I hate people that get up 10 times during the game. I hate douchers that try to start the wave. I don't like drunks in my row or sitting next to another fat guy at the game. I'm sure people hate that my wife and I walk around the stadium for the first 5 or so and then just watch the end. I'm sure my tone isn't exactly appreciated by everyone, but here's the thing, nobody goes on radio or TV complaining about banning this stuff.
So why the Woo? What's your problem with fans Wooing at games? Unlike the other things mentioned, it seems to belong to us. I like having quirking things that belong to my team and it's fans, don't you? It's no "Sweet Caroline", but it's not as lame as Cub fans throwing balls back on the field.
Marc Amazon, Lance McAlister, and a lot of others have stood up against the Woo. Why? It doesn't bother me that Lance brings a soft-sided cooler, or that Marc has a media pass and rarely ever goes. Why hate on other fans? What's the point?
Do I Woo? No. Frankly, I don't particularly like it or when it's used, but that's not for me to decide. People come to the ballpark for one reason, have a good time. For most, that's seeing the Reds win, for some, it's just hanging out with someone special, and maybe others it's just to drink outside.
I say, let the people Woo. It's our thing. It's an audible way to hear Reds fans at other stadiums, and it's harmless. I say enjoy yourself down at the ballpark, just don't ask me to do the wave with you.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Love the BCS
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.
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.
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.
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