I am not going to do my weekly Power Rankings this week. The week 17 games were mostly meaningless and so I decided my Power Rankings would remain the same as they were in Week 16. I would like to make some week 17 observations, though.
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1) I just don't know what to think of Vince Young. I see some really nice talent there, and I also see some really good decision making occasionally. But, his inconsistency is incredible and it isn't getting better. I honestly think the Titans looked better this year with Kerry Collins in the backfield. I'm not ready to give up on Vince yet, but I'm not holding my breath.
2) I'm not sure what to think of Derek Anderson, either. He is the AFC Pro Bowl alternate at the quarterback position, but his numbers aren't actually that great. He did pass for 29 touchdowns this season, but he also had 19 interceptions and only completed 56.5% of his passes. His 19 interceptions rank him 29th out of the 33 statistically relevant NFL quarterbacks and his 56.5 % completion percentage ranks him 28th. Plus, his numbers actually got worse in the 2nd half of the season. I'm not convinced he is the long term solution in Cleveland. I hope the Browns decide to keep both Anderson and Quinn for at least 1 more year.
3) Jim Sorgi may be the worst quarterback I have ever seen in an NFL uniform. And yes, I am old enough to remember the strike year when the "Scabs" played. The Colts would be lucky to win 3 games during a 16 game season with Sorgi at the helm. I honestly don't know what Dungy and Polian see in Jim. The Colts will be totally screwed if anything ever happens to Peyton Manning.
4) Brian Billick deserved to get the axe in Baltimore, but not based solely on this season. The guy is supposed to be some kind of offensive guru, but he has had something like 13 different starting quarterbacks in 9 years and the defense is still the strongest part of that team. The Ravens are getting old on defense and I think their window is closing. I applaud the ownership for making a very difficult decision that needed to be made.
5) The Dolphins fired GM Randy Mueller today. I guess we're about to find out if Bill Parcells really is as good as advertised. The Dolphins are a complete mess on offense as far as talent is concerned, and their defense is getting really old. Don't be surprised if you see a lot of new faces on the roster next year.
6) I really don't see any major upsets in this year's playoffs. But, you never know. I think New England has the best shot at winning the Super Bowl, with Indy as the 2nd strongest team, Jacksonville as #3, Dallas as #4, and Green Bay as #5.
7) There are more than a few teams in the NFL who will probably be looking to improve their quarterback situation next year. And, there doesn't appear to be any real strong quarterbacks available in this year's draft. Check out Scout.com's NFL draft rankings. It could be an interesting offseason.
8) OK, remember you heard this here first. I am going to go out on a limb and predict that the New England Patriots will become the first team in NFL history to go undefeated in back to back seasons. I just checked out their preliminary schedule for next season and it looks like it will be easier than the one they faced this year. The teams in the AFC East are scheduled to face the AFC West and the NFC West next season. In addition, the Patriots will also have to play Indy and Pittsburgh. So, New England's schedule for next season will include these games:
Patriots Home Games: Denver (7-9), Kansas City (4-12), Arizona (8-8), St. Louis (3-13), Pittsburgh (10-6), Miami (1-15), Buffalo (7-9), and the Jets (4-12).
Patriots Away Games: Oakland (4-12), San Diego (11-5), San Francisco (5-11), Seattle (10-6), Indy (13-3), Miami (1-15), Buffalo (7-9), and the Jets (4-12).
As you can see, the Patriots will only be facing 4 teams next season that finished the '07 season with winning records. Like I said, I think the Patriots have a pretty decent shot at becoming the only team in NFL history to go undefeated in back to back seasons.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Week 16 Observations
1) Derek Anderson's 4 interceptions may have totally screwed the Browns' chances of making the playoffs. The Browns will miss the playoffs if the Titans beat the Colts next week, and Tony Dungy has already stated that he is planning on resting a lot of his players next Sunday. The Browns looked like a lock for the playoffs a couple of weeks ago, but I think the Titans will beat the Colts and take the final AFC wild card spot.
2) I have decided that I do not understand the new definition of "control" when a receiver catches a ball. I have seen too many instances this year when I thought a player didn't exhibit control only to have the referees review the play in question and declare the receiver had "control." I wasn't a big fan of the old rule, but at least I understood it.
3) I think Donovan McNabb won't be in Philadelphia next season. The only question for me is where will he end up. I think there are a lot of teams that will make a play for him, but my money is on Chicago. I think whoever gets McNabb will instantly become a better team. I still think Donovan is one of the top 5 quarterbacks in the League.
4) I just can't help thinking the Browns are gonna trade Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson this off season. There are just too many teams that need quarterbacks and the Browns need a lot of help on defense. I'm just not sure which guy they should trade. Derek Anderson has looked good for most of the season, but Brady Quinn might turn out to be a better quarterback in the long run. I'd like to see the Browns keep them both for one more year but I think both Anderson and Quinn might be at the peak of their trade value this off season.
5) I'm still not sold on the San Diego Chargers. I really want to believe they have a legitimate shot at getting to the Super Bowl, but I don't think they have what it takes to beat New England or Indianapolis. I know they beat the Colts earlier in the year, but I think they just got lucky and caught the Colts at the right time.
6) I only asked Santa for one thing this year. I begged the jolly old man to please find a decent replacement for Tony Kornheiser on Monday Night Football for next season. Listening to Kornheiser in the MNF booth might be the most painful thing I've ever had to endure in my entire life.
2) I have decided that I do not understand the new definition of "control" when a receiver catches a ball. I have seen too many instances this year when I thought a player didn't exhibit control only to have the referees review the play in question and declare the receiver had "control." I wasn't a big fan of the old rule, but at least I understood it.
3) I think Donovan McNabb won't be in Philadelphia next season. The only question for me is where will he end up. I think there are a lot of teams that will make a play for him, but my money is on Chicago. I think whoever gets McNabb will instantly become a better team. I still think Donovan is one of the top 5 quarterbacks in the League.
4) I just can't help thinking the Browns are gonna trade Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson this off season. There are just too many teams that need quarterbacks and the Browns need a lot of help on defense. I'm just not sure which guy they should trade. Derek Anderson has looked good for most of the season, but Brady Quinn might turn out to be a better quarterback in the long run. I'd like to see the Browns keep them both for one more year but I think both Anderson and Quinn might be at the peak of their trade value this off season.
5) I'm still not sold on the San Diego Chargers. I really want to believe they have a legitimate shot at getting to the Super Bowl, but I don't think they have what it takes to beat New England or Indianapolis. I know they beat the Colts earlier in the year, but I think they just got lucky and caught the Colts at the right time.
6) I only asked Santa for one thing this year. I begged the jolly old man to please find a decent replacement for Tony Kornheiser on Monday Night Football for next season. Listening to Kornheiser in the MNF booth might be the most painful thing I've ever had to endure in my entire life.
Week 16 Power Rankings
This will probably be the last meaningful week for power rankings. The top seeds in the playoffs have already been determined.
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1) New England Patriots: Is anybody really surprised?
2) Indianapolis Colts: Look for the Colts to rest a lot of players next week against the Titans.
3) Jacksonville Jaguars: I moved them ahead of the Cowboys and the Packers because I honestly believe they would beat both of those teams.
4) Dallas Cowboys: They just look like they are wearing down.
5) Green Bay Packers: How do they lose to the Bears that badly?
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I still don't think they are a Super Bowl contender, but I think they are better than all the teams I have ranked below them.
7) San Diego Chargers: They look like they are starting to get the ball rolling. But, they haven't exactly been beating quality opponents.
8) Seattle Seahawks: They have the talent to be a threat in the NFC playoffs. I wouldn't rule them out of winning the NFC Championship.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They have a good defense, but I don't think they can compete with the top 5 teams in the NFL.
10) Tennessee Titans: Don't look now but the Titans are sneaking up on the playoffs. Don't forget that Vince Young is a "big game" quarterback.
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1) New England Patriots: Is anybody really surprised?
2) Indianapolis Colts: Look for the Colts to rest a lot of players next week against the Titans.
3) Jacksonville Jaguars: I moved them ahead of the Cowboys and the Packers because I honestly believe they would beat both of those teams.
4) Dallas Cowboys: They just look like they are wearing down.
5) Green Bay Packers: How do they lose to the Bears that badly?
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I still don't think they are a Super Bowl contender, but I think they are better than all the teams I have ranked below them.
7) San Diego Chargers: They look like they are starting to get the ball rolling. But, they haven't exactly been beating quality opponents.
8) Seattle Seahawks: They have the talent to be a threat in the NFC playoffs. I wouldn't rule them out of winning the NFC Championship.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They have a good defense, but I don't think they can compete with the top 5 teams in the NFL.
10) Tennessee Titans: Don't look now but the Titans are sneaking up on the playoffs. Don't forget that Vince Young is a "big game" quarterback.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Reds Trade Hamilton To Texas
The Cincinnati reds announced today that they have traded center fielder Josh Hamilton to the Texas Rangers for pitchers Edinson Volquez and Danny Herrera.
I hated to see Hamilton go, but I guess you have to give up something in order to get something. My concern in giving up Hamilton via trade is that Griffey isn't getting any younger and Dunn will be in the last year of his contract this season. I was beginning to think that Hamilton might be the bat that eventually replaced one of those guys in the lineup. But, maybe the Reds organization thinks that Jay Bruce will be ready by the time they need to replace Griffey or Dunn. Bruce certainly has looked capable. Jay was recently listed by MiLB.com as the top prospect in all of the minor leagues.
Volquez is an interesting prospect, but he has only pitched a total of 20 games in the majors over the last 3 years. He has a career record of 3 wins and 11 losses with an ERA of 7.20. Edinson has apparently struggled with his control over the last 3 years, but he has been improving. Texas gave him a shot in spring training last season to be their #5 starter but elected to send him back down to the minors instead. He eventually made it back up with Texas last season and pitched in 6 games with a record of 2-1 and an ERA of 4.50. I think the Reds will definitely give a shot to Volquez to compete for either the 4th or 5th spot in the rotation. Harang, Arroyo, and Belisle should be the Reds first 3 in the rotation next season. I think Volquez will probably be competing with Homer Bailey and Johnny Cueto to see who will fill the final 2 spots in the rotation.
There isn't a lot of info available on 23 year old Danny Herrera. In February of this year Scout.com listed Herrera as the #18 prospect in the Rangers organization. Danny posted a 5-2 record with a 3.80 ERA with Double A Frisco this last season.
I hated to see Hamilton go, but I guess you have to give up something in order to get something. My concern in giving up Hamilton via trade is that Griffey isn't getting any younger and Dunn will be in the last year of his contract this season. I was beginning to think that Hamilton might be the bat that eventually replaced one of those guys in the lineup. But, maybe the Reds organization thinks that Jay Bruce will be ready by the time they need to replace Griffey or Dunn. Bruce certainly has looked capable. Jay was recently listed by MiLB.com as the top prospect in all of the minor leagues.
Volquez is an interesting prospect, but he has only pitched a total of 20 games in the majors over the last 3 years. He has a career record of 3 wins and 11 losses with an ERA of 7.20. Edinson has apparently struggled with his control over the last 3 years, but he has been improving. Texas gave him a shot in spring training last season to be their #5 starter but elected to send him back down to the minors instead. He eventually made it back up with Texas last season and pitched in 6 games with a record of 2-1 and an ERA of 4.50. I think the Reds will definitely give a shot to Volquez to compete for either the 4th or 5th spot in the rotation. Harang, Arroyo, and Belisle should be the Reds first 3 in the rotation next season. I think Volquez will probably be competing with Homer Bailey and Johnny Cueto to see who will fill the final 2 spots in the rotation.
There isn't a lot of info available on 23 year old Danny Herrera. In February of this year Scout.com listed Herrera as the #18 prospect in the Rangers organization. Danny posted a 5-2 record with a 3.80 ERA with Double A Frisco this last season.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
12/20/07: Kentucky Basketball
OK. So the Kentucky men's basketball team isn't looking very good so far this season. If you're a Kentucky fan what did you honestly expect?
The biggest gripe that everybody seemed to have with Tubby Smith was his recruiting. So, why is everyone complaining about the Wildcats substandard performance on the floor this season? Let's face it, Billy Gillespie didn't exactly inherit a talent rich team when he came to Lexington. The cupboards were pretty bare, even by Tubby's standards. Don't get me wrong, there are some talented players on this year's roster. But, the only developed talent that Tubby left in Lexington was at the guard position. Tubby didn't leave any big men on the roster that had any meaningful experience.
Billy Gillespie came to town, and now finds himself in the unenviable position of having too many talented back court players and not enough developed front court players. As a result, Billy has had to rely heavily on a talented freshman (Patrick Patterson) and a walk-on (Mark Coury) to do most of the heavy lifting in the low post. Add to that the injuries to Meeks and Jasper in the back court at the start of the season, and Billy Gillespie's unenviable position suddenly became an unenviable mess.
I'm actually impressed that the Wildcats have, at times, looked as good as they have. They haven't yet impressed me with their defense or rebounding, but it is honestly about what I expected when I saw the lineup that Gillespie has been forced to put on the floor. When the season started I made a note to myself that I thought Kentucky would be lucky to finish the season at .500. And that was before Meeks got injured and Legion left the program.
I understand Kentucky fans being upset, but what does everybody honestly expect to gain by bashing Gillespie and the players this early in the season? I'm afraid that if the bashing continues it might have a negative impact on Gillespie's recruiting. If you were a highly sought after recruit would you want to go to a school where the fans were constantly criticizing the players and coach? Billy will never be able to resurrect the program if he can't convince the big name recruits that his job is safe in Lexington.
If you are truly a Kentucky fan I am begging you to have a little patience. Rome wasn't built in a day. Yes, Billy does things a little differently from what we are all used to. But, that doesn't necessarily mean what he is doing is wrong.
I think Gillespie is a good enough recruiter to bring in the required talent to return the Wildcats to greatness. The guy just needs some more time and a little faith from the fan base. I'm not saying that we as Kentucky fans don't have the right to be critical, all I'm suggesting is that we should think about the possible ramifications of what we say before we say it.
The biggest gripe that everybody seemed to have with Tubby Smith was his recruiting. So, why is everyone complaining about the Wildcats substandard performance on the floor this season? Let's face it, Billy Gillespie didn't exactly inherit a talent rich team when he came to Lexington. The cupboards were pretty bare, even by Tubby's standards. Don't get me wrong, there are some talented players on this year's roster. But, the only developed talent that Tubby left in Lexington was at the guard position. Tubby didn't leave any big men on the roster that had any meaningful experience.
Billy Gillespie came to town, and now finds himself in the unenviable position of having too many talented back court players and not enough developed front court players. As a result, Billy has had to rely heavily on a talented freshman (Patrick Patterson) and a walk-on (Mark Coury) to do most of the heavy lifting in the low post. Add to that the injuries to Meeks and Jasper in the back court at the start of the season, and Billy Gillespie's unenviable position suddenly became an unenviable mess.
I'm actually impressed that the Wildcats have, at times, looked as good as they have. They haven't yet impressed me with their defense or rebounding, but it is honestly about what I expected when I saw the lineup that Gillespie has been forced to put on the floor. When the season started I made a note to myself that I thought Kentucky would be lucky to finish the season at .500. And that was before Meeks got injured and Legion left the program.
I understand Kentucky fans being upset, but what does everybody honestly expect to gain by bashing Gillespie and the players this early in the season? I'm afraid that if the bashing continues it might have a negative impact on Gillespie's recruiting. If you were a highly sought after recruit would you want to go to a school where the fans were constantly criticizing the players and coach? Billy will never be able to resurrect the program if he can't convince the big name recruits that his job is safe in Lexington.
If you are truly a Kentucky fan I am begging you to have a little patience. Rome wasn't built in a day. Yes, Billy does things a little differently from what we are all used to. But, that doesn't necessarily mean what he is doing is wrong.
I think Gillespie is a good enough recruiter to bring in the required talent to return the Wildcats to greatness. The guy just needs some more time and a little faith from the fan base. I'm not saying that we as Kentucky fans don't have the right to be critical, all I'm suggesting is that we should think about the possible ramifications of what we say before we say it.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Ball State Apologizes to Thompson
Ball State University has issued an apology to former basketball coach Ronny Thompson after an outside review found "unprofessional behavior" in the University's Athletic Department. The review was conducted by former Supreme Court Justice Myra Selby at the request of the University.
The fact that Ball State felt the need to apologize to Thompson tells me that somebody in the Athletic Department must have done or said something pretty bad. If that is the case, then I truly hope the guilty parties have been punished.
I have not been able to read any of the findings of former Supreme Court Justice Selby's report. I have a feeling that since this was a personnel issue that we may never know the full findings of the report. I can only hope that Selby's report was all-inclusive and that it also addressed some of the "unprofessional behavior" that was reportedly exhibited by coach Thompson. I think it would be an injustice to everyone involved on both sides of the issue if the independent review didn't investigate some of the claims that have been made about coach Thompson's behavior while he was at the University.
If you followed the link above to the Muncie Star Press article, I hope you took the time to read the user comments at the end of the story. If you didn't, you may want to go back and take a look at them. I found them to be very interesting. After reading the comments on the story I think it is pretty obvious that Ronny Thompson doesn't have too many fans in Muncie.
I'll follow up on this issue if anything further develops.
The fact that Ball State felt the need to apologize to Thompson tells me that somebody in the Athletic Department must have done or said something pretty bad. If that is the case, then I truly hope the guilty parties have been punished.
I have not been able to read any of the findings of former Supreme Court Justice Selby's report. I have a feeling that since this was a personnel issue that we may never know the full findings of the report. I can only hope that Selby's report was all-inclusive and that it also addressed some of the "unprofessional behavior" that was reportedly exhibited by coach Thompson. I think it would be an injustice to everyone involved on both sides of the issue if the independent review didn't investigate some of the claims that have been made about coach Thompson's behavior while he was at the University.
If you followed the link above to the Muncie Star Press article, I hope you took the time to read the user comments at the end of the story. If you didn't, you may want to go back and take a look at them. I found them to be very interesting. After reading the comments on the story I think it is pretty obvious that Ronny Thompson doesn't have too many fans in Muncie.
I'll follow up on this issue if anything further develops.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Week 15 Observations
1) Bill Belichick stated after Sunday's game against the Jets that the Patriots aren't going to do anything different in their last 2 games. I assume that means he is planning on playing his starters in those last 2 games. I hope Belichick is doing it for the right reasons because I would hate to see the backlash if somebody like Tom Brady were to get seriously hurt in a meaningless game because Belichick wanted to finish the season undefeated.
2) The Colts clinched the AFC South and a 1st round bye with their win over Oakland. I can't believe how well they've played this season with so many injuries. This is the best coaching job that Tony Dungy has ever done. Let's not forget that if it wasn't for 1 missed "chip shot" field goal against San Diego and a dropped pass by the normally reliable Reggie Wayne against the Pats, this Colts team would probably be 14-0 right now.
3) Go look at the box score of the Steelers/Jaguars game. I don't see how the final score could have been so close. The Jags had 25 first downs and 421 total yards of offense. The Steelers only had 13 first downs and 217 total yards of offense. The Jaguars rushed for 224 yards against the Steelers defense which came into the game ranked #2 against the run in the entire NFL. I've said it before and I'll say it again, "The Jags are for real!" I sure hope we get to see the Jags play against New England in the playoffs.
4) The Colts clinching the #2 seed could actually hurt the Browns. If the Browns win 1 more game or the Titans lose 1 more game, the Browns will earn the final wild card spot in the AFC. The problem for the Browns is that the Titans last 2 games are against the pathetic New York Jets and against Indianapolis. The Titans will probably win both of those games because the Jets suck and the Colts probably won't even make an effort to win their final 2 games. So, the Browns are gonna have to win 1 of their 2 final games to take that wild card spot. For the record, the Browns final 2 games are against the Bengals and the 49ers. I think the Browns will win 1 of those games but I hate the fact that Indy resting players in their final 2 games could potentially affect another teams' chances of making the playoffs.
5) The Dolphins finally won a game in Week 15. How bad do you think the Ravens feel right now? They almost beat New England in Week 13, then get pummeled by the Colts in Week 14 and then lose to the winless Dolphins in Week 15. I know coach Brian Billick has been given a vote of confidence by the team owner, but I think the Ravens have underachieved this season.
6) Jeremy Shockey broke his left leg in Sunday night's game against the Redskins. I think his injury killed any chance the Giants had of winning a playoff game.
7) The Browns/Bills game is scheduled for replay on the NFL Network on Tuesday night at 10:30 pm. I love snow games!
2) The Colts clinched the AFC South and a 1st round bye with their win over Oakland. I can't believe how well they've played this season with so many injuries. This is the best coaching job that Tony Dungy has ever done. Let's not forget that if it wasn't for 1 missed "chip shot" field goal against San Diego and a dropped pass by the normally reliable Reggie Wayne against the Pats, this Colts team would probably be 14-0 right now.
3) Go look at the box score of the Steelers/Jaguars game. I don't see how the final score could have been so close. The Jags had 25 first downs and 421 total yards of offense. The Steelers only had 13 first downs and 217 total yards of offense. The Jaguars rushed for 224 yards against the Steelers defense which came into the game ranked #2 against the run in the entire NFL. I've said it before and I'll say it again, "The Jags are for real!" I sure hope we get to see the Jags play against New England in the playoffs.
4) The Colts clinching the #2 seed could actually hurt the Browns. If the Browns win 1 more game or the Titans lose 1 more game, the Browns will earn the final wild card spot in the AFC. The problem for the Browns is that the Titans last 2 games are against the pathetic New York Jets and against Indianapolis. The Titans will probably win both of those games because the Jets suck and the Colts probably won't even make an effort to win their final 2 games. So, the Browns are gonna have to win 1 of their 2 final games to take that wild card spot. For the record, the Browns final 2 games are against the Bengals and the 49ers. I think the Browns will win 1 of those games but I hate the fact that Indy resting players in their final 2 games could potentially affect another teams' chances of making the playoffs.
5) The Dolphins finally won a game in Week 15. How bad do you think the Ravens feel right now? They almost beat New England in Week 13, then get pummeled by the Colts in Week 14 and then lose to the winless Dolphins in Week 15. I know coach Brian Billick has been given a vote of confidence by the team owner, but I think the Ravens have underachieved this season.
6) Jeremy Shockey broke his left leg in Sunday night's game against the Redskins. I think his injury killed any chance the Giants had of winning a playoff game.
7) The Browns/Bills game is scheduled for replay on the NFL Network on Tuesday night at 10:30 pm. I love snow games!
Week 15 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots: The Patriots are fun to watch. I just wish their fans weren't such jerks.
2) Indianapolis Colts: They clinched the AFC South and a 1st round bye with the win at Oakland. Look for the Colts to shut it down and try to get healthy for the playoffs.
3) Dallas Cowboys: They haven't looked too sharp the last couple weeks, but they beat the Packers in Week 13 and that will be important come playoff time.
4) Green Bay Packers: The Packers look like the best team in the NFC right now. It still looks like they are gonna have to go back to Dallas, though.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Don't let the score fool you. The Jaguars outplayed the Steelers in every facet of the game.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I'm ranking them #6 because they have already beaten Cleveland and Seattle. Make no mistake though, this Steelers team isn't close to being good enough to contend for the Super Bowl this year.
7) Cleveland Browns: They control their own destiny. I think they make the playoffs as the final wild card team.
8) San Diego Chargers: They're baaaack!
9) Seattle Seahawks: The 'Hawks have played 3 teams this season that are currently in the playoff mix. The only one of those "playoff" teams the 'Hawks beat was the Buccaneers.
10a) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs have also played 3 teams this season that are currently in the playoff mix. Unfortunately, the Bucs lost all 3 of those games.
10b) Minnesota Vikings: They might sneak up on somebody if they can make it to the playoffs.
10c) NY Giants: In case you missed it last night, Jeremy Shockey broke his leg and is probably done for the year. The Giants are going to the playoffs, but they are toast without Shockey.
2) Indianapolis Colts: They clinched the AFC South and a 1st round bye with the win at Oakland. Look for the Colts to shut it down and try to get healthy for the playoffs.
3) Dallas Cowboys: They haven't looked too sharp the last couple weeks, but they beat the Packers in Week 13 and that will be important come playoff time.
4) Green Bay Packers: The Packers look like the best team in the NFC right now. It still looks like they are gonna have to go back to Dallas, though.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Don't let the score fool you. The Jaguars outplayed the Steelers in every facet of the game.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I'm ranking them #6 because they have already beaten Cleveland and Seattle. Make no mistake though, this Steelers team isn't close to being good enough to contend for the Super Bowl this year.
7) Cleveland Browns: They control their own destiny. I think they make the playoffs as the final wild card team.
8) San Diego Chargers: They're baaaack!
9) Seattle Seahawks: The 'Hawks have played 3 teams this season that are currently in the playoff mix. The only one of those "playoff" teams the 'Hawks beat was the Buccaneers.
10a) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs have also played 3 teams this season that are currently in the playoff mix. Unfortunately, the Bucs lost all 3 of those games.
10b) Minnesota Vikings: They might sneak up on somebody if they can make it to the playoffs.
10c) NY Giants: In case you missed it last night, Jeremy Shockey broke his leg and is probably done for the year. The Giants are going to the playoffs, but they are toast without Shockey.
Friday, December 14, 2007
12/14/07: UK Basketball Update
1) Derrick Jasper's return to the UK lineup might have suffered a setback yesterday. It is being reported that Jasper left practice yesterday with "sharp pain" in his surgically repaired left knee. His status for Saturday's game against UAB is uncertain.
2) The Detroit News is reporting that Alex Legion will transfer from UK and is considering going to Notre Dame, Arkansas, Illinois, or Michigan. Alex told the Detroit News that despite what UK coach Gillespie said in recent interviews, Alex never considered returning to UK after the initial reports of his desire to transfer had surfaced.
3) Former Kentucky Wildcat Rekalin Sims has been dismissed from the Fresno State basketball team.
4) UK Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart has signed a 5 year extension to remain at the University of Kentucky through 2012. There had been rumors that the University of Washington was interested in Barnhart to fill its currently vacant AD position.
2) The Detroit News is reporting that Alex Legion will transfer from UK and is considering going to Notre Dame, Arkansas, Illinois, or Michigan. Alex told the Detroit News that despite what UK coach Gillespie said in recent interviews, Alex never considered returning to UK after the initial reports of his desire to transfer had surfaced.
3) Former Kentucky Wildcat Rekalin Sims has been dismissed from the Fresno State basketball team.
4) UK Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart has signed a 5 year extension to remain at the University of Kentucky through 2012. There had been rumors that the University of Washington was interested in Barnhart to fill its currently vacant AD position.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
UPDATE: Legion To Transfer
12/11/07
Jerry Tipton of the Lexington Herald-Leader is reporting that Alex Legion's godfather/AAU coach has confirmed that Alex will be transferring from the University of Kentucky.
Read Jerry's article here.
Jerry Tipton of the Lexington Herald-Leader is reporting that Alex Legion's godfather/AAU coach has confirmed that Alex will be transferring from the University of Kentucky.
Read Jerry's article here.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Week 14 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots : The Pats got back on track.
2) Dallas Cowboys : They had an off game, but they still found a way to win. I'm still not sure the Cowboys have the kind of team that could beat the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
3) Indianapolis Colts : The Colts were firing on all cylinders against a beat up Ravens team. Don't feel sorry for the Ravens, though. The Colts were missing a lot of starters too.
4) Green Bay Packers : They have the talent to beat anybody. They just haven't beaten "anybody" yet.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars : The contender that nobody is talking about. I know the Colts don't want to see them again in the playoffs this year. Something tells me that the Patriots don't want to see the Jags either.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers : I'm starting to really think the Steelers are just pretenders. I guess we'll all know for sure after next week's game against Jacksonville.
7) San Diego Chargers : Ugly wins count just as much as pretty wins.
8) Seattle Seahawks : The Hawks intercepted Kurt Warner 5 times and sacked him 5 times in today's game. Can the Seahawks turn in that kind of performance against a good team?
9) Cleveland Browns : The Browns are looking more and more like a playoff team. Its been a long time since anybody said that about a Browns team.
10) NY Giants : They improved to 9-4 after their win over Philly.
Honorable Mention: Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
2) Dallas Cowboys : They had an off game, but they still found a way to win. I'm still not sure the Cowboys have the kind of team that could beat the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
3) Indianapolis Colts : The Colts were firing on all cylinders against a beat up Ravens team. Don't feel sorry for the Ravens, though. The Colts were missing a lot of starters too.
4) Green Bay Packers : They have the talent to beat anybody. They just haven't beaten "anybody" yet.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars : The contender that nobody is talking about. I know the Colts don't want to see them again in the playoffs this year. Something tells me that the Patriots don't want to see the Jags either.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers : I'm starting to really think the Steelers are just pretenders. I guess we'll all know for sure after next week's game against Jacksonville.
7) San Diego Chargers : Ugly wins count just as much as pretty wins.
8) Seattle Seahawks : The Hawks intercepted Kurt Warner 5 times and sacked him 5 times in today's game. Can the Seahawks turn in that kind of performance against a good team?
9) Cleveland Browns : The Browns are looking more and more like a playoff team. Its been a long time since anybody said that about a Browns team.
10) NY Giants : They improved to 9-4 after their win over Philly.
Honorable Mention: Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Week 14 Observations
1) I think the only teams that have any chance of winning the Super Bowl this year are the Patriots, Cowboys, Colts, Packers, and the Jaguars.
2) The Steelers have only beaten 3 teams with winning records this year (Browns, Bills, Seahawks). Could it be they are the product of an easy schedule?
3) I'm curious to see what Jacksonville will do in Pittsburgh next week. I think Jacksonville is the better team, but I wonder how the Jags will play if the weather is bad. Both teams have good defenses and strong running games. I think it could be an interesting game.
4) It was a shame the Ravens had to play without both their starting cornerbacks against the Colts on Sunday night. The Raven defense just isn't the same without those 2 guys. Of course it doesn't matter who the Ravens line up on defense if Boller plays like he did against the Colts.
5) The Colts defense just isn't the same without Dwight Freeney. They're still pretty good, but I don't think they are good enough to win the Super Bowl without him.
6) Tavaris Jackson has turned in 4 pretty good performances in the Vikings' last 4 games. I've been critical of Jackson's play this season, but I have to say that I have seen some improvement in his game. If he keeps getting better, the Vikings could be a tough out in the playoffs.
7) The Saints play the Falcons on Monday night. I have a feeling I may get to bed early for a change.
8) The Titans need to do something about Vince Young. They either need to let him be more creative with the offense, or they need to bench him for Kerry Collins. Vince Young is just not an effective pocket quarterback.
2) The Steelers have only beaten 3 teams with winning records this year (Browns, Bills, Seahawks). Could it be they are the product of an easy schedule?
3) I'm curious to see what Jacksonville will do in Pittsburgh next week. I think Jacksonville is the better team, but I wonder how the Jags will play if the weather is bad. Both teams have good defenses and strong running games. I think it could be an interesting game.
4) It was a shame the Ravens had to play without both their starting cornerbacks against the Colts on Sunday night. The Raven defense just isn't the same without those 2 guys. Of course it doesn't matter who the Ravens line up on defense if Boller plays like he did against the Colts.
5) The Colts defense just isn't the same without Dwight Freeney. They're still pretty good, but I don't think they are good enough to win the Super Bowl without him.
6) Tavaris Jackson has turned in 4 pretty good performances in the Vikings' last 4 games. I've been critical of Jackson's play this season, but I have to say that I have seen some improvement in his game. If he keeps getting better, the Vikings could be a tough out in the playoffs.
7) The Saints play the Falcons on Monday night. I have a feeling I may get to bed early for a change.
8) The Titans need to do something about Vince Young. They either need to let him be more creative with the offense, or they need to bench him for Kerry Collins. Vince Young is just not an effective pocket quarterback.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Legion May Stay
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UPDATE: 12/07/07 It is now being reported that Alex Legion met with Billy Gillespie yesterday (Thursday), and Gillespie told the media later in the day that Legion did tell the coach that he would like to rejoin the team. Gillespie did also confirm that Legion has been released from his scholarship, but he went on to say the door is still open for future discussions with Legion about rejoining the team. Here is the link to the Brett Dawson's story on the subject.
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Well, it now appears that Kentucky freshman Alex Legion may be reconsidering his decision to transfer from the school. Obviously this is a developing story so I will try to keep an eye on it and post anything new that shows up.
Here is the link to the article written by Jerry Tipton of the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Here is the link to the Sports Illustrated story.
Here is the link to a story on the Detroit Free Press.
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I found an interesting link this morning that might give Alex, and the rest of us, an idea about what it going on at Kentucky. Its a story about Acie Law IV, and how he eventually came to understand Billy Gillespie when they were both at Texas A & M. I have a feeling Acie and Alex may have a few things in common. You can check out the story here. I think it will give everyone an insight into the basketball world of Billy Gillespie. It is a must read if you are a Kentucky fan.
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I do hope that everybody out there will cut Alex some slack on this issue because by all accounts he is a decent kid. I don't pretend to know what is going on behind the scenes at Kentucky, but I am young enough to remember what it was like being 18 years old and stepping into college athletics.
I very nearly transferred during my freshman year because the coaching staff decided very shortly after my arrival that they wanted me to play a position other than the one they recruited me to play. It wouldn't have been such a big deal except for the fact that I signed with that particular school because they were the only college that recruited me to play the position that I actually wanted to play. In the end I decided to stay at the school. Not because I was happy, but because I realized that I wouldn't be playing the position I wanted to play at any other school either. If I had it to do over again, knowing what I know now, I probably would have signed with different school to begin with. But, that is a completely different story that I won't bore you with.
I wish Alex the best of luck regardless of what he decides to do. I've been there, and I've done that. I'd love to see Alex stay at Kentucky, but he is the only person who knows if it is the right place for him to be.
UPDATE: 12/07/07 It is now being reported that Alex Legion met with Billy Gillespie yesterday (Thursday), and Gillespie told the media later in the day that Legion did tell the coach that he would like to rejoin the team. Gillespie did also confirm that Legion has been released from his scholarship, but he went on to say the door is still open for future discussions with Legion about rejoining the team. Here is the link to the Brett Dawson's story on the subject.
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Well, it now appears that Kentucky freshman Alex Legion may be reconsidering his decision to transfer from the school. Obviously this is a developing story so I will try to keep an eye on it and post anything new that shows up.
Here is the link to the article written by Jerry Tipton of the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Here is the link to the Sports Illustrated story.
Here is the link to a story on the Detroit Free Press.
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I found an interesting link this morning that might give Alex, and the rest of us, an idea about what it going on at Kentucky. Its a story about Acie Law IV, and how he eventually came to understand Billy Gillespie when they were both at Texas A & M. I have a feeling Acie and Alex may have a few things in common. You can check out the story here. I think it will give everyone an insight into the basketball world of Billy Gillespie. It is a must read if you are a Kentucky fan.
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I do hope that everybody out there will cut Alex some slack on this issue because by all accounts he is a decent kid. I don't pretend to know what is going on behind the scenes at Kentucky, but I am young enough to remember what it was like being 18 years old and stepping into college athletics.
I very nearly transferred during my freshman year because the coaching staff decided very shortly after my arrival that they wanted me to play a position other than the one they recruited me to play. It wouldn't have been such a big deal except for the fact that I signed with that particular school because they were the only college that recruited me to play the position that I actually wanted to play. In the end I decided to stay at the school. Not because I was happy, but because I realized that I wouldn't be playing the position I wanted to play at any other school either. If I had it to do over again, knowing what I know now, I probably would have signed with different school to begin with. But, that is a completely different story that I won't bore you with.
I wish Alex the best of luck regardless of what he decides to do. I've been there, and I've done that. I'd love to see Alex stay at Kentucky, but he is the only person who knows if it is the right place for him to be.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Alex Legion To Leave Kentucky
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UPDATE: See the post above. It now appears that Alex may be reconsidering a transfer from the University of Kentucky.
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Its official. The University of Kentucky announced today that freshman guard Alex Legion intends to transfer.
Legion started 2 games for Kentucky this season and was averaging 17.5 minutes and 6.7 points per game.
Here is the official press release.
No matter how you look at it, this is a serious blow to the University of Kentucky and to Billy Gillespie. There still hasn't been any information as to why Legion decided leave the team, but reliable sources are reportedly saying that Legion's mother had something to do with his decision. In the end it doesn't really matter why he is leaving, though.
I don't think there is any doubt that Legion's departure will negatively impact Kentucky's performance on the court this year. His playing time was increasing and I for one think the team looked much better when Alex was on the floor.
I am worried about what effect his departure will have on overall team chemistry and Gillespie's future recruiting. There are rumors that other Wildcat players are also unhappy and may be pondering leaving the program. I haven't heard any names attached to these other rumors but one would suspect that Jared Carter and Michael Bradley would be the most obvious players who may be unhappy with their current situations. I'm not worried yet, but if there are more departures from the team I think we all should start getting worried.
The recent departure from the team of walk-on Kerry Benson only adds fuel to the fire where these rumors are concerned. Kerry had only played in 2 games this season but he played well in both contests and looked to possibly be earning more playing time.
UPDATE: See the post above. It now appears that Alex may be reconsidering a transfer from the University of Kentucky.
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Its official. The University of Kentucky announced today that freshman guard Alex Legion intends to transfer.
Legion started 2 games for Kentucky this season and was averaging 17.5 minutes and 6.7 points per game.
Here is the official press release.
No matter how you look at it, this is a serious blow to the University of Kentucky and to Billy Gillespie. There still hasn't been any information as to why Legion decided leave the team, but reliable sources are reportedly saying that Legion's mother had something to do with his decision. In the end it doesn't really matter why he is leaving, though.
I don't think there is any doubt that Legion's departure will negatively impact Kentucky's performance on the court this year. His playing time was increasing and I for one think the team looked much better when Alex was on the floor.
I am worried about what effect his departure will have on overall team chemistry and Gillespie's future recruiting. There are rumors that other Wildcat players are also unhappy and may be pondering leaving the program. I haven't heard any names attached to these other rumors but one would suspect that Jared Carter and Michael Bradley would be the most obvious players who may be unhappy with their current situations. I'm not worried yet, but if there are more departures from the team I think we all should start getting worried.
The recent departure from the team of walk-on Kerry Benson only adds fuel to the fire where these rumors are concerned. Kerry had only played in 2 games this season but he played well in both contests and looked to possibly be earning more playing time.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Week 13 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots - I'm running out of things to say about the Patriots. So I'll say that they're pretty good. But, they do have some chinks in their armor which are starting to show.
2) Dallas Cowboys - They didn't beat Green Bay convincingly, but they did win the game and they probably sewed up home field advantage throughout the playoffs in the process. I'm just not sure the Cowboys have the kind of team that could beat the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
3) Indianapolis Colts - The Colts took Jacksonville's best shot and still won the game despite the fact they are missing some key starters due to injury. I think the Colts are the team that has the best chance of beating the Patriots in the postseason.
4) Green Bay Packers - They got screwed by the referees in the Dallas game, but they probably would have lost the game anyway. Dallas exposed their weaknesses for the whole world to see.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars - They are knocking on the door of the "NFL Elite." I think the Jags are a better football team than most people give them credit for being. I know the Colts don't want to see them again in the playoffs this year. Something tells me that the Patriots don't want to see the Jags either.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers - They got a little breathing room in the AFC North thanks to some poor officiating in the Browns/Cardinals game. We'll know more about the Steelers after their match-up with the Patriots next Sunday and then their game against the Jaguars the following week.
7) San Diego Chargers - They're not as pretty as they were last year, but it looks like they may be getting it turned around just in time for the playoffs.
8) Seattle Seahawks - The Hawks have won 4 games in a row since their overtime loss to Cleveland. I just don't think they will do much in the playoffs.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers - The Bucs are 4-0 against their Division rivals this season and their defense doesn't give up very many points. The bad news is that being 4-0 against your Division rivals in the NFC South doesn't mean much this year.
10) Cleveland Browns, NY Giants, Tennessee Titans - All 3 teams are dangerous, but all 3 teams lack consistency at the quarterback position. That said, I wouldn't want to face any of these teams in the playoffs.
2) Dallas Cowboys - They didn't beat Green Bay convincingly, but they did win the game and they probably sewed up home field advantage throughout the playoffs in the process. I'm just not sure the Cowboys have the kind of team that could beat the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
3) Indianapolis Colts - The Colts took Jacksonville's best shot and still won the game despite the fact they are missing some key starters due to injury. I think the Colts are the team that has the best chance of beating the Patriots in the postseason.
4) Green Bay Packers - They got screwed by the referees in the Dallas game, but they probably would have lost the game anyway. Dallas exposed their weaknesses for the whole world to see.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars - They are knocking on the door of the "NFL Elite." I think the Jags are a better football team than most people give them credit for being. I know the Colts don't want to see them again in the playoffs this year. Something tells me that the Patriots don't want to see the Jags either.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers - They got a little breathing room in the AFC North thanks to some poor officiating in the Browns/Cardinals game. We'll know more about the Steelers after their match-up with the Patriots next Sunday and then their game against the Jaguars the following week.
7) San Diego Chargers - They're not as pretty as they were last year, but it looks like they may be getting it turned around just in time for the playoffs.
8) Seattle Seahawks - The Hawks have won 4 games in a row since their overtime loss to Cleveland. I just don't think they will do much in the playoffs.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers - The Bucs are 4-0 against their Division rivals this season and their defense doesn't give up very many points. The bad news is that being 4-0 against your Division rivals in the NFC South doesn't mean much this year.
10) Cleveland Browns, NY Giants, Tennessee Titans - All 3 teams are dangerous, but all 3 teams lack consistency at the quarterback position. That said, I wouldn't want to face any of these teams in the playoffs.
Week 13 Observations
1) Kellen Winslow was forced out of bounds and the Browns were robbed of a victory by poor officiating. Of course, Cleveland would have never been in that position if Derek Anderson hadn't committed 3 turnovers in the game. I love Derek Anderson most of the time, but its games like today's that make me wonder what Brady Quinn could do with that offense.
2) Green Bay may have been robbed of a victory in Dallas by poor officiating as well. Of course, the Packers probably would have lost the game anyway because of their inability to cover the Cowboy receivers.
3) David Garrard threw his 1st interception of the season against the Colts today and it probably cost the Jaguars the game. David Garrard is the real deal, though. I think he is going to be good for a long time.
4) Vince Young had a good game and the Titans beat the Texans to snap their 3 game losing streak. I like Vince Young and I think he is going to be a good quarterback someday. I just don't think he is there yet.
5) I think it is time to stick a fork in the Detroit Lions. They are done. I have to admit they had me fooled for a little while this season, though.
6) The Redskin defense lining up with only 10 players on their first play against the Bills as a sort of "missing man" formation was one of the classiest things I have ever seen. I thought it was a fitting tribute to one hell of a football player. Rest in Peace, Sean.
7) Minnesota has the 27th ranked defense in the NFL and a starting quarterback who just flat out sucks. But, the Vikings are sitting at 6-6 and actually have a decent shot at making the playoffs. Adrian Peterson may not win the MVP this season, but I think you could easily make the argument that he is the most valuable player in the League this year.
8) Baltimore outplayed New England on Monday night and deserved to win the game. Baltimore fans will hate me for saying this, but those penalties against the Ravens on New England's last drive were legitimate. My problem with the officiating was that the Patriots were committing the same kinds of fouls the whole game and weren't getting called for it. I don't blame the Ravens' players for being upset after the game. I don't think it would be too much to ask for the referees to be fair and consistent to both teams.
2) Green Bay may have been robbed of a victory in Dallas by poor officiating as well. Of course, the Packers probably would have lost the game anyway because of their inability to cover the Cowboy receivers.
3) David Garrard threw his 1st interception of the season against the Colts today and it probably cost the Jaguars the game. David Garrard is the real deal, though. I think he is going to be good for a long time.
4) Vince Young had a good game and the Titans beat the Texans to snap their 3 game losing streak. I like Vince Young and I think he is going to be a good quarterback someday. I just don't think he is there yet.
5) I think it is time to stick a fork in the Detroit Lions. They are done. I have to admit they had me fooled for a little while this season, though.
6) The Redskin defense lining up with only 10 players on their first play against the Bills as a sort of "missing man" formation was one of the classiest things I have ever seen. I thought it was a fitting tribute to one hell of a football player. Rest in Peace, Sean.
7) Minnesota has the 27th ranked defense in the NFL and a starting quarterback who just flat out sucks. But, the Vikings are sitting at 6-6 and actually have a decent shot at making the playoffs. Adrian Peterson may not win the MVP this season, but I think you could easily make the argument that he is the most valuable player in the League this year.
8) Baltimore outplayed New England on Monday night and deserved to win the game. Baltimore fans will hate me for saying this, but those penalties against the Ravens on New England's last drive were legitimate. My problem with the officiating was that the Patriots were committing the same kinds of fouls the whole game and weren't getting called for it. I don't blame the Ravens' players for being upset after the game. I don't think it would be too much to ask for the referees to be fair and consistent to both teams.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Cowboys vs. Packers Recap
The Cowboys won the game 37-27, but it was less than convincing. The officiating was abysmal with virtually every questionable call going against Green Bay. When the game was over Green Bay had been penalized for 142 yards while Dallas was only whistled for 65 yards.
The worst call of the game was a pass interference call in the fourth quarter that was whistled against Green Bay. The receiver's legs got tangled with the Green Bay defender and both players fell down at about the 5 yard line. The official closest to the call signaled it was inadvertent contact but the official out of position across the field called pass interference. It looked to me like the ball was also overthrown and probably wasn't even catchable. It turned out being a 40 yard penalty that gave Dallas a 1st down and goal at the 5. It was a horrible call and Dallas ended up scoring a touchdown to go up by 10 points.
The next worst call in the game was made early in the contest when Terrel Owens caught a ball on the sidelines. The Green Bay defender stripped Owens of the ball and took over possession before going out of bounds. The referee with a clear view of the play signaled a turnover and Green Bay possession at the point where the defender went out of bounds. But, the referee who was out of position had apparently blown his whistle too early and ruled Owens still had possession of the ball when the whistle was blown. The Packers challenged the call but lost because of the referee's early whistle. A horrible call that eventually led to a Dallas score.
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The Packers ran the ball for124 yards on 19 carries and Aaron Rodgers came in for an injured Brett Favre and went 18-26 for 201 yards and a TD. I was surprised by both of those statistics.
The thing that stood out in my mind after watching the game was how wide open the Cowboy receivers were throughout the contest. Jason Witten and Terrel Owens seemed to be open on virtually every passing play.
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After watching the game I still can't tell you which is the better team. Its just a shame that the officiating was so bad. I'm just glad that I am not a Packer fan. I would be pissed this morning if my team had been screwed that bad by the officials.
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I haven't seen an update yet on the severity of the Brett Favre injuries. Brett left the game last night in the 2nd quarter with a separated left shoulder and an injury to his right elbow/forearm. I thought Aaron Rodgers did a decent job as his replacement, though.
The worst call of the game was a pass interference call in the fourth quarter that was whistled against Green Bay. The receiver's legs got tangled with the Green Bay defender and both players fell down at about the 5 yard line. The official closest to the call signaled it was inadvertent contact but the official out of position across the field called pass interference. It looked to me like the ball was also overthrown and probably wasn't even catchable. It turned out being a 40 yard penalty that gave Dallas a 1st down and goal at the 5. It was a horrible call and Dallas ended up scoring a touchdown to go up by 10 points.
The next worst call in the game was made early in the contest when Terrel Owens caught a ball on the sidelines. The Green Bay defender stripped Owens of the ball and took over possession before going out of bounds. The referee with a clear view of the play signaled a turnover and Green Bay possession at the point where the defender went out of bounds. But, the referee who was out of position had apparently blown his whistle too early and ruled Owens still had possession of the ball when the whistle was blown. The Packers challenged the call but lost because of the referee's early whistle. A horrible call that eventually led to a Dallas score.
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The Packers ran the ball for124 yards on 19 carries and Aaron Rodgers came in for an injured Brett Favre and went 18-26 for 201 yards and a TD. I was surprised by both of those statistics.
The thing that stood out in my mind after watching the game was how wide open the Cowboy receivers were throughout the contest. Jason Witten and Terrel Owens seemed to be open on virtually every passing play.
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After watching the game I still can't tell you which is the better team. Its just a shame that the officiating was so bad. I'm just glad that I am not a Packer fan. I would be pissed this morning if my team had been screwed that bad by the officials.
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I haven't seen an update yet on the severity of the Brett Favre injuries. Brett left the game last night in the 2nd quarter with a separated left shoulder and an injury to his right elbow/forearm. I thought Aaron Rodgers did a decent job as his replacement, though.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Week 12 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots: Philadelphia was able to prove that the Patriots can be beaten, but the Pats still found a way to win.
2) Dallas Cowboys: Maybe we should ask the Jets if Dallas is any good.
3) Green Bay Packers: Still chugging along. Something tells me Brett may decide to stick around for another year or two.
4) Jacksonville Jaguars: Anybody who doesn't think David Garrard is the real deal hasn't seen him play. I'm already starting to wonder how well Garrard is gonna play in the cold weather up in Foxboro this January.
5) Indianapolis Colts: They are starting to get some of their players back from injury. Next week's game against the Jags will tell us just how healthy they really are. If the Colts lose to the Jags next week I have a feeling "Peyton and Company" will be playing in a Wild-Card game.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Tomlin's bunch should beat Miami pretty easily on Monday night, but after last week's loss to the Jets I'm starting to wonder if Pittsburgh's record may be the result of a weak schedule.
7) Cleveland Browns: This team could easily be 9-2 right now. That is an amazing statement considering the Browns have absolutely no defense.
8) San Diego Chargers: They are starting to look a little better. I still think they will be an early out in the playoffs, though.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They may have been outplayed by the Redskins on Sunday, but the Bucs found a way to win. +6 in turnover margin will do it every time.
10) Seattle Seahawks: They have 7 wins but the only playoff team they have beaten this year is Tampa Bay, and that was in Week 1.
2) Dallas Cowboys: Maybe we should ask the Jets if Dallas is any good.
3) Green Bay Packers: Still chugging along. Something tells me Brett may decide to stick around for another year or two.
4) Jacksonville Jaguars: Anybody who doesn't think David Garrard is the real deal hasn't seen him play. I'm already starting to wonder how well Garrard is gonna play in the cold weather up in Foxboro this January.
5) Indianapolis Colts: They are starting to get some of their players back from injury. Next week's game against the Jags will tell us just how healthy they really are. If the Colts lose to the Jags next week I have a feeling "Peyton and Company" will be playing in a Wild-Card game.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Tomlin's bunch should beat Miami pretty easily on Monday night, but after last week's loss to the Jets I'm starting to wonder if Pittsburgh's record may be the result of a weak schedule.
7) Cleveland Browns: This team could easily be 9-2 right now. That is an amazing statement considering the Browns have absolutely no defense.
8) San Diego Chargers: They are starting to look a little better. I still think they will be an early out in the playoffs, though.
9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They may have been outplayed by the Redskins on Sunday, but the Bucs found a way to win. +6 in turnover margin will do it every time.
10) Seattle Seahawks: They have 7 wins but the only playoff team they have beaten this year is Tampa Bay, and that was in Week 1.
Week 12 Observations
1) Eli Manning threw more touchdown passes (3) to Viking players in Sunday's game than Tavaris Jackson has thrown to Viking players (2) in 6 games this season as the Viking quarterback.
2) If I was Jeff Fisher I would be thinking about giving Kerry Collins another shot. The Titans have lost 3 straight games and Vince Young hasn't looked that good. The Titans are now on the outside of the playoffs and they need a shot in the arm. Tennessee put up their highest single game point total this season (38) with Collins at the helm.
3) How good are the Browns? They have only beaten 1 playoff caliber team (Seattle) this season. We may not find out how good they are until the playoffs actually start. Take a look at their remaining schedule, not a playoff team in the bunch.
4) How good would the Giants be if they had kept Phillip Rivers instead of trading him for Eli Manning? I wonder if Tom Coughlin has ever thought about that.
5) Has anyone else noticed the Colts always look unprepared for their opponents' game plans? They eventually make the right adjustments during the game but I'm starting to wonder what the Colts do in practice every week.
6) David Garrard still hasn't thrown an interception this year. The guy has completed 65% of his passes this year and has a passer rating of 104.6. I guess Jack Del Rio knew what he was doing when he let Byron Leftwich go.
7) Is there a quarterback controversy in Philadelphia? Should there be?
8) Why would anyone kick the ball to Devin Hester? He may be the greatest return man I have ever seen.
9) Did Philadelphia expose some of New England's flaws, or did the Patriots just have an off day? I think a bit of both. Luckily for New England, AJ Feeley got greedy and came back down to earth on the Eagles' final drive.
2) If I was Jeff Fisher I would be thinking about giving Kerry Collins another shot. The Titans have lost 3 straight games and Vince Young hasn't looked that good. The Titans are now on the outside of the playoffs and they need a shot in the arm. Tennessee put up their highest single game point total this season (38) with Collins at the helm.
3) How good are the Browns? They have only beaten 1 playoff caliber team (Seattle) this season. We may not find out how good they are until the playoffs actually start. Take a look at their remaining schedule, not a playoff team in the bunch.
4) How good would the Giants be if they had kept Phillip Rivers instead of trading him for Eli Manning? I wonder if Tom Coughlin has ever thought about that.
5) Has anyone else noticed the Colts always look unprepared for their opponents' game plans? They eventually make the right adjustments during the game but I'm starting to wonder what the Colts do in practice every week.
6) David Garrard still hasn't thrown an interception this year. The guy has completed 65% of his passes this year and has a passer rating of 104.6. I guess Jack Del Rio knew what he was doing when he let Byron Leftwich go.
7) Is there a quarterback controversy in Philadelphia? Should there be?
8) Why would anyone kick the ball to Devin Hester? He may be the greatest return man I have ever seen.
9) Did Philadelphia expose some of New England's flaws, or did the Patriots just have an off day? I think a bit of both. Luckily for New England, AJ Feeley got greedy and came back down to earth on the Eagles' final drive.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Leonard Washington
Jerry Tipton of the Lexington Herald-Leader is reporting today that University of Kentucky men's basketball recruit Leonard Washington has decided to put off his college choice until spring. Washington is a 6'6" power forward from Compton, California.
There was a chance that Washington could have possibly been eligible to play for the Wildcats in January if he could have improved his grades at Thurgood Marshall Prep School. I think Washington might have provided a much needed help in the low post for the Wildcats, but I'm just not sure he was worth it.
According to many scouts, Washington has a short temper and a long history of "episodes." In my opinion, which is based solely on the things I have read, this guy sounds like the kind of guy who could destroy a team's chemistry. I'm not sure Kentucky needs a player with his reputation.
There was a chance that Washington could have possibly been eligible to play for the Wildcats in January if he could have improved his grades at Thurgood Marshall Prep School. I think Washington might have provided a much needed help in the low post for the Wildcats, but I'm just not sure he was worth it.
According to many scouts, Washington has a short temper and a long history of "episodes." In my opinion, which is based solely on the things I have read, this guy sounds like the kind of guy who could destroy a team's chemistry. I'm not sure Kentucky needs a player with his reputation.
Reds Reach Agreement With Cordero
It is being reported that the Cincinnati Reds have reached a preliminary deal with pitcher Fransisco Cordero. The deal is reported to be for 4 years with a $46 million salary and a club option for a 5th year.
Cordero is 32 years old and has pitched in the Majors for 9 seasons, most recently as the closer for the Milwaukee Brewers. Francisco finished last season with 44 saves for the Brewers, which ranked 2nd in the National League. He has 177 saves on his career and was selected to the All-Star game last season.
It could be argued that with the recent signings of Mariano Riviera (Yankees), Brad Lidge (Phillies), and Scott Linebrink (White Sox), the Reds may have gotten the best reliever left on the market.
I think the Reds might have slightly overpaid for Cordero's services, but I think they had to make a move like this to improve on their below average bullpen. The Reds' bullpen finished last season with a record of 23-31 with the worst ERA in the National League (5.10).
Cordero spent the first half of his career mostly as middle relief, then in 2004 the Rangers made him their closer. He finished with 49 saves that year and posted an ERA of 2.14. He followed that up with 37 saves in '05 with an ERA of 3.39.
2006 was a bit of a rough year for Cordero. His season was split between the Rangers and the Brewers. His combined numbers for the '06 season were 22 saves with a 3.70 ERA in 77 games. He also posted 10 wins and 5 losses in '06, but he had 11 blown saves.
He bounced back in '07 with 44 saves and a 2.98 ERA in 66 games for Milwaukee. You can check out his career stats here.
Cordero is 32 years old and has pitched in the Majors for 9 seasons, most recently as the closer for the Milwaukee Brewers. Francisco finished last season with 44 saves for the Brewers, which ranked 2nd in the National League. He has 177 saves on his career and was selected to the All-Star game last season.
It could be argued that with the recent signings of Mariano Riviera (Yankees), Brad Lidge (Phillies), and Scott Linebrink (White Sox), the Reds may have gotten the best reliever left on the market.
I think the Reds might have slightly overpaid for Cordero's services, but I think they had to make a move like this to improve on their below average bullpen. The Reds' bullpen finished last season with a record of 23-31 with the worst ERA in the National League (5.10).
Cordero spent the first half of his career mostly as middle relief, then in 2004 the Rangers made him their closer. He finished with 49 saves that year and posted an ERA of 2.14. He followed that up with 37 saves in '05 with an ERA of 3.39.
2006 was a bit of a rough year for Cordero. His season was split between the Rangers and the Brewers. His combined numbers for the '06 season were 22 saves with a 3.70 ERA in 77 games. He also posted 10 wins and 5 losses in '06, but he had 11 blown saves.
He bounced back in '07 with 44 saves and a 2.98 ERA in 66 games for Milwaukee. You can check out his career stats here.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Kentucky Blows Out Liberty
The University of Kentucky men's basketball team tonight didn't look like the same team that lost to Gardner-Webb two weeks ago.
The Wildcats got started from the opening buzzer against Liberty and scored 18 of the first 22 points. Kentucky never trailed tonight and led Liberty 36-21 at the half. The Wildcats built their lead in the 2nd half to as much as 32 points before cut slightly into lead. The final score was Kentucky 80 Liberty 54.
Patrick Patterson looked much more comfortable in tonight's game and led all scorers with 23 points on 8-13 shooting. Patterson also ripped down 10 rebounds, had 2 assists, and went 7-8 from the charity stripe.
Joe Crawford added 22 points on 9-18 shooting from the floor. Joe also had 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
Ramel Bradley had 10 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds. A.J. Stewart also added 10 points and was 5-7 from the floor.
I thought Alex Legion looked pretty good again. Alex had 4 points on 2-6 shooting, but he also had 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block and 1 steal. The downside was that Alex also had 4 turnovers, but I still think the team looks better with Legion on the floor.
Coach Gillespie went with a 3 guard offense to start the game with Porter, Bradley, and Legion in the backcourt. Patterson and Coury started in the frontcourt.
The Wildcats got started from the opening buzzer against Liberty and scored 18 of the first 22 points. Kentucky never trailed tonight and led Liberty 36-21 at the half. The Wildcats built their lead in the 2nd half to as much as 32 points before cut slightly into lead. The final score was Kentucky 80 Liberty 54.
Patrick Patterson looked much more comfortable in tonight's game and led all scorers with 23 points on 8-13 shooting. Patterson also ripped down 10 rebounds, had 2 assists, and went 7-8 from the charity stripe.
Joe Crawford added 22 points on 9-18 shooting from the floor. Joe also had 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
Ramel Bradley had 10 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds. A.J. Stewart also added 10 points and was 5-7 from the floor.
I thought Alex Legion looked pretty good again. Alex had 4 points on 2-6 shooting, but he also had 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block and 1 steal. The downside was that Alex also had 4 turnovers, but I still think the team looks better with Legion on the floor.
Coach Gillespie went with a 3 guard offense to start the game with Porter, Bradley, and Legion in the backcourt. Patterson and Coury started in the frontcourt.
Monday, November 19, 2007
11/19/07: Colts Injury Update
It was reported today on the Colts' official website that starting OT Tony Ugoh and starting WR Anthony Gonzalez may return to the Indy lineup for the Colts' Thursday night game against the Atlanta Falcons. There is also a chance that backup TE Bryan Fletcher will also be ready to go against Atlanta.
Colts coach Tony Dungy also reported that WR Marvin Harrison may be able to return to the lineup for the Colts' December 2nd game against Jacksonville.
OT Ryan Diem, who left Sunday's game against Kansas City with an ankle injury, is expected to be ready for Thursday's game against Atlanta.
WR Aaron Moorehead has been placed on Injured Reserve after suffering a back injury against Kansas City and will miss the remainder of the season.
There was no mention on the website Monday about the status of starting LB Tyjuan Hagler. Hagler has missed multiple games due to injury. UPDATE: Tuesday's updated injury report listed Hagler as practicing on a "limited basis."
Colts coach Tony Dungy also reported that WR Marvin Harrison may be able to return to the lineup for the Colts' December 2nd game against Jacksonville.
OT Ryan Diem, who left Sunday's game against Kansas City with an ankle injury, is expected to be ready for Thursday's game against Atlanta.
WR Aaron Moorehead has been placed on Injured Reserve after suffering a back injury against Kansas City and will miss the remainder of the season.
There was no mention on the website Monday about the status of starting LB Tyjuan Hagler. Hagler has missed multiple games due to injury. UPDATE: Tuesday's updated injury report listed Hagler as practicing on a "limited basis."
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Week 11 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots: I have no idea why their week 11 matchup with the Bills was picked for the Sunday night game on the flex schedule. Only a Patriot fan would want to see New England beat the Bills by 6 touchdowns. If the Patriots win next week they will clinch the AFC Least.
2) Dallas Cowboys: Their victory over the Redskins wasn't that impressive, but the Redskins always play the Cowboys tough.
3) Green Bay Packers: Chug, Chug, Chug. Brett Favre and the Packers just keep chugging along. Week 13 is the big matchup between the Pack and the Cowboys. I can hardly wait.
4) Jacksonville Jaguars: David Garrard is back and the Jaguars are the team nobody wants to face in the playoffs. I think there is a good chance the Jags will win the AFC South and force the Colts to make the playoffs as a wildcard team.
5) New York Giants: They are a little unpredictable, but they are capable. Eli is going to have to come up big if this team hopes to go anywhere in the playoffs. I just don't see it happening.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I should probably rank them lower after losing to the Jets, but I decided to cut them a little slack because they are still 7-3. Pittsburgh can't afford to lose any more games against non-contenders. The Steelers still have tough games remaining on their schedule against Jacksonville and New England. I think the Steelers will finish the season 11-5 at best.
7) Cleveland Browns: This team has a chance to make the playoffs as a wildcard even with the worst defense in the NFL. Heck, if Pittsburgh loses any more games to teams like the Jets the Browns might even have a chance to win the Division. Check out the Browns' remaining schedule.
8) Tennessee Titans: They have an incredible defense and a great coach. I'm just not convinced Vince Young is the best quarterback on their roster. They better hope they don't have any more slip ups like they did against Denver on Monday night because Cleveland just might take their playoff spot.
9) Indianapolis Colts: I almost dropped them out of my Power Rankings after they struggled against the Chiefs, but there just wasn't another team good enough to move into my top ten. The Colts are a playoff team, the only question is whether or not they can hold on long enough to win their Division.
10) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They show signs every once in awhile. I think the Bucs will win the NFC South pretty easily. Take a look at their remaining schedule. They could conceivably win all their remaining regular season games. I think they will be an early out in the playoffs, though.
Honorable Mention: Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers.
2) Dallas Cowboys: Their victory over the Redskins wasn't that impressive, but the Redskins always play the Cowboys tough.
3) Green Bay Packers: Chug, Chug, Chug. Brett Favre and the Packers just keep chugging along. Week 13 is the big matchup between the Pack and the Cowboys. I can hardly wait.
4) Jacksonville Jaguars: David Garrard is back and the Jaguars are the team nobody wants to face in the playoffs. I think there is a good chance the Jags will win the AFC South and force the Colts to make the playoffs as a wildcard team.
5) New York Giants: They are a little unpredictable, but they are capable. Eli is going to have to come up big if this team hopes to go anywhere in the playoffs. I just don't see it happening.
6) Pittsburgh Steelers: I should probably rank them lower after losing to the Jets, but I decided to cut them a little slack because they are still 7-3. Pittsburgh can't afford to lose any more games against non-contenders. The Steelers still have tough games remaining on their schedule against Jacksonville and New England. I think the Steelers will finish the season 11-5 at best.
7) Cleveland Browns: This team has a chance to make the playoffs as a wildcard even with the worst defense in the NFL. Heck, if Pittsburgh loses any more games to teams like the Jets the Browns might even have a chance to win the Division. Check out the Browns' remaining schedule.
8) Tennessee Titans: They have an incredible defense and a great coach. I'm just not convinced Vince Young is the best quarterback on their roster. They better hope they don't have any more slip ups like they did against Denver on Monday night because Cleveland just might take their playoff spot.
9) Indianapolis Colts: I almost dropped them out of my Power Rankings after they struggled against the Chiefs, but there just wasn't another team good enough to move into my top ten. The Colts are a playoff team, the only question is whether or not they can hold on long enough to win their Division.
10) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They show signs every once in awhile. I think the Bucs will win the NFC South pretty easily. Take a look at their remaining schedule. They could conceivably win all their remaining regular season games. I think they will be an early out in the playoffs, though.
Honorable Mention: Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers.
Week 11 Observations
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1) The Colts' offense is broken. Charlie Johnson is not capable of pass protecting in the NFL and opposing defenses are starting to figure that out. As a result, Manning doesn't have time to scan the field and find the open guy. On the rare occasions when Manning has time and his receivers manage to get open, the receivers are dropping the ball. I bet they wish they had never released Brandon Stokley.
2) How could both of the zebras under the goal post miss the call on the Phil Dawson field goal? I guess the important thing is that the officiating crew did end up correcting the mistake. I've given Phil Morelli a lot of heat over the years, but it took a lot of guts on his part to make that call.
3) How 'bout those Bengals? Cincinnati had 5 turnovers in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals. The Bengals are now 3-7 on the season. They need to make some major changes in the off-season. I think Marvin Lewis' job is safe for next season but I don't think he can afford to have another year like this one.
4) The Eagles sure looked better on offense after McNabb left the game with a sprained ankle. I'm not just saying that because Donovan is African-American. McNabb was 3-11 for 34 yards with 2 interceptions before he left the game. Feeley replaced him and went 13-19 for 116 yards with 1 TD and 1 INT.
5) Houston beat New Orleans on Sunday improving the Texans' record to 5-5. The Eagles beat Miami and also improved to 5-5. The AFC South and the NFC East are the only 2 Divisions in the NFL where every team has at least a .500 record.
6) Detroit actually played the Giants fairly tough. I have to admit I thought the Giants would blow the Lions off the field. If Kitna doesn't throw 3 interceptions the Lions probably win the game.
7) I bet the Falcons regret trading Matt Schaub.
8) The New York Jets beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. That is the first team outside of the AFC LEAST that the Jets have beaten all season. I don't see how the Steelers can have the #1 defense in the NFL and the #10 offense in the NFL and lose to the Jets.
9) The Dolphins suck, but maybe not as bad as you think. Did you know that 5 of the 10 games Miami has lost this season were each decided by only a field goal? They lost to Washington (16-13), the Jets (31-28), Houston (22-19), the Giants (13-10), and Buffalo (13-10).
10) I am amazed every time I see Vinny Testaverde play. He always looks so old and decrepit, but he still finds a way to put up some impressive numbers. Vinny went 19-37 for 258 yards with 2 TDs and 2 INTs against a very good Packer defense.
1) The Colts' offense is broken. Charlie Johnson is not capable of pass protecting in the NFL and opposing defenses are starting to figure that out. As a result, Manning doesn't have time to scan the field and find the open guy. On the rare occasions when Manning has time and his receivers manage to get open, the receivers are dropping the ball. I bet they wish they had never released Brandon Stokley.
2) How could both of the zebras under the goal post miss the call on the Phil Dawson field goal? I guess the important thing is that the officiating crew did end up correcting the mistake. I've given Phil Morelli a lot of heat over the years, but it took a lot of guts on his part to make that call.
3) How 'bout those Bengals? Cincinnati had 5 turnovers in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals. The Bengals are now 3-7 on the season. They need to make some major changes in the off-season. I think Marvin Lewis' job is safe for next season but I don't think he can afford to have another year like this one.
4) The Eagles sure looked better on offense after McNabb left the game with a sprained ankle. I'm not just saying that because Donovan is African-American. McNabb was 3-11 for 34 yards with 2 interceptions before he left the game. Feeley replaced him and went 13-19 for 116 yards with 1 TD and 1 INT.
5) Houston beat New Orleans on Sunday improving the Texans' record to 5-5. The Eagles beat Miami and also improved to 5-5. The AFC South and the NFC East are the only 2 Divisions in the NFL where every team has at least a .500 record.
6) Detroit actually played the Giants fairly tough. I have to admit I thought the Giants would blow the Lions off the field. If Kitna doesn't throw 3 interceptions the Lions probably win the game.
7) I bet the Falcons regret trading Matt Schaub.
8) The New York Jets beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. That is the first team outside of the AFC LEAST that the Jets have beaten all season. I don't see how the Steelers can have the #1 defense in the NFL and the #10 offense in the NFL and lose to the Jets.
9) The Dolphins suck, but maybe not as bad as you think. Did you know that 5 of the 10 games Miami has lost this season were each decided by only a field goal? They lost to Washington (16-13), the Jets (31-28), Houston (22-19), the Giants (13-10), and Buffalo (13-10).
10) I am amazed every time I see Vinny Testaverde play. He always looks so old and decrepit, but he still finds a way to put up some impressive numbers. Vinny went 19-37 for 258 yards with 2 TDs and 2 INTs against a very good Packer defense.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
11/14/07: Colts Injury Update
There was some good news coming from the Colts today.
Tight end Dallas Clark and defensive tackle Raheem Brock were cleared for practice today. Both players missed last Sunday's game against the Chargers with concussions.
Linebacker Freddie Keiaho and offensive tackle Tony Ugoh also both practiced today. Keiaho has missed the last 3 weeks with an ear injury and Ugoh has been sidelined with a neck injury.
Linebacker Tyjuan Hagler, right tackle Ryan Diem, and tight end Bryan Fletcher were listed as practicing on a limited basis.
The Colts re-signed cornerback/kick returner TJ Rushing who the team had to release last Friday to make room on the roster. The Colts also announced the signing of wide receiver Devin Aromashodu who had been in training camp with the Colts earlier this year. Linebacker Brandon Archer was signed to the Colts practice squad.
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The Colts Wednesday injury report still included S Matt Giordano, WR Anthony Gonzalez, WR Marvin Harrison, CB Dante Hughes, CB Tim Jennings, OT Charlie Johnson, DT Dan Klecko, DE Robert Mathis, S Bob Sanders, and WR Aaron Moorehead. All of these players were listed as not participating in practice. No further information was made available.
Tight end Dallas Clark and defensive tackle Raheem Brock were cleared for practice today. Both players missed last Sunday's game against the Chargers with concussions.
Linebacker Freddie Keiaho and offensive tackle Tony Ugoh also both practiced today. Keiaho has missed the last 3 weeks with an ear injury and Ugoh has been sidelined with a neck injury.
Linebacker Tyjuan Hagler, right tackle Ryan Diem, and tight end Bryan Fletcher were listed as practicing on a limited basis.
The Colts re-signed cornerback/kick returner TJ Rushing who the team had to release last Friday to make room on the roster. The Colts also announced the signing of wide receiver Devin Aromashodu who had been in training camp with the Colts earlier this year. Linebacker Brandon Archer was signed to the Colts practice squad.
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The Colts Wednesday injury report still included S Matt Giordano, WR Anthony Gonzalez, WR Marvin Harrison, CB Dante Hughes, CB Tim Jennings, OT Charlie Johnson, DT Dan Klecko, DE Robert Mathis, S Bob Sanders, and WR Aaron Moorehead. All of these players were listed as not participating in practice. No further information was made available.
Kentucky Loses To Florida State
It has just been announced that 6'8" power forward Chris Singleton plans to attend Florida State University.
Singleton is listed as a 4 star recruit by Scout.com.
Chris chose Florida State over Kentucky.
All is not lost, however. 4 star recruit Darius Miller and 5 star recruit DeAndre Liggins still make UK's '08 recruiting class one of the best in the country. Darius Miller signed his Letter Of Intent this morning and Liggins is reportedly going to sign this afternoon. The Big Blue has verbal commitments from class of '09 3 star PG GJ Vilarino, and the '10 class has verbals from 3 star PG KC Ross-Miller and 4 star PF Dakotah Euton.
It would have been nice to have seen Singleton join Patterson on the Kentucky front line next year, but I have faith in Billy Gillespie's recruiting prowess. I am sure Billy Clyde will find another quality big man.
Singleton is listed as a 4 star recruit by Scout.com.
Chris chose Florida State over Kentucky.
All is not lost, however. 4 star recruit Darius Miller and 5 star recruit DeAndre Liggins still make UK's '08 recruiting class one of the best in the country. Darius Miller signed his Letter Of Intent this morning and Liggins is reportedly going to sign this afternoon. The Big Blue has verbal commitments from class of '09 3 star PG GJ Vilarino, and the '10 class has verbals from 3 star PG KC Ross-Miller and 4 star PF Dakotah Euton.
It would have been nice to have seen Singleton join Patterson on the Kentucky front line next year, but I have faith in Billy Gillespie's recruiting prowess. I am sure Billy Clyde will find another quality big man.
Freeney Placed On Injured Reserve
It is now official. Colts Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney does have a Lisfranc injury. The Colts just announced that Freeney will be placed on Injured Reserve and is done for the season.
This is a huge blow for the Colts defense. Indianapolis' cover 2 scheme is dependent on being able to pressure a quarterback without blitzing.
I'm sure there are a few left tackles and quarterbacks in the NFL right now gasping a big sigh of relief.
This is a huge blow for the Colts defense. Indianapolis' cover 2 scheme is dependent on being able to pressure a quarterback without blitzing.
I'm sure there are a few left tackles and quarterbacks in the NFL right now gasping a big sigh of relief.
11/14/07: More UK Basketball News
It is being reported that Jodie Meeks has a stress fracture in his groin area. The extent of the injury is unknown, but it is thought that Jodie will be lost to the team for 4 weeks to 6 weeks. UK Officials have neither confirmed nor denied the story. UPDATE: Jodie's father was contacted by the Herald-Leader and has confirmed the report.
Truzenzuzex is reporting over at A Sea of Blue that Ramel Bradley may have some kind of foot injury. I have been unable to verify this report, but it is something that is worth watching.
High School basketball prospect Garrett Stutz announced that he will be attending Wichita State University. UK coach Billy Gillespie had shown interest in Stutz but had not offered the big man a scholarship.
Truzenzuzex is reporting over at A Sea of Blue that Ramel Bradley may have some kind of foot injury. I have been unable to verify this report, but it is something that is worth watching.
High School basketball prospect Garrett Stutz announced that he will be attending Wichita State University. UK coach Billy Gillespie had shown interest in Stutz but had not offered the big man a scholarship.
Chris Singleton To Announce Today
It hasn't happened yet. But it has been announced that UK basketball recruit Chris Singleton will announce his choice of schools today. It is being reported that Chris has narrowed his choices down to Florida State or Kentucky.
Singleton's close friend and high school teammate, Pierre Jordan, signed with Florida State on Sunday. I don't know if that is an indicator of where Singleton is planning on signing, but it doesn't make me too optimistic about Singleton signing with UK.
I have read that Singleton really enjoyed his visit to UK though, so who knows.
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I have read several different sources today that list different times for Chris Singleton's press conference. I have found sources that say it is scheduled for 2:30 PM, 2:45 PM, and 3:00 PM. So I have no idea when his announcement will be made.
I did find an interesting post that said Billy Gillespie has a press conference scheduled for 3:oo PM today. I have been unable to verify if this is true. If Singleton were planning on attending UK I doubt very much that Gillespie would schedule a press conference at the same time as Singleton's. But, if Singleton's press conference were to start at 2:30 PM or 2:45 PM, then a 3:00 PM scheduled press conference by Gillespie could be a good thing.
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Regardless of what Chris Singleton announces today, I can't remember being this interested in Kentucky basketball recruiting in a long time.
Singleton's close friend and high school teammate, Pierre Jordan, signed with Florida State on Sunday. I don't know if that is an indicator of where Singleton is planning on signing, but it doesn't make me too optimistic about Singleton signing with UK.
I have read that Singleton really enjoyed his visit to UK though, so who knows.
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I have read several different sources today that list different times for Chris Singleton's press conference. I have found sources that say it is scheduled for 2:30 PM, 2:45 PM, and 3:00 PM. So I have no idea when his announcement will be made.
I did find an interesting post that said Billy Gillespie has a press conference scheduled for 3:oo PM today. I have been unable to verify if this is true. If Singleton were planning on attending UK I doubt very much that Gillespie would schedule a press conference at the same time as Singleton's. But, if Singleton's press conference were to start at 2:30 PM or 2:45 PM, then a 3:00 PM scheduled press conference by Gillespie could be a good thing.
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Regardless of what Chris Singleton announces today, I can't remember being this interested in Kentucky basketball recruiting in a long time.
George Gipp Wasn't The Father
It was reported on Saturday that DNA tests performed on the remains of George Gipp have proven that he was not the father of Eva Bright's baby.
If you have been following the story you know that Eva Bright was a South Bend woman that had dated Gipp for approximately one year around the time of the football star's death. Apparently, Miss Bright gave birth to a child shortly after Gipp's death. There had been at least a suspicion that George may have been the baby's father. So, a DNA test was performed.
You can read the ESPN story here.
If you have been following the story you know that Eva Bright was a South Bend woman that had dated Gipp for approximately one year around the time of the football star's death. Apparently, Miss Bright gave birth to a child shortly after Gipp's death. There had been at least a suspicion that George may have been the baby's father. So, a DNA test was performed.
You can read the ESPN story here.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Colts Aquire Simeon Rice
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The Colts announced today that they have signed 3 time Pro Bowl defensive end Simeon Rice. Rice was released by the Denver Broncos on Friday.
The move was made because it looks like the injury sustained to Dwight Freeney's left foot in Sunday's loss to San Diego might be serious. Indianapolis GM Bill Polian stated during his Monday radio show that it looks like Freeney might miss a significant amount of time due to his injury.
The Colts entered Sunday's game against San Diego already missing 6 starters due to injury. That's not including starting DT Anthony McFarland and starting LB Rob Morris who were already lost for the season and placed on IR due to injuries. 3 more Indy starters (LT Charlie Johnson, RT Ryan Diem, and DE Dwight Freeney) left Sunday's game with injuries. That means that Indy has now lost a total of 11 starters due to injury.
There has been no update yet on the status of the injured Colts players for next week's game. It is believed that injured WR Marvin Harrison may have been able to play in the San Diego game but the Colts' coaching staff didn't want to risk his health.
The Colts announced today that they have signed 3 time Pro Bowl defensive end Simeon Rice. Rice was released by the Denver Broncos on Friday.
The move was made because it looks like the injury sustained to Dwight Freeney's left foot in Sunday's loss to San Diego might be serious. Indianapolis GM Bill Polian stated during his Monday radio show that it looks like Freeney might miss a significant amount of time due to his injury.
The Colts entered Sunday's game against San Diego already missing 6 starters due to injury. That's not including starting DT Anthony McFarland and starting LB Rob Morris who were already lost for the season and placed on IR due to injuries. 3 more Indy starters (LT Charlie Johnson, RT Ryan Diem, and DE Dwight Freeney) left Sunday's game with injuries. That means that Indy has now lost a total of 11 starters due to injury.
There has been no update yet on the status of the injured Colts players for next week's game. It is believed that injured WR Marvin Harrison may have been able to play in the San Diego game but the Colts' coaching staff didn't want to risk his health.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Week 10 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots: Even God needed a day of rest. The Patriots enjoyed the bye in week 10.
2) Dallas Cowboys: The offense just keeps looking better. The defense will need to improve if the Cowboys hope to compete with New England in the Super Bowl.
3) Green Bay Packers: It looks like Green Bay may have found a running back. We'll find out who is the best team in the NFC in week 13 when the Packers travel to Dallas.
4) Pittsburgh Steelers: I still think Pittsburgh is a good team, but it just doesn't look like they are getting better like Dallas and Green Bay.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: They went in to Tennessee and beat the Titans this week. They are definitely the best team in the AFC South right now.
6) New York Giants: Eli looked shaky again, but the Giants have all the other pieces in place.
7) Tennessee Titans: Vince Young might cost the Titans more games than he wins for them. Luckily, the Titan defense is good enough to make up for most of Vince's mistakes.
8) Cleveland Browns: If they had a defense, they could play with anybody. Unfortunately, their defense is horrible.
9) Indianapolis Colts: Too many injuries and not enough depth. They're playing guys who were on their practice squad just a few weeks ago. Poor play, an inadvertent whistle, and a mysterious movement of the chains didn't do anything to help the Colts, either. It looks like the Colts have lost their mojo.
10) San Diego Chargers: The Chargers are like a box of chocolates, "you never know what you're gonna get." I thought about ranking them higher but they barely beat Indy with Peyton Manning throwing 6 interceptions, an inadvertent whistle, the refs mishandling the chains on a crucial 3rd down play, and Adam Vinatieri missing a chip shot game winning field goal.
2) Dallas Cowboys: The offense just keeps looking better. The defense will need to improve if the Cowboys hope to compete with New England in the Super Bowl.
3) Green Bay Packers: It looks like Green Bay may have found a running back. We'll find out who is the best team in the NFC in week 13 when the Packers travel to Dallas.
4) Pittsburgh Steelers: I still think Pittsburgh is a good team, but it just doesn't look like they are getting better like Dallas and Green Bay.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: They went in to Tennessee and beat the Titans this week. They are definitely the best team in the AFC South right now.
6) New York Giants: Eli looked shaky again, but the Giants have all the other pieces in place.
7) Tennessee Titans: Vince Young might cost the Titans more games than he wins for them. Luckily, the Titan defense is good enough to make up for most of Vince's mistakes.
8) Cleveland Browns: If they had a defense, they could play with anybody. Unfortunately, their defense is horrible.
9) Indianapolis Colts: Too many injuries and not enough depth. They're playing guys who were on their practice squad just a few weeks ago. Poor play, an inadvertent whistle, and a mysterious movement of the chains didn't do anything to help the Colts, either. It looks like the Colts have lost their mojo.
10) San Diego Chargers: The Chargers are like a box of chocolates, "you never know what you're gonna get." I thought about ranking them higher but they barely beat Indy with Peyton Manning throwing 6 interceptions, an inadvertent whistle, the refs mishandling the chains on a crucial 3rd down play, and Adam Vinatieri missing a chip shot game winning field goal.
Week 10 Observations
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1) The St. Louis Rams won a game. That leaves Miami as the only winless team left in the NFL. Too bad the Dolphins can't draft a head coach with the #1 pick.
2) The Packers seem to have found a running back in Ryan Grant. Is it just me, or does Ryan look a lot faster than he did at Notre Dame.
3) I bet the Vikings are breathing a huge sigh of relief now that they know Adrian Peterson's knee injury isn't season ending. The Vikes have nothing without Peterson.
4) Cleveland's loss to Pittsburgh probably cost the Browns any chance they had to win the AFC North. But, they still have a decent chance to make the playoffs. Take a look at their remaining schedule. The Browns' offense is good enough to win all of those remaining games.
5) The Colts better hope they start getting healthy really fast. Their AFC South lead is shrinking and they look absolutely pathetic right now.
6) I wonder if the Browns will trade one of their quarterbacks this off-season to try and get some help for their defense. Something tells me if they do, they will probably trade the wrong guy.
7) The Tampa bay Buccaneers are the only team with a winning record (5-4) that the Detroit Lions have beaten this season. The Lions still have to play the Giants (6-3), the Cowboys (8-1), the Chargers (5-4), and the Packers twice (8-1). I think the Lions will be lucky to finish above .500. I do not think the Lions will make the playoffs.
8) The Monday night game this week is the 49ers vs. Seahawks. Yawn.
1) The St. Louis Rams won a game. That leaves Miami as the only winless team left in the NFL. Too bad the Dolphins can't draft a head coach with the #1 pick.
2) The Packers seem to have found a running back in Ryan Grant. Is it just me, or does Ryan look a lot faster than he did at Notre Dame.
3) I bet the Vikings are breathing a huge sigh of relief now that they know Adrian Peterson's knee injury isn't season ending. The Vikes have nothing without Peterson.
4) Cleveland's loss to Pittsburgh probably cost the Browns any chance they had to win the AFC North. But, they still have a decent chance to make the playoffs. Take a look at their remaining schedule. The Browns' offense is good enough to win all of those remaining games.
5) The Colts better hope they start getting healthy really fast. Their AFC South lead is shrinking and they look absolutely pathetic right now.
6) I wonder if the Browns will trade one of their quarterbacks this off-season to try and get some help for their defense. Something tells me if they do, they will probably trade the wrong guy.
7) The Tampa bay Buccaneers are the only team with a winning record (5-4) that the Detroit Lions have beaten this season. The Lions still have to play the Giants (6-3), the Cowboys (8-1), the Chargers (5-4), and the Packers twice (8-1). I think the Lions will be lucky to finish above .500. I do not think the Lions will make the playoffs.
8) The Monday night game this week is the 49ers vs. Seahawks. Yawn.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Gone A Few Days
There won't be any posts for a couple of days. I will be out of town on a fishing trip. I hope everybody has a good weekend. I should be back Monday.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
11/08/07: OUCH!!!
Well, the University of Kentucky men's basketball team started out slow again last night. This time, however, they were unable to recover.
Gardner-Webb went into Rupp Arena last night and beat Kentucky 84-68 in Billy Gillespie's second game as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. Kentucky didn't look too good, but you have to give Gardner-Webb some credit. The Bulldogs came into Rupp and played a heck of a game.
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Here are some of my thoughts on the game:
1) This is the second game in a row now that I thought Kentucky's offense looked broken. The Wildcats pass and move without the ball OK, but nobody seems to want to try and attack the opposing defense with dribbling penetration. The ball just moves around the perimeter until somebody throws a bad pass or settles for a jumpshot.
2) Kentucky needs to work on making sure somebody gets back on defense after they take a long shot on offense. There were several times last night that Gardner Webb beat Kentucky back down the floor for an easy bucket.
3) I was super impressed with Alex Legion again. Alex went 3-4 from behind the arc and scored a total of 13 pounts in 17 minutes of play. Alex also had 3 steals in the game. More than that though, I thought the Wildcats looked better with Alex on the floor. I think Billy may have to find a way to get this kid some more PT.
4) Joe Crawford had an off night. Joe only shot 2-10 from the field and had only 4 points in the game. One of my buddies says that Joe will be the key to the Wildcats success this year. He always says, "As Joe goes, so go the Wildcats." I haven't seen anything yet to convince me that my buddy is wrong about that.
5) I think Kentucky needs to give Patterson more opportunities with the ball. Patrick looked pretty good in the low post last night (12 points, 12 rebounds), they just didn't get him the ball enough.
6) Jodie Meeks had another off night too. Jodie ended up with 9 points, but he only shot 4-15 from the field. It doesn't look like Kentucky can afford to have Crawford and Meeks both have bad nights in the same game.
7) I thought Ramel Bradley played pretty well. He finished with 24 points on 4-11 shooting from the field. But, Ramel went 14-14 from the free throw line. He seems to be the only Wildcat that is getting fouled.
8) Kentucky only had 3 players get to the free throw line last night. Bradley went 14-14 from the line, Patterson went 2-2, and Legion went 2-4. I think that statistic tells you something about how the Wildcat offense is performing. They are not attacking the opposing defense.
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Kentucky fans need to relax and not freak out too much over this loss. Gardner-Webb is a tough opponent for a young team trying to learn a new system to have to play this early in the year. The Wildcats will get better as the players start feeling more comfortable in Gillespie's system. I think you will also see a drastic improvement on offense once Gillespie gets a better handle on his player rotations. And don't forget, Harris and Jasper will make a difference when they come back from their injuries.
I'm not saying Kentucky is going to be a great team this year. I'm just saying that we should be patient and give the team some time to gel. I think we all know the Wildcats will have their work cut out for them if they want to make the NCAA tournament this year. I mean lets face it, Tubby didn't exactly leave the cupboards fully stocked.
Gardner-Webb went into Rupp Arena last night and beat Kentucky 84-68 in Billy Gillespie's second game as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. Kentucky didn't look too good, but you have to give Gardner-Webb some credit. The Bulldogs came into Rupp and played a heck of a game.
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Here are some of my thoughts on the game:
1) This is the second game in a row now that I thought Kentucky's offense looked broken. The Wildcats pass and move without the ball OK, but nobody seems to want to try and attack the opposing defense with dribbling penetration. The ball just moves around the perimeter until somebody throws a bad pass or settles for a jumpshot.
2) Kentucky needs to work on making sure somebody gets back on defense after they take a long shot on offense. There were several times last night that Gardner Webb beat Kentucky back down the floor for an easy bucket.
3) I was super impressed with Alex Legion again. Alex went 3-4 from behind the arc and scored a total of 13 pounts in 17 minutes of play. Alex also had 3 steals in the game. More than that though, I thought the Wildcats looked better with Alex on the floor. I think Billy may have to find a way to get this kid some more PT.
4) Joe Crawford had an off night. Joe only shot 2-10 from the field and had only 4 points in the game. One of my buddies says that Joe will be the key to the Wildcats success this year. He always says, "As Joe goes, so go the Wildcats." I haven't seen anything yet to convince me that my buddy is wrong about that.
5) I think Kentucky needs to give Patterson more opportunities with the ball. Patrick looked pretty good in the low post last night (12 points, 12 rebounds), they just didn't get him the ball enough.
6) Jodie Meeks had another off night too. Jodie ended up with 9 points, but he only shot 4-15 from the field. It doesn't look like Kentucky can afford to have Crawford and Meeks both have bad nights in the same game.
7) I thought Ramel Bradley played pretty well. He finished with 24 points on 4-11 shooting from the field. But, Ramel went 14-14 from the free throw line. He seems to be the only Wildcat that is getting fouled.
8) Kentucky only had 3 players get to the free throw line last night. Bradley went 14-14 from the line, Patterson went 2-2, and Legion went 2-4. I think that statistic tells you something about how the Wildcat offense is performing. They are not attacking the opposing defense.
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Kentucky fans need to relax and not freak out too much over this loss. Gardner-Webb is a tough opponent for a young team trying to learn a new system to have to play this early in the year. The Wildcats will get better as the players start feeling more comfortable in Gillespie's system. I think you will also see a drastic improvement on offense once Gillespie gets a better handle on his player rotations. And don't forget, Harris and Jasper will make a difference when they come back from their injuries.
I'm not saying Kentucky is going to be a great team this year. I'm just saying that we should be patient and give the team some time to gel. I think we all know the Wildcats will have their work cut out for them if they want to make the NCAA tournament this year. I mean lets face it, Tubby didn't exactly leave the cupboards fully stocked.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Gillespie Wins His First!!!
The Kentucky Wildcats started their season on the right foot tonight with a 67-40 victory over Central Arkansas in the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic.
Joe Crawford led all scorers with 20 points in only 18 minutes of playing time. Joe didn't start the game, but he sure made a difference when he got on the floor. Mark Coury played out of his mind. Coury finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds in 36 minutes. Coury contributed a lot more than just numbers, though. He was the Wildcats low post presence for most of the first half with Patterson on the bench with foul trouble. Ramel Bradley was the 3rd leading scorer for the Cats with 10 points in 30 minutes.
The Wildcats looked out of sync when the game started. Mark Coury basically carried Kentucky in the beginning by scoring 10 of the Wildcats first 12 points. Patrick Patterson got 2 early fouls and went to the bench before he ever really got a chance to get a feel for the game. When Crawford finally got on the floor everything started to come together and the Wildcats started to pull away.
I was surprised to see Jared Carter on the floor for the Wildcats because I had heard that he was still having problems with his shoulder. Carter only played 2 minutes, though.
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Overall I was pretty pleased with what I saw. I don't think we should expect Kentucky to contend for the SEC title this year, but I saw some good things.
The Wildcats had 10 players who saw more than 10 minutes of action in the game. I was worried that the bench might be a little short with Harris and Jasper out with injuries, but that didn't seem to be the case. I thought Gillespie did a nice job of rotating players and sticking with the hot hands.
I was really impressed with what I saw from Alex Legion. Alex only played 13 minutes and scored 6 points but I swear I saw flashes of Derek Anderson in his game. That is a good thing as far as I'm concerned.
Mark Coury also impressed the hell out of me. Mark hustled all over the floor. Speaking of reminding me of somebody, I saw a little Gimel Martinez in Coury's game tonight. Good things will happen for UK if we can get that kind of hustle from Coury all year.
Patrick Patterson never seemed to really get a feel for the game tonight but he did show flashes in the 2nd half. I'm sure he will improve greatly as the season goes on.
Jodie Meeks had an off night only scoring 5 points, all from the free throw line. I'm not worried about Jodie, we all know what he can do.
Michael Porter played 24 minutes and didn't score any points. He passed up quite a few shots for some reason. He didn't score, but he put some good defensive pressure on the ball.
Mike Williams played 19 solid minutes. Williams only scored 4 points and had 5 rebounds but he gave Kentucky a solid presence in the lane. I was pleased with his performance.
Ramel Bradley turned in a solid performance as well. He only had 10 points in 30 minutes but he played hard on offense and defense.
Perry Stevenson played 11 minutes and gave UK a spark off the bench with a real nice dunk for his only basket of the game.
Freshman Kerry Benson played 14 minutes and hit a nice 3 pointer. I thought Kerry played well.
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Kentucky will face Gardner-Webb tomorrow night at 9:00 pm Eastern. The game is scheduled to air on ESPNU.
Joe Crawford led all scorers with 20 points in only 18 minutes of playing time. Joe didn't start the game, but he sure made a difference when he got on the floor. Mark Coury played out of his mind. Coury finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds in 36 minutes. Coury contributed a lot more than just numbers, though. He was the Wildcats low post presence for most of the first half with Patterson on the bench with foul trouble. Ramel Bradley was the 3rd leading scorer for the Cats with 10 points in 30 minutes.
The Wildcats looked out of sync when the game started. Mark Coury basically carried Kentucky in the beginning by scoring 10 of the Wildcats first 12 points. Patrick Patterson got 2 early fouls and went to the bench before he ever really got a chance to get a feel for the game. When Crawford finally got on the floor everything started to come together and the Wildcats started to pull away.
I was surprised to see Jared Carter on the floor for the Wildcats because I had heard that he was still having problems with his shoulder. Carter only played 2 minutes, though.
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Overall I was pretty pleased with what I saw. I don't think we should expect Kentucky to contend for the SEC title this year, but I saw some good things.
The Wildcats had 10 players who saw more than 10 minutes of action in the game. I was worried that the bench might be a little short with Harris and Jasper out with injuries, but that didn't seem to be the case. I thought Gillespie did a nice job of rotating players and sticking with the hot hands.
I was really impressed with what I saw from Alex Legion. Alex only played 13 minutes and scored 6 points but I swear I saw flashes of Derek Anderson in his game. That is a good thing as far as I'm concerned.
Mark Coury also impressed the hell out of me. Mark hustled all over the floor. Speaking of reminding me of somebody, I saw a little Gimel Martinez in Coury's game tonight. Good things will happen for UK if we can get that kind of hustle from Coury all year.
Patrick Patterson never seemed to really get a feel for the game tonight but he did show flashes in the 2nd half. I'm sure he will improve greatly as the season goes on.
Jodie Meeks had an off night only scoring 5 points, all from the free throw line. I'm not worried about Jodie, we all know what he can do.
Michael Porter played 24 minutes and didn't score any points. He passed up quite a few shots for some reason. He didn't score, but he put some good defensive pressure on the ball.
Mike Williams played 19 solid minutes. Williams only scored 4 points and had 5 rebounds but he gave Kentucky a solid presence in the lane. I was pleased with his performance.
Ramel Bradley turned in a solid performance as well. He only had 10 points in 30 minutes but he played hard on offense and defense.
Perry Stevenson played 11 minutes and gave UK a spark off the bench with a real nice dunk for his only basket of the game.
Freshman Kerry Benson played 14 minutes and hit a nice 3 pointer. I thought Kerry played well.
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Kentucky will face Gardner-Webb tomorrow night at 9:00 pm Eastern. The game is scheduled to air on ESPNU.
Monday, November 5, 2007
11/05/07: Kentucky Basketball Update
6'7" forward Ramon Harris suffered a stress fracture to his left foot in Saturday's exhibition win over Seattle. An exact timetable for Harris' return has not been determined but it looks like Harris will probably miss at least the first half of the season. This is a setback for a Kentucky team that was already thin in the frontline. Harris had started the first 2 preseason games for Kentucky and was a projected starter for the regular season opener.
There hasn't been a lot discussion on the progress of injured players Derrik Jasper and Jared Carter, but the rumors are that neither of them will be playing anytime soon. In a recent interview with the Herald-Leader Coach Gillespie didn't sound too optimistic about either player returning to the lineup in the near future.
UK seniors Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford were voted by the league coaches to the pre-season All Southeastern Conference squad.
The Kentucky men's basketball team will start the season ranked #20 in the AP poll.
Kentucky's season opener tomorrow night against Central Arkansas is scheduled to be shown live on ESPNU at 7:00 pm Eastern.
It is being reported that former UK recruit Tyler Zeller has verbally committed to North Carolina.
There hasn't been a lot discussion on the progress of injured players Derrik Jasper and Jared Carter, but the rumors are that neither of them will be playing anytime soon. In a recent interview with the Herald-Leader Coach Gillespie didn't sound too optimistic about either player returning to the lineup in the near future.
UK seniors Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford were voted by the league coaches to the pre-season All Southeastern Conference squad.
The Kentucky men's basketball team will start the season ranked #20 in the AP poll.
Kentucky's season opener tomorrow night against Central Arkansas is scheduled to be shown live on ESPNU at 7:00 pm Eastern.
It is being reported that former UK recruit Tyler Zeller has verbally committed to North Carolina.
Colts vs. Patriots Recap
I guess I'm in the minority because I just didn't see the game that everybody else apparently saw yesterday. You would think from listening to radio guys like Colin Cow(shit for brains)herd that the Patriots manhandled the Colts up and down the field. All these so-called football experts are already handing the Lombardi Trophy to Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft. I'm sorry, but I just don't think the Patriots are that much better than the Colts.
If there is one thing I learned from watching Sunday's match-up it was that we can expect a totally different game in January when these teams meet again in the AFC Championship game.
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Here are 5 reasons why I don't think we will see the same type of game in the January rematch:
1) The Weather: Massachusetts in January is nothing like the climate controlled RCA Dome. But remember, the weather affects both teams. History has shown us over the years that the deep ball isn't as easy to throw and catch when you are trying to do it outside in the wind and the cold. I suspect that both teams' passing attacks will look quite different in round 2. Lets not forget that the Patriots had trouble moving the ball against the Colts in yesterday's game until Tom Brady discovered he could beat the Colts' DBs deep. It won't be as easy to go deep in January. I expect the 2nd game to be much more of a defensive slugfest. I am going to have to give the Patriots the edge on this one in the 2nd game because I think their defense is better equipped to play in bad weather.
2) Officiating: Even a true blue Colts fan knows the Patriots were the victims of some pretty bad pass interference calls in yesterday's game. And Colts fans know what bad officiating in a Colts/Patriots game looks like, believe me. Seriously though, the officiating crew will not be as bad in January. You can't tell me that the officials didn't cost the Pats some points yesterday. I don't think either team will gain an advantage from good officiating. Let's call this one even.
3) Injuries: The Colts played the game yesterday without 4 key starters. Marvin Harrison, Tony Ugoh, Tyjuan Hagler, and Freddie Keiaho were all out. Colts slot receiver Anthony Gonzalez also dislocated his thumb on the Colts first offensive play and was unable to finish the game. You might remember that Gonzalez is the guy who dropped the touchdown pass. It turns out he was playing with a dislocated thumb, so I guess I probably owe him an apology. If you don't think those key injuries affected how the Colts played then you are as dumb as Colin Cowheard. How do you think the Pats would have done if they had to play without Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Matt Light, Mike Vrabel, and Tedy Bruschi? You get my point. If the Colts enter the rematch with all of their key players healthy then I think I would have to give them a slight edge in this department.
4) Coaching: I guarantee you that Bill Belichick will have a better game plan for attacking the Colts defense next time. I actually think the Patriots were caught off guard this time with how well the Colts defense played. I guarantee you that Belichick won't make the same mistake again. In fact, I'm pretty sure the Pats coaching staff figured out the Colts defensive weakness with somewhere around 9:00 minutes left to play in yesterday's game. I just don't think the Colts' coaching staff is in the same league as the Patriots' staff. So I am fairly confidant the Colts will be totally surprised by whatever game plan the Pats come up with for the rematch. The Pats will probably be up by 2 touchdowns before Tony Dungy knows what hit him. I give this category emphatically to the Pats.
5) Conditioning: Both teams looked tired and slow at times in yesterday's game. But, the Colts defense looked absolutely drained in the 4th quarter. I don't think Tony Dungy will let that happen again. Unfortunately for the Colts, I think the cold weather in Foxborough will affect their conditioning much more than it will affect the Patriots. I give the edge here to the Patriots because of their depth. The Colts just don't have the same quality of back-ups as the Patriots do.
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OK. So, if you take a close look at my 5 key points that I listed above I think you will see that I think the Pats will probably win the rematch in January. But, the wildcard will be injuries. If the Colts enter the game with everybody healthy then I think the rematch could be really interesting. I definitely think that the Colts need a healthy Tony Ugoh and Marvin Harrison to have any chance. Unfortunately, Ugoh and Harrison are both suffering from the kind of injuries that tend to linger for a long time.
My prediction for the January rematch if the Colts aren't healthy: Patriots 21 Colts 10
My prediction for the January rematch if the Colts are healthy: Colts 20 Patriots 17
If there is one thing I learned from watching Sunday's match-up it was that we can expect a totally different game in January when these teams meet again in the AFC Championship game.
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Here are 5 reasons why I don't think we will see the same type of game in the January rematch:
1) The Weather: Massachusetts in January is nothing like the climate controlled RCA Dome. But remember, the weather affects both teams. History has shown us over the years that the deep ball isn't as easy to throw and catch when you are trying to do it outside in the wind and the cold. I suspect that both teams' passing attacks will look quite different in round 2. Lets not forget that the Patriots had trouble moving the ball against the Colts in yesterday's game until Tom Brady discovered he could beat the Colts' DBs deep. It won't be as easy to go deep in January. I expect the 2nd game to be much more of a defensive slugfest. I am going to have to give the Patriots the edge on this one in the 2nd game because I think their defense is better equipped to play in bad weather.
2) Officiating: Even a true blue Colts fan knows the Patriots were the victims of some pretty bad pass interference calls in yesterday's game. And Colts fans know what bad officiating in a Colts/Patriots game looks like, believe me. Seriously though, the officiating crew will not be as bad in January. You can't tell me that the officials didn't cost the Pats some points yesterday. I don't think either team will gain an advantage from good officiating. Let's call this one even.
3) Injuries: The Colts played the game yesterday without 4 key starters. Marvin Harrison, Tony Ugoh, Tyjuan Hagler, and Freddie Keiaho were all out. Colts slot receiver Anthony Gonzalez also dislocated his thumb on the Colts first offensive play and was unable to finish the game. You might remember that Gonzalez is the guy who dropped the touchdown pass. It turns out he was playing with a dislocated thumb, so I guess I probably owe him an apology. If you don't think those key injuries affected how the Colts played then you are as dumb as Colin Cowheard. How do you think the Pats would have done if they had to play without Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Matt Light, Mike Vrabel, and Tedy Bruschi? You get my point. If the Colts enter the rematch with all of their key players healthy then I think I would have to give them a slight edge in this department.
4) Coaching: I guarantee you that Bill Belichick will have a better game plan for attacking the Colts defense next time. I actually think the Patriots were caught off guard this time with how well the Colts defense played. I guarantee you that Belichick won't make the same mistake again. In fact, I'm pretty sure the Pats coaching staff figured out the Colts defensive weakness with somewhere around 9:00 minutes left to play in yesterday's game. I just don't think the Colts' coaching staff is in the same league as the Patriots' staff. So I am fairly confidant the Colts will be totally surprised by whatever game plan the Pats come up with for the rematch. The Pats will probably be up by 2 touchdowns before Tony Dungy knows what hit him. I give this category emphatically to the Pats.
5) Conditioning: Both teams looked tired and slow at times in yesterday's game. But, the Colts defense looked absolutely drained in the 4th quarter. I don't think Tony Dungy will let that happen again. Unfortunately for the Colts, I think the cold weather in Foxborough will affect their conditioning much more than it will affect the Patriots. I give the edge here to the Patriots because of their depth. The Colts just don't have the same quality of back-ups as the Patriots do.
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OK. So, if you take a close look at my 5 key points that I listed above I think you will see that I think the Pats will probably win the rematch in January. But, the wildcard will be injuries. If the Colts enter the game with everybody healthy then I think the rematch could be really interesting. I definitely think that the Colts need a healthy Tony Ugoh and Marvin Harrison to have any chance. Unfortunately, Ugoh and Harrison are both suffering from the kind of injuries that tend to linger for a long time.
My prediction for the January rematch if the Colts aren't healthy: Patriots 21 Colts 10
My prediction for the January rematch if the Colts are healthy: Colts 20 Patriots 17
Week 9 Power Rankings
1) New England Patriots: It took them 3 quarters but they finally figured out where the Colts weaknesses were in the 4th quarter.
2) Indianapolis Colts: The good news is that they played well enough to beat the Patriots even with 4 starters missing because of injuries. The bad news is they lost a game that they should have won and will now probably have to travel to Foxborough in January.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers: They have a tough Division game tonight against the Ravens, but they should win easily. I just don't think they are in the same class as the Patriots and Colts.
4) Dallas Cowboys: I still think they are the team to beat in the NFC.
5) Tennessee Titans: I have Pittsburgh ranked ahead of them only because I think the Steelers have a better quarterback. I'm just not sold on Vince Young.
6) Green Bay Packers: They still have Brett Favre and an underrated defense. I can't wait to see them play the Cowboys and the Lions.
7) New York Giants: Eli is playing better this year and their defense is fun to watch. I wouldn't count them out just yet.
8) Detroit Lions: They can't be ignored anymore. I'm still not convinced they are a true contender, but they are 6-2 and deserve some credit.
9) Cleveland Browns: If they only had a defense. I wonder when the last time was that anybody had Cleveland ranked in their top ten power rankings?
10) Jacksonville Jaguars: I know they got their butt kicked yesterday by the Saints, but I still think they are a playoff team. They'll be much better once David Garrard returns from injury.
2) Indianapolis Colts: The good news is that they played well enough to beat the Patriots even with 4 starters missing because of injuries. The bad news is they lost a game that they should have won and will now probably have to travel to Foxborough in January.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers: They have a tough Division game tonight against the Ravens, but they should win easily. I just don't think they are in the same class as the Patriots and Colts.
4) Dallas Cowboys: I still think they are the team to beat in the NFC.
5) Tennessee Titans: I have Pittsburgh ranked ahead of them only because I think the Steelers have a better quarterback. I'm just not sold on Vince Young.
6) Green Bay Packers: They still have Brett Favre and an underrated defense. I can't wait to see them play the Cowboys and the Lions.
7) New York Giants: Eli is playing better this year and their defense is fun to watch. I wouldn't count them out just yet.
8) Detroit Lions: They can't be ignored anymore. I'm still not convinced they are a true contender, but they are 6-2 and deserve some credit.
9) Cleveland Browns: If they only had a defense. I wonder when the last time was that anybody had Cleveland ranked in their top ten power rankings?
10) Jacksonville Jaguars: I know they got their butt kicked yesterday by the Saints, but I still think they are a playoff team. They'll be much better once David Garrard returns from injury.
Week 9 Observations
1) Congratulations to the Patriots. They went in to Indy and won the only tough game on their schedule this year. But I wouldn't get too excited if I were a New England fan. The Colts outplayed New England for 3 quarters and had the Pats down by 10 points in the 4th quarter. The Colts were able to do that without 4 key starters, the biggest of which was Marvin Harrison. If Aaron Moorehead makes a few catches or if Charlie Johnson makes a block the Colts probably win that game.
2) I think the Patriots just clinched home field throughout the playoffs. I wonder how their deep passing game will work in Foxborough in January?
3) The Browns beat Seattle and improve to 5-3. This isn't the same Browns team that lost to Pittsburgh 34-7 in week 1. We'll find out how much they have improved next week when they face the Steelers again, this time in Pittsburgh.
4) The Titans beat Carolina and improved to 6-2. Vince Young passed for 110 yards and threw 2 interceptions. I'm sorry, but Vince doesn't seem to be getting any better. The Titans are 6-2 so I can't be too negative here, but I wonder what their record would be if Kerry Collins were starting.
5) 296 yards rushing in one game for Adrian Peterson!! That guy is impressive. The most special thing about what he is doing is that he is doing it without a passing game. Imagine what kind of numbers Peterson could put up if defenses actually had any respect for the Vikings' passing game.
6) Does anybody else wonder what Norv Turner will be doing for a living this time next year?
7) Buffalo beats Cincinnati. The Bills are still the only team from the AFC LEAST besides New England to beat a team outside of their own Division.
8) OK. I hate to do it but I am going to give Detroit some credit. They beat Denver 44-7 yesterday. I honestly thought Denver would win that game. Detroit is now 6-2 and looks like they might be the 3rd best team in the NFC.
9) Green Bay is still chugging along under the radar. They play Detroit in week 12 and Dallas in week 13. We'll know a lot more about Green Bay's defense after those 2 games.
10) The Saints absolutely hammered the Jaguars yesterday. I'm not sure the Jags would have won that game even if Garrard had played. Quinn Gray threw 3 interceptions, but where was the Jaguar defense? The Jags defense gave up 538 total yards to the Saints. I don't care who your quarterback is, its tough to win when your defense is that porous.
2) I think the Patriots just clinched home field throughout the playoffs. I wonder how their deep passing game will work in Foxborough in January?
3) The Browns beat Seattle and improve to 5-3. This isn't the same Browns team that lost to Pittsburgh 34-7 in week 1. We'll find out how much they have improved next week when they face the Steelers again, this time in Pittsburgh.
4) The Titans beat Carolina and improved to 6-2. Vince Young passed for 110 yards and threw 2 interceptions. I'm sorry, but Vince doesn't seem to be getting any better. The Titans are 6-2 so I can't be too negative here, but I wonder what their record would be if Kerry Collins were starting.
5) 296 yards rushing in one game for Adrian Peterson!! That guy is impressive. The most special thing about what he is doing is that he is doing it without a passing game. Imagine what kind of numbers Peterson could put up if defenses actually had any respect for the Vikings' passing game.
6) Does anybody else wonder what Norv Turner will be doing for a living this time next year?
7) Buffalo beats Cincinnati. The Bills are still the only team from the AFC LEAST besides New England to beat a team outside of their own Division.
8) OK. I hate to do it but I am going to give Detroit some credit. They beat Denver 44-7 yesterday. I honestly thought Denver would win that game. Detroit is now 6-2 and looks like they might be the 3rd best team in the NFC.
9) Green Bay is still chugging along under the radar. They play Detroit in week 12 and Dallas in week 13. We'll know a lot more about Green Bay's defense after those 2 games.
10) The Saints absolutely hammered the Jaguars yesterday. I'm not sure the Jags would have won that game even if Garrard had played. Quinn Gray threw 3 interceptions, but where was the Jaguar defense? The Jags defense gave up 538 total yards to the Saints. I don't care who your quarterback is, its tough to win when your defense is that porous.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Reds Pick Up Option On Dunn
The Cincinnati Reds announced today that they have picked up the 2008 option on LF Adam Dunn. The move will make Dunn the highest paid player on the Reds' roster for next year at $13 million dollars.
The Reds also picked up the 2008 option for 1B Scott Hatteberg for $1.85 million dollars and the 2008 option for C Javier Valentin for $1.35 million dollars.
The Reds also declined the $3.5 million dollar option on RP Eddie Guardado. Eddie is still trying to make a comeback from his shoulder surgery 13 months ago. General Manager Wayne Krivsky said the Reds are interested in trying to bring Eddie back at a lower salary if the opportunity arises.
The Reds also picked up the 2008 option for 1B Scott Hatteberg for $1.85 million dollars and the 2008 option for C Javier Valentin for $1.35 million dollars.
The Reds also declined the $3.5 million dollar option on RP Eddie Guardado. Eddie is still trying to make a comeback from his shoulder surgery 13 months ago. General Manager Wayne Krivsky said the Reds are interested in trying to bring Eddie back at a lower salary if the opportunity arises.
People Who Live In Glass Houses...............
In case you missed it, Field Marshall Stern decided to take a swipe at the New York Knicks organization in an ESPN interview that was broadcast on Tuesday. Stern was commenting on the Anucha Browne Sanders lawsuit against the Knick organization. Don't get me wrong. I think that what Mr. Stern said about the Knicks was absolutely true. I just think it was more than a little hypocritical for the statement to be coming from a guy who has basically mismanaged the NBA into the ground.
Read below to see what David had to say about the Knicks:
"It demonstrates that they're not a model of intelligent management. There were many checkpoints along the way where more decisive action would have eliminated this issue."
Tell me that isn't the pot calling the kettle black. That statement sounds more like something I would expect Mark Cuban to say to one of his friends in private when he was talking about the NBA and the Tim Donaghy situation.
If David Stern had decent checks and balances in place in the NBA he would have stopped the Tim Donaghy fiasco long before it ever started. Jeez, all the Commissioner had to do was listen to all the criticism of NBA referees that was coming from the players, owners, coaches, and fans over the last several years. But instead, Commissioner Stern chose to publicly patronize and belittle anyone who ever questioned the integrity of the officiating in the NBA. Time after time he would tell us that we were all stupid and that NBA referees were the most honest people in the world. Its not like there wasn't sufficient evidence to support many of the accusations about point shaving going on in the NBA. Have you watched an NBA game recently?
After the Tim Donaghy story broke I was convinced that David Stern would come out and apologize to the fans and take the full blame for what he had let the NBA become on his watch. But, that's not what happened.
Instead, he just belittled and patronized us some more. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't remember Mark Cuban getting any of his money back from all the ridiculous fines that he had to pay as a result of criticizing the officials over the years. I don't remember Stern giving Cuban any kind of public apology, either. Maybe if Stern had read one of those reports that Mark Cuban had compiled on the state of NBA refereeing this whole Donaghy thing could have been snuffed out before it ever got started.
It sounds to me like the NBA may not exactly be a "model of intelligent management."
I've said it before, and I'll say it again. David Stern IS the problem with the NBA. David Stern needs to resign so that the League can try to start working on rebuilding the relationship it used to have with its fans. I would imagine that there are a lot of sports fans out there who will never trust the NBA again as long as David Stern is in charge.
I say, "Fire the idiot and offer the job to Mark Cuban!"
Read below to see what David had to say about the Knicks:
"It demonstrates that they're not a model of intelligent management. There were many checkpoints along the way where more decisive action would have eliminated this issue."
Tell me that isn't the pot calling the kettle black. That statement sounds more like something I would expect Mark Cuban to say to one of his friends in private when he was talking about the NBA and the Tim Donaghy situation.
If David Stern had decent checks and balances in place in the NBA he would have stopped the Tim Donaghy fiasco long before it ever started. Jeez, all the Commissioner had to do was listen to all the criticism of NBA referees that was coming from the players, owners, coaches, and fans over the last several years. But instead, Commissioner Stern chose to publicly patronize and belittle anyone who ever questioned the integrity of the officiating in the NBA. Time after time he would tell us that we were all stupid and that NBA referees were the most honest people in the world. Its not like there wasn't sufficient evidence to support many of the accusations about point shaving going on in the NBA. Have you watched an NBA game recently?
After the Tim Donaghy story broke I was convinced that David Stern would come out and apologize to the fans and take the full blame for what he had let the NBA become on his watch. But, that's not what happened.
Instead, he just belittled and patronized us some more. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't remember Mark Cuban getting any of his money back from all the ridiculous fines that he had to pay as a result of criticizing the officials over the years. I don't remember Stern giving Cuban any kind of public apology, either. Maybe if Stern had read one of those reports that Mark Cuban had compiled on the state of NBA refereeing this whole Donaghy thing could have been snuffed out before it ever got started.
It sounds to me like the NBA may not exactly be a "model of intelligent management."
I've said it before, and I'll say it again. David Stern IS the problem with the NBA. David Stern needs to resign so that the League can try to start working on rebuilding the relationship it used to have with its fans. I would imagine that there are a lot of sports fans out there who will never trust the NBA again as long as David Stern is in charge.
I say, "Fire the idiot and offer the job to Mark Cuban!"
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Are The Patriots Running Up The Score?
Of course they are.
It doesn't matter why they are doing it. What matters is that it is starting to tick off the opposing teams.
If the Patriots keep running up the score I wouldn't be surprised to see somebody from an opposing team take a cheap shot on Tom Brady late in a game. I wonder how everyone would feel if Bill Belichick's arrogance caused Brady to get injured and miss the playoffs?
I'm not saying it is going to happen. I'm just saying that the Pats are lucky that the dirtiest player in the NFL (Rodney Harrison) is on their own team. I could easily see Rodney trying to take out an opposing quarterback's knee if the other team was running up the score on the Pats. But, don't think for a second that there aren't a lot of other "Rodney Harrisons" out there playing for different teams in the NFL.
Sometimes it only takes one play to end a team's season. Coach Belichick just needs to ask himself if it is worth the risk.
It doesn't matter why they are doing it. What matters is that it is starting to tick off the opposing teams.
If the Patriots keep running up the score I wouldn't be surprised to see somebody from an opposing team take a cheap shot on Tom Brady late in a game. I wonder how everyone would feel if Bill Belichick's arrogance caused Brady to get injured and miss the playoffs?
I'm not saying it is going to happen. I'm just saying that the Pats are lucky that the dirtiest player in the NFL (Rodney Harrison) is on their own team. I could easily see Rodney trying to take out an opposing quarterback's knee if the other team was running up the score on the Pats. But, don't think for a second that there aren't a lot of other "Rodney Harrisons" out there playing for different teams in the NFL.
Sometimes it only takes one play to end a team's season. Coach Belichick just needs to ask himself if it is worth the risk.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
My Week 8 Power Rankings
Everybody else is doing power rankings so I thought I would throw in my 2 cents.
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1) New England Patriots. You can say they haven't played anybody if you want to. But, they have the best coach and the best offense in the NFL.
2) Indianapolis Colts. They are 7-0 and they are beating better quality opponents than the Patriots, but they just don't look as sharp as they did last year on offense. Their slow starts every week make it look like their coaching staff doesn't have them prepared for their opponent's game plans. If that's the case, it doesn't look good for next week when the Colts face the Patriots and Bill Belichick.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have the 6th ranked offense and the #1 ranked defense in the NFL. They've had some hiccups along the way against the Cardinals and the Broncos, but they lost both of those games by a combined 10 points and turnovers probably cost them both those games.
4) Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys haven't exactly played a tough schedule, but their 2nd ranked offense is good enough to score points on anybody. I think they are the team to beat in the NFC.
5) Tennessee Titans. They win ugly, but they win. They have a great coach and the 6th ranked defense in the NFL. I don't think they are good enough to beat any team I ranked ahead of them, but I think they are capable of beating everybody else.
6) Green Bay Packers. They have Brett Favre and an underrated defense. They just need some consistency. Denver should give them a test tomorrow night. If they don't beat the Broncos then I obviously overestimated their defense.
7) San Diego Chargers. I would rank them higher except they started out a little slow this year. We'll find out more about them in week 10 when they face the Colts. One thing is for sure, this isn't the same Charger team that started the season 1 -3.
8) NY Giants. It pains me to rank the Giants in the top 10 after their struggles with the Dolphins. But, their defense just keeps looking better every week.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars. I would have ranked them higher if David Garrard were still healthy. Jack Del Rio is a great coach and their defense has given up the 2nd fewest points in the NFL this season.
10) In my opinion there is no other team worthy of being ranked in my power rankings. Detroit, Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Seattle are close in the NFC. Cleveland, Kansas City, Baltimore, and Denver are close in the AFC. But, none of them have consistently impressed me enough to grab the #10 spot.
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1) New England Patriots. You can say they haven't played anybody if you want to. But, they have the best coach and the best offense in the NFL.
2) Indianapolis Colts. They are 7-0 and they are beating better quality opponents than the Patriots, but they just don't look as sharp as they did last year on offense. Their slow starts every week make it look like their coaching staff doesn't have them prepared for their opponent's game plans. If that's the case, it doesn't look good for next week when the Colts face the Patriots and Bill Belichick.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have the 6th ranked offense and the #1 ranked defense in the NFL. They've had some hiccups along the way against the Cardinals and the Broncos, but they lost both of those games by a combined 10 points and turnovers probably cost them both those games.
4) Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys haven't exactly played a tough schedule, but their 2nd ranked offense is good enough to score points on anybody. I think they are the team to beat in the NFC.
5) Tennessee Titans. They win ugly, but they win. They have a great coach and the 6th ranked defense in the NFL. I don't think they are good enough to beat any team I ranked ahead of them, but I think they are capable of beating everybody else.
6) Green Bay Packers. They have Brett Favre and an underrated defense. They just need some consistency. Denver should give them a test tomorrow night. If they don't beat the Broncos then I obviously overestimated their defense.
7) San Diego Chargers. I would rank them higher except they started out a little slow this year. We'll find out more about them in week 10 when they face the Colts. One thing is for sure, this isn't the same Charger team that started the season 1 -3.
8) NY Giants. It pains me to rank the Giants in the top 10 after their struggles with the Dolphins. But, their defense just keeps looking better every week.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars. I would have ranked them higher if David Garrard were still healthy. Jack Del Rio is a great coach and their defense has given up the 2nd fewest points in the NFL this season.
10) In my opinion there is no other team worthy of being ranked in my power rankings. Detroit, Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Seattle are close in the NFC. Cleveland, Kansas City, Baltimore, and Denver are close in the AFC. But, none of them have consistently impressed me enough to grab the #10 spot.
NFL Week 8 Observations
I'm sorry I haven't posted anything for a few days. My wife and I decided to take the kids on a little vacation. But, I did make it back in time today to catch most of the NFL action.
So, here are a few of my thoughts and observations from week 8 in the NFL.
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1) The New England Patriots hung 52 points on the Washington Redskins defense which is still ranked 5th in the NFL in total defense even after their recent shellacking. The Redskins defense isn't that bad. The Patriots offense is that good.
2) OK. It's time for me to admit that I am wrong occasionally. Regular readers of this blog might remember that I stated earlier in the season that I thought Charlie Johnson should be starting at left tackle for the Colts. Well, I have now seen Charlie in 2 consecutive games at left tackle for the Colts and I can now say the Colts offense isn't near as effective with Charlie in there. I am truly hoping that Tony Ugoh is healthy for next week's match-up between the Colts and the Patriots.
3) Speaking of the Colts/Patriots match-up next week, I think the Colts better hope they get healthy before next week. Starters Tony Ugoh (LT), Marvin Harrison (WR), and Freddie Keiaho (LB) all missed today's game against the Panthers. The Colts will need a healthy roster to have any chance against the Pats.
4) I have a question for all the Patriot haters out there. Do you hate the New England Patriots team or do you actually just hate the New England Patriot fans? I am a Colts fan and I have to say that the only player for the Patriots that I really dislike is Rodney Harrison. But, I have never met a Patriot fan that liked or had any respect for.
5) I can't believe I'm actually going to say this, but I am beginning to think that Cleveland might actually have a chance to win 8 games this season. I don't think that will be enough to make the playoffs but it will be an improvement.
6) Look at the Steelers' schedule. They will probably be 10-2 when they play New England in week 14. There could be some playoff ramifications.
7) The Titans and Jaguars just keep chugging along beneath the radar. There is a good chance they will be the 2 AFC Wild Card teams.
8) The Rams still suck. But, they have a bye week next and then they play 4 games in a row where they actually have a decent chance of winning; at New Orleans, at San Francisco, Seattle at home, and then Atlanta at home.
9) I was starting to think the Giants might be getting better and then they played like crap against a winless Dolphins team today.
10) The Vikings should have drafted Brady Quinn.
11) I think we will find out something about the Packers and the Broncos tomorrow night.
So, here are a few of my thoughts and observations from week 8 in the NFL.
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1) The New England Patriots hung 52 points on the Washington Redskins defense which is still ranked 5th in the NFL in total defense even after their recent shellacking. The Redskins defense isn't that bad. The Patriots offense is that good.
2) OK. It's time for me to admit that I am wrong occasionally. Regular readers of this blog might remember that I stated earlier in the season that I thought Charlie Johnson should be starting at left tackle for the Colts. Well, I have now seen Charlie in 2 consecutive games at left tackle for the Colts and I can now say the Colts offense isn't near as effective with Charlie in there. I am truly hoping that Tony Ugoh is healthy for next week's match-up between the Colts and the Patriots.
3) Speaking of the Colts/Patriots match-up next week, I think the Colts better hope they get healthy before next week. Starters Tony Ugoh (LT), Marvin Harrison (WR), and Freddie Keiaho (LB) all missed today's game against the Panthers. The Colts will need a healthy roster to have any chance against the Pats.
4) I have a question for all the Patriot haters out there. Do you hate the New England Patriots team or do you actually just hate the New England Patriot fans? I am a Colts fan and I have to say that the only player for the Patriots that I really dislike is Rodney Harrison. But, I have never met a Patriot fan that liked or had any respect for.
5) I can't believe I'm actually going to say this, but I am beginning to think that Cleveland might actually have a chance to win 8 games this season. I don't think that will be enough to make the playoffs but it will be an improvement.
6) Look at the Steelers' schedule. They will probably be 10-2 when they play New England in week 14. There could be some playoff ramifications.
7) The Titans and Jaguars just keep chugging along beneath the radar. There is a good chance they will be the 2 AFC Wild Card teams.
8) The Rams still suck. But, they have a bye week next and then they play 4 games in a row where they actually have a decent chance of winning; at New Orleans, at San Francisco, Seattle at home, and then Atlanta at home.
9) I was starting to think the Giants might be getting better and then they played like crap against a winless Dolphins team today.
10) The Vikings should have drafted Brady Quinn.
11) I think we will find out something about the Packers and the Broncos tomorrow night.
Monday, October 22, 2007
16-0 Takes Another Hit
If you have been paying attention to the NFL season thus far you realize that the Steelers losing last night may have a dramatic impact on whether or not the Patriots or Colts finish the season 16-0 this season. If you haven't been paying attention then I guess you'll be wanting me to explain this to you. So, here goes.
The key to the Colts or Patriots going undefeated this year will really depend on whether another team within the AFC can keep the competition for home field advantage close until the end of the season.
With the Steelers losing yesterday that leaves the Jacksonville Jaguars as the only 1 loss team left in the AFC. So, if the Colts beat the Jaguars tonight then that means the Patriots and the Colts will both have a 2 game lead for home field advantage over every other team in the AFC. That's right, and the Titans and the Steelers are currently the only 2 loss teams left in the AFC. So, if the Colts beat the Jags tonight then that would mean that Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, and Tennessee will be tied for the 2nd best record in the AFC with each of those teams having 2 losses. Every other team in the AFC already has at least 3 losses.
We all know that the Colts and the Patriots have their big showdown with each other in week 9. If both of those teams enter week 9 still undefeated it means that the winner of that game will basically have a 2 game lead over the loser of that game by virtue of the head to head tie breaker and that the winner will also have at least a 2 game lead over everybody else in the AFC.
If everything plays out like I think it will then weeks 13 and 14 of the NFL season will be the next really important weekends to watch after week 9. The Colts will be playing the Jaguars again in week 13 and the Patriots will be playing the Steelers in week 14. Assuming that the Colts and Patriots are both still competing against each other for home field advantage I think it would be reasonable for the Patriots and the Colts to still be playing their starters in weeks 13 and 14. So, I think it would also be reasonable to assume that the Colts and Patriots will probably both have incentive to win those respective games and therefore probably will win those games. If that is indeed what happens, then it could mean that every team in the AFC besides Indy, New England, and possibly even the Titans will have at least 3 losses on the season after week 14. That is assuming that the loser of the week 9 showdown game doesn't slip up and lose another game or 2 along the way and that the Titans also don't lose another game between now and week 14.
If either the Colts or the Patriots are still undefeated after week 14 it will really start to get interesting. Both teams will have 3 games remaining after week 14. But, if either team is still undefeated after week 14 there will only be a few teams who could possibly be in a position to keep the battle for home field advantage close.
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If New England is still undefeated after week 14 they will be looking at Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, and Tennessee.
Indianapolis: A 1 loss Indianapolis team could challenge an undefeated New England team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Patriots are still undefeated after week 16 then that would mean that they had already beaten Indy in week 9 and would therefore hold the tie breaker against a 1 loss Indy team if both teams finished the season with 1 loss. So, if Indy loses in week 9 and wins the rest of their games they can only challenge an undefeated Patriots team for home field through week 16.
Jacksonville: If Jacksonville wins the rest of their games they would finish the season with 1 loss. They also would only be able to challenge an undefeated New England through week 16 because New England plays their last game against the Giants. If New England would lose their last game to the Giants they would still hold the tie break advantage over a 1 loss Jacksonville team by virtue of the fact that Jacksonville lost their 1 game to an AFC opponent.
Pittsburgh: New England plays Pittsburgh in week 14. If New England beats Pittsburgh in week 14 and neither team loses any other games, then Pittsburgh will not be able to challenge the Patriots for home field after week 14 because New England could lose their last 3 games and still hold the tie breaker over a 3 loss Pittsburgh team by virtue of their head to head match up.
Tennessee: If Tennessee wins the rest of their games they will finish with 2 losses. They could only challenge an undefeated New England team for home field advantage through week 15 because New England could lose their last 2 games of the season and still hold the tie breaker over Tennessee by virtue of a better win percentage against common opponents.
If Indianapolis is still undefeated after week 14 then they will be watching New England, Pittsburgh, Jacksonville, and Tennessee.
New England: If New England loses to Indy in week 9 and the Patriots win the rest of their games they can challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Colts are still undefeated after week 16 then that would mean that they had already beaten New England in week 9 and would therefore hold the tie breaker against a 1 loss New England team if both teams finished the season with 1 loss. So, if the Patriots lose in week 9 and win the rest of their games they can only challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field through week 16.
Pittsburgh: If Pittsburgh wins the rest of their games they will finish the season with 2 losses. They could challenge an undefeated Indy team for home field advantage through week 16 because if Indy were to lose their last 2 games a 2 loss Pittsburgh team would hold the tie breaker over Indy because Indy would have lost their 2 games against Conference opponents, whereas Pittsburgh would have lost only 1 game to an AFC opponent and 1 game to an NFC opponent.
Jacksonville: If Indy is still undefeated after week 14 then that will mean that Indy will have beaten the Jaguars twice which would leave Jacksonville with 3 losses at best. The Colts could then lose their last 3 games and still win home field advantage over the Jaguars by virtue of the head to head meetings.
Tennessee: The Titans could possibly challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Titans were to enter week 16 with only 2 losses then an undefeated Colts team would have to beat Houston in week 16 to ensure that their week 17 match up against a 2 loss Tennessee team didn't have the possibility of deciding the AFC South Champion.
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Of course all of the scenarios mentioned above are dependent on at least 1 of those "other" teams winning the rest of their games this season. After watching the first 7 weeks of the NFL season I doubt very much that Pittsburgh, Jacksonville, or Tennessee are capable of winning out. So, it will probably come down to whether or not the team that loses the week 9 match up between the Patriots and the Colts can win the rest of their games in order to keep the battle for home field advantage close until the end of the season. Even if that happens, there isn't much chance of an undefeated Colts or an undefeated Patriots team playing all their starters in week 17. And let's face it, both the Colts and the Patriots have some pretty tough games in week 17. The Patriots will be facing a New York Giants team who will probably be playing for playoff seeding and the Colts will be playing against a Tennessee team who will probably be doing the same.
Anything could happen, but the sooner an undefeated team clinches home field advantage throughout the playoffs, the worse chance we have of seeing a perfect season.
The key to the Colts or Patriots going undefeated this year will really depend on whether another team within the AFC can keep the competition for home field advantage close until the end of the season.
With the Steelers losing yesterday that leaves the Jacksonville Jaguars as the only 1 loss team left in the AFC. So, if the Colts beat the Jaguars tonight then that means the Patriots and the Colts will both have a 2 game lead for home field advantage over every other team in the AFC. That's right, and the Titans and the Steelers are currently the only 2 loss teams left in the AFC. So, if the Colts beat the Jags tonight then that would mean that Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, and Tennessee will be tied for the 2nd best record in the AFC with each of those teams having 2 losses. Every other team in the AFC already has at least 3 losses.
We all know that the Colts and the Patriots have their big showdown with each other in week 9. If both of those teams enter week 9 still undefeated it means that the winner of that game will basically have a 2 game lead over the loser of that game by virtue of the head to head tie breaker and that the winner will also have at least a 2 game lead over everybody else in the AFC.
If everything plays out like I think it will then weeks 13 and 14 of the NFL season will be the next really important weekends to watch after week 9. The Colts will be playing the Jaguars again in week 13 and the Patriots will be playing the Steelers in week 14. Assuming that the Colts and Patriots are both still competing against each other for home field advantage I think it would be reasonable for the Patriots and the Colts to still be playing their starters in weeks 13 and 14. So, I think it would also be reasonable to assume that the Colts and Patriots will probably both have incentive to win those respective games and therefore probably will win those games. If that is indeed what happens, then it could mean that every team in the AFC besides Indy, New England, and possibly even the Titans will have at least 3 losses on the season after week 14. That is assuming that the loser of the week 9 showdown game doesn't slip up and lose another game or 2 along the way and that the Titans also don't lose another game between now and week 14.
If either the Colts or the Patriots are still undefeated after week 14 it will really start to get interesting. Both teams will have 3 games remaining after week 14. But, if either team is still undefeated after week 14 there will only be a few teams who could possibly be in a position to keep the battle for home field advantage close.
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If New England is still undefeated after week 14 they will be looking at Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, and Tennessee.
Indianapolis: A 1 loss Indianapolis team could challenge an undefeated New England team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Patriots are still undefeated after week 16 then that would mean that they had already beaten Indy in week 9 and would therefore hold the tie breaker against a 1 loss Indy team if both teams finished the season with 1 loss. So, if Indy loses in week 9 and wins the rest of their games they can only challenge an undefeated Patriots team for home field through week 16.
Jacksonville: If Jacksonville wins the rest of their games they would finish the season with 1 loss. They also would only be able to challenge an undefeated New England through week 16 because New England plays their last game against the Giants. If New England would lose their last game to the Giants they would still hold the tie break advantage over a 1 loss Jacksonville team by virtue of the fact that Jacksonville lost their 1 game to an AFC opponent.
Pittsburgh: New England plays Pittsburgh in week 14. If New England beats Pittsburgh in week 14 and neither team loses any other games, then Pittsburgh will not be able to challenge the Patriots for home field after week 14 because New England could lose their last 3 games and still hold the tie breaker over a 3 loss Pittsburgh team by virtue of their head to head match up.
Tennessee: If Tennessee wins the rest of their games they will finish with 2 losses. They could only challenge an undefeated New England team for home field advantage through week 15 because New England could lose their last 2 games of the season and still hold the tie breaker over Tennessee by virtue of a better win percentage against common opponents.
If Indianapolis is still undefeated after week 14 then they will be watching New England, Pittsburgh, Jacksonville, and Tennessee.
New England: If New England loses to Indy in week 9 and the Patriots win the rest of their games they can challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Colts are still undefeated after week 16 then that would mean that they had already beaten New England in week 9 and would therefore hold the tie breaker against a 1 loss New England team if both teams finished the season with 1 loss. So, if the Patriots lose in week 9 and win the rest of their games they can only challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field through week 16.
Pittsburgh: If Pittsburgh wins the rest of their games they will finish the season with 2 losses. They could challenge an undefeated Indy team for home field advantage through week 16 because if Indy were to lose their last 2 games a 2 loss Pittsburgh team would hold the tie breaker over Indy because Indy would have lost their 2 games against Conference opponents, whereas Pittsburgh would have lost only 1 game to an AFC opponent and 1 game to an NFC opponent.
Jacksonville: If Indy is still undefeated after week 14 then that will mean that Indy will have beaten the Jaguars twice which would leave Jacksonville with 3 losses at best. The Colts could then lose their last 3 games and still win home field advantage over the Jaguars by virtue of the head to head meetings.
Tennessee: The Titans could possibly challenge an undefeated Colts team for home field advantage through week 16. If the Titans were to enter week 16 with only 2 losses then an undefeated Colts team would have to beat Houston in week 16 to ensure that their week 17 match up against a 2 loss Tennessee team didn't have the possibility of deciding the AFC South Champion.
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Of course all of the scenarios mentioned above are dependent on at least 1 of those "other" teams winning the rest of their games this season. After watching the first 7 weeks of the NFL season I doubt very much that Pittsburgh, Jacksonville, or Tennessee are capable of winning out. So, it will probably come down to whether or not the team that loses the week 9 match up between the Patriots and the Colts can win the rest of their games in order to keep the battle for home field advantage close until the end of the season. Even if that happens, there isn't much chance of an undefeated Colts or an undefeated Patriots team playing all their starters in week 17. And let's face it, both the Colts and the Patriots have some pretty tough games in week 17. The Patriots will be facing a New York Giants team who will probably be playing for playoff seeding and the Colts will be playing against a Tennessee team who will probably be doing the same.
Anything could happen, but the sooner an undefeated team clinches home field advantage throughout the playoffs, the worse chance we have of seeing a perfect season.
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