The weekend is here so we start with a group of football and basketball picks for you to use or mock later....
College Football
New Mexico Bowl: Wyoming d. Temple
Idaho Potato Bowl: Ohio d. Utah St.
New Orleans Bowl: LA-Lafayette d. San Diego St.
College Basketball
BYU d. (6) Baylor
Notre Dame d. (17) Indiana
(19) Illinois d. UNLV
(13) Florida d. (22) Texas A&M
Indiana St. d. (25) Vanderbilt
Kansas St. d. (23) Alabama
Nine picks to see how close I can be today, sports thoughts tonight.....
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday Night Thoughts
Getting late on this Friday, here's what is happening.....
- The sad story of Bears WR Sam Hurd gets worse for Hurd as he was put on waivers by Chicago Friday. It's his own fault if all this drug talk is true but still not good for a player that was probably just hanging on anyway.
- The one-game suspension of Steelers LB James Harrison was upheld by the league. Harrison will sit out Monday night's game at San Francisco. Maybe he will learn at some point that he has to play by the NFL's rules, even though they aren't good rules.
- A bad week for Kobe Bryant continued when his wife filed for divorce. I would have thought she would have done that after his cheating in Colorado a few years back but she held on for this long. What worse thing could he have done?
- In baseball news, the Rockies signed former Twin Michael Cuddyer. A great signing of a player who can play almost anywhere on the diamond. Also helps that he can hit some and in that ballpark, he will definitely do that.
- Barry Bonds got his sentence Friday from the BALCO case, being sentenced to two years probation and 30 days house arrest. Doesn't seem like a huge punishment for perjury but at least it is something. Bonds may have slipped through the cracks with MLB and not the court system.
- Also in the courts, the two former Penn State officials charged with perjury can stand trial. It was nice to finally see Mike McQueary come out of the woodwork to make a statement about what he saw. Might have helped the kid out if he would have done something right away instead of calling his father up first.
That will do it for tonight, prediction Saturday comes in the morning....
- The sad story of Bears WR Sam Hurd gets worse for Hurd as he was put on waivers by Chicago Friday. It's his own fault if all this drug talk is true but still not good for a player that was probably just hanging on anyway.
- The one-game suspension of Steelers LB James Harrison was upheld by the league. Harrison will sit out Monday night's game at San Francisco. Maybe he will learn at some point that he has to play by the NFL's rules, even though they aren't good rules.
- A bad week for Kobe Bryant continued when his wife filed for divorce. I would have thought she would have done that after his cheating in Colorado a few years back but she held on for this long. What worse thing could he have done?
- In baseball news, the Rockies signed former Twin Michael Cuddyer. A great signing of a player who can play almost anywhere on the diamond. Also helps that he can hit some and in that ballpark, he will definitely do that.
- Barry Bonds got his sentence Friday from the BALCO case, being sentenced to two years probation and 30 days house arrest. Doesn't seem like a huge punishment for perjury but at least it is something. Bonds may have slipped through the cracks with MLB and not the court system.
- Also in the courts, the two former Penn State officials charged with perjury can stand trial. It was nice to finally see Mike McQueary come out of the woodwork to make a statement about what he saw. Might have helped the kid out if he would have done something right away instead of calling his father up first.
That will do it for tonight, prediction Saturday comes in the morning....
It's Friday....
We have made it to Friday, a look at what's up....
- The Falcons got a solid hold on a playoff spot in the NFL with a dominating 41-14 win over the Jaguars Thursday night. One player that was invisible most of the season but has come alive in recent weeks is Roddy White. White had 10 catches and two touchdowns in the win as Atlanta improved to 9-5. I think that win clinched Atlanta's ticket to the playoffs. The Bears and Lions aren't going to catch them now.
- The Penn State story continues today as former athletic director Tim Curley and former vice president Gary Schultz are in court to fight perjury charges. A sad state of affairs in Happy Valley. Let's just hope it all gets figured out sooner than later.
- There are reports this morning that the Blue Jays made a bid of over $40 million on Yu Darvish and that was probably enough to win the bidding for the Japanese star pitcher. That would be a tall task for any AL East team to face Darvish and the 6'5" pitcher wouldn't even have to move to the United States.
- An interesting storyline is developing in Indianapolis with the Colts and Peyton Manning. Indy is assured of the No. 1 pick in the 2012 Draft and there is no doubt they will take Stanford QB Andrew Luck. Where does that leave Manning though? Does he stay and mentor the new kid? Does he ask for a trade to clear the path for Luck? I'm thinking Manning wants nothing to do with having a possible star on the roster with him and will ask out.
- It's a light morning so let's discuss four high school students being suspended for doing Tim Tebow's famous pose at school. If the kids are trying to be like Tebow, let them. It could be a lot worse.
- Last, I would like to talk about the new NFL TV deals a bit...I think we are heading towards Thursday Night games each week of the season for one and wouldn't be surprised if a weekly Saturday game is added. Saturday games showed up a lot on schedules in recent years in the final weeks of the season when college football was done. Why not do it again? Also, I like the switches possible to make the best games to another network if blocked by another great game. More viewers is more money for the NFL. Finally, all three Thanksgiving games on where people can watch them. The NFL can now control the whole holiday, a win-win for everyone.
That's the story for now, trivia later and more sports thoughts tonight....
- The Falcons got a solid hold on a playoff spot in the NFL with a dominating 41-14 win over the Jaguars Thursday night. One player that was invisible most of the season but has come alive in recent weeks is Roddy White. White had 10 catches and two touchdowns in the win as Atlanta improved to 9-5. I think that win clinched Atlanta's ticket to the playoffs. The Bears and Lions aren't going to catch them now.
- The Penn State story continues today as former athletic director Tim Curley and former vice president Gary Schultz are in court to fight perjury charges. A sad state of affairs in Happy Valley. Let's just hope it all gets figured out sooner than later.
- There are reports this morning that the Blue Jays made a bid of over $40 million on Yu Darvish and that was probably enough to win the bidding for the Japanese star pitcher. That would be a tall task for any AL East team to face Darvish and the 6'5" pitcher wouldn't even have to move to the United States.
- An interesting storyline is developing in Indianapolis with the Colts and Peyton Manning. Indy is assured of the No. 1 pick in the 2012 Draft and there is no doubt they will take Stanford QB Andrew Luck. Where does that leave Manning though? Does he stay and mentor the new kid? Does he ask for a trade to clear the path for Luck? I'm thinking Manning wants nothing to do with having a possible star on the roster with him and will ask out.
- It's a light morning so let's discuss four high school students being suspended for doing Tim Tebow's famous pose at school. If the kids are trying to be like Tebow, let them. It could be a lot worse.
- Last, I would like to talk about the new NFL TV deals a bit...I think we are heading towards Thursday Night games each week of the season for one and wouldn't be surprised if a weekly Saturday game is added. Saturday games showed up a lot on schedules in recent years in the final weeks of the season when college football was done. Why not do it again? Also, I like the switches possible to make the best games to another network if blocked by another great game. More viewers is more money for the NFL. Finally, all three Thanksgiving games on where people can watch them. The NFL can now control the whole holiday, a win-win for everyone.
That's the story for now, trivia later and more sports thoughts tonight....
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thursday night ramblings
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.....
- 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.....
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
Wednesday night deep thoughts
A lot is going on, so let's get started....
- The Chris Paul ordeal is finally over as the NBA has agreed to allow the trade of the Hornets star point guard to the Clippers for three players and a very key draft pick, which will be discussed in a moment. The Clippers will also get two second-round picks. I'm just glad this is finally over and the focus can actually be on the game on the court starting Christmas Day.
- Now to that draft pick, New Orleans is getting Minnesota's 1st round pick in 2012. Why is this important? From all indications, the Timberwolves won't make the playoffs and could be one of the worst teams in the league meaning the Hornets could end up with two of the top picks in the 2012 draft. May be able to rebuild very quickly.
- While Paul is being traded, Dwight Howard won't be....for now. The Magic has decided to wait to see if the market heats up more for Howard and maybe wait until closer to the trade deadline. Orlando is the kind of team that could have used Paul or maybe another superstar to pair with Howard. No state tax in Florida should be a big selling point.
- On a much more serious note, Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will undergo surgery for a kidney condition and will be away from the team for 7-10 days. Phillips has completely turned around Houston's defense, going from the worst last season to near the top this season. Wishes go out to Phillips for a speedy recovery.
- Also in the NFL, the league has renewed the TV deals with CBS, Fox and NBC through the 2022 season. A few changes are coming to your TV with this deal. First, the deal allows the NFL Network to expand their Thursday Night Football package. Sure seems like Thursday games are going to be all season long starting next season to me. The Thanksgiving night game will now be shown on NBC so all three Turkey Day games will be on free TV and flexible scheduling continues with a change. You may see AFC games on Fox and NFC games on CBS along with networks can not simulcast games online. Interesting developments to make the NFL viewer even more happy.
- In MLB news, the Red Sox traded Jed Lowrie to the Astros for closer Mark Melancon. Boston was in need of a closer after Jonathan Papelbon left to go to Philadelphia. I'm not sure Melancon will be the closer though next season. Ryan Madson, who was the Phillies' closer for most of last season, is still available. Melancon would be better-suited in a set-up role anyway. Boston isn't done with signings yet, trust me.
That's all for now......back in the morning.
- The Chris Paul ordeal is finally over as the NBA has agreed to allow the trade of the Hornets star point guard to the Clippers for three players and a very key draft pick, which will be discussed in a moment. The Clippers will also get two second-round picks. I'm just glad this is finally over and the focus can actually be on the game on the court starting Christmas Day.
- Now to that draft pick, New Orleans is getting Minnesota's 1st round pick in 2012. Why is this important? From all indications, the Timberwolves won't make the playoffs and could be one of the worst teams in the league meaning the Hornets could end up with two of the top picks in the 2012 draft. May be able to rebuild very quickly.
- While Paul is being traded, Dwight Howard won't be....for now. The Magic has decided to wait to see if the market heats up more for Howard and maybe wait until closer to the trade deadline. Orlando is the kind of team that could have used Paul or maybe another superstar to pair with Howard. No state tax in Florida should be a big selling point.
- On a much more serious note, Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will undergo surgery for a kidney condition and will be away from the team for 7-10 days. Phillips has completely turned around Houston's defense, going from the worst last season to near the top this season. Wishes go out to Phillips for a speedy recovery.
- Also in the NFL, the league has renewed the TV deals with CBS, Fox and NBC through the 2022 season. A few changes are coming to your TV with this deal. First, the deal allows the NFL Network to expand their Thursday Night Football package. Sure seems like Thursday games are going to be all season long starting next season to me. The Thanksgiving night game will now be shown on NBC so all three Turkey Day games will be on free TV and flexible scheduling continues with a change. You may see AFC games on Fox and NFC games on CBS along with networks can not simulcast games online. Interesting developments to make the NFL viewer even more happy.
- In MLB news, the Red Sox traded Jed Lowrie to the Astros for closer Mark Melancon. Boston was in need of a closer after Jonathan Papelbon left to go to Philadelphia. I'm not sure Melancon will be the closer though next season. Ryan Madson, who was the Phillies' closer for most of last season, is still available. Melancon would be better-suited in a set-up role anyway. Boston isn't done with signings yet, trust me.
That's all for now......back in the morning.
Trivia Answer: Wednesday, Dec. 14
The answer is......Karl "Tuffy" Rhodes. Rhodes would hit just five more home runs that season for the Cubs and later would tie the Japanese single-season homerun record of 55 while playing. With his 3 HR performance, Rhodes became the first National League player to hit three homers on Opening Day.
Sports analysis from today coming later....
Sports analysis from today coming later....
Trivia: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Today's question is this......what former Cub hit 3 HRs on Opening Day 1994 against the Mets' Dwight Gooden?
Answer later....
Answer later....
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....
Time to open up Tuesday
A look at what is up this morning....
- There were thoughts that a preliminary hearing would expose us to some of the accusers of former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky today but Sandusky decided to waive his hearing and move everything straight to trial. This is going to be a very long, painful case for the public to go through depending on how much we hear about it or don't want to hear about it. If he's guilty though, put him away for as long as possible.
- One thing that was thought to come out of the Penn State scandal was will the current recruits stay committed? Well, the Nittany Lions' top recruit has decided to go elsewhere as Tommy Schutt from the suburbs of Chicago changed his commitment to Ohio State over the weekend. Whoever takes over this program is going to have a TON of work to do to make it revelant in a good way again.
- In more positive college football news, the Mountain West Conference will ask for an automatic qualifier for the BCS for the 2012 and 2013 season. This is an obvious move to me as Boise State, which finished 7th in the BCS standings is not in one of those bowls while Michigan (13th), Clemson (15th) and West Virginia (23rd) are in. The conference champion route isn't working because if Alabama beats LSU, then the Crimson Tide will win the national title without even winning a conference title. Playoff, anyone?
- NFL-wise, the Seahawks destroyed the Rams on Monday night and are still in playoff contention with three weeks to play. Even though the 49ers have clinched the NFL West, Seattle and the Arizona Cardinals have each rallied to go to 6-7 on the year and are two games behind Detroit and Atlanta for the final playoff spot. Always good to keep hope up as long as possible and remember Seattle made the playoffs last season with a losing record and upset New Orleans in the playoffs.
- The firing train made a move to the NHL Monday with the firing of Los Angeles Kings coach Terry Murray. One problem with this....Murray led the Kings to the highest winning percentage of any coach in team history, back-to-back playoff appearances and because of a slow start, he gets fired? Come on now, give the guy some credit here but no time for waiting we all see.
- More hockey this morning as Sidney Crosby is out again with concussion-like symptoms. This is something that is truly scary and I think Crosby needs to take a good, hard look if he wants to continue playing or not. We've seen with a lot of the old-time NFL players what the damage can be from multiple concussions. Yes, Crosby is only 24 but this is something he should really consider.
That's all for now, more analysis tonight and trivia coming up in the midday.....
- There were thoughts that a preliminary hearing would expose us to some of the accusers of former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky today but Sandusky decided to waive his hearing and move everything straight to trial. This is going to be a very long, painful case for the public to go through depending on how much we hear about it or don't want to hear about it. If he's guilty though, put him away for as long as possible.
- One thing that was thought to come out of the Penn State scandal was will the current recruits stay committed? Well, the Nittany Lions' top recruit has decided to go elsewhere as Tommy Schutt from the suburbs of Chicago changed his commitment to Ohio State over the weekend. Whoever takes over this program is going to have a TON of work to do to make it revelant in a good way again.
- In more positive college football news, the Mountain West Conference will ask for an automatic qualifier for the BCS for the 2012 and 2013 season. This is an obvious move to me as Boise State, which finished 7th in the BCS standings is not in one of those bowls while Michigan (13th), Clemson (15th) and West Virginia (23rd) are in. The conference champion route isn't working because if Alabama beats LSU, then the Crimson Tide will win the national title without even winning a conference title. Playoff, anyone?
- NFL-wise, the Seahawks destroyed the Rams on Monday night and are still in playoff contention with three weeks to play. Even though the 49ers have clinched the NFL West, Seattle and the Arizona Cardinals have each rallied to go to 6-7 on the year and are two games behind Detroit and Atlanta for the final playoff spot. Always good to keep hope up as long as possible and remember Seattle made the playoffs last season with a losing record and upset New Orleans in the playoffs.
- The firing train made a move to the NHL Monday with the firing of Los Angeles Kings coach Terry Murray. One problem with this....Murray led the Kings to the highest winning percentage of any coach in team history, back-to-back playoff appearances and because of a slow start, he gets fired? Come on now, give the guy some credit here but no time for waiting we all see.
- More hockey this morning as Sidney Crosby is out again with concussion-like symptoms. This is something that is truly scary and I think Crosby needs to take a good, hard look if he wants to continue playing or not. We've seen with a lot of the old-time NFL players what the damage can be from multiple concussions. Yes, Crosby is only 24 but this is something he should really consider.
That's all for now, more analysis tonight and trivia coming up in the midday.....
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....
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Wild Sunday
A crazy day of football, let's take a look....
- I can't start without bringing up Tim Tebow and yet another fourth-quarter comeback. The Bears had Tebow and company right where they wanted them, up 10-0 with 2:30 to play but Tebow being who is tied leads the Broncos down the field twice to tie the game and force overtime before winning it there. Great win for Denver, a loss that will haunt Chicago.
- Time to send congrats to the Houston Texans on clinching the AFC South to make their first playoff appearance in team history. With a third-string quarterback, this team still has the potential of being the top seed in the AFC but for today, celebrate Houston. Your football team is great while your baseball team still needs work.
- The Packers continued their run toward perfection with a dominating win over the Raiders. Only one bad thing came out of the game with a left knee injury sidelining Greg Jennings. Green Bay has clinched almost everything at this point and basically has 4 weeks until a game that have to win in the playoffs. The biggest thing will be how long will Jennings be out.
- Another collapse from the Dallas Cowboys occurred Sunday night. With a 12-point lead late in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys allowed the Giants to score twice and had a tying field goal blocked in losing 37-34. The two teams are now tied at the top of the NFC East and will play again before this season is out but another bad loss in Dallas.
- It appeared for one day at least that the Eagles team we expected to see all season wanted to make an appearance. 9 sacks in a 26-10 win over the Dolphins. Too little, too late but still a good sign.
There was more that happened Sunday but we'll do that in the Monday morning blog....
- I can't start without bringing up Tim Tebow and yet another fourth-quarter comeback. The Bears had Tebow and company right where they wanted them, up 10-0 with 2:30 to play but Tebow being who is tied leads the Broncos down the field twice to tie the game and force overtime before winning it there. Great win for Denver, a loss that will haunt Chicago.
- Time to send congrats to the Houston Texans on clinching the AFC South to make their first playoff appearance in team history. With a third-string quarterback, this team still has the potential of being the top seed in the AFC but for today, celebrate Houston. Your football team is great while your baseball team still needs work.
- The Packers continued their run toward perfection with a dominating win over the Raiders. Only one bad thing came out of the game with a left knee injury sidelining Greg Jennings. Green Bay has clinched almost everything at this point and basically has 4 weeks until a game that have to win in the playoffs. The biggest thing will be how long will Jennings be out.
- Another collapse from the Dallas Cowboys occurred Sunday night. With a 12-point lead late in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys allowed the Giants to score twice and had a tying field goal blocked in losing 37-34. The two teams are now tied at the top of the NFC East and will play again before this season is out but another bad loss in Dallas.
- It appeared for one day at least that the Eagles team we expected to see all season wanted to make an appearance. 9 sacks in a 26-10 win over the Dolphins. Too little, too late but still a good sign.
There was more that happened Sunday but we'll do that in the Monday morning blog....
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