A busy Thursday in the world of sports, here's a look...
- I start tonight with the stupidity of Bears WR Sam Hurd. Hurd was arrested and remains in jail tonight after he allegedly attempted to buy over half a million dollars in cocaine and marijuana from a supplier in North Texas. Words can't even start to explain how dumb you would have to be to do that, if Hurd did. Any pro athlete who would pull something like that needs an one-way ticket out of the league.
- I move on now to the world of IndyCar where the accident that killed Dan Wheldon to end last season was a "perfect storm". Wheldon hit his head on a pole that held the fencing up around the track. A very sad story and a great example of why race car driving is always a dangerous thing to do.
- A concussion has once again ended a season early for a NHL player as Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger will sit out the rest of the season with post-concussion symptoms. Hockey is a violent sport in its nature and big-time hits are a part of the game but when a lot of your major names are sitting on the bench, it hurts the game. I've talked about Sidney Crosby in the past, don't know what to fix but something has to.
- A commentary on Los Angeles pro basketball and things that may be happening. Rumors are swirling now that Kobe Bryant is upset over recent events with the Lakers and may want out. The Clippers have got a lot better with Chris Paul but are still not a dominant team with just two stars. Will the battles at the Staples Center be better? Yes but I don't think Kobe has anything to worry about.
- With the recent warmer weather in the country, thoughts head toward baseball and that spring training is only 2 months away. It appears one team is trying real hard to get their fans back on board. The Cubs put in a claim on Yu Darvish and reports state they are about to go hard after Prince Fielder. If both happen, I don't see any reason why the North Siders don't win the NL Central.
- Last a reminder that college bowl season starts this Saturday with three games. I will have predictions the day of each game for you if you want to use them for your bowl pool in your office or wherever you are playing at.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning.....
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NBA. Show all posts
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Trivia Answer: Thursday, Dec. 15
The answer is......the Milwaukee Bucks, who defeated the Lakers 120-104 on Jan. 9, 1972. The Lakers would go on to win the NBA Title in winning a then-record 69 games.
Sports analysis coming tonight....
Sports analysis coming tonight....
Trivia: Thursday, Dec. 15
Today's question is this.....what team broke the Los Angeles Lakers' 33-game winning streak in 1972?
Answer later....
Answer later....
Thursday morning thoughts
It's early and it's time for a look at what's going on or about to go on....
- This new amnesty clause in the NBA deal is still odd to me. Last night, the Cavaliers used it to waive Baron Davis, who is still owed $27 million but the move gives Cleveland some salary cap relief. Maybe someone puts in a winning bid on a guy who is going to be out 8-10 weeks. Just something different to get used to.
- An interesting development in Indianapolis as Peyton Manning has begun throwing a football again according to coach Jim Caldwell. I honestly don't see the point in doing that this late in the season but it is surely part of his rehab from neck surgery. Could his pride of not being on a team that doesn't win a game be coming into play and he wants to play maybe in the final game of the season to get a win?
- The posting process for Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish ended Wednesday and we still don't know what team won the bidding. I would expect that it will take at least $90 million to sign Darvish in the combination of posting fees and a contract. My guess is the either the Rangers or Cubs won the bidding.
- Big NFL games this weekend and one tonight but Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger is in a walking boot after his injury in last Thursday's win over the Browns. This game is huge for the Steelers on Monday night in San Francisco to try to hold on to hope of winning the AFC North and avoiding a likely first-round matchup in Denver with the Broncos. The way that injury looked, I'm shocked he has any chance of playing.
- In tonight's action, it's Jacksonville at Atlanta. The Falcons are clinging to a playoff spot and with the recent troubles of the Bears, it is logical to think that two wins out of three for Atlanta gets them in. The Jaguars played well last week especially Maurice Jones-Drew, who scored four times. However, I have to pick the Falcons at home with a 27-10 win.
- Last but not least, we are going to talk weather.....it's the middle of December and we haven't seen a single game played any sort of snow this season in the NFL. Blame global warming or whatever but there is just something magical at this time of year about a game in the snow. Doesn't help your fantasy team any but just a beautiful sight.
That's all for now, trivia later and more thoughts later on tonight.....
- This new amnesty clause in the NBA deal is still odd to me. Last night, the Cavaliers used it to waive Baron Davis, who is still owed $27 million but the move gives Cleveland some salary cap relief. Maybe someone puts in a winning bid on a guy who is going to be out 8-10 weeks. Just something different to get used to.
- An interesting development in Indianapolis as Peyton Manning has begun throwing a football again according to coach Jim Caldwell. I honestly don't see the point in doing that this late in the season but it is surely part of his rehab from neck surgery. Could his pride of not being on a team that doesn't win a game be coming into play and he wants to play maybe in the final game of the season to get a win?
- The posting process for Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish ended Wednesday and we still don't know what team won the bidding. I would expect that it will take at least $90 million to sign Darvish in the combination of posting fees and a contract. My guess is the either the Rangers or Cubs won the bidding.
- Big NFL games this weekend and one tonight but Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger is in a walking boot after his injury in last Thursday's win over the Browns. This game is huge for the Steelers on Monday night in San Francisco to try to hold on to hope of winning the AFC North and avoiding a likely first-round matchup in Denver with the Broncos. The way that injury looked, I'm shocked he has any chance of playing.
- In tonight's action, it's Jacksonville at Atlanta. The Falcons are clinging to a playoff spot and with the recent troubles of the Bears, it is logical to think that two wins out of three for Atlanta gets them in. The Jaguars played well last week especially Maurice Jones-Drew, who scored four times. However, I have to pick the Falcons at home with a 27-10 win.
- Last but not least, we are going to talk weather.....it's the middle of December and we haven't seen a single game played any sort of snow this season in the NFL. Blame global warming or whatever but there is just something magical at this time of year about a game in the snow. Doesn't help your fantasy team any but just a beautiful sight.
That's all for now, trivia later and more thoughts later on tonight.....
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Midweek Ramblings....
Wednesday has arrived, here is what's up....
- The Chris Paul saga lingers on as now the Lakers are still involved in potentially getting the New Orleans star. It seems like the league doesn't want to make any move on this or wants the world back in return kind of like the Herschel Walker trade from many years past where the Vikings basically gave away everything for Walker to the Cowboys. The Cowboys used all the draft picks to build a dynasty in the '90s. Who knows how this one will end.
- In another trade that drags on, ESPN reports this morning that the Nets and Magic are in serious discussions on a trade for Dwight Howard. The Portland Trail Blazers would also be involved and could receive multiple first-round picks if this happens. I thought the new CBA was to prevent all these big-time players from basically saying I've had enough here, I want a big-market team. I guess not.
- Other NBA news brings that the Nuggets have resigned Nene for 5 yrs/$67 million. Denver is still trying to get over Carmelo Anthony leaving during last season and couldn't lose Nene as well. However, this is another smaller market team so in the end, they probably won't have a chance at a NBA title.
- Moving to baseball, the Twins have signed OF Josh Willingham to a multi-year deal according to sources. Solid move for the Twinkies to put into a lineup with Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when both are healthy. Keeps Minnesota competitive in the AL Central.
- Time to discuss the thing that is Tim Tebow. Yes, he has led the Broncos to a 7-1 record as a starter but has been horrible in the first three quarters of almost every game this season. There are people who would suggest he's a better running back than quarterback. That is true for now and maybe a full offseason can help him work on his throws. The media coverage is overblown with Tebow, the world doesn't revolve around him but for now, he's the story and takes a lot of pressure off the undefeated run of the Packers.
- Last item this morning involves former Braves closer John Rocker, who has admitted to taking steroids while on the team. Is it ironic that he is also selling a book right now so all these new things are coming out. We all know those drugs were all over baseball right after the strike and beyond as the game tried to rebuild itself. In Rocker's case, the way he was acting.....everyone had to have known.
That's all for now, back tonight with more....
- The Chris Paul saga lingers on as now the Lakers are still involved in potentially getting the New Orleans star. It seems like the league doesn't want to make any move on this or wants the world back in return kind of like the Herschel Walker trade from many years past where the Vikings basically gave away everything for Walker to the Cowboys. The Cowboys used all the draft picks to build a dynasty in the '90s. Who knows how this one will end.
- In another trade that drags on, ESPN reports this morning that the Nets and Magic are in serious discussions on a trade for Dwight Howard. The Portland Trail Blazers would also be involved and could receive multiple first-round picks if this happens. I thought the new CBA was to prevent all these big-time players from basically saying I've had enough here, I want a big-market team. I guess not.
- Other NBA news brings that the Nuggets have resigned Nene for 5 yrs/$67 million. Denver is still trying to get over Carmelo Anthony leaving during last season and couldn't lose Nene as well. However, this is another smaller market team so in the end, they probably won't have a chance at a NBA title.
- Moving to baseball, the Twins have signed OF Josh Willingham to a multi-year deal according to sources. Solid move for the Twinkies to put into a lineup with Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when both are healthy. Keeps Minnesota competitive in the AL Central.
- Time to discuss the thing that is Tim Tebow. Yes, he has led the Broncos to a 7-1 record as a starter but has been horrible in the first three quarters of almost every game this season. There are people who would suggest he's a better running back than quarterback. That is true for now and maybe a full offseason can help him work on his throws. The media coverage is overblown with Tebow, the world doesn't revolve around him but for now, he's the story and takes a lot of pressure off the undefeated run of the Packers.
- Last item this morning involves former Braves closer John Rocker, who has admitted to taking steroids while on the team. Is it ironic that he is also selling a book right now so all these new things are coming out. We all know those drugs were all over baseball right after the strike and beyond as the game tried to rebuild itself. In Rocker's case, the way he was acting.....everyone had to have known.
That's all for now, back tonight with more....
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Tuesday night thinking...
Another day has passed, here is what's going down....
- The Steelers' James Harrison was suspended for one game by the NFL for his hit on Browns QB Colt McCoy Thursday night. While I like the hard-nosed play that Harrison likes to show and the fact it is old-school football, sometimes he goes a bit over the line. He won't learn but don't change your game, big guy. You are one of the few left who actually doesn't tippy-toe around.
- More details of the new MLB labor deal have become public and some interesting things come out of it. The fact divisional teams can now play before the league championship series is great. Means Red Sox-Yankees won't always be for the AL Title. Also, the All-Star break will be extended to four days with the chance the game could be moved to Wednesday in some years with the Home Run Derby on Tuesday. Different I must say, I like the longer break but don't move the game. Just play Tuesday and start games again on Friday.
- NBA players are not happy and now at least one is speaking out. The Celtics' Kevin Garnett has called out Commish David Stern for a "rushed" training camp. There is no doubt Garnett has a point, just 16 days from the start of training camp to the beginning of the season. Not enough time you would figure but the NBA needed games on Christmas for them to have any chance of keeping fans for what will be a roller coaster 66-game season.
- I usually don't bring up golf but you have to give props to Luke Donald for not only winning the PGA money title but the European Tour money tour as well. That's impressive to say the least....
- A little more NFL for you and especially to you fantasy football types, go pick up Felix Jones and especially James Jones from the Packers. Just saying...
- I'm a media guy and when I heard Craig James had decided to run for a Senate seat in Texas, I couldn't be more happy. ESPN would be better off without him anyway. Go pollute something else with your ideas on Boise State and the fact you ranked them 24th in your last vote.
That's all for tonight, more in the morning.....
- The Steelers' James Harrison was suspended for one game by the NFL for his hit on Browns QB Colt McCoy Thursday night. While I like the hard-nosed play that Harrison likes to show and the fact it is old-school football, sometimes he goes a bit over the line. He won't learn but don't change your game, big guy. You are one of the few left who actually doesn't tippy-toe around.
- More details of the new MLB labor deal have become public and some interesting things come out of it. The fact divisional teams can now play before the league championship series is great. Means Red Sox-Yankees won't always be for the AL Title. Also, the All-Star break will be extended to four days with the chance the game could be moved to Wednesday in some years with the Home Run Derby on Tuesday. Different I must say, I like the longer break but don't move the game. Just play Tuesday and start games again on Friday.
- NBA players are not happy and now at least one is speaking out. The Celtics' Kevin Garnett has called out Commish David Stern for a "rushed" training camp. There is no doubt Garnett has a point, just 16 days from the start of training camp to the beginning of the season. Not enough time you would figure but the NBA needed games on Christmas for them to have any chance of keeping fans for what will be a roller coaster 66-game season.
- I usually don't bring up golf but you have to give props to Luke Donald for not only winning the PGA money title but the European Tour money tour as well. That's impressive to say the least....
- A little more NFL for you and especially to you fantasy football types, go pick up Felix Jones and especially James Jones from the Packers. Just saying...
- I'm a media guy and when I heard Craig James had decided to run for a Senate seat in Texas, I couldn't be more happy. ESPN would be better off without him anyway. Go pollute something else with your ideas on Boise State and the fact you ranked them 24th in your last vote.
That's all for tonight, more in the morning.....
Trivia Answer: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Answer is...
2004- Detroit Pistons
2006- Miami Heat
2008- Boston Celtics
2011- Dallas Mavericks
Sports thoughts coming tonight.....
2004- Detroit Pistons
2006- Miami Heat
2008- Boston Celtics
2011- Dallas Mavericks
Sports thoughts coming tonight.....
Trivia: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Today's question is this.....In the last 20 years, just 4 years did a team other than the Lakers, Bulls, Rockets or Spurs win the NBA Title. What teams are years did it happen?
Answer later....
Answer later....
Monday, December 12, 2011
Monday Night Thoughts
Let's take a look at the happening of this Monday....
- It was a bad day to be a NFL coach as Miami's Tony Sparano and Kansas City's Todd Haley were shown the door. There are so many high-profile coaches sitting on the sidelines right now, both teams need to make some calls. However, Haley didn't deserve his fate since basically all of the good Chiefs players got hurt and ended up on injured reserve. He will turn up next I see as the new Bears offensive coordinator in 2012.
- This business with Chris Paul continues to drag on as a trade to the Clippers were knocked down today but reports tonight are saying that there is a new push to get a trade done with the Staples Center's other team. Get it done and over with already! In the meantime, the Clippers claimed Chauncey Billups off waivers. I guess that's the backup plan.
- Now, a classic example of pay attention to what your spouse is saying. Albert Pujols' wife Diedre went on St. Louis radio today to explain how Pujols would have stayed with the Cardinals for less money but the Cards only offered a five-year deal to begin negotiations. I don't know how much I believe of this but if it is true, that is definitely a key development. A 5-year deal in my opinion would be enough but Pujols I figure wanted one long deal to end his career and that is what he got with the Angels.
- Elsewhere in the NL Central, the Brewers have signed former Cubs 3B Aramis Ramirez. This figures to fill the void offensively with Prince Fielder likely out of town and could be headed to Chicago. I think a lot of Cubs fans would trade a Fielder-for-Ramirez deal. In Milwaukee though, Ramirez will probably need to carry the load for the first 2 months with Ryan Braun on suspension more than likely. This is not one of the best qualities of Ramirez though, will be interesting to see what happens.
- With Ramirez now in the fold, the Brewers traded Casey McGehee to the Pirates. If McGehee can get back his 2010 form, Pittsburgh may get to the .500 mark in 2012. The talent level on that team with Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker is way up there and better than a lot of young groups. McGehee will probably play first base for the Pirates and spell Alvarez at third.
That's tonight's opinions, things are always breaking so more in the morning......
- It was a bad day to be a NFL coach as Miami's Tony Sparano and Kansas City's Todd Haley were shown the door. There are so many high-profile coaches sitting on the sidelines right now, both teams need to make some calls. However, Haley didn't deserve his fate since basically all of the good Chiefs players got hurt and ended up on injured reserve. He will turn up next I see as the new Bears offensive coordinator in 2012.
- This business with Chris Paul continues to drag on as a trade to the Clippers were knocked down today but reports tonight are saying that there is a new push to get a trade done with the Staples Center's other team. Get it done and over with already! In the meantime, the Clippers claimed Chauncey Billups off waivers. I guess that's the backup plan.
- Now, a classic example of pay attention to what your spouse is saying. Albert Pujols' wife Diedre went on St. Louis radio today to explain how Pujols would have stayed with the Cardinals for less money but the Cards only offered a five-year deal to begin negotiations. I don't know how much I believe of this but if it is true, that is definitely a key development. A 5-year deal in my opinion would be enough but Pujols I figure wanted one long deal to end his career and that is what he got with the Angels.
- Elsewhere in the NL Central, the Brewers have signed former Cubs 3B Aramis Ramirez. This figures to fill the void offensively with Prince Fielder likely out of town and could be headed to Chicago. I think a lot of Cubs fans would trade a Fielder-for-Ramirez deal. In Milwaukee though, Ramirez will probably need to carry the load for the first 2 months with Ryan Braun on suspension more than likely. This is not one of the best qualities of Ramirez though, will be interesting to see what happens.
- With Ramirez now in the fold, the Brewers traded Casey McGehee to the Pirates. If McGehee can get back his 2010 form, Pittsburgh may get to the .500 mark in 2012. The talent level on that team with Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker is way up there and better than a lot of young groups. McGehee will probably play first base for the Pirates and spell Alvarez at third.
That's tonight's opinions, things are always breaking so more in the morning......
Trivia Answer: Monday, Dec. 12
The answer is the......Phoenix Suns. Phoenix lost their first 13 games to open the 1996-97 season before reeling off a 10-game winning streak late in the year to make the playoffs.
Sports Thoughts coming tonight....
Sports Thoughts coming tonight....
Trivia: Monday, Dec. 12
Today's question is this.....Name the first NBA team to have a 10-game winning streak and losing streak in the same season?
Answer later...
Answer later...
Monday is here again
Late last night, it was all football. Now we go into the other sports reports....
- The Chris Paul trade game continues as now he may be heading to the Clippers for a package of players. This has dragged out long enough, either make the trade or he stays in New Orleans. I thought the NBA wanted good publicity now that they actually have a season.
- One thing I didn't touch on much Saturday was the fight between Cincinnati and Xavier at the end of the game. A very ugly scene between the crosstown rivals. There is no place for fights like that as emotions were growing hotter and hotter as the game progressed. Time to grow up boys and remember you aren't playing at your neighborhood playground.
- In other NBA news, the Lakers did make a trade but it was Lamar Odom being dealt to Dallas. Odom was very upset over being included in the proposed Chris Paul trade that he wanted out of LA. So Odom gets to go to the defending champions. Not a bad place to land.
- Talk about a fan base that is excited. About 4,000 fans showed up outside Angel Stadium for the formal introductions of Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson. They are very serious about winning and capturing more of the Los Angeles market. Those two moves for now at least achieve that goal.
- Now one of the busiest men in hockey recently, Patrick Sharp. Sharp scored an overtime goal Thursday for the Blackhawks to defeat the Islanders, then found out his wife was in labor, flew home to Chicago in time to see baby Madelyn be born. Then Sunday adds another overtime goal in a win over San Jose. Try to get some sleep now, big guy or maybe Hawks fans would like you to continue your whirlwind.
- Surprised even myself with a 15-5 record on weekend predictions including 12-2 on NFL games. If the Bengals could have just held on and the Cowboys wouldn't have choked again. Tonight, a game that only fantasy players care about in Seattle as the Seahawks face the Rams. I'll take Seattle for the win 24-7.
That's all for now, today's trivia question comes up at midday and more sports thoughts are forthcoming tonight....
- The Chris Paul trade game continues as now he may be heading to the Clippers for a package of players. This has dragged out long enough, either make the trade or he stays in New Orleans. I thought the NBA wanted good publicity now that they actually have a season.
- One thing I didn't touch on much Saturday was the fight between Cincinnati and Xavier at the end of the game. A very ugly scene between the crosstown rivals. There is no place for fights like that as emotions were growing hotter and hotter as the game progressed. Time to grow up boys and remember you aren't playing at your neighborhood playground.
- In other NBA news, the Lakers did make a trade but it was Lamar Odom being dealt to Dallas. Odom was very upset over being included in the proposed Chris Paul trade that he wanted out of LA. So Odom gets to go to the defending champions. Not a bad place to land.
- Talk about a fan base that is excited. About 4,000 fans showed up outside Angel Stadium for the formal introductions of Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson. They are very serious about winning and capturing more of the Los Angeles market. Those two moves for now at least achieve that goal.
- Now one of the busiest men in hockey recently, Patrick Sharp. Sharp scored an overtime goal Thursday for the Blackhawks to defeat the Islanders, then found out his wife was in labor, flew home to Chicago in time to see baby Madelyn be born. Then Sunday adds another overtime goal in a win over San Jose. Try to get some sleep now, big guy or maybe Hawks fans would like you to continue your whirlwind.
- Surprised even myself with a 15-5 record on weekend predictions including 12-2 on NFL games. If the Bengals could have just held on and the Cowboys wouldn't have choked again. Tonight, a game that only fantasy players care about in Seattle as the Seahawks face the Rams. I'll take Seattle for the win 24-7.
That's all for now, today's trivia question comes up at midday and more sports thoughts are forthcoming tonight....
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday night thoughts
Last look for the week at things before weekend games begin...
- That Chris Paul deal to the Lakers appears to be regaining some legs. The three teams involved in the trade (Lakers, Hornets and Rockets) are talking again about how to do this deal. Let's just hope it actually happens for everyone's sanity.
- Speaking of NBA, the meeting Dwight Howard and the New Jersey Nets had has been deemed illegal. The NBA should do something positive and slap the Nets with some penalty. Competitive balance is the key right? Well that means Howard can't go to New Jersey.
- The Oakland A's are cleaning house again with their trade of Trevor Cahill to Arizona Friday. This means the Diamondbacks a serious threat in the National League putting Cahill with Ian Kennedy. I guess the Marlins weren't the only team making big time moves.
- Now on a completely different scale and something of a positive nature for Penn State....well maybe not on this night but the four-time defending women's volleyball champions were defeated by UCLA. Reason I bring this up is just the fact they won 4 YEARS IN A ROW! Not the easiest thing to do when players graduate.
- Last thing, if you have time on Saturday....sit down and watch at least some of the Army-Navy game. One of the best games every year with the service academies. Just take 30 minutes out and take a look.
Saturday selections coming in the morning.....
- That Chris Paul deal to the Lakers appears to be regaining some legs. The three teams involved in the trade (Lakers, Hornets and Rockets) are talking again about how to do this deal. Let's just hope it actually happens for everyone's sanity.
- Speaking of NBA, the meeting Dwight Howard and the New Jersey Nets had has been deemed illegal. The NBA should do something positive and slap the Nets with some penalty. Competitive balance is the key right? Well that means Howard can't go to New Jersey.
- The Oakland A's are cleaning house again with their trade of Trevor Cahill to Arizona Friday. This means the Diamondbacks a serious threat in the National League putting Cahill with Ian Kennedy. I guess the Marlins weren't the only team making big time moves.
- Now on a completely different scale and something of a positive nature for Penn State....well maybe not on this night but the four-time defending women's volleyball champions were defeated by UCLA. Reason I bring this up is just the fact they won 4 YEARS IN A ROW! Not the easiest thing to do when players graduate.
- Last thing, if you have time on Saturday....sit down and watch at least some of the Army-Navy game. One of the best games every year with the service academies. Just take 30 minutes out and take a look.
Saturday selections coming in the morning.....
Friday morning report
We begin the weekend with these thoughts....
- On the heels of the Chris Paul trade being nixed by the league, Dwight Howard is now angling to get traded to the Nets and this trade appears to be actually going down. We are heading down a road of superteams where only 6-8 teams have a chance at a title and no one else can survive. Not good for balance but good for ratings.
- Also in the NBA, it appears Brandon Roy is going to have to retire because of his knees. That's a real shame for a player that had a very bright future ahead of him and could have had a Hall of Fame career. Good luck to him.
- We move on to college football where Kansas has hired former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. Weis has a few good years in South Bend but was an epic failure in terms of Irish coaches. The move is sound but we will see if it is actually successful.
- A very smart move by IndyCar, deciding to bypass going to Las Vegas after the death of Dan Wheldon last year. Those cars move way too fast for that kind of track and it was a bad idea in the first place. There are reports they won't return there again and that would be for the best.
- NFL Week 14 started last night with a clunker of a win by the Steelers over the Browns. That's Pittsburgh's game though with their defense and getting that 10th win continued their chase toward the AFC North title and the top seed in the conference.
Enjoy your Friday, more tonight....
- On the heels of the Chris Paul trade being nixed by the league, Dwight Howard is now angling to get traded to the Nets and this trade appears to be actually going down. We are heading down a road of superteams where only 6-8 teams have a chance at a title and no one else can survive. Not good for balance but good for ratings.
- Also in the NBA, it appears Brandon Roy is going to have to retire because of his knees. That's a real shame for a player that had a very bright future ahead of him and could have had a Hall of Fame career. Good luck to him.
- We move on to college football where Kansas has hired former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. Weis has a few good years in South Bend but was an epic failure in terms of Irish coaches. The move is sound but we will see if it is actually successful.
- A very smart move by IndyCar, deciding to bypass going to Las Vegas after the death of Dan Wheldon last year. Those cars move way too fast for that kind of track and it was a bad idea in the first place. There are reports they won't return there again and that would be for the best.
- NFL Week 14 started last night with a clunker of a win by the Steelers over the Browns. That's Pittsburgh's game though with their defense and getting that 10th win continued their chase toward the AFC North title and the top seed in the conference.
Enjoy your Friday, more tonight....
Thursday, December 8, 2011
It's Late Night in Blogland
Sitting at the desk late tonight, let's go...
- Just after I posted the morning report, reports begin flying that Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson have signed with the Angels. A war has developed now between the Angels and Rangers for the AL West crown, this should be interesting. Pujols gets over $250 million while Wilson gets $77 million, would be nice to make that kind of money.
- Also on Thursday, the Cubs traded Tyler Colvin to Colorado for Ian Stewart. North Siders needed a 3rd baseman with Aramis Ramirez now gone. This is a big risk for a Cub team that wants defense and there is no doubt Stewart won't match Ramirez's production offensively.
- Very interesting news in the NBA as the New Orleans Hornets were going to trade star point guard Chris Paul to the Lakers but one problem, the NBA owns the Hornets right now and killed the trade. David Stern wants competitive balance but I'm not sure if he should be sticking his nose in this.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning
- Just after I posted the morning report, reports begin flying that Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson have signed with the Angels. A war has developed now between the Angels and Rangers for the AL West crown, this should be interesting. Pujols gets over $250 million while Wilson gets $77 million, would be nice to make that kind of money.
- Also on Thursday, the Cubs traded Tyler Colvin to Colorado for Ian Stewart. North Siders needed a 3rd baseman with Aramis Ramirez now gone. This is a big risk for a Cub team that wants defense and there is no doubt Stewart won't match Ramirez's production offensively.
- Very interesting news in the NBA as the New Orleans Hornets were going to trade star point guard Chris Paul to the Lakers but one problem, the NBA owns the Hornets right now and killed the trade. David Stern wants competitive balance but I'm not sure if he should be sticking his nose in this.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning
Thursday Thoughts
I talked all about baseball in last night's post, a little more baseball now among other things....
- It appears Albert Pujols will take more time to think about where he will play in 2012. Numerous reports came out last night saying that no decision will be made before the end of the Winter Meetings. I have zero clue where he's landing now. Could it be St. Louis again? Los Angeles with the Angels? However, I'm going to venture this guess. The Mets looked to look Ike Davis yesterday, there's your mystery team. Let that simmer. (UPDATE: About 10 minutes after posting this, Yahoo reported Pujols has agreed to 10 year/$260 million deal with the Angels)
- In international news, Yu Darvish will be posted by his Japanese club to go to the States to play. Darvish has been a dominating pitcher in Japan, going 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA this past season. One major issue is this, Darvish was getting 6 days off between starts as opposed to the 4 he would get in MLB. This has all the potential of a Yankees or Red Sox signing with the amount of money needed in posting fees to get Darvish plus the contract. Probably going to take over $100 million. Just don't see anyone else going after him for that kind of money.
- There seems to be a growing tidal wave wanting a college football playoff with Stanford AD Bob Bowlsby saying that a 4-team playoff is "inevitable".Would that idea be so bad? Really?
- The opening of NBA training camps and free agency begin tomorrow. It seems more and more likely that not a lot of trades are going to happen and there aren't any big-name free agents. A tweak here and there for some teams but you have to think the two teams to beat are still Miami and Dallas.
- Last but not least today, I go to high school football. A team in Massachusetts lost the state title game this past weekend because their quarterback while running in for the winning touchdown raises his arm for five yards. That brought out a penalty for taunting. Give me a break! These kids are in high school, they get excited. Why don't we just put all the players on pills to make them even the whole game, no excitement about anything and see how fun the game looks then. Shame shame on the high school association.
That's it for now, maybe more tonight if things develop....
- It appears Albert Pujols will take more time to think about where he will play in 2012. Numerous reports came out last night saying that no decision will be made before the end of the Winter Meetings. I have zero clue where he's landing now. Could it be St. Louis again? Los Angeles with the Angels? However, I'm going to venture this guess. The Mets looked to look Ike Davis yesterday, there's your mystery team. Let that simmer. (UPDATE: About 10 minutes after posting this, Yahoo reported Pujols has agreed to 10 year/$260 million deal with the Angels)
- In international news, Yu Darvish will be posted by his Japanese club to go to the States to play. Darvish has been a dominating pitcher in Japan, going 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA this past season. One major issue is this, Darvish was getting 6 days off between starts as opposed to the 4 he would get in MLB. This has all the potential of a Yankees or Red Sox signing with the amount of money needed in posting fees to get Darvish plus the contract. Probably going to take over $100 million. Just don't see anyone else going after him for that kind of money.
- There seems to be a growing tidal wave wanting a college football playoff with Stanford AD Bob Bowlsby saying that a 4-team playoff is "inevitable".Would that idea be so bad? Really?
- The opening of NBA training camps and free agency begin tomorrow. It seems more and more likely that not a lot of trades are going to happen and there aren't any big-name free agents. A tweak here and there for some teams but you have to think the two teams to beat are still Miami and Dallas.
- Last but not least today, I go to high school football. A team in Massachusetts lost the state title game this past weekend because their quarterback while running in for the winning touchdown raises his arm for five yards. That brought out a penalty for taunting. Give me a break! These kids are in high school, they get excited. Why don't we just put all the players on pills to make them even the whole game, no excitement about anything and see how fun the game looks then. Shame shame on the high school association.
That's it for now, maybe more tonight if things develop....
Monday, November 28, 2011
Welcome in to the Manager's Hut
So today, a new feature will debut but more later....now a look at what is happening.
- So the BCS title game will be LSU-Alabama unless something beyond unreal happens. While I don't like rematches from the regular season, it's very obvious these are the two best teams. Let them go at it.
- So the Packers improved to 11-0 Thursday with their win over the Lions...no one beats this team in the regular season, could a 19-0 season be upcoming? Wouldn't be a long trip to the Super Bowl either for their fans.
- NBA finally has got their act together and came to an agreement. The fans were getting restless and they couldn't risk losing anymore games after Christmas. Going to be a very busy sports day for Chicago fans now with the Bulls followed by the Bears. Sounds like a perfect day for the Windy City.
- Some hockey news as the Washington Capitals fired Coach Bruce Boudreau...I discussed this a while back after his benching of Alex Ovechkin. Sounds like Ovechkin won that one.
- Sources say this morning Urban Meyer will take over at Ohio State. The Buckeye fans can't be happy with this past season so this move will please Columbus. Now if he can get the Big 10 (isn't it 12) back to national championship contention.
- It appears Tebow Tim (e) is here to stay in Denver after another Broncos win, this time in San Diego. Can this team actually make the playoffs? It's starting to look more and more like a real possibility.
- Monday Night Football tonight with the Giants in New Orleans to face the Saints. This won't be a low-scoring game to say the least as both teams have offenses that can go up and down the field. Thinking New Orleans gets this win 38-31.
Coming soon will be my daily commentary, working out some bugs with that but that is next. Until then, enjoy the day.
- So the BCS title game will be LSU-Alabama unless something beyond unreal happens. While I don't like rematches from the regular season, it's very obvious these are the two best teams. Let them go at it.
- So the Packers improved to 11-0 Thursday with their win over the Lions...no one beats this team in the regular season, could a 19-0 season be upcoming? Wouldn't be a long trip to the Super Bowl either for their fans.
- NBA finally has got their act together and came to an agreement. The fans were getting restless and they couldn't risk losing anymore games after Christmas. Going to be a very busy sports day for Chicago fans now with the Bulls followed by the Bears. Sounds like a perfect day for the Windy City.
- Some hockey news as the Washington Capitals fired Coach Bruce Boudreau...I discussed this a while back after his benching of Alex Ovechkin. Sounds like Ovechkin won that one.
- Sources say this morning Urban Meyer will take over at Ohio State. The Buckeye fans can't be happy with this past season so this move will please Columbus. Now if he can get the Big 10 (isn't it 12) back to national championship contention.
- It appears Tebow Tim (e) is here to stay in Denver after another Broncos win, this time in San Diego. Can this team actually make the playoffs? It's starting to look more and more like a real possibility.
- Monday Night Football tonight with the Giants in New Orleans to face the Saints. This won't be a low-scoring game to say the least as both teams have offenses that can go up and down the field. Thinking New Orleans gets this win 38-31.
Coming soon will be my daily commentary, working out some bugs with that but that is next. Until then, enjoy the day.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Deep Thoughts with....
As we prepare for Thanksgiving during this my last post until Monday, I give you some things to think about...
- Lions will beat the Packers Thursday. It has happened before to a 10-0 Packer team in Detroit for the holiday. History repeats itself.
- LSU wins in OT over Arkansas. The Tigers finish the regular season strong on their march to New Orleans...not a long march but a march.
- Auburn beats Alabama. Begin the BCS mess, who will play LSU in this scenario? Who knows...
- I encourage you to use the ESPN Playoff Machine, pick every game the rest of the season to figure out what the playoff matchups will be. Fun times.
- We got a new labor agreement in MLB. Hope you took notes, NBA.
Now I go to eat and watch football.....great thoughts coming Monday.
- Lions will beat the Packers Thursday. It has happened before to a 10-0 Packer team in Detroit for the holiday. History repeats itself.
- LSU wins in OT over Arkansas. The Tigers finish the regular season strong on their march to New Orleans...not a long march but a march.
- Auburn beats Alabama. Begin the BCS mess, who will play LSU in this scenario? Who knows...
- I encourage you to use the ESPN Playoff Machine, pick every game the rest of the season to figure out what the playoff matchups will be. Fun times.
- We got a new labor agreement in MLB. Hope you took notes, NBA.
Now I go to eat and watch football.....great thoughts coming Monday.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Fantasy Five-Pack Friday
The weekend is here, here are the five burning questions in my mind....
- How will this week's events affect Penn State's football team against Nebraska? This could go either way, the players say they are playing for Joe Paterno but how on earth can they focus after everything that has went down.
- Can Andrew Luck clinch the Heisman with a big performance against Oregon? Luck is going to be the No. 1 pick in the draft and can cement his Stanford legacy with a strong game Saturday night. If Luck plays anywhere near his normal self, just call off the ceremony and mail the trophy to Palo Alto.
- Is this going to be the weekend the NBA lockout ends? I know I've been saying that this is going to last a long time, my gut though is telling me the possibility of something happening is here. Let's wait and see if that actually happens though.
- How will basketball on an aircraft carrier look? The answer to that comes Friday night with North Carolina taking on Michigan State on the flight deck of the USS Carl Vinson in San Diego. Let's all hope for no wind to affect the ball or the ship and no rain.
- How many more free agents are the Marlins going to bring in? Albert Pujols, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle. It's obvious now that a big splash is coming in Miami. Pujols isn't going to Miami but I can see Reyes going there. If this all blows up, a new stadium isn't going to help.
- Well, it seems I still can't predict anything as the Raiders opened Week 10 of the NFL season with a 24-17 win over the Chargers.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oakland RB Michael Bush
Bush ran 30 times for 157 yards and a touchdown along with three catches for 85 yards as the Raiders went on the road for a 24-17 win.
Matchup to Watch: North Carolina vs. Michigan State, 6 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The top-ranked Tarheels begin the 2011-12 season with a game against the Spartans. Will be fun to see a game on an aircraft carrier.
This Date in History: Nov. 11, 1946
The New York Knickerbockers play their first game at Madison Square Garden. 65 years later, it is looked at a mecca for basketball still.
- How will this week's events affect Penn State's football team against Nebraska? This could go either way, the players say they are playing for Joe Paterno but how on earth can they focus after everything that has went down.
- Can Andrew Luck clinch the Heisman with a big performance against Oregon? Luck is going to be the No. 1 pick in the draft and can cement his Stanford legacy with a strong game Saturday night. If Luck plays anywhere near his normal self, just call off the ceremony and mail the trophy to Palo Alto.
- Is this going to be the weekend the NBA lockout ends? I know I've been saying that this is going to last a long time, my gut though is telling me the possibility of something happening is here. Let's wait and see if that actually happens though.
- How will basketball on an aircraft carrier look? The answer to that comes Friday night with North Carolina taking on Michigan State on the flight deck of the USS Carl Vinson in San Diego. Let's all hope for no wind to affect the ball or the ship and no rain.
- How many more free agents are the Marlins going to bring in? Albert Pujols, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle. It's obvious now that a big splash is coming in Miami. Pujols isn't going to Miami but I can see Reyes going there. If this all blows up, a new stadium isn't going to help.
- Well, it seems I still can't predict anything as the Raiders opened Week 10 of the NFL season with a 24-17 win over the Chargers.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oakland RB Michael Bush
Bush ran 30 times for 157 yards and a touchdown along with three catches for 85 yards as the Raiders went on the road for a 24-17 win.
Matchup to Watch: North Carolina vs. Michigan State, 6 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The top-ranked Tarheels begin the 2011-12 season with a game against the Spartans. Will be fun to see a game on an aircraft carrier.
This Date in History: Nov. 11, 1946
The New York Knickerbockers play their first game at Madison Square Garden. 65 years later, it is looked at a mecca for basketball still.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Steamrolling toward the weekend
Thursday and we have a LOT to discuss so let's get started....
- I've discussed Penn State the last two days and it gets worse each moment. Joe Paterno has been fired by the board of trustees and now the students are going nuts. Those students are going to learn a valuable life lesson when they get older. Read the grand jury report before you draw your own conclusions but after reading it myself, it's sick, disturbing and makes me ill. If any player wants to go there now after 15+ years of cover-ups, words can't explain why you would want to be associated with that.
- Now that Paterno has been fired, a new coach is needed in Happy Valley. Who would want this job though right now? You need to be a complete saint who has had nothing ever against you at this point. Why do I get this feeling we will hear Urban Meyer's name brought up? Yes he has been successful at Utah and Florida but I don't see him taking the job.
- On a much better note, let's discuss Toledo football. The Rockets have scored 126 points the last two weeks and given up the same number in going 1-1. Okay, if I'm the scoreboard operator, my fingers hurt and I want a raise. Next, love the offense but is the defense spending too much time at Tony Panko's and not enough on the practice field? Fix it, or the Glass Bowl will break.
- Sounds like the Florida...sorry Miami Marlins want to make a huge splash going into their new stadium. Jose Reyes took a tour Wednesday and Mark Buehrle has made a trip to visit his old manager as well. So if the Marlins sign Reyes, where does Hanley Ramirez go? 3rd base? 2nd base? Traded? I guess only time will tell on this but this may wake Ramirez up.
- The NBA lockout continues but at least the sides are talking, which I guess is good. Doesn't mean things are going to change but maybe if they talk, a deal can be done. I stick by my prediction of no basketball until sometime in the 2012-13 season.
- NFL Week 10 starts tonight with the Raiders traveling to San Diego to play the Chargers. Oakland is banged up in the running game with no Darren McFadden and the Chargers are coming off a shootout with the Packers. With that reasoning, I figure San Diego wins 27-10.
Fantasy Players of the Day: The Penn State Board of Trustees
Finally, a smart decision from State College, PA. Now the job of rebuilding and getting to the bottom of this whole mess can truly begin. Clean house and start new. Well done, you did what you had to do.
Matchup to Watch: Raiders at Chargers, 7:20 p.m. (CT), NFL Network
Thursday night football! Whee! Start your weekend early with this AFC West matchup.
This Date in History: Nov. 10, 1996
Dan Marino becomes the first quarterback to top 50,000 passing yards in a 37-13 win over the Colts. Marino's record has been broken by Brett Favre but Marino is still one of the top quarterbacks to ever play the game.
- I've discussed Penn State the last two days and it gets worse each moment. Joe Paterno has been fired by the board of trustees and now the students are going nuts. Those students are going to learn a valuable life lesson when they get older. Read the grand jury report before you draw your own conclusions but after reading it myself, it's sick, disturbing and makes me ill. If any player wants to go there now after 15+ years of cover-ups, words can't explain why you would want to be associated with that.
- Now that Paterno has been fired, a new coach is needed in Happy Valley. Who would want this job though right now? You need to be a complete saint who has had nothing ever against you at this point. Why do I get this feeling we will hear Urban Meyer's name brought up? Yes he has been successful at Utah and Florida but I don't see him taking the job.
- On a much better note, let's discuss Toledo football. The Rockets have scored 126 points the last two weeks and given up the same number in going 1-1. Okay, if I'm the scoreboard operator, my fingers hurt and I want a raise. Next, love the offense but is the defense spending too much time at Tony Panko's and not enough on the practice field? Fix it, or the Glass Bowl will break.
- Sounds like the Florida...sorry Miami Marlins want to make a huge splash going into their new stadium. Jose Reyes took a tour Wednesday and Mark Buehrle has made a trip to visit his old manager as well. So if the Marlins sign Reyes, where does Hanley Ramirez go? 3rd base? 2nd base? Traded? I guess only time will tell on this but this may wake Ramirez up.
- The NBA lockout continues but at least the sides are talking, which I guess is good. Doesn't mean things are going to change but maybe if they talk, a deal can be done. I stick by my prediction of no basketball until sometime in the 2012-13 season.
- NFL Week 10 starts tonight with the Raiders traveling to San Diego to play the Chargers. Oakland is banged up in the running game with no Darren McFadden and the Chargers are coming off a shootout with the Packers. With that reasoning, I figure San Diego wins 27-10.
Fantasy Players of the Day: The Penn State Board of Trustees
Finally, a smart decision from State College, PA. Now the job of rebuilding and getting to the bottom of this whole mess can truly begin. Clean house and start new. Well done, you did what you had to do.
Matchup to Watch: Raiders at Chargers, 7:20 p.m. (CT), NFL Network
Thursday night football! Whee! Start your weekend early with this AFC West matchup.
This Date in History: Nov. 10, 1996
Dan Marino becomes the first quarterback to top 50,000 passing yards in a 37-13 win over the Colts. Marino's record has been broken by Brett Favre but Marino is still one of the top quarterbacks to ever play the game.
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