringing in Vick would have been dumb. And maybe Chad's antics paired with DeSean's unpredictability would have been volitile. Hindsight 20/20 I guess.
Ok, so why all the Jersome Simpson talk? Well, certain retailers are now carrying Jerome Simpson jerseys and having him do autograph signings. Really? Twenty-one catches in three seasons makes you marketable? After the team you play for drafted a guy at the same position in the top 5 of the draft? All I'm saying is maybe we should cool off Jerome-mania.
And I'll say it right here, if Jerome Simpson has any of the following, 10 TDs in a season, 1,000 yards in a season, or 100 catches in a season, I will wear a Jerome Simpson jersey for an entire week. And if he makes a Pro Bowl, I will hand write an apology for this article and deliver it in person. And if Jerome Simpson makes the Hall of Fame, I will legally rename myself "Jersome Simpson's Number One Fan".
Having said that, he's been in the league for 3 years, and up until this season, he had one catch for two yards. In 2010, he "exploded" for 20 catches, 277 yards and 3 TDs. Not bad, though in 2009, Brandon Marshall had 21 catches for 200 yards and 2 scores... in one game. In his defense, Jerome basically did all of his magic in the last few games of the season, but the question needs asked, WHAT TOOK SO #$%& LONG?
We've been keeping this guy on the roster, while letting other WRs go and bringing in tons of new faces. drafting seven wideouts, two tight ends, and bringing in TO and Antonio Bryant since drafting Jerome Simpson. The Bengals have desperatly been looking for more weapons and a future successor to Chad Ochocinco as the number one wideout.
Side Note: Not that it matters, but if the Bengals had drafted small size DeSean Jackson over small school Jerome Simpson, we would have our big play guy. And if we would have made a better offer to Mike Vick, we wouldn't be discussing Carson at all. Of course, two years ago I would have thought bringing in Vick would have been dumb. And maybe Chad's antics paired with DeSean's unpredictability would have been volitile. Hindsight 20/20 I guess.
Ok, so why all the Jersome Simpson talk? Well, certain retailers are now carrying Jerome Simpson jerseys and having him do autograph signings. Really? Twenty-one catches in three seasons makes you marketable? After the team you play for drafted a guy at the same position in the top 5 of the draft? All I'm saying is maybe we should cool off Jerome-mania.
And I'll say it right here, if Jerome Simpson has any of the following, 10 TDs in a season, 1,000 yards in a season, or 100 catches in a season, I will wear a Jerome Simpson jersey for an entire week. And if he makes a Pro Bowl, I will hand write an apology for this article and deliver it in person. And if Jerome Simpson makes the Hall of Fame, I will legally rename myself "Jersome Simpson's Number One Fan".
Friday, June 3, 2011
Movie Mad Libs (There be spoilers, yo!)
Yesterday, four people, including me watched "The Hangover 2" at AMC Newport. (best theatre in Cincinnati, btw) Now when I watch a movie, things I look for are entertainment, special scenes/moments, pacing, and story. Maybe not in THAT order every time, but it's big for me.
"The Hangover 2" or TH2 as it'll be called from now on, was entertaining, had scenes that will unfortunately stick with me for a while, and didn't drag on too much. A lot happened in 104 minutes. There was a problem with it, though. As entertaining and funny as it was, I'd seen it all before.
TH2 was a carbon copy of the original. There is no way they actually wrote a 2nd script. I think they watched the first movie and said, we can't have a baby, let's have a monkey! We surprised everyone with Mr. Chow jumping out of a car, so let's have him jump out of an ice box! I couldn't find myself enjoying the movie, as I was thinking of gags from the first movie that were going to happen in this movie.
In the honor of the Movie Mad Libs, TH2 was, I thought I would go ahead and make TH3:
Two years after the events in Bangkok, the gang is going to Alan's wedding. Alan, a big fan of parties, talks the guys into going to Tijuana. When they wake up the next day, Alan's friend Carlos is missing and they must retrace their steps to find him. Instead of a baby or monkey, the guys are in charge of a baby chicken. Mr. Chow, who escaped Interpol and is hiding out in Mexico gets involved when the group has to make a trade with a drug cartel for their friend. Mike Tyson makes an appearance at this point, jumping out of a trash can with Uzis spraying bullets "Dead Presidents" style. Instead of their friend, Carlos, they get another guy with the same name. During their travels Stu gets his tongue pierced and also tries to have relations with a donkey. Alan admits that he gave the rest of the group drugs, much to Stu's chagrin. Right before the wedding is called off, they find their friend in a place that's easy and the story wraps up quickly.
Did I miss anything?
"The Hangover 2" or TH2 as it'll be called from now on, was entertaining, had scenes that will unfortunately stick with me for a while, and didn't drag on too much. A lot happened in 104 minutes. There was a problem with it, though. As entertaining and funny as it was, I'd seen it all before.
TH2 was a carbon copy of the original. There is no way they actually wrote a 2nd script. I think they watched the first movie and said, we can't have a baby, let's have a monkey! We surprised everyone with Mr. Chow jumping out of a car, so let's have him jump out of an ice box! I couldn't find myself enjoying the movie, as I was thinking of gags from the first movie that were going to happen in this movie.
In the honor of the Movie Mad Libs, TH2 was, I thought I would go ahead and make TH3:
Two years after the events in Bangkok, the gang is going to Alan's wedding. Alan, a big fan of parties, talks the guys into going to Tijuana. When they wake up the next day, Alan's friend Carlos is missing and they must retrace their steps to find him. Instead of a baby or monkey, the guys are in charge of a baby chicken. Mr. Chow, who escaped Interpol and is hiding out in Mexico gets involved when the group has to make a trade with a drug cartel for their friend. Mike Tyson makes an appearance at this point, jumping out of a trash can with Uzis spraying bullets "Dead Presidents" style. Instead of their friend, Carlos, they get another guy with the same name. During their travels Stu gets his tongue pierced and also tries to have relations with a donkey. Alan admits that he gave the rest of the group drugs, much to Stu's chagrin. Right before the wedding is called off, they find their friend in a place that's easy and the story wraps up quickly.
Did I miss anything?
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Randy's Random Rants
David Robinson, Rik Smits, Hakeem Olajuwon, Patrick Ewing, Dikembe Mutumbo, Alonzo Mourning, and now Shaq. When I was a kid, it seemed like nearly every team had a big time center. And of all of them, Shaq was the biggest. He was literally larger than life. You could youtube Shaq and find tons of videos. He was a physical monster, and the way the sport has evolved, I don't know if we'll ever see anything like him again.
If you like sports, (and judging by you reading this, you do!) you should check out the NHL Stanley Cup Finals. Last night's 1-0 contest between the Canucks and Bruins was filled with action, drama, and biting! Game 2 is Saturday night on NBC and I believe you are doing your inner sports fan a disservice by not checking it out.
Other quick notes:
Terrelle Pryor's driving privileges in Ohio have been suspended. Isn't it a little late for that? He's already caused enough trouble with cars.
The NFL and Players Association had a secret meeting in Chicago. It was so secret, that even my lowly blog is reporting it happened. Let's just get this over with.
Steve Spurrier floats the idea of paying players. "It worked at Florida," he said.
Lance Armstrong wants an apology from 60 Minutes for their story on Lance taking performance enhancing drugs. I am still waiting for the "Thank You" note from Lance for defending him on my blog. So if you see him, let him know I'm waiting.
I got a decent amount of blog hits for my (the) Ohio State University story. No death threats. I'll try harder next time.
I'm going to watch "The Hangover: Part 2" later today. Full report tomorrow. Why review a movie before it makes over 100 million dollars in a weekend? Truth is, I got a lot of free time during the week, so I usually check out a movie midweek. If you want me to review a movie, give me 14 dollars and I'll bang it out for you.
If you like sports, (and judging by you reading this, you do!) you should check out the NHL Stanley Cup Finals. Last night's 1-0 contest between the Canucks and Bruins was filled with action, drama, and biting! Game 2 is Saturday night on NBC and I believe you are doing your inner sports fan a disservice by not checking it out.
Other quick notes:
Terrelle Pryor's driving privileges in Ohio have been suspended. Isn't it a little late for that? He's already caused enough trouble with cars.
The NFL and Players Association had a secret meeting in Chicago. It was so secret, that even my lowly blog is reporting it happened. Let's just get this over with.
Steve Spurrier floats the idea of paying players. "It worked at Florida," he said.
Lance Armstrong wants an apology from 60 Minutes for their story on Lance taking performance enhancing drugs. I am still waiting for the "Thank You" note from Lance for defending him on my blog. So if you see him, let him know I'm waiting.
I got a decent amount of blog hits for my (the) Ohio State University story. No death threats. I'll try harder next time.
I'm going to watch "The Hangover: Part 2" later today. Full report tomorrow. Why review a movie before it makes over 100 million dollars in a weekend? Truth is, I got a lot of free time during the week, so I usually check out a movie midweek. If you want me to review a movie, give me 14 dollars and I'll bang it out for you.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The Ecstacy of Gold
Yesterday, Jim Tressel resigned from his position as head coach at (the) Ohio State University. To me, it was inevitable that he would resign. Why wouldn't he? He seemed like he had at least some of a brain and knew that was the best thing he could do for himself and the school. The damage is done, the faster he leaves, the faster they can move on.
For this story, I wanted to do something a little different. Instead of speaking from my high horse, I asked some of my friends with varying interests in sports to get a better picture on how people feel about this situation, winning, and cheating in general. I also took a look at ESPN's Sportsnation to get a national picture about this.
My first question, on a scale of 1-10, how important is winning? 50% of those asked said 10, and not one person said anything less than an 8. Why have a rooting interest in a team if you don't want them to win? "I think in a bcs school coaches kinda have to turn their head if they want to keep a job becuase in the schools eye winning is everything." - Mike
The second question, on a scale of 1-10 how important is the football program being clean? Only 30% of those asked gave this a 9 or above. One responder said that they "expect them to be dirty" and that if they were cheating like the other schools, they weren't trying hard enough.
The third question was if you could get away with it, would you break the rules? It was 50/50 on this subject. The irony was that some of the applicants that said they would cheat also wanted a very clean program image.
The final question was between the Boosters, Players, and Coaches, where should most of the blame go? The Boosters were a favorite bad guy with this question, with all responders but one putting at least a majority of the blame on them. Only one person put most of the blame on the players. "How can you expect (coaches) to babysit 105 kids 24/7/365? All they can do is preach the rules and consequences and hope it sticks with the kids."
Thoughts from ESPN.com:
For this story, I wanted to do something a little different. Instead of speaking from my high horse, I asked some of my friends with varying interests in sports to get a better picture on how people feel about this situation, winning, and cheating in general. I also took a look at ESPN's Sportsnation to get a national picture about this.
My first question, on a scale of 1-10, how important is winning? 50% of those asked said 10, and not one person said anything less than an 8. Why have a rooting interest in a team if you don't want them to win? "I think in a bcs school coaches kinda have to turn their head if they want to keep a job becuase in the schools eye winning is everything." - Mike
The second question, on a scale of 1-10 how important is the football program being clean? Only 30% of those asked gave this a 9 or above. One responder said that they "expect them to be dirty" and that if they were cheating like the other schools, they weren't trying hard enough.
The third question was if you could get away with it, would you break the rules? It was 50/50 on this subject. The irony was that some of the applicants that said they would cheat also wanted a very clean program image.
The final question was between the Boosters, Players, and Coaches, where should most of the blame go? The Boosters were a favorite bad guy with this question, with all responders but one putting at least a majority of the blame on them. Only one person put most of the blame on the players. "How can you expect (coaches) to babysit 105 kids 24/7/365? All they can do is preach the rules and consequences and hope it sticks with the kids."
Thoughts from ESPN.com:
- "Bottom line Tressel was more worried about winning than doing the right thing." -- SN commenter txbornsooner
And from what I have found, that's just part of the game. The ecstasy of gold, the importance of winning, is more important than being clean. And even though the NCAA cracks down on this behavior, they turn a blind eye to graduation rates of programs. In the end, nobody is going to remember the 8-4 with a 100% graduation rate and no NCAA infractions. But people will always remember that magical feeling of the 13-0 National Title run. Even if in the back of their mind, they know it may have come at a high cost.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Debating the Debate
Debates are a big part of sports. Without them, I wouldn't have much to write about. As the summer wears on, I'll be sure to attack some of the age old controversies and debates, but today I want to stop a debate. I guess I am debating on whether there is a debate to debate about. LeBron vs Michael Jordan.
Scottie Pippen has been the butt of some jokes on Twitter (#ScottiePippenTweets) by a ton of people including myself. In fairness to Scottie, he said LeBron COULD be better than Michael Jordan. Fair enough. It's blown up however, that Scotte thinks LeBron is better than his former running mate. ESPN, sports radio, and even lowly bloggers are throwing in their two cents.
I'm not going to debate that MJ is better than LBJ. That's not a debate. It's way too early. MJ has 6 Titles, LeBron 0. MJ has the highest career PPG average and was first team defense every full season he played from 1988 to 1998. MJ was also a 5 time MVP and a 6 time Finals MVP. So yea, that's a beefy list of awesomeness.
LeBron needs to be compared with his peers right now. Once his career is nearing its end THEN we should talk all-time stuff. Remember Ken Griffey, Jr? He could have gone down as the greatest player that ever played. Injuries happened. Age happened. Years on the road happened. As much as I didn't like LeBron for his "Decision", but I want to see where his career can go. How high can he reach? And when the dust settles, where will he rank beside Jordan, Bird, and the Big O.
But before we get to them, he needs to show he's better than Kobe, Kevin Durant, and the rest of his contemporaries.
Scottie Pippen has been the butt of some jokes on Twitter (#ScottiePippenTweets) by a ton of people including myself. In fairness to Scottie, he said LeBron COULD be better than Michael Jordan. Fair enough. It's blown up however, that Scotte thinks LeBron is better than his former running mate. ESPN, sports radio, and even lowly bloggers are throwing in their two cents.
I'm not going to debate that MJ is better than LBJ. That's not a debate. It's way too early. MJ has 6 Titles, LeBron 0. MJ has the highest career PPG average and was first team defense every full season he played from 1988 to 1998. MJ was also a 5 time MVP and a 6 time Finals MVP. So yea, that's a beefy list of awesomeness.
LeBron needs to be compared with his peers right now. Once his career is nearing its end THEN we should talk all-time stuff. Remember Ken Griffey, Jr? He could have gone down as the greatest player that ever played. Injuries happened. Age happened. Years on the road happened. As much as I didn't like LeBron for his "Decision", but I want to see where his career can go. How high can he reach? And when the dust settles, where will he rank beside Jordan, Bird, and the Big O.
But before we get to them, he needs to show he's better than Kobe, Kevin Durant, and the rest of his contemporaries.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Let Players Play
Buster Posey is a catcher for the San Francisco Giants and in 2010 he won the National League Rookie of the Year. He was the 5th overall pick in the 2008 MLB Draft. Then, on May 25th Buster broke his fibula on a game deciding play in the 12th inning against the Florida Marlins. A brutal hit from the Marlins' Scott Cousins possibly ended his season.
This play and injury has caused an uproar about the safety of catchers. Should they block the plate? Should players be allowed to run over the catcher? Well, if you ask a lot of sports writers, this heinous act should be outlawed and the offender should be thrown in jail. How dare a catcher try to ensure victory for his team by protecting home plate? And what is a base runner thinking when he hustles to the plate? Is winning that important? Yes.
Look, it was a game in May, maybe not the most important game of the year. But anytime you step on the field, you risk injury. Maybe Scott Cousins didn't need to run over Buster, but what if he didn't hustle to first? Everyone would call him lazy and demand he goes hard all the time. Competitiveness isn't a switch. These guys work so hard to get where they are. We can't praise Michael Jordan for being a hyper-competitive doucher and complain when other people do it. We can't buy Pete Rose pictures of him crushing Ray Fosse in an All-Star game and act so appalled when a no name guy does it to a future All-Star.
I'm not saying that player safety doesn't matter. What I am saying is that a knee jerk reaction isn't the way to go. Let players play. Let the compete. And if the Giants want, let them bean Scott Cousins right in the back... twice.
This play and injury has caused an uproar about the safety of catchers. Should they block the plate? Should players be allowed to run over the catcher? Well, if you ask a lot of sports writers, this heinous act should be outlawed and the offender should be thrown in jail. How dare a catcher try to ensure victory for his team by protecting home plate? And what is a base runner thinking when he hustles to the plate? Is winning that important? Yes.
Look, it was a game in May, maybe not the most important game of the year. But anytime you step on the field, you risk injury. Maybe Scott Cousins didn't need to run over Buster, but what if he didn't hustle to first? Everyone would call him lazy and demand he goes hard all the time. Competitiveness isn't a switch. These guys work so hard to get where they are. We can't praise Michael Jordan for being a hyper-competitive doucher and complain when other people do it. We can't buy Pete Rose pictures of him crushing Ray Fosse in an All-Star game and act so appalled when a no name guy does it to a future All-Star.
I'm not saying that player safety doesn't matter. What I am saying is that a knee jerk reaction isn't the way to go. Let players play. Let the compete. And if the Giants want, let them bean Scott Cousins right in the back... twice.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
What to Expect When You're Expecting (Football)
Remember when Major League Baseball had a strike in 1994? Really hurt the league. The NBA and NHL also have had labor disputes over the last 12 years. But the NFL? This is AMERICA'S game! The most popular and profitable sport there is. There is no way there can be a problem, why mess up something that's good?
If you really think about it, we all should have seen this coming. Something like this happens every year. Let's say a running back runs for 2000 yards, awesome. He's only (only?) making 1.25 million per year, not awesome. What does he do? Hold out for a new contract. The NFL has been raking in tons of money off of these players and they want a bigger cut. After all, they are the ones putting their bodies on the line.
Now I hear all the time, players signed a CONTRACT, they shouldn't gripe over what they get paid. They shouldn't have signed that deal if they didn't like it. Fair enough, but if the owners can cut that same player and not have to pay him his contract, how is that any better? I believe the players have every right to look to get a better deal. We feel like we should be able to go to our bosses if we think we deserve a raise. They should too.
The big sticking point is that the players want the owners to open their books. The owners claim that profits are down. Other leagues are claiming the same issue, so that is plausible. But why not let the players and fans know how dire the situation is? The owners want to get 2 billion of the 9 billion dollar pie before sharing it with the players. That's 62,500,000 per team before splitting the last 7 billion with the players.
I would love to see these books. I'm curious how owners of publicly funded stadiums that currently get 31,250,000 million for operations yearly are not making money. I did a little research to compare attendance numbers of NFL teams with a league that is struggling, NBA. Six out of thirty-two NFL average less than 90% attendance at home in 2010. Fifteen of thirty NBA teams claim the same thing. That's half of the NBA. They have 41 home games, compared to 8 in the NFL. That's five times as many games to pay for event staff and other game day operations. Am I missing something?
This problem is a lot bigger than just for owners and players. NFL teams are cutting salaries and laying off staff. Cities build business around their franchises, with no season, those business could close down. Not only that, but schools, police, and other services are being cut because cities and counties are paying for stadiums that may or may not be in operation this fall.
Do I think that they will get past their differences and have a 2011 season? Yes. The players will go broke before the owners will. Let's just hope that it's a deal that lasts a while, and we aren't doing this again in 4 or 5 years.
If you really think about it, we all should have seen this coming. Something like this happens every year. Let's say a running back runs for 2000 yards, awesome. He's only (only?) making 1.25 million per year, not awesome. What does he do? Hold out for a new contract. The NFL has been raking in tons of money off of these players and they want a bigger cut. After all, they are the ones putting their bodies on the line.
Now I hear all the time, players signed a CONTRACT, they shouldn't gripe over what they get paid. They shouldn't have signed that deal if they didn't like it. Fair enough, but if the owners can cut that same player and not have to pay him his contract, how is that any better? I believe the players have every right to look to get a better deal. We feel like we should be able to go to our bosses if we think we deserve a raise. They should too.
The big sticking point is that the players want the owners to open their books. The owners claim that profits are down. Other leagues are claiming the same issue, so that is plausible. But why not let the players and fans know how dire the situation is? The owners want to get 2 billion of the 9 billion dollar pie before sharing it with the players. That's 62,500,000 per team before splitting the last 7 billion with the players.
I would love to see these books. I'm curious how owners of publicly funded stadiums that currently get 31,250,000 million for operations yearly are not making money. I did a little research to compare attendance numbers of NFL teams with a league that is struggling, NBA. Six out of thirty-two NFL average less than 90% attendance at home in 2010. Fifteen of thirty NBA teams claim the same thing. That's half of the NBA. They have 41 home games, compared to 8 in the NFL. That's five times as many games to pay for event staff and other game day operations. Am I missing something?
This problem is a lot bigger than just for owners and players. NFL teams are cutting salaries and laying off staff. Cities build business around their franchises, with no season, those business could close down. Not only that, but schools, police, and other services are being cut because cities and counties are paying for stadiums that may or may not be in operation this fall.
Do I think that they will get past their differences and have a 2011 season? Yes. The players will go broke before the owners will. Let's just hope that it's a deal that lasts a while, and we aren't doing this again in 4 or 5 years.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Why Do We Constantly Look For That Asterisk
Someone is accusing Lance Armstrong of doping. Stop me if you have heard that one before. Tyler Hamilton, a teammate and Olympic Gold Medalist, is then next in a long line of people accusing Lance Armstrong of cheating. Lance has said in the past that he has taken over 500 tests, no positives. How can he be a cheater? Let's discuss.
First of all, let's look at Tyler Hamilton. He didn't want to testify against Lance but was subpoenaed. I guess he felt like opening up because now he's on 60 Minutes. Tyler won a Gold Medal in the 2004 Olympics, which he later returned due to a second positive test.
What would Tyler Hamilton gain from accusing Lance Armstrong? Well, every other cyclist I've ever heard of has been busted for drugs. It's like when you're a kid and everyone gets in trouble but one kid. He was in on it too, he needs to get in trouble. But if that IS the case, why wait until now? Why didn't everyone come out at once? Why didn't any test that caught everyone else catch Lance? If you watch the ( interviewhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/22/lance-armstrong-doping-60-minutes_n_865331.html ), Tyler is constantly looking around and just seems, off. If you've played LA Noire, (in stores now!) those are signs that maybe someone isn't telling the truth.
Why lie? Is this Tyler Hamilton writing a book? According to Lance Armstrong's attorney (you can trust attorneys) he is in need of money and looking for a book deal. If that's the case, Tyler fits in the long line of people looking to tarnish someone to make some money.
Lance is in a bad spot. More and more people are accusing him. It seems like everyone around him is a doper, and it IS a little fishy (flounder, perhaps) that he is the only one that didn't dope. If it turns out he did do drugs, his aggressive stance against all these allegations will make him look extremely bad and really worse than all these other guys.
One last thing. Tyler Hamilton had an interesting quote, "Lance was just like everyone else." That's not true. On drugs or not, he won 7 Tour de France's. And if everyone (including Lance) was doing drugs, he still beat all them. He's a cancer survivor and an inspiration to millions of people (ever heard of "LiveStrong"?). Why are we as a society so eager to tear everyone down?
I wasn't really planning on writing this. I didn't know what to write today, but thanks to my cousin Mike's request, I wrote this today. I would like to believe that Lance was clean. 500 tests that say he's clean are great, but one positive test and it's over. Will people wearing yellow bands burn them? Will Dick's Sporting Goods tear down their Lance Armstrong displays? This story isn't as much about cheating as it is why do we constantly look for that asterisk. Believe what you want. And if you are burning bridges for cash, I hope it's worth it.
First of all, let's look at Tyler Hamilton. He didn't want to testify against Lance but was subpoenaed. I guess he felt like opening up because now he's on 60 Minutes. Tyler won a Gold Medal in the 2004 Olympics, which he later returned due to a second positive test.
What would Tyler Hamilton gain from accusing Lance Armstrong? Well, every other cyclist I've ever heard of has been busted for drugs. It's like when you're a kid and everyone gets in trouble but one kid. He was in on it too, he needs to get in trouble. But if that IS the case, why wait until now? Why didn't everyone come out at once? Why didn't any test that caught everyone else catch Lance? If you watch the ( interviewhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/22/lance-armstrong-doping-60-minutes_n_865331.html ), Tyler is constantly looking around and just seems, off. If you've played LA Noire, (in stores now!) those are signs that maybe someone isn't telling the truth.
Why lie? Is this Tyler Hamilton writing a book? According to Lance Armstrong's attorney (you can trust attorneys) he is in need of money and looking for a book deal. If that's the case, Tyler fits in the long line of people looking to tarnish someone to make some money.
Lance is in a bad spot. More and more people are accusing him. It seems like everyone around him is a doper, and it IS a little fishy (flounder, perhaps) that he is the only one that didn't dope. If it turns out he did do drugs, his aggressive stance against all these allegations will make him look extremely bad and really worse than all these other guys.
One last thing. Tyler Hamilton had an interesting quote, "Lance was just like everyone else." That's not true. On drugs or not, he won 7 Tour de France's. And if everyone (including Lance) was doing drugs, he still beat all them. He's a cancer survivor and an inspiration to millions of people (ever heard of "LiveStrong"?). Why are we as a society so eager to tear everyone down?
I wasn't really planning on writing this. I didn't know what to write today, but thanks to my cousin Mike's request, I wrote this today. I would like to believe that Lance was clean. 500 tests that say he's clean are great, but one positive test and it's over. Will people wearing yellow bands burn them? Will Dick's Sporting Goods tear down their Lance Armstrong displays? This story isn't as much about cheating as it is why do we constantly look for that asterisk. Believe what you want. And if you are burning bridges for cash, I hope it's worth it.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Now This is Where the Fun Begins
The Reds have lost 5 straight. The pitching needs work. The hitting needs work. Dusty is an idiot. That's all common themes with this team (or really, ANY team when they lose). A big thing people always come back to is, "If we didn't trade Josh Hamilton for stupid Edinson Volquez, we'd be in GREAT shape!"
So let's take a look at that, what if the Reds really had both the National League AND the American League MVP's at the same time? We would have been unstoppable! Right? Let's take a look (Disclaimer: Like all sports arguments this is totally hypothetical and NO WAY able to be proven one way or another.)
Before we get to the what if lets look at the why this trade happened. In 2007, the Reds picked up former number one pick Josh Hamilton in the Rule 5 draft. Tampa had given up on the troubled player after drug problems. In 92 games for the Reds, Josh Hamilton hit .292, 19 HRs, 47 RBI, with a .368 OBP. not bad for his first MLB season. The Reds finished 72-90 that year, good for 5th place in the division.
In 2008, the Reds bring in Dusty Baker, and they are ready to contend. They want a winner, but they need arms. The 2007 Reds gave up over 850 runs, and only had two pitchers reach over 200 IP and two more going over 100 IP. Not good. Who to trade to get a good arm? How about the guy that has only one half of a year of MLB experience that may or may not have shaken his demons? The Reds and Rangers make the trade and Volquez (only Reds player) and Hamilton both make the ASG.
Now lets look at the what if. Say the Reds don't trade Hamilton. They still need arms, so who do they move? A 38 year old Griffey? Adam Dunn? Jay Bruce? If they make no trade. Their rotation has Arroyo 15-11, Harang (6-17), Johnny Cueto (9-14), and Homer Bailey (0-6)? Matt Belisle (1-4)? Really need a 5th starter.
2009 the Reds didn't score many runs, and Hamilton instead of Lance Nix is a no brainer. But he only played 89 games that year. 2010? Hamilton and Votto have great years, but who is around them? Did the Reds give up Jay Bruce or Brandon Philips for an arm or two?
Now this is where the fun begins. 2011. The Reds resign NL MVP Joey Votto to a three year extension 5.5MM in 2011, 9.5MM in '12, and 17MM in '13. Plus a 6 Mil signing bonus. Also, Mr. Hamilton needs a contract. He got 10MM for 2011 and 14MM for 2012. Which brings up the question, why are you paying Votto half of what you pay Hamilton? What effect will that have in the clubhouse?
And that's not all of it, Bronson got a 3 year 35MM deal, and Jay Bruce got a 6 year 51MM deal. Plus you have Brandon Philips needing a contract at the end of the season. And this is being paid buy a team that currently sits 13 out of 16th in attendance in the NL. Where is this money coming from? One if not more of these players isn't going to be here. We would more than likely need to trade a big money guy to keep most of the team intact.
The key to this story is that hitting is great, but pitching wins. The Reds needed arms, just like EVERY team needs arms. Having Hamilton and Votto would have been great, but to think it would have lasted this long would be a long shot. I guarantee that had the Reds not traded Hamilton, another valuable cog would be gone. In a parallel universe, Reds fans are complaining that Brandon Philips is playing Gold Glove second base for someone else while the Reds are in a tough pennant race.
So let's take a look at that, what if the Reds really had both the National League AND the American League MVP's at the same time? We would have been unstoppable! Right? Let's take a look (Disclaimer: Like all sports arguments this is totally hypothetical and NO WAY able to be proven one way or another.)
Before we get to the what if lets look at the why this trade happened. In 2007, the Reds picked up former number one pick Josh Hamilton in the Rule 5 draft. Tampa had given up on the troubled player after drug problems. In 92 games for the Reds, Josh Hamilton hit .292, 19 HRs, 47 RBI, with a .368 OBP. not bad for his first MLB season. The Reds finished 72-90 that year, good for 5th place in the division.
In 2008, the Reds bring in Dusty Baker, and they are ready to contend. They want a winner, but they need arms. The 2007 Reds gave up over 850 runs, and only had two pitchers reach over 200 IP and two more going over 100 IP. Not good. Who to trade to get a good arm? How about the guy that has only one half of a year of MLB experience that may or may not have shaken his demons? The Reds and Rangers make the trade and Volquez (only Reds player) and Hamilton both make the ASG.
Now lets look at the what if. Say the Reds don't trade Hamilton. They still need arms, so who do they move? A 38 year old Griffey? Adam Dunn? Jay Bruce? If they make no trade. Their rotation has Arroyo 15-11, Harang (6-17), Johnny Cueto (9-14), and Homer Bailey (0-6)? Matt Belisle (1-4)? Really need a 5th starter.
2009 the Reds didn't score many runs, and Hamilton instead of Lance Nix is a no brainer. But he only played 89 games that year. 2010? Hamilton and Votto have great years, but who is around them? Did the Reds give up Jay Bruce or Brandon Philips for an arm or two?
Now this is where the fun begins. 2011. The Reds resign NL MVP Joey Votto to a three year extension 5.5MM in 2011, 9.5MM in '12, and 17MM in '13. Plus a 6 Mil signing bonus. Also, Mr. Hamilton needs a contract. He got 10MM for 2011 and 14MM for 2012. Which brings up the question, why are you paying Votto half of what you pay Hamilton? What effect will that have in the clubhouse?
And that's not all of it, Bronson got a 3 year 35MM deal, and Jay Bruce got a 6 year 51MM deal. Plus you have Brandon Philips needing a contract at the end of the season. And this is being paid buy a team that currently sits 13 out of 16th in attendance in the NL. Where is this money coming from? One if not more of these players isn't going to be here. We would more than likely need to trade a big money guy to keep most of the team intact.
The key to this story is that hitting is great, but pitching wins. The Reds needed arms, just like EVERY team needs arms. Having Hamilton and Votto would have been great, but to think it would have lasted this long would be a long shot. I guarantee that had the Reds not traded Hamilton, another valuable cog would be gone. In a parallel universe, Reds fans are complaining that Brandon Philips is playing Gold Glove second base for someone else while the Reds are in a tough pennant race.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Armageddon Survival Secrets
I read on the Internet (the most trusted source of information) that world will end at 6pm today. I assume Eastern Standard Time, because the world revolves around EST. So I thought it was my duty to give you some tips on what to do in case the world ends today.
I hope that my list of tips will help you tonight. If it doesn't happen, take these ideas and save them for the next time the world is supposed to end.
- Hit the gym. Most people in the post apocalyptic world will be wearing little clothing, and usually they are in good shape. If TV has taught us anything, fat people are rich, or dead.
- Get into leather. Cotton fabric tatters way too easy, if you want good clothing, you need leather. As much as possible.
- Get sunglasses. Somehow everything turns to dust and sand, and you'll need shades to protect your eyes. You don't want to be squinting when the machines, zombies, or bandits are coming to kill you.
- Save gasoline. Much like today, gas is huge in the post apocalyptic world. Just don't let people know you have it, other wise you'll have to build a big town and people like Lord Humongous will try to kill you.
- Don't worry about bullets. Just guns. It seems as if nobody will run out of ammo. But carrying a large amount across your chest is a good fashion statement.
- Try to find out if the government has large boats that can sustain life, but only have a limited amount of people that can stay on them. And if they do, make sure that one person in your party is an excellent driver and can fly a plane.
- Don't trust corporations. Whether they are making machines or zombies, they are probably bad news.
- You will get double crossed. So get it out of the way early. And the more beautiful the woman, the more likely she will do it.
- Don't be a picky eater. Apparently, people hide food in the trash during the apocalypse. So don't be too proud to eat out of there. It also seems like dog and cat food never go bad.
I hope that my list of tips will help you tonight. If it doesn't happen, take these ideas and save them for the next time the world is supposed to end.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Hero
What is a hero? Is it someone that saves a life? Someone that takes you under their wing and looks out for you? Someone that inspires you? A hero can mean a lot of different things. Randy Savage was my hero.
Did I know Randy personally? No. It would have been cool to meet him, maybe share a few words, and talk about how everyone named Randy thinks everyone else named Randy is awesome (which is true, by the way). Randy was one of my heroes because there was something different about him. He didn't act like the other wrestlers, he really didn't look like them either. Most 1980's wrestlers were huge jacked up guys, but he was smaller, he jumped off the top rope, he hit people with objects, and he had this look in his eye that just looked a little bit off. He was a Savage.
A lot of people will remember him differently that I will. Maybe it's the Slim Jims. "Jealous Eyes". The horrible rap album. OOOOOO YEAH! Whatever then reason, anyone born in or before the 80's probably knows who he is.
I'll remember Randy Savage as a guy that entertained people. Someone who wanted to make sure everything went the way it was supposed to. In his book, Ric Flair mentioned how Savage wanted to meticulously go over everything to make sure their match was awesome. I've seen a video on-line where he missed his famous elbow drop and instead of finishing the match, he went back to the top and made sure he did it right for the fans. There is a another video where another work breaks character and starts laughing during a backstage event. So Randy slaps her in the face to get her back in character, on live TV. Don't mess with Savage.
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a wrestler. I wanted to climb to the top rope extend my arms to the sky and land the flying elbow. Just like my hero. I'll never get to do that but I will follow in Randy's footsteps and be an entertainer. Follow my dreams and demand perfection from myself and those around me. Thank you Randy for the memories. Thank you for being awesome. Thank you for being my hero.
Rest In Peace
Did I know Randy personally? No. It would have been cool to meet him, maybe share a few words, and talk about how everyone named Randy thinks everyone else named Randy is awesome (which is true, by the way). Randy was one of my heroes because there was something different about him. He didn't act like the other wrestlers, he really didn't look like them either. Most 1980's wrestlers were huge jacked up guys, but he was smaller, he jumped off the top rope, he hit people with objects, and he had this look in his eye that just looked a little bit off. He was a Savage.
A lot of people will remember him differently that I will. Maybe it's the Slim Jims. "Jealous Eyes". The horrible rap album. OOOOOO YEAH! Whatever then reason, anyone born in or before the 80's probably knows who he is.
I'll remember Randy Savage as a guy that entertained people. Someone who wanted to make sure everything went the way it was supposed to. In his book, Ric Flair mentioned how Savage wanted to meticulously go over everything to make sure their match was awesome. I've seen a video on-line where he missed his famous elbow drop and instead of finishing the match, he went back to the top and made sure he did it right for the fans. There is a another video where another work breaks character and starts laughing during a backstage event. So Randy slaps her in the face to get her back in character, on live TV. Don't mess with Savage.
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a wrestler. I wanted to climb to the top rope extend my arms to the sky and land the flying elbow. Just like my hero. I'll never get to do that but I will follow in Randy's footsteps and be an entertainer. Follow my dreams and demand perfection from myself and those around me. Thank you Randy for the memories. Thank you for being awesome. Thank you for being my hero.
Rest In Peace
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Always a Side Mission
I love video games. I love using them as something to release tension, get away from it all, and exercise my mind. I play music games, sports games, first person shooters, pretty much anything (No RPGs, Sorry). There is a little bit of a problem, as much as I love to play them, I barely finish them.
It has to be special. It has to make me want to come back for more. Like a good book, a good video game won't allow you to turn it off. For me, I need one of two things a good story, or the ability to do things the way I want to do them. I don't want to be babied, I have a brain. Let me figure it out, no matter how much I struggle.
And that's why I LOVE L.A. Noire. Sure, you can't really fail. Eventually, you will solve the case. That kind of sucks, but I'll take it. LA Noire is a lot of fun to play. I put about 10 hours in within the first 24 hours of owning it. That's nerdy, but it's true. Solving cases, the facial expressions, the stories, the dialouge. Great stuff.
There is a problem, not just with this game, but with every game. You're always reminded you're playing a game. Fetch this car, do this side quest, there is always a side mission. The games can't let you enjoy the story to it's fullest. If you try to just play the main mission, follow the narritive, and beat the story, you feel great... for a minute. Then you realize that you only beat 60% of the game. Now you have to go find cars, search for landmarks, and other useless tasks. I don't want to play a game just to play it, (Herm Edwards) I want to enjoy it.
So what was the point of this article? To tell you that if you like stories, give L.A. Noire a shot (no pun intended). And also I wanted to voice my opinion on how game developers can't just let a story be good, but sell you a game. And that sucks.
It has to be special. It has to make me want to come back for more. Like a good book, a good video game won't allow you to turn it off. For me, I need one of two things a good story, or the ability to do things the way I want to do them. I don't want to be babied, I have a brain. Let me figure it out, no matter how much I struggle.
And that's why I LOVE L.A. Noire. Sure, you can't really fail. Eventually, you will solve the case. That kind of sucks, but I'll take it. LA Noire is a lot of fun to play. I put about 10 hours in within the first 24 hours of owning it. That's nerdy, but it's true. Solving cases, the facial expressions, the stories, the dialouge. Great stuff.
There is a problem, not just with this game, but with every game. You're always reminded you're playing a game. Fetch this car, do this side quest, there is always a side mission. The games can't let you enjoy the story to it's fullest. If you try to just play the main mission, follow the narritive, and beat the story, you feel great... for a minute. Then you realize that you only beat 60% of the game. Now you have to go find cars, search for landmarks, and other useless tasks. I don't want to play a game just to play it, (Herm Edwards) I want to enjoy it.
So what was the point of this article? To tell you that if you like stories, give L.A. Noire a shot (no pun intended). And also I wanted to voice my opinion on how game developers can't just let a story be good, but sell you a game. And that sucks.
Monday, May 16, 2011
I'm Not a Fan, But...
Look, I'm not thrilled the Bengals drafted Andy Dalton. All I know is that he's a ginger QB with a mild arm out of a spread system. Did I want Mallet? Yes. You can't always get what you want, especially out of Cincinnati professional football teams.
So now what? I've moved on from Carson Palmer. Look, if he doesn't want to be here, let him leave. As far as I'm concerned, Andy Dalton, Dan LeFevour, and Jordan Palmer are the Bengals QBs. There is a lot of talk about getting a veteran QB once the lockout ends. Let Dalton sit behind a Jake Del Homme type and learn the system for a year. That way, he's more comfortable once he gets in and is ready to compete.
That's a great option if you have a good veteran QB to not only tutor the rookie, but help the team compete. Let's look at the these situations (Veteran QB first)
Ok, so the last one hasn't happened yet. And calling Tommy Maddox good is a reach, but there is a common theme here. All of those situations had a solid, if not really good, veteran QB ahead of them. The Bengals don't have such luxury. Why bring in a guy who is a career backup just to struggle and cause fan unrest just to teach a rookie. Is it worth basically tanking the season just so Andy Dalton can learn on the job?
I'm not a fan, but Andy Dalton needs to start. If they want to bring in a veteran to mentor that's fine, but to just hand over the reigns to a guy we KNOW will suck seems silly. Let Dalton learn on the job like Mark Sanchez, Joe Flaaco, and Sam Bradford. Think about it this way, would you rather the Bengals go 6-10 and not know if Andy Dalton is worth anything or go 4-12 or 5-11 and know that Dalton could be a viable long term QB?
I just don't want to be writing this same post again a year from now with Andrew Luck.
So now what? I've moved on from Carson Palmer. Look, if he doesn't want to be here, let him leave. As far as I'm concerned, Andy Dalton, Dan LeFevour, and Jordan Palmer are the Bengals QBs. There is a lot of talk about getting a veteran QB once the lockout ends. Let Dalton sit behind a Jake Del Homme type and learn the system for a year. That way, he's more comfortable once he gets in and is ready to compete.
That's a great option if you have a good veteran QB to not only tutor the rookie, but help the team compete. Let's look at the these situations (Veteran QB first)
- Drew Bledsoe (Tom Brady)
- Doug Flutie (Drew Brees)
- Mike Vick (Matt Schaub)
- Tom Brady (Matt Cassel)
- Jon Kitna (Carson Palmer)
- Tommy Maddox (Ben Rothlisberger)
- Drew Brees (Philip Rivers)
- Brett Favre (Aaron Rogers)
- Brett Favre (Matt Hasselbeck)
- Tom Brady (Ryan Mallet)
Ok, so the last one hasn't happened yet. And calling Tommy Maddox good is a reach, but there is a common theme here. All of those situations had a solid, if not really good, veteran QB ahead of them. The Bengals don't have such luxury. Why bring in a guy who is a career backup just to struggle and cause fan unrest just to teach a rookie. Is it worth basically tanking the season just so Andy Dalton can learn on the job?
I'm not a fan, but Andy Dalton needs to start. If they want to bring in a veteran to mentor that's fine, but to just hand over the reigns to a guy we KNOW will suck seems silly. Let Dalton learn on the job like Mark Sanchez, Joe Flaaco, and Sam Bradford. Think about it this way, would you rather the Bengals go 6-10 and not know if Andy Dalton is worth anything or go 4-12 or 5-11 and know that Dalton could be a viable long term QB?
I just don't want to be writing this same post again a year from now with Andrew Luck.
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