Monday, January 31, 2005
1.31.05 - Clearing the desk
It's Monday, so it's time to clear the deckof a few thoughts ...
- It's Super Bowl week and the hype is starting. Freddie Mitchell is running his mouth. It's all a show. The Eagles are starting to look like the pro team of the two in Jacksonville. New England is like a college team. Nobody says anything that could be taken wrong, give the opponents no bulletin board material. For a long time, Philadelphia played a similar game. Keep it close to the vest.
But, an underachieving receiver shoots off at the mouth and decides to talk about the Patriots secondary. New England in the meantime, conducts their business and will win the Super Bowl - again. They are more like a great college team that listens to their coach and keeps it close to the vest.
Phildelphia is starting to look like the pro team. And that's why betting on the NFL during the regular season is always a challenge and a money losing operation - it's a business and the checks cash on Tuesday, win or lose.
In Freddie's case, it's all about the money and the potential money he could make after his playing days are finished. He's not headed to Canton and his work ethic will prevent him from coaching. So, it looks like a spot on the Best Damn Sports Show Period is on the way.
- The Astros ... Need a centerfield ... Clemens was a good move.
- Predicted order of finish in the NL Central: Houston, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee. Of course, injuries could change this order. Houston has the best pitching in the division with Oswalt, Clemens, Petitte, Bakke, and a fifth starter to be named. Need somebody to keep Lance Berkman from being pitched around when he returns from his flag football injury. St. Louis lost too much up the middle and their pitching can't repeat last year's Miracle on I-44. Cincinnati will surprise. Cubs lost Alou and Sosa, plus Wood and Prior can't stay healthy. Now, the teams in the NL Central will need to win the division to make the playoffs. SF, LA, Fla, or ATL will take the wildcard.
- Coming up, Countdown with Keith O ... Can't keep a job at Fox or ESPN, but can always find his way to a cable network with a marginal rating - about as many ratings points as IQ points on Tara Reid's profile.
-30-
- It's Super Bowl week and the hype is starting. Freddie Mitchell is running his mouth. It's all a show. The Eagles are starting to look like the pro team of the two in Jacksonville. New England is like a college team. Nobody says anything that could be taken wrong, give the opponents no bulletin board material. For a long time, Philadelphia played a similar game. Keep it close to the vest.
But, an underachieving receiver shoots off at the mouth and decides to talk about the Patriots secondary. New England in the meantime, conducts their business and will win the Super Bowl - again. They are more like a great college team that listens to their coach and keeps it close to the vest.
Phildelphia is starting to look like the pro team. And that's why betting on the NFL during the regular season is always a challenge and a money losing operation - it's a business and the checks cash on Tuesday, win or lose.
In Freddie's case, it's all about the money and the potential money he could make after his playing days are finished. He's not headed to Canton and his work ethic will prevent him from coaching. So, it looks like a spot on the Best Damn Sports Show Period is on the way.
- The Astros ... Need a centerfield ... Clemens was a good move.
- Predicted order of finish in the NL Central: Houston, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee. Of course, injuries could change this order. Houston has the best pitching in the division with Oswalt, Clemens, Petitte, Bakke, and a fifth starter to be named. Need somebody to keep Lance Berkman from being pitched around when he returns from his flag football injury. St. Louis lost too much up the middle and their pitching can't repeat last year's Miracle on I-44. Cincinnati will surprise. Cubs lost Alou and Sosa, plus Wood and Prior can't stay healthy. Now, the teams in the NL Central will need to win the division to make the playoffs. SF, LA, Fla, or ATL will take the wildcard.
- Coming up, Countdown with Keith O ... Can't keep a job at Fox or ESPN, but can always find his way to a cable network with a marginal rating - about as many ratings points as IQ points on Tara Reid's profile.
-30-
Sunday, January 30, 2005
1.30.05
As hard as it to believe, I agree with President Bush. Not on Iraq. Not on Social Security reform. Especially not on abortion.
But on free speech. At least, his one comment about the future of the First Amendment.
In an interview broadcast on C-SPAN, Bush 43 says parents hold a responsibility in protecting their children from indecent material. Now, while a definition of indecent remains elusive, this admission by the president is a breakthrough for broadcasters. One year from now, the Parent's Television Council and other groups will have moved back to the fringe of society.
Bush's statement is important because the last time I checked, televisions and radio didn't automatically turn on when a child walked into the room. And, the channel didn't instantly go to a Howard Stern conversation with a porn star when Red State Rhonda's kid was in the car. There's an off button and a seek button on almost all factory-installed radios in today's cars. There's also a remote control that allows parents to block programs deemed unsuitable for their children. Individual parents make that decision, not the government.
Bush's statement goes against what some of his biggest supporters in the conservative Christian world want to hear, but it goes along with a Republican view of business and economics.
The conservatives want to manage the programming on broadcast and cable outlets. They'd probably like to manage the satellite airways too. If the gay Sponge Bob character isn't let into their house, their son might not develop feelings for another guy. After all, a cartoon character influences biology as much as an individual's DNA.
For Bush to say that indecency protection starts with the parents is a slap in the face to Bob Jones and the other members of the anti-Howard war tribunal. Yet, his comment will probably get glazed over since it's on the weekend of the Iraq elections.
But Bush's comment doesn't stray far from his Republican economic background. In the Red State world, the markets would decide what's indecent.
If Red State Rudy could convince enough people to not tune into a broadcast program, the show - whether it's on radio or television - would get no ratings.
That leads to no advertisers.
No advertisers means no money and it's onto the next show.
The market takes care of the so-called indecent material.
People are naturally curious. By drawing attention to Sponge Bob or Howard Stern, the "interested quotient" comes into play. The "interested quotient" can be seen in the all areas of culture.
From retail to entertainment to Scientology.
If there's enough communication about something, people begin to talk about it in the backyard, the church annex, or on a blog. If it's about a broadcast show, people might tune into the program to see what's happening - to find out what the buzz is about. People like Jack Thompson (the anti-Stern crusader in Florida) and Michael Powell provide free advertising and promotion for shows they deem indecent. By ignoring it, the show goes away. That's what the market tells us and always has told us.
Instead of allowing the market to do its thing, people bringing attention to the show provide it the critical nutrients it needs to survive - attention and audience. And, efforts to define indecency will never stand up during a First Amendment challenge. Sorry people, porn is here to stay.
It's not common for me to agree with Bush 43 on anything. I need to point out the second comment where we agree. He's said the government needs to stop paying (tax dollars) media people - talk show hosts and columnists - to promote a political agenda.
He's absolutely 100-percent correct on this point. Writers do not need a government subsidy. Their talent should keep them employed.
It's been revealed that three media types received money to promote the current Washington agenda - from No Child Left Behind to Marriage Definition. It'll be interesting to see if anymore payments become public.
These disclosures made me think about the Soviet Union.
As a high school student, we learned about the flawed Soviet system. Life was harsh under Kremlin rule and the brutal Moscow winters. The people drank vodka and received their news from government owned and operated newspapers.
It was called propaganda. According to the people who wrote the textbooks, it was an evil practice. Free voices were key to the future of the world. After all, where would Richard Nixon be without Woodward and Bernstein?
But, is their a similarity in paying media types to promote an agenda and the propaganda system of the Soviet Union?
...
Coming up next, Paid Programming - by a food chopper with three easy installments of $39.99 plus shipping and handling. Broadcasting has come a long way - but that's for another day.
-30-
But on free speech. At least, his one comment about the future of the First Amendment.
In an interview broadcast on C-SPAN, Bush 43 says parents hold a responsibility in protecting their children from indecent material. Now, while a definition of indecent remains elusive, this admission by the president is a breakthrough for broadcasters. One year from now, the Parent's Television Council and other groups will have moved back to the fringe of society.
Bush's statement is important because the last time I checked, televisions and radio didn't automatically turn on when a child walked into the room. And, the channel didn't instantly go to a Howard Stern conversation with a porn star when Red State Rhonda's kid was in the car. There's an off button and a seek button on almost all factory-installed radios in today's cars. There's also a remote control that allows parents to block programs deemed unsuitable for their children. Individual parents make that decision, not the government.
Bush's statement goes against what some of his biggest supporters in the conservative Christian world want to hear, but it goes along with a Republican view of business and economics.
The conservatives want to manage the programming on broadcast and cable outlets. They'd probably like to manage the satellite airways too. If the gay Sponge Bob character isn't let into their house, their son might not develop feelings for another guy. After all, a cartoon character influences biology as much as an individual's DNA.
For Bush to say that indecency protection starts with the parents is a slap in the face to Bob Jones and the other members of the anti-Howard war tribunal. Yet, his comment will probably get glazed over since it's on the weekend of the Iraq elections.
But Bush's comment doesn't stray far from his Republican economic background. In the Red State world, the markets would decide what's indecent.
If Red State Rudy could convince enough people to not tune into a broadcast program, the show - whether it's on radio or television - would get no ratings.
That leads to no advertisers.
No advertisers means no money and it's onto the next show.
The market takes care of the so-called indecent material.
People are naturally curious. By drawing attention to Sponge Bob or Howard Stern, the "interested quotient" comes into play. The "interested quotient" can be seen in the all areas of culture.
From retail to entertainment to Scientology.
If there's enough communication about something, people begin to talk about it in the backyard, the church annex, or on a blog. If it's about a broadcast show, people might tune into the program to see what's happening - to find out what the buzz is about. People like Jack Thompson (the anti-Stern crusader in Florida) and Michael Powell provide free advertising and promotion for shows they deem indecent. By ignoring it, the show goes away. That's what the market tells us and always has told us.
Instead of allowing the market to do its thing, people bringing attention to the show provide it the critical nutrients it needs to survive - attention and audience. And, efforts to define indecency will never stand up during a First Amendment challenge. Sorry people, porn is here to stay.
It's not common for me to agree with Bush 43 on anything. I need to point out the second comment where we agree. He's said the government needs to stop paying (tax dollars) media people - talk show hosts and columnists - to promote a political agenda.
He's absolutely 100-percent correct on this point. Writers do not need a government subsidy. Their talent should keep them employed.
It's been revealed that three media types received money to promote the current Washington agenda - from No Child Left Behind to Marriage Definition. It'll be interesting to see if anymore payments become public.
These disclosures made me think about the Soviet Union.
As a high school student, we learned about the flawed Soviet system. Life was harsh under Kremlin rule and the brutal Moscow winters. The people drank vodka and received their news from government owned and operated newspapers.
It was called propaganda. According to the people who wrote the textbooks, it was an evil practice. Free voices were key to the future of the world. After all, where would Richard Nixon be without Woodward and Bernstein?
But, is their a similarity in paying media types to promote an agenda and the propaganda system of the Soviet Union?
...
Coming up next, Paid Programming - by a food chopper with three easy installments of $39.99 plus shipping and handling. Broadcasting has come a long way - but that's for another day.
-30-
Thursday, January 27, 2005
1.27.05
So, I started talking about why I run marathons ... It's probably a good day to pick up the discussion since it's raining in Houston and I'm going to run 3.6 miles this evening. Through the rain and the 50 degree weather.
It all started when I moved to Houston. I needed to get in better shape. Too many late nights on Sixth Street in Austin. Probably wore my liver out and I couldn't run more than 10 minutes without stopping.
I decided to run the Houston Marathon 5K in January 2001. The 5000 meters event is part of the Houston Marathon event that also features a half-marathon and marathon.
I trained for it - yes, I had to train for the 5K. I finished the 5k and while I was at the event that Sunday morning, I saw overweight people, obese people, and just plain fat people getting ready to go 26.2 miles. I'm not overweight. I'm probably underweight. If I were a child, I'd be in the lower percentile for the age. So, after seeing one fat guy after another begin the 26.2 mile course, I decided I could complete the race.
I set my goal for 2002. I trained. I ran. I walked. I worked out with a group. I ran 7 miles - that was the furthest I'd ever run. Then I ran 10. Then I ran a 20K (12.4 miles). Then I ran a 25K. Then I did the marathon.
I finished. In five hours and 23 minutes. My knee hurt. I was very excited to cross the finish line. It was how I'd envisioned it during the training. I hit the carpet and stopped my watch. Then I raised my arms like Rocky during that run in Philadelphia.
Then I said I'd never do it again. Never.
I had a Shiner Bock in the whirlpool after the event. Told Jennifer there'd be no more marathons.
I took six weeks off to rest my knee. I started to run again. Short, training runs. Keep up the cardiovascular fitness.
Then I started running with our morning guy. He runs because he likes to eat. And he likes to eat out. He can afford weekly engagements at The Palm. In order to keep his table and standing reservation, he runs six miles three days a week. He took a challenge to run the half-marathon in 2003. He also got a sponsor to pay him talent fees to train and talk about it on the air. I also got talent fees to train with him.
I ran the half-marathon in 2003 with very little training. Finished in 2:10.
Liked it so much I registered for the Austin Half in 2003. Finished that event in 1:55.
Then, while running at the beautiful University of Houston indoor track, I decided it was time for a marathon. Set my sights on San Antonio in '03. Finished that event with a time of 4:47.
And I learned something about marathons - it's a good reason to travel. Jen and I stay in a nice hotel, eat a good meal, and spend Sunday morning doing the race. We've had great getaway weekend to Austin and San Antonio because of the races.
I've also learned the marathon and half-marathon events are great for my personal psyche. If I can finish a marathon, I can compete in any business situation. I can compete in any academic setting. It makes you mentally tough and prepared to win. After all, the mental aspect of the race is the most challenging part of the event.
The New Orleans Half is at the end of the month. What a better reason to visit the Big Easy? Sunday morning race, brunch at Court of Two Sisters, followed by a Hand Grenade at Tropical Isle. After one, stress it again, one Hand Grenade ... it's off to Harrah's on the river. Can't wait for the end of the month - it'll be a great race. Allow me to be a guy for a second - the best part of this race might be the flashed we get along the course.
Coming up next on Fox News, more reports on the cultural war happening in America. We'll tell you how the homos in Hollywood are going to corrupt your kids. Then we'll force you to teach intelligent design in the classroom. While we're busy wondering about the sexual orientation of cartoon characters, former eastern bloc countries are figuring out how to be the destination for the outsourcing phenomenon.
-30-
It all started when I moved to Houston. I needed to get in better shape. Too many late nights on Sixth Street in Austin. Probably wore my liver out and I couldn't run more than 10 minutes without stopping.
I decided to run the Houston Marathon 5K in January 2001. The 5000 meters event is part of the Houston Marathon event that also features a half-marathon and marathon.
I trained for it - yes, I had to train for the 5K. I finished the 5k and while I was at the event that Sunday morning, I saw overweight people, obese people, and just plain fat people getting ready to go 26.2 miles. I'm not overweight. I'm probably underweight. If I were a child, I'd be in the lower percentile for the age. So, after seeing one fat guy after another begin the 26.2 mile course, I decided I could complete the race.
I set my goal for 2002. I trained. I ran. I walked. I worked out with a group. I ran 7 miles - that was the furthest I'd ever run. Then I ran 10. Then I ran a 20K (12.4 miles). Then I ran a 25K. Then I did the marathon.
I finished. In five hours and 23 minutes. My knee hurt. I was very excited to cross the finish line. It was how I'd envisioned it during the training. I hit the carpet and stopped my watch. Then I raised my arms like Rocky during that run in Philadelphia.
Then I said I'd never do it again. Never.
I had a Shiner Bock in the whirlpool after the event. Told Jennifer there'd be no more marathons.
I took six weeks off to rest my knee. I started to run again. Short, training runs. Keep up the cardiovascular fitness.
Then I started running with our morning guy. He runs because he likes to eat. And he likes to eat out. He can afford weekly engagements at The Palm. In order to keep his table and standing reservation, he runs six miles three days a week. He took a challenge to run the half-marathon in 2003. He also got a sponsor to pay him talent fees to train and talk about it on the air. I also got talent fees to train with him.
I ran the half-marathon in 2003 with very little training. Finished in 2:10.
Liked it so much I registered for the Austin Half in 2003. Finished that event in 1:55.
Then, while running at the beautiful University of Houston indoor track, I decided it was time for a marathon. Set my sights on San Antonio in '03. Finished that event with a time of 4:47.
And I learned something about marathons - it's a good reason to travel. Jen and I stay in a nice hotel, eat a good meal, and spend Sunday morning doing the race. We've had great getaway weekend to Austin and San Antonio because of the races.
I've also learned the marathon and half-marathon events are great for my personal psyche. If I can finish a marathon, I can compete in any business situation. I can compete in any academic setting. It makes you mentally tough and prepared to win. After all, the mental aspect of the race is the most challenging part of the event.
The New Orleans Half is at the end of the month. What a better reason to visit the Big Easy? Sunday morning race, brunch at Court of Two Sisters, followed by a Hand Grenade at Tropical Isle. After one, stress it again, one Hand Grenade ... it's off to Harrah's on the river. Can't wait for the end of the month - it'll be a great race. Allow me to be a guy for a second - the best part of this race might be the flashed we get along the course.
Coming up next on Fox News, more reports on the cultural war happening in America. We'll tell you how the homos in Hollywood are going to corrupt your kids. Then we'll force you to teach intelligent design in the classroom. While we're busy wondering about the sexual orientation of cartoon characters, former eastern bloc countries are figuring out how to be the destination for the outsourcing phenomenon.
-30-
Monday, January 24, 2005
1.24.05
Random Thoughts on a Monday after the NFL Championships ...
1, I finished the playoff betting at 9-1 ATS - that's against the spread for you non-underworld types. I was 8-2 straight up. Won both yesterday straight up, but Pittsburgh got buried under a blizzard of Belicheck. It wasn't as close as I thought it would be. Was right about Pittsburgh. A rookie QB in a championship game isn't worth betting your money on ...
2, Everybody is going to want to know who to pick going into the game on February 6. Pats are favored by 6.5 as of this morning. I think that line will move up to 7.5 or 8 before kickoff. Right now, I take New England. They've got two weeks to prepare and they're hard to bet against right now.
3, I think it's much easier to gamble on playoff games. Why? Everybody shows up to play. Unless you're Randy Moss, you're not going to take a play off. Every game matters. It's why so many put on the pads. During the regular season, players take games off with sore ankles. As a friend of mine says who works with the team, the checks cash whether you win or lose. And for a lot of these guys, one game check is more money than their families made in 10 years of work. That's why it's easier to pick playoff games - everybody plays and executes the game plan. Usually, the better team wins.
4, Johnny Carson died. Before Comedy Central, he was where people my age found comedians. He was the showcase for new bands, actors, movies, and politicians. He perfected the late show format.
But, he also didn't compete in a world of 300 channels where anybody - including Jessica Simpson, Tucker Carlson, and Jim Rome can have their own shows. Would he have worked in 2005? That's like asking if FDR could govern in 2005. You could build an argument either way.
Here's a link for the with a great personal tribute:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/01/24/remembering.carson/index.html
5, This is a moving story about a former Wisconsin football player - that's why it caught my attention. Mike Webster played for the Badgers when Wisconsin football stood for tailgate parties instead of Rose Bowl rings. He was one of the most famous Bucky grads to play in the NFL. Probably one of the top 4 (Richter, Ameche, Webster, Chambers). His life after the game was harsh. The piece also shows how little we know about mental health and the care of people with a mental health challenges.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1972285
Well, gotta scoot ... Las Vegas is on ... It's the cheesiest show on TV, but for some reason ... I can't take my eyes off it ... I was like this with Melrose Place in the 90s. Back then, I had a crush on Allison ... now that she's in the show with Jim Belushi ... I'd rather see Roseanne Barr in Playboy ... Allison (Courtney Thorne-Smith) has been ruined ... It's almost a Levitra moment - call me in four hours ...
-30-
1, I finished the playoff betting at 9-1 ATS - that's against the spread for you non-underworld types. I was 8-2 straight up. Won both yesterday straight up, but Pittsburgh got buried under a blizzard of Belicheck. It wasn't as close as I thought it would be. Was right about Pittsburgh. A rookie QB in a championship game isn't worth betting your money on ...
2, Everybody is going to want to know who to pick going into the game on February 6. Pats are favored by 6.5 as of this morning. I think that line will move up to 7.5 or 8 before kickoff. Right now, I take New England. They've got two weeks to prepare and they're hard to bet against right now.
3, I think it's much easier to gamble on playoff games. Why? Everybody shows up to play. Unless you're Randy Moss, you're not going to take a play off. Every game matters. It's why so many put on the pads. During the regular season, players take games off with sore ankles. As a friend of mine says who works with the team, the checks cash whether you win or lose. And for a lot of these guys, one game check is more money than their families made in 10 years of work. That's why it's easier to pick playoff games - everybody plays and executes the game plan. Usually, the better team wins.
4, Johnny Carson died. Before Comedy Central, he was where people my age found comedians. He was the showcase for new bands, actors, movies, and politicians. He perfected the late show format.
But, he also didn't compete in a world of 300 channels where anybody - including Jessica Simpson, Tucker Carlson, and Jim Rome can have their own shows. Would he have worked in 2005? That's like asking if FDR could govern in 2005. You could build an argument either way.
Here's a link for the with a great personal tribute:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/01/24/remembering.carson/index.html
5, This is a moving story about a former Wisconsin football player - that's why it caught my attention. Mike Webster played for the Badgers when Wisconsin football stood for tailgate parties instead of Rose Bowl rings. He was one of the most famous Bucky grads to play in the NFL. Probably one of the top 4 (Richter, Ameche, Webster, Chambers). His life after the game was harsh. The piece also shows how little we know about mental health and the care of people with a mental health challenges.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1972285
Well, gotta scoot ... Las Vegas is on ... It's the cheesiest show on TV, but for some reason ... I can't take my eyes off it ... I was like this with Melrose Place in the 90s. Back then, I had a crush on Allison ... now that she's in the show with Jim Belushi ... I'd rather see Roseanne Barr in Playboy ... Allison (Courtney Thorne-Smith) has been ruined ... It's almost a Levitra moment - call me in four hours ...
-30-
Sunday, January 23, 2005
1.23.05 - NFL Playoff Picks
It's Sunday and it's the NFL playoffs ... time for this week's picks. We'll see if I can keep my perfect record against the spread ... I'm guaranteed to have a winning record ... Let's not blemish it by playing reserves in the last three games ...
Atlanta v. Philadelphia
Philadelphia is favored by six points. It's cold. It snowed massive amounts on Saturday. I enjoyed watching the ABC-7 coverage last night on my 68-degree Houston couch. Don't miss snowstorms or cold. That's why I love Texas. What does that have to do with the game? Everything. Weather is the great equalizer. Can the running football team in Atlanta stop the Eagles? Can McNabb throw the ball in the wind? Can Philly finally get to the Super Bowl?
I'll take Philadelphia to win ... And win it 24-16 ... Eagles cover and make reservations for Jacksonville. Why? For no other reason than it's time for Philly to make a return trip to the title game. Haven't been there since Ron Jaworski and Herman Edwards played on that early 80s club.
New England v. Pittsburgh
New England is a three point favorite. I'll take New England to win, but not cover. New England wins 20-17. Can't bet against Coach Bill B. until they lose a game that matters. The Dolphins game didn't matter. Brady played a bad game in their other loss. Steelers QB is a rookie and it's hard for a rookie to lead a team to the big game.
Now, if New England wins ... the debates will begin. Are they the greatest team ever? Better than the 49ers? Better than the Cowboys? The Steelers? No, No, Yes, No. They're better than the Cowboys in the 90s (and it breaks my heart to write this) because there was no salary cap and the Cowboys had a bunch of stars on the team. This Patriot club is limited in it's star power and it's a team that plays with heart and follows the game plan. But, the 49ers and Steelers rank ahead of them on the all-time chart. Montana is very Brady. The Steelers were built like the Pats through the draft and shrewd signings. Although, you'd like to see how these three battled on the field.
Coming up ... MTV's Road Rules v. the Real World ... I'll give the Real World cast three points.
-30-
Atlanta v. Philadelphia
Philadelphia is favored by six points. It's cold. It snowed massive amounts on Saturday. I enjoyed watching the ABC-7 coverage last night on my 68-degree Houston couch. Don't miss snowstorms or cold. That's why I love Texas. What does that have to do with the game? Everything. Weather is the great equalizer. Can the running football team in Atlanta stop the Eagles? Can McNabb throw the ball in the wind? Can Philly finally get to the Super Bowl?
I'll take Philadelphia to win ... And win it 24-16 ... Eagles cover and make reservations for Jacksonville. Why? For no other reason than it's time for Philly to make a return trip to the title game. Haven't been there since Ron Jaworski and Herman Edwards played on that early 80s club.
New England v. Pittsburgh
New England is a three point favorite. I'll take New England to win, but not cover. New England wins 20-17. Can't bet against Coach Bill B. until they lose a game that matters. The Dolphins game didn't matter. Brady played a bad game in their other loss. Steelers QB is a rookie and it's hard for a rookie to lead a team to the big game.
Now, if New England wins ... the debates will begin. Are they the greatest team ever? Better than the 49ers? Better than the Cowboys? The Steelers? No, No, Yes, No. They're better than the Cowboys in the 90s (and it breaks my heart to write this) because there was no salary cap and the Cowboys had a bunch of stars on the team. This Patriot club is limited in it's star power and it's a team that plays with heart and follows the game plan. But, the 49ers and Steelers rank ahead of them on the all-time chart. Montana is very Brady. The Steelers were built like the Pats through the draft and shrewd signings. Although, you'd like to see how these three battled on the field.
Coming up ... MTV's Road Rules v. the Real World ... I'll give the Real World cast three points.
-30-
Monday, January 17, 2005
1.17.05 - Wild about running and more
Looks like I did alright in the NFL playoffs this weekend. I was 4-0 against the spread and 4-0 straight up. Makes my playoff record 8-0 against the spread and 6-2 straight up. There are 3 games to go, so I can't have a losing record this playoff season.
I can't pick the games for this Sunday right now. Give me a week to listen to the know-it-alls and read the reports. Then, I'll feel confident about making the correct selection. Early leanings have me taking the Patriots and the Eagles, but I haven't seen the spreads yet.
If I were setting the lines, I'd make the Patriots a 2 point favorite and the Eagles 4 points.
Didn't get a chance to write yesterday because it was Houston Marathon day. For the fifth straight year, I completed one of the three races surrounding the event. In '01, it was the 5K. In '02, it was the full marathon. The last three years, I ran the half-marathon.
I've finished five half-marathons and two full marathons. Each race is different and each training period for the runs are different. There is no way to generalize the marathon process. It's different for everyone. And that's the biggest question I always get from the non-runners - why do you do it?
It all started that morning of the race in 2001. I moved to Houston a few weeks earlier. And, like many, I decided that for the new year, I was going to take better care of myself. My two years in Austin had been a big fraternity party at the radio station. It was the perfect setting for a 27-year-old. We partied hard and worked hard - in that order. But, months of happy hours that lasted usually until the West Coast edition of Sportscenter.
When January 1 arrived, it was time to run. I wasn't a spring chicken anymore and needed to stay in shape. As a former high school runner, I was used to running 3-4 miles. My first time out, it was an 11-minute run. Not very good. Three weeks later, I finished the 5K and saw it for the first time - the power of 26.2.
It was that morning that I decided to run a marathon. Obviously, I couldn't run the 2001 edition of the Compaq Houston Marathon, but I made a mental note to run the 2002 edition with a training program starting in July.
More details to come ... Now, the Patricia Arquette show Medium ... Don't know anything about it, but Arquette was in one of the greatest movies ever made - True Romance. Except, I can't watch it all the through anymore - too violent. I guess I'm old. And in case you didn't know, Tony Soprano was also in that movie. He has a dialogue scene with Brad Pitt.
-30-
I can't pick the games for this Sunday right now. Give me a week to listen to the know-it-alls and read the reports. Then, I'll feel confident about making the correct selection. Early leanings have me taking the Patriots and the Eagles, but I haven't seen the spreads yet.
If I were setting the lines, I'd make the Patriots a 2 point favorite and the Eagles 4 points.
Didn't get a chance to write yesterday because it was Houston Marathon day. For the fifth straight year, I completed one of the three races surrounding the event. In '01, it was the 5K. In '02, it was the full marathon. The last three years, I ran the half-marathon.
I've finished five half-marathons and two full marathons. Each race is different and each training period for the runs are different. There is no way to generalize the marathon process. It's different for everyone. And that's the biggest question I always get from the non-runners - why do you do it?
It all started that morning of the race in 2001. I moved to Houston a few weeks earlier. And, like many, I decided that for the new year, I was going to take better care of myself. My two years in Austin had been a big fraternity party at the radio station. It was the perfect setting for a 27-year-old. We partied hard and worked hard - in that order. But, months of happy hours that lasted usually until the West Coast edition of Sportscenter.
When January 1 arrived, it was time to run. I wasn't a spring chicken anymore and needed to stay in shape. As a former high school runner, I was used to running 3-4 miles. My first time out, it was an 11-minute run. Not very good. Three weeks later, I finished the 5K and saw it for the first time - the power of 26.2.
It was that morning that I decided to run a marathon. Obviously, I couldn't run the 2001 edition of the Compaq Houston Marathon, but I made a mental note to run the 2002 edition with a training program starting in July.
More details to come ... Now, the Patricia Arquette show Medium ... Don't know anything about it, but Arquette was in one of the greatest movies ever made - True Romance. Except, I can't watch it all the through anymore - too violent. I guess I'm old. And in case you didn't know, Tony Soprano was also in that movie. He has a dialogue scene with Brad Pitt.
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Saturday, January 15, 2005
1.15.05 - NFL Playoff Picks
Last week, I went 4-0 against the spread. So, I'm back for more action. Hopefully, I can be just as hot, although probability says that's almost impossible.
Had too many things going on today, so I missed the chance to pick the first game, but I would have picked the Steelers to win, but not cover. Nine points - too many to give the Jets and their tough defense. Plus, the rookie quarterback in Steel City is a liability if you ask me. Three years from now, not a liability.
For the nightcap in Atlanta, I've got to go with the Falcons to win and cover the 6 and a half. Not a big fan of Mike Vick or the Falcons, but it's hard to pick against them St. Louis is bound to lay an egg soon and it might be this week. I don't think their defense can contain Vick all night.
On Sunday, Philadelphia will win and cover. Minnesota's carriage is about to turn into a pumpkin and I hope Randy Moss doesn't rub his -(censored)- on it. Philadelphia has a better team. They've had a week to prepare. They haven't had to talk about the fake moon of Saturn all week. And, Minnesota is weak outdoors in winter.
Lastly, New England wins and since it's a pick 'em game, that's all that matters. Don't have a particular reason, but the coaches on the sideline for the Patriots make the difference.
Coming up, incredible Saturday night television including the Tsunami Telethon. It's great there's an outpouring of support for our global citizens in regions of the world demolished by nature. But, when former presidents ask for $100+ million for a country halfway around the world, I have to stop. Imagine what $100,000,000 could do for our education system or health care system. A $100,000,000 investment goes a long way ... too bad that capital is going a long way from home.
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Had too many things going on today, so I missed the chance to pick the first game, but I would have picked the Steelers to win, but not cover. Nine points - too many to give the Jets and their tough defense. Plus, the rookie quarterback in Steel City is a liability if you ask me. Three years from now, not a liability.
For the nightcap in Atlanta, I've got to go with the Falcons to win and cover the 6 and a half. Not a big fan of Mike Vick or the Falcons, but it's hard to pick against them St. Louis is bound to lay an egg soon and it might be this week. I don't think their defense can contain Vick all night.
On Sunday, Philadelphia will win and cover. Minnesota's carriage is about to turn into a pumpkin and I hope Randy Moss doesn't rub his -(censored)- on it. Philadelphia has a better team. They've had a week to prepare. They haven't had to talk about the fake moon of Saturn all week. And, Minnesota is weak outdoors in winter.
Lastly, New England wins and since it's a pick 'em game, that's all that matters. Don't have a particular reason, but the coaches on the sideline for the Patriots make the difference.
Coming up, incredible Saturday night television including the Tsunami Telethon. It's great there's an outpouring of support for our global citizens in regions of the world demolished by nature. But, when former presidents ask for $100+ million for a country halfway around the world, I have to stop. Imagine what $100,000,000 could do for our education system or health care system. A $100,000,000 investment goes a long way ... too bad that capital is going a long way from home.
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Thursday, January 13, 2005
1.13.05 - Advocacy v. Journalism
The President of the United States said he wants to draw a line between "advocacy and journalism." That's what he told the USA Today. This is all in response to the Armstrong Williams flap. And from the President, it's just blather and a way to deflect a non-issue. In case you don't know, Williams was paid by the Education Department to promote the No Child Left Behind Law.
When it was made public that Williams took payments to promote something, government officials quickly distanced themselves. How could something like this happen? How could a radio talk show host act like this? Where's the journalistic integrity? Where are the government ethics? Where was the FCC? I can answer the FCC question.
Guess what? It's all part of the game. Williams is a part of it. He's in the same class as Howard Stern, Don Imus, Mancow, Spike O'Dell, Reitman and Mueller, and Sly. It's called the revenue game and that's all that matters in American broadcasting. Some shows get it from ratings. Some shows from endorsements. Williams accepts it from the government. To use the great cliche ... At the end of the day, all that matters is the bottom line and growing the top line.
Some in radio try to grow their ratings then grow their revenue - more ratings points equals higher advertising rates. Some companies, including the one work for, allow on-air talents to endorse products. That's another method for the station to make money - and avoid salary increases for individual talents. Some are just taking money from the government to spread the word about a policy.
The actions of Williams shouldn't shock anyone. It's marketing communications 101. If you want your message in public, tell somebody about it. Verizon Wireless does it everyday - can you hear me now? So does Miller - seen any referees lately? But, when the Department of Education, under the leadership of Houstonian Rod Paige, decides to market a program with traditional promotional and advertising methods, they are called unethical. Now, when you realize the DOE used an African-American commentator whose political leanings are documented, it makes the Democrats uneasy. Why are we using government money to promote a partisan program? We better call the FCC and have this investigated.
Stop. The Department of Health and Human Services spends tax dollars every year on health education. Education programs that are needed, but many marketing programs that would make a red state mom blush. Yes, the Center for Disease Control, buys hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of advertising promoting safe sex, HIV testing, and they are known to partner with marketing agencies (i.e., radio stations, events, etc.) to distribute condoms at traditionally gay gatherings (pride parades). Where's the FCC investigation for this? I'm sure there's some Republican congressman who doesn't want to see government money given to the gays. I'd bet Strom Thurmond would say that HIV programs are partisan.
While President Bush talks about the issues of advocacy and journalism, we need to remember that in 2005, there are no more journalists working in radio. We have talk hosts with right or left political leanings. These hosts, like Limbaugh and Ed Schultz, have captive audiences that feel a certain way. Chances are, not too many blue state residents can stomach more than 20 minutes of Rush. He's not funny nor is he an impartial journalist. He's a talk host with a targeted and segmented audience. So is Williams and that's why it's the perfect spot to promote a product - even if it is a partisan law. Before we launch investigations, we need to remember that it's 2005, the days of journalism with the style of Walter Cronkite is history. Everything is an advocacy - as long as it gets ratings.
Coming up, Tilt - I think it's a show about poker, although the promos aren't in that heavy a rotation on ESPN ... That might be more interesting than my discussion of the FCC.
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When it was made public that Williams took payments to promote something, government officials quickly distanced themselves. How could something like this happen? How could a radio talk show host act like this? Where's the journalistic integrity? Where are the government ethics? Where was the FCC? I can answer the FCC question.
Guess what? It's all part of the game. Williams is a part of it. He's in the same class as Howard Stern, Don Imus, Mancow, Spike O'Dell, Reitman and Mueller, and Sly. It's called the revenue game and that's all that matters in American broadcasting. Some shows get it from ratings. Some shows from endorsements. Williams accepts it from the government. To use the great cliche ... At the end of the day, all that matters is the bottom line and growing the top line.
Some in radio try to grow their ratings then grow their revenue - more ratings points equals higher advertising rates. Some companies, including the one work for, allow on-air talents to endorse products. That's another method for the station to make money - and avoid salary increases for individual talents. Some are just taking money from the government to spread the word about a policy.
The actions of Williams shouldn't shock anyone. It's marketing communications 101. If you want your message in public, tell somebody about it. Verizon Wireless does it everyday - can you hear me now? So does Miller - seen any referees lately? But, when the Department of Education, under the leadership of Houstonian Rod Paige, decides to market a program with traditional promotional and advertising methods, they are called unethical. Now, when you realize the DOE used an African-American commentator whose political leanings are documented, it makes the Democrats uneasy. Why are we using government money to promote a partisan program? We better call the FCC and have this investigated.
Stop. The Department of Health and Human Services spends tax dollars every year on health education. Education programs that are needed, but many marketing programs that would make a red state mom blush. Yes, the Center for Disease Control, buys hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of advertising promoting safe sex, HIV testing, and they are known to partner with marketing agencies (i.e., radio stations, events, etc.) to distribute condoms at traditionally gay gatherings (pride parades). Where's the FCC investigation for this? I'm sure there's some Republican congressman who doesn't want to see government money given to the gays. I'd bet Strom Thurmond would say that HIV programs are partisan.
While President Bush talks about the issues of advocacy and journalism, we need to remember that in 2005, there are no more journalists working in radio. We have talk hosts with right or left political leanings. These hosts, like Limbaugh and Ed Schultz, have captive audiences that feel a certain way. Chances are, not too many blue state residents can stomach more than 20 minutes of Rush. He's not funny nor is he an impartial journalist. He's a talk host with a targeted and segmented audience. So is Williams and that's why it's the perfect spot to promote a product - even if it is a partisan law. Before we launch investigations, we need to remember that it's 2005, the days of journalism with the style of Walter Cronkite is history. Everything is an advocacy - as long as it gets ratings.
Coming up, Tilt - I think it's a show about poker, although the promos aren't in that heavy a rotation on ESPN ... That might be more interesting than my discussion of the FCC.
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Wednesday, January 12, 2005
1.12.05 - Random thoughts
Just wanted to wrap up some loose ends before we hit the weekend ...
1, I went 2-0 against the spread on Sunday during the NFL playoffs. I was 1-1 straight up. Same exact record as Saturday. I was wrong on the Packers in print, although I'd said they Pack would lose to many people during the week. Again, don't go against your gut. I would be strong in Vegas ... 4-0 against the spread over the weekend and that's all that matters.
2, Vikings owner says get Joe Buck off the telecast of my game on Sunday. It's not an odd request. Buck was tough and outspoken about Randy Moss' move near the goalpost on Sunday. This is the same Joe Buck that does a Bud Light commercial with Leon. He's not doing those spots for A-B because he's a St. Louis guy. So, for Buck to be so outspoken is a little over the top. I can fault Buck for his quick judgment on Randy Moss while playing along with the script for his commercial deals.
But, Red McCombs is off in asking Buck to be removed from the telecast. McCombs is deflecting the issue. This has nothing to do with Buck being impartial. It has to do with McCombs not admitting the fact that Randy Moss is a mess. McComb's is almost being an enabler for Moss' behavior and he needs to stop. Take action. Suspend him. Trade him. Cut him. Moss is an enormous talent, but he doesn't know how to conduct himself like an adult. McCombs, the ultra-wealthy San Antonio car dealer isn't probably the best role model for Moss. McCombs rarely hears the word no, unless it's from the Minnesota legislature regarding a new stadium.
3, I'm a big fan of the 10 Spot on si.com ... http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/pete_mcentegart/01/12/ten.spot/index.html
In the 1/11 edition, it was revealed that the NCAA is going to team up with the Cartoon Network to raise the awareness about the dangers of gambling.
There are two problems with this.
One, our society is accepting the fact that our children are receiving life lessons from the Cartoon Network. What happened to a message from your father about loosing your money. Oh, dad's probably at the Indian Casino.
Two, why is gambling the A-number-one issue at the NCAA? I can list a few that should raise eyebrows before we worry about Marco and Roberto breaking an 18-year-olds legs over unpaid college basketball bets.
Here are a couple of the issues:
- Graduation rates, especially the disparity in the minority graduation rates
- Outrageous sponsor deals
- Ohio State's athletic department
- Academic issues ... credit for Harrick's basketball coaching class (how many points for a trey?)
- Gary Barnett still occupying the coaching slot at Colorado
Gambling is a problem for many Americans, including those in the college demo . But, drug and alcohol abuse is also a problem. So is date rape. So is plagiarism. Will we soon see a PSA on Cartoon Network about downloading a term paper from the internet?
1, I went 2-0 against the spread on Sunday during the NFL playoffs. I was 1-1 straight up. Same exact record as Saturday. I was wrong on the Packers in print, although I'd said they Pack would lose to many people during the week. Again, don't go against your gut. I would be strong in Vegas ... 4-0 against the spread over the weekend and that's all that matters.
2, Vikings owner says get Joe Buck off the telecast of my game on Sunday. It's not an odd request. Buck was tough and outspoken about Randy Moss' move near the goalpost on Sunday. This is the same Joe Buck that does a Bud Light commercial with Leon. He's not doing those spots for A-B because he's a St. Louis guy. So, for Buck to be so outspoken is a little over the top. I can fault Buck for his quick judgment on Randy Moss while playing along with the script for his commercial deals.
But, Red McCombs is off in asking Buck to be removed from the telecast. McCombs is deflecting the issue. This has nothing to do with Buck being impartial. It has to do with McCombs not admitting the fact that Randy Moss is a mess. McComb's is almost being an enabler for Moss' behavior and he needs to stop. Take action. Suspend him. Trade him. Cut him. Moss is an enormous talent, but he doesn't know how to conduct himself like an adult. McCombs, the ultra-wealthy San Antonio car dealer isn't probably the best role model for Moss. McCombs rarely hears the word no, unless it's from the Minnesota legislature regarding a new stadium.
3, I'm a big fan of the 10 Spot on si.com ... http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/pete_mcentegart/01/12/ten.spot/index.html
In the 1/11 edition, it was revealed that the NCAA is going to team up with the Cartoon Network to raise the awareness about the dangers of gambling.
There are two problems with this.
One, our society is accepting the fact that our children are receiving life lessons from the Cartoon Network. What happened to a message from your father about loosing your money. Oh, dad's probably at the Indian Casino.
Two, why is gambling the A-number-one issue at the NCAA? I can list a few that should raise eyebrows before we worry about Marco and Roberto breaking an 18-year-olds legs over unpaid college basketball bets.
Here are a couple of the issues:
- Graduation rates, especially the disparity in the minority graduation rates
- Outrageous sponsor deals
- Ohio State's athletic department
- Academic issues ... credit for Harrick's basketball coaching class (how many points for a trey?)
- Gary Barnett still occupying the coaching slot at Colorado
Gambling is a problem for many Americans, including those in the college demo . But, drug and alcohol abuse is also a problem. So is date rape. So is plagiarism. Will we soon see a PSA on Cartoon Network about downloading a term paper from the internet?
Monday, January 10, 2005
1.10.05 - Everybody talk about Randy Moss
You've gotta have a little rhythm when you read the subject line outloud. Like, "Everybody Talk About Pop Music, Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop Music." Just a little VH-1 back to the '80s.
Today, it's all about Randy Moss. I feel I need to address it, since I'm a sports fan and an NFL guy.
Don't get me wrong. I don't want to defend Randy Moss. But, I'm a little puzzled by the reaction of so many pundits around the National Football League. They're quick to condemn, probably hoping to score some points with Paul Tagliabue and others.
The pundits - from Bradshaw to Berman - have referred to Moss as "classless" and missing "character."
They're right.
He's not somebody that's going to win the Rotary's Man of the Year Award in Edina, Minnesota.
And, yes, I agree with them.
It was a junior high move. Something I found funny in high school and college. It was probably funny to Moss because he's at a seventh grade reading level, although, Notre Dame accepted him (standards, those Irish). It was the kind of move that got laughs at summer camp and was not appropriate for the national television audience.
But, is Randy really a villain?
How was his act any worse than the Aspen Edge commercial that aired during both games on Sunday. You know the commercial I'm talking about ... the one where the men at the grill are arguing about who's college degree carries more weight and then the burger is thrown on the ground. That commercial then ends with the griller remarking "Wanna see where your corn is?"
How is this any worse than Moss' move?
For a league that tightly controls its product and their sponsors' use of logos, it's amazing the product creative that airs during their broadcasts and Aspen Edge isn't the worst of it. You can't turn around without seeing ads for an erectile dysfunction drug or a beer commercial featuring twins.
It seems to be a double standard on the part of the league - and it's not the first time.
From Janet Jackson to the Desperate Housewives skit during Monday Night Football, the league is quick to condemn when it involves their players, but almost quick to condone when it involves paid advertising.
If the league decides to fine Randy Moss for this move, then great. Don't stop with Randy. Don't accept ads where the copy mentions something about four hour erections and calling a doctor. Don't accept beer ads featuring twins or other women shaking their breasts over a cooler of beer. Don't let your cheerleaders pose for a calendar in lingerie (Philadelphia Eagles). Don't be ruled by the outdated "Sex Sells" mantra. Take action and not just a gesture towards a misguided player.
And, don't mistake my feelings as some kind of red state rambling. I'm far from it. I'm just asking for a little consistency across the marketing of the league. Often, we hold the NFL up as a model for other leagues and other businesses. But, if the messages of the product are not consistent, then message gets lost. Ask K-Mart if a mixed message is good for business.
While the NFL isn't going to perish because of Randy's South Park antics, it's another time for the NFL to call the cut man to their corner and stop the bleeding. At least their players aren't playing in the AHL, oh, wait, Gary Bettman went to the David Stern school, not the Tagliabue school of league operations.
Coming up next, the season premiere of The Bachelorette ... for one last time before we run out of off-balanced, narcissistic women to feature on television ...
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Today, it's all about Randy Moss. I feel I need to address it, since I'm a sports fan and an NFL guy.
Don't get me wrong. I don't want to defend Randy Moss. But, I'm a little puzzled by the reaction of so many pundits around the National Football League. They're quick to condemn, probably hoping to score some points with Paul Tagliabue and others.
The pundits - from Bradshaw to Berman - have referred to Moss as "classless" and missing "character."
They're right.
He's not somebody that's going to win the Rotary's Man of the Year Award in Edina, Minnesota.
And, yes, I agree with them.
It was a junior high move. Something I found funny in high school and college. It was probably funny to Moss because he's at a seventh grade reading level, although, Notre Dame accepted him (standards, those Irish). It was the kind of move that got laughs at summer camp and was not appropriate for the national television audience.
But, is Randy really a villain?
How was his act any worse than the Aspen Edge commercial that aired during both games on Sunday. You know the commercial I'm talking about ... the one where the men at the grill are arguing about who's college degree carries more weight and then the burger is thrown on the ground. That commercial then ends with the griller remarking "Wanna see where your corn is?"
How is this any worse than Moss' move?
For a league that tightly controls its product and their sponsors' use of logos, it's amazing the product creative that airs during their broadcasts and Aspen Edge isn't the worst of it. You can't turn around without seeing ads for an erectile dysfunction drug or a beer commercial featuring twins.
It seems to be a double standard on the part of the league - and it's not the first time.
From Janet Jackson to the Desperate Housewives skit during Monday Night Football, the league is quick to condemn when it involves their players, but almost quick to condone when it involves paid advertising.
If the league decides to fine Randy Moss for this move, then great. Don't stop with Randy. Don't accept ads where the copy mentions something about four hour erections and calling a doctor. Don't accept beer ads featuring twins or other women shaking their breasts over a cooler of beer. Don't let your cheerleaders pose for a calendar in lingerie (Philadelphia Eagles). Don't be ruled by the outdated "Sex Sells" mantra. Take action and not just a gesture towards a misguided player.
And, don't mistake my feelings as some kind of red state rambling. I'm far from it. I'm just asking for a little consistency across the marketing of the league. Often, we hold the NFL up as a model for other leagues and other businesses. But, if the messages of the product are not consistent, then message gets lost. Ask K-Mart if a mixed message is good for business.
While the NFL isn't going to perish because of Randy's South Park antics, it's another time for the NFL to call the cut man to their corner and stop the bleeding. At least their players aren't playing in the AHL, oh, wait, Gary Bettman went to the David Stern school, not the Tagliabue school of league operations.
Coming up next, the season premiere of The Bachelorette ... for one last time before we run out of off-balanced, narcissistic women to feature on television ...
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Sunday, January 09, 2005
1.09.05 - More NFL Playoffs
So, it looks like I went 2 and 0 against the spread on Saturday and 1-1 straight up. It means I'm in the money in Vegas. It also taught me to not go against my gut. My gut said that the Jets would win, but I didn't want to take two away teams in the NFL Playoffs. I didn't pay attention to the gut and have a blemish on my record. Oh, well, it's really just Monopoly money anyway.
I would have been right on the San Diego-New York game if Marty would have done something with those four downs other than run into the Jets D-Line. 40-yards is a long kick for a rookie, especially a rookie from Iowa. A rookie from Iowa who's lucky he can read.
Why did I think San Diego would lose? I thought they were soft. Their schedule wasn't too tough with two games against the Chiefs and the Raiders, plus matchups against the AFC south and NFC South. They were unproven heading into the playoffs while the Jets had to play the tougher AFC East schedule. It was just a feeling, but I felt that the Jets were more proven heading into the game. I should have listened to the gut. Anyway, stay classy San Diego!
As for today ...
Green Bay is a 6 or 7 point favorite in today's game. The Packers defense is like the St. Cloud State goalie on Friday night - a sieve. But, don't pick against Favre in the playoffs - especially since it might be Favre's last home playoff game. Now, the question is which Favre shows up - the three TD guy or the three INT guy? For the Packers D, we hope it's the three TD guy.
Randy Moss is a punk and doesn't deserve the millions he's received from the Vikings, but that's another blog entry - athletes who are paid too much and act like punks. We can now add Carlos Beltran into that category also. It's hard to pick the Vikings today because of that. Moss has nothing to prove. He doesn't care. The team has no leader and no heart. The Packers have a leader, but no defense.
Packers win, but don't cover the spread.
Denver at Indy.
Indy is favored by 10. I could care less about this game. Indy doesn't deserve a football team, but please don't put them in Los Angeles. Why is the state financing a new stadium for them? Again, that's another blog entry.
Indy wins and covers the spread.
Now, PBA Bowling with Dave Ryan - oh, and Stay Classy San Diego!
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I would have been right on the San Diego-New York game if Marty would have done something with those four downs other than run into the Jets D-Line. 40-yards is a long kick for a rookie, especially a rookie from Iowa. A rookie from Iowa who's lucky he can read.
Why did I think San Diego would lose? I thought they were soft. Their schedule wasn't too tough with two games against the Chiefs and the Raiders, plus matchups against the AFC south and NFC South. They were unproven heading into the playoffs while the Jets had to play the tougher AFC East schedule. It was just a feeling, but I felt that the Jets were more proven heading into the game. I should have listened to the gut. Anyway, stay classy San Diego!
As for today ...
Green Bay is a 6 or 7 point favorite in today's game. The Packers defense is like the St. Cloud State goalie on Friday night - a sieve. But, don't pick against Favre in the playoffs - especially since it might be Favre's last home playoff game. Now, the question is which Favre shows up - the three TD guy or the three INT guy? For the Packers D, we hope it's the three TD guy.
Randy Moss is a punk and doesn't deserve the millions he's received from the Vikings, but that's another blog entry - athletes who are paid too much and act like punks. We can now add Carlos Beltran into that category also. It's hard to pick the Vikings today because of that. Moss has nothing to prove. He doesn't care. The team has no leader and no heart. The Packers have a leader, but no defense.
Packers win, but don't cover the spread.
Denver at Indy.
Indy is favored by 10. I could care less about this game. Indy doesn't deserve a football team, but please don't put them in Los Angeles. Why is the state financing a new stadium for them? Again, that's another blog entry.
Indy wins and covers the spread.
Now, PBA Bowling with Dave Ryan - oh, and Stay Classy San Diego!
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Saturday, January 08, 2005
1.08.05 - NFL Playoffs and more
The NFL Playoffs kick off in about three hours. I'm pretty good with the predictions, so here are some thoughts before the teams take the field.
St. Louis at Seattle
The big question in this game will come next week: Does the losing Mike keep his job?
Mike Martz probably stays in the STL for at least one more season because it would cost money to send him down the river to the Jefferson Barracks. The Rams have never been known as big spenders.
Mike Holmgren, well, that's another question. His Seattle tenure has been marginal at best. He, like another Mike, Sherman that is, are in the above-average coaching section of the library because they had a quarterback named Brett Favre. Holmgren should send Favre a royalty check each month because Favre helped Holmgren land the job under the Space Needle. Without Favre, Holmgren is more Dave Wannstedt than Jimmy Johnson. Without Favre, he'd be viewed as a noble coordinator, but a walking definition of the Peter Principle.
But, will Holmgren lose his job if the Seahawks lose? It's hard to say. Paul Allen has plenty of Microsoft, Sporting News, and Charter Communications resources to send Holmgren packing with a paycheck. Allen probably wouldn't even notice the hit in his account. However, Allen didn't amass a fortune by being a fool. He might realize it's not Holmgren who's at the root of the problem. Players need to execute and if the players on the squad aren't NFL ready, it's not the manager's fault. And, according to an NFL source, Seattle has two starters on defense who wouldn't find a spot on the USC team. That's not a starting role for the Trojans, but a spot on the roster.
In the end, Holmgren keeps his job, unless San Francisco is pulling on his heart strings. Allen might view that as an easy way out for his franchise. Allen can save face, money, and the fans by allowing Holmgren to return home and restore the 49ers to glory. It's a fresh start in Seattle and the status quo in San Francisco. Nothing changes in the Golden Gate City until Dr. York steps away from the franchise.
So, who wins? Seattle is favored by 3 or 4, depending on which expert you believe. That's an even game in Vegas speak. Home team gets three just because they where the dark jerseys when they game is even. Now, big players play big in big games if you expect a victory. St. Louis has big players in the backfield and on the ends. Both quarterbacks will be remembered as serviceable, but not exceptional. St. Louis wins.
New York Jets at San Diego
I could really care less about this game.
Although I must say, it's nice to see Cam Cameron doing well in the Gas Lamp District after his Indiana tenure. I never wanted to see anyone fail and accepting the Indiana job was his biggest failure. He might have lost 24+ games in three seasons with the Hoosiers. That's not failure. Failing to decline the job was the biggest mistake. Indiana is a basketball school and it always will be. Football is an after thought.
Take a look at the stadium. Why would a blue chip recruit decide to play in for Indiana when they could line it up at Michigan or Wisconsin? Both have great facilities. But both have something Indiana doesn't - fan support. Tickets are hard to come by in Madison and A-Squared. In Bloomington, you can probably get 4 for the price of one.
Indiana's on their second coach since Cam roamed the sidelines in Bloomington. Nobody has won there. Doesn't mean Cam is a bad coach, just made one bad decision - accepting the job.
Now, in 1990, you could have said the same about Wisconsin. So, until Indiana does it, I won't believe it.
Back to the NFL, San Diego is favored by seven. I'll take San Diego to win, but not cover. I really think the Jets could pull an upset, but I can't take two road teams on the same day.
Two quick things:
1 - Here's a great piece on revenue sharing in the NFL. Certain owners want to mess with the system. I don't like the idea, but certain franchises are less business saavy than others and I can't argue with the owners whose franchises are bringing in a boatload of cash while others operate with a 1960s business model.
Read more here:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6801174/
2 - Lou Henson used to coach the Fighting Illini when I was a kid. I loved Illinois basketball as a child and still pay attention as an adult. I just happened to earn a degree from the University of Wisconsin. Lou was the coach of the quality Illini clubs in the 80s. He took them to the Final Four in 1989. He was a superstar in the state when I was in high school. And, with all his status, he was very unassuming and took the time to shake hands with anybody.
In 1988, we had a star player on my high school basketball team. He could go to any school he wanted. Illinois and Indiana recruited him. Both Henson and Bob Knight attended games at my high school. Both had a presence about them in the stands. But Henson was more like a small town politician. He took the time to shake hands and make small talk. Knight was polite, but obviously on a tight timeframe. Knight stood out in the crowd. Henson blended in with the townspeople. He was no different from an insurance executive or a local lawyer, except that his basketball team was consistently in the Top 20.
Now, Henson is an ill septugenarian. Here's a must read:
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?id=1961465
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St. Louis at Seattle
The big question in this game will come next week: Does the losing Mike keep his job?
Mike Martz probably stays in the STL for at least one more season because it would cost money to send him down the river to the Jefferson Barracks. The Rams have never been known as big spenders.
Mike Holmgren, well, that's another question. His Seattle tenure has been marginal at best. He, like another Mike, Sherman that is, are in the above-average coaching section of the library because they had a quarterback named Brett Favre. Holmgren should send Favre a royalty check each month because Favre helped Holmgren land the job under the Space Needle. Without Favre, Holmgren is more Dave Wannstedt than Jimmy Johnson. Without Favre, he'd be viewed as a noble coordinator, but a walking definition of the Peter Principle.
But, will Holmgren lose his job if the Seahawks lose? It's hard to say. Paul Allen has plenty of Microsoft, Sporting News, and Charter Communications resources to send Holmgren packing with a paycheck. Allen probably wouldn't even notice the hit in his account. However, Allen didn't amass a fortune by being a fool. He might realize it's not Holmgren who's at the root of the problem. Players need to execute and if the players on the squad aren't NFL ready, it's not the manager's fault. And, according to an NFL source, Seattle has two starters on defense who wouldn't find a spot on the USC team. That's not a starting role for the Trojans, but a spot on the roster.
In the end, Holmgren keeps his job, unless San Francisco is pulling on his heart strings. Allen might view that as an easy way out for his franchise. Allen can save face, money, and the fans by allowing Holmgren to return home and restore the 49ers to glory. It's a fresh start in Seattle and the status quo in San Francisco. Nothing changes in the Golden Gate City until Dr. York steps away from the franchise.
So, who wins? Seattle is favored by 3 or 4, depending on which expert you believe. That's an even game in Vegas speak. Home team gets three just because they where the dark jerseys when they game is even. Now, big players play big in big games if you expect a victory. St. Louis has big players in the backfield and on the ends. Both quarterbacks will be remembered as serviceable, but not exceptional. St. Louis wins.
New York Jets at San Diego
I could really care less about this game.
Although I must say, it's nice to see Cam Cameron doing well in the Gas Lamp District after his Indiana tenure. I never wanted to see anyone fail and accepting the Indiana job was his biggest failure. He might have lost 24+ games in three seasons with the Hoosiers. That's not failure. Failing to decline the job was the biggest mistake. Indiana is a basketball school and it always will be. Football is an after thought.
Take a look at the stadium. Why would a blue chip recruit decide to play in for Indiana when they could line it up at Michigan or Wisconsin? Both have great facilities. But both have something Indiana doesn't - fan support. Tickets are hard to come by in Madison and A-Squared. In Bloomington, you can probably get 4 for the price of one.
Indiana's on their second coach since Cam roamed the sidelines in Bloomington. Nobody has won there. Doesn't mean Cam is a bad coach, just made one bad decision - accepting the job.
Now, in 1990, you could have said the same about Wisconsin. So, until Indiana does it, I won't believe it.
Back to the NFL, San Diego is favored by seven. I'll take San Diego to win, but not cover. I really think the Jets could pull an upset, but I can't take two road teams on the same day.
Two quick things:
1 - Here's a great piece on revenue sharing in the NFL. Certain owners want to mess with the system. I don't like the idea, but certain franchises are less business saavy than others and I can't argue with the owners whose franchises are bringing in a boatload of cash while others operate with a 1960s business model.
Read more here:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6801174/
2 - Lou Henson used to coach the Fighting Illini when I was a kid. I loved Illinois basketball as a child and still pay attention as an adult. I just happened to earn a degree from the University of Wisconsin. Lou was the coach of the quality Illini clubs in the 80s. He took them to the Final Four in 1989. He was a superstar in the state when I was in high school. And, with all his status, he was very unassuming and took the time to shake hands with anybody.
In 1988, we had a star player on my high school basketball team. He could go to any school he wanted. Illinois and Indiana recruited him. Both Henson and Bob Knight attended games at my high school. Both had a presence about them in the stands. But Henson was more like a small town politician. He took the time to shake hands and make small talk. Knight was polite, but obviously on a tight timeframe. Knight stood out in the crowd. Henson blended in with the townspeople. He was no different from an insurance executive or a local lawyer, except that his basketball team was consistently in the Top 20.
Now, Henson is an ill septugenarian. Here's a must read:
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?id=1961465
-30-
Thursday, January 06, 2005
1.06.05 - Sorry Sitcoms
I've had a little more time lately ... work is slow and class has yet to start. So, I had a chance to sit down and watch the premiere of Committed on NBC. I'd read about it in various newspapers over the holidays - the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel to be exact.
The pre-pub had been strong enough for me to make an appointment with the show. Appointment television for me is a thing of the past. I only check in regularly with NYPD Blue (down to about 8 episodes) and the Sopranos. I've watched Blue since my senior year at UW and Tony Soprano is in the HBO lineup about as often as James Carville consults a democratic presidential candidate - every four years it seems.
The appointment came and it's an appointment I won't make again. I'm glad I had the Texas Monthly with Jessica Simpson on the cover open. The characters are uninteresting - mostly artificial and not compelling. The story was weak. The jokes were typical of a Y2K sitcom - let's laugh at gay people, black people, and physically-challenged people. Nate's character wasn't one that can carry a show like Frasier Crane or Jerry Seinfeld. Plus, the girl was simply annoying.
The one compelling factor about the show was the creative use of Tom Poston and Bob Newhart. I'm not sure how relatable to a young audience either of these cats are, but to me, an old school TV fan, their appearnace made my half-hour less of a failure.
Their appearance also reminded me that all the good sitcoms are still on TV. They're on stations like TV Land and Nick at Night. Check your cable listings for the time and availability in your area. It also made me think about the last great sitcoms: Cheers, Newhart, The Cosby Show. And, we may never see another one of these greats on a traditional network, but the folks at TV Land can keep us hoping for another groundbreaking sitcom by showing us the greats that got us to where we are.
And, before I go, I realize I haven't mentioned Everyone Loves Raymond because I don't really love Raymond. I can't suspend reality enough to understand how a guy who covers sports is always home. He's never at a game. Even Mike Lupica attends a game every now and then.
-30-
The pre-pub had been strong enough for me to make an appointment with the show. Appointment television for me is a thing of the past. I only check in regularly with NYPD Blue (down to about 8 episodes) and the Sopranos. I've watched Blue since my senior year at UW and Tony Soprano is in the HBO lineup about as often as James Carville consults a democratic presidential candidate - every four years it seems.
The appointment came and it's an appointment I won't make again. I'm glad I had the Texas Monthly with Jessica Simpson on the cover open. The characters are uninteresting - mostly artificial and not compelling. The story was weak. The jokes were typical of a Y2K sitcom - let's laugh at gay people, black people, and physically-challenged people. Nate's character wasn't one that can carry a show like Frasier Crane or Jerry Seinfeld. Plus, the girl was simply annoying.
The one compelling factor about the show was the creative use of Tom Poston and Bob Newhart. I'm not sure how relatable to a young audience either of these cats are, but to me, an old school TV fan, their appearnace made my half-hour less of a failure.
Their appearance also reminded me that all the good sitcoms are still on TV. They're on stations like TV Land and Nick at Night. Check your cable listings for the time and availability in your area. It also made me think about the last great sitcoms: Cheers, Newhart, The Cosby Show. And, we may never see another one of these greats on a traditional network, but the folks at TV Land can keep us hoping for another groundbreaking sitcom by showing us the greats that got us to where we are.
And, before I go, I realize I haven't mentioned Everyone Loves Raymond because I don't really love Raymond. I can't suspend reality enough to understand how a guy who covers sports is always home. He's never at a game. Even Mike Lupica attends a game every now and then.
-30-
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
1.05.05 - Halftime Hell
It's time to call off halftime shows. There is no use trying to save them. We hit the peak at the '02 Super Bowl when U2 performed their tribute to the 9/11 victims. That was the top of the mountain and there's no going back. It's a downhill slope from the apex featuring Bono and the boys.
Let's review how we got to the top: It all started with Up With People in the late 70s and early 80s. Then we morphed into Michael Jackson at a Super Bowl featuring the Cowboys and Bills. A Jimmy Johnson team. Hair still hasn't moved since that day. Then we got to U2 and productions by MTV and Clear Channel Entertainment - 2 of the world's great producers of live events.
After Bono and The Edge stole the show, it's been downhill. Who remembers the '03 performers? I know Michelle Branch performed in the pregame show with Santana. I think Beyonce also hit the stage.
Then, at the Super Bowl in '04, it was boob-gate. Janet, Ms. Jackson if you're saggy. The NFL issued a statement and apologized. People wrote their congressmen and Howard Stern went to satellite radio. Thanks Justin. Didn't really even see that 40-year old breast anyway. See me at Victoria's Secret in the West Oaks Mall.
That gets us to '05, we get to last night's Orange Bowl. Kelly Clarkson's microphone doesn't work. A country singer on South Beach? And, what was that with Ashlee Simpson? Her performance was the only thing worse than the Oklahoma pass defense.
And because of Jessica's sister's performance, it's time to cancel halftime. Go back to the standard 20 minutes for the teams to reset, let the bands march, then let's play ball. Get the record companies out of it, enough promoting the bands on that stage. Let me see a marching band, refill my beer, take a squirt, and then kick off the third quarter. Enough pop stars and bad performers.
That's it ... no more halftime shows ... unless Up With People isn't booked into the Effingham, Illinois Gymnasium that evening.
Let's review how we got to the top: It all started with Up With People in the late 70s and early 80s. Then we morphed into Michael Jackson at a Super Bowl featuring the Cowboys and Bills. A Jimmy Johnson team. Hair still hasn't moved since that day. Then we got to U2 and productions by MTV and Clear Channel Entertainment - 2 of the world's great producers of live events.
After Bono and The Edge stole the show, it's been downhill. Who remembers the '03 performers? I know Michelle Branch performed in the pregame show with Santana. I think Beyonce also hit the stage.
Then, at the Super Bowl in '04, it was boob-gate. Janet, Ms. Jackson if you're saggy. The NFL issued a statement and apologized. People wrote their congressmen and Howard Stern went to satellite radio. Thanks Justin. Didn't really even see that 40-year old breast anyway. See me at Victoria's Secret in the West Oaks Mall.
That gets us to '05, we get to last night's Orange Bowl. Kelly Clarkson's microphone doesn't work. A country singer on South Beach? And, what was that with Ashlee Simpson? Her performance was the only thing worse than the Oklahoma pass defense.
And because of Jessica's sister's performance, it's time to cancel halftime. Go back to the standard 20 minutes for the teams to reset, let the bands march, then let's play ball. Get the record companies out of it, enough promoting the bands on that stage. Let me see a marching band, refill my beer, take a squirt, and then kick off the third quarter. Enough pop stars and bad performers.
That's it ... no more halftime shows ... unless Up With People isn't booked into the Effingham, Illinois Gymnasium that evening.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
1.4.05
Here we go on Tuesday as we watch the BCS Championship game:
- Game has yet to kick off. My money is on USC and I'll give up 6 points to OU. Glad it's just fake money.
- Why is Shaq tossing the coin? At a time when American troops are fighting wars or assisting Tsunami victims, we've got a basketball player who admits he doesn't give a 100-percent effort on every play tossing the coin in the limelight? Is it a reflection on our society? Probably, but we're also cutting funding to schools which is a bigger reflection on our culture.
- Have the ABC announcers for the BCS games been weak? Brad Nessler is one of the best in the business and Mike Tirico has been a bright spot. But the rest have been mediocre. And that includes Keith Jackson, Brent Musburger, and Gary Thorne have been marginal. It's time to bring in a new crop, but that's a challenge. A youngster might be hard to sell to a national audience. The young hip announcers tend to get turned off by the AARP set (that's 50-plus in age, not septuagenarian). Declining ratings are already a problem. Messing with an established lineup might see the decline continue - although the decline will continue unabated (best use of an NFL referee's word).
- To continue going Rudy Martzke on your ass, Terry Bowden is terrible. Terrible. Terrible. He needs to get off the mic. Yet, how weird was it to hear him call an Auburn game?
- On the Terry Bowden note, what did he do while at Auburn that prevents him from getting another gig? Even Mike Price has resurfaced. Bowden doesn't even seem to get a whiff. It could be his choice. Maybe he accomplished what he wanted to accomplish in coaching and is busy with the next step in his life.
- Lovie Smith whacked Terry Shea. His first hire. His first fire. I wonder how much that was forced down his throat. Can the guy be blamed when there is no talent on the o-line, quarterback, or receiver? I thought Lovie was more of a stand-up guy than that, but now I'm not sure.
- My wife and I just finished a drive from Houston to Madison, Wisconsin. Saw a lot of America in one fell swoop. I've been to almost evey spot in the country and I must say one of the ugliest stretches is from Marshall, Texas to St. Louis. It's not the natural scenery that brings out the beast, it's culture of the people. Washers on the front porch. Cigarette stands on every corner. The acceptance of a seventh-grade reading level. The right wing republican politics. Glad it's an area we can just pass through on the way to the wonderful towns of the Midwest - Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, St. Louis.
-30-
- Game has yet to kick off. My money is on USC and I'll give up 6 points to OU. Glad it's just fake money.
- Why is Shaq tossing the coin? At a time when American troops are fighting wars or assisting Tsunami victims, we've got a basketball player who admits he doesn't give a 100-percent effort on every play tossing the coin in the limelight? Is it a reflection on our society? Probably, but we're also cutting funding to schools which is a bigger reflection on our culture.
- Have the ABC announcers for the BCS games been weak? Brad Nessler is one of the best in the business and Mike Tirico has been a bright spot. But the rest have been mediocre. And that includes Keith Jackson, Brent Musburger, and Gary Thorne have been marginal. It's time to bring in a new crop, but that's a challenge. A youngster might be hard to sell to a national audience. The young hip announcers tend to get turned off by the AARP set (that's 50-plus in age, not septuagenarian). Declining ratings are already a problem. Messing with an established lineup might see the decline continue - although the decline will continue unabated (best use of an NFL referee's word).
- To continue going Rudy Martzke on your ass, Terry Bowden is terrible. Terrible. Terrible. He needs to get off the mic. Yet, how weird was it to hear him call an Auburn game?
- On the Terry Bowden note, what did he do while at Auburn that prevents him from getting another gig? Even Mike Price has resurfaced. Bowden doesn't even seem to get a whiff. It could be his choice. Maybe he accomplished what he wanted to accomplish in coaching and is busy with the next step in his life.
- Lovie Smith whacked Terry Shea. His first hire. His first fire. I wonder how much that was forced down his throat. Can the guy be blamed when there is no talent on the o-line, quarterback, or receiver? I thought Lovie was more of a stand-up guy than that, but now I'm not sure.
- My wife and I just finished a drive from Houston to Madison, Wisconsin. Saw a lot of America in one fell swoop. I've been to almost evey spot in the country and I must say one of the ugliest stretches is from Marshall, Texas to St. Louis. It's not the natural scenery that brings out the beast, it's culture of the people. Washers on the front porch. Cigarette stands on every corner. The acceptance of a seventh-grade reading level. The right wing republican politics. Glad it's an area we can just pass through on the way to the wonderful towns of the Midwest - Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, St. Louis.
-30-
Monday, January 03, 2005
Back at it in '05
Here we are - another year. And there are numerous areas that need my observations in the world of sports.
So much so that I don't want to look back at '04 - the Red Sox won and so did Lance. I'll leave the remembering to people who get paid to do that.
Predictions? That's for somebody with a crystal ball. I'm just happy to find a pair of socks in the morning. I don't know what the stock market will do or which football teams will prosper during the '05 college football season.
However, I do think it's going to be a good year for tech stocks and don't bet on the Badgers to be in the Rose Bowl. Too many holes to fill. It'll be a middle to lower Big 10 finish for Bucky next fall. AD Alvarez better make sure Coach Alvarez has a good recruiting class. Yet, the Music City Bowl is okay for us Wisconsin fans whereas it doesn't work for Michigan Blue Blockers.
Now, for the news of the day ...
- The New Orleans Hornets need to move. First off, their team is terrible. Worse than the Bulls post-Pippen and Jordan. Second, the city cannot support a team that has 41+ home games each season. There is no disposable income in the city and it's hard to get that metro area fired up about a regular season game when big events are the norm in the Crescent City. Third, there is no corporate infrastructure in the market to buy the suites, seats, and concessions. I believe only one Fortune 500 company calls the town home. That's not enough to make the economics of sports work in 2005. We'll revisit the Hornets on 2/1/05 and see if they've won 5 games at that point - that's the over/under.
- The Astros have blown their off-season waiting for Boras. Steve Finley was available and playable in center until Willy Taveras was ready for the majors. He's since signed a contract. As have many others. Yet, the Astros played ball with Boras and have nothing to show for it - except the re-upping of Jose Vizcaino. Could be a long year at the juice box.
- I'm not going to comment on the Bobby Petrino contract situation. If you want to move on, don't sign a contract. Plain and simple as that. If it's a recruiting ploy, than it's a recruiting ploy and kids/parents will see through it. But, I do want to give management props to Tom Jurich, the athletic director. He's brought in Rick Pitino, John L. Smith, and Bobby Petrino to helm the ship of his money making sports. He's brought Louisville to a level of prominence in athletics it only expects on the first Saturday in May. That's a management trait that often gets overlooked - hiring talent. Jurich found the right people and deserves credit for that. Now, if he wants to fire Petrino, that's his right, but place your bet on the fact he can find another good coach to run the football program - probably somebody we haven't heard of yet.
- The Les Miles Experiment at LSU. Should be interesting. He's out of Bob Stoops shadow and the Bayou Bengal fans have high expectations - polar opposite from the expectations in Stillwater. LSU football is an experience. Oklahoma State football just fills time between trips to the dentist - at least a few seasons pass between trips to the DDS.
So much so that I don't want to look back at '04 - the Red Sox won and so did Lance. I'll leave the remembering to people who get paid to do that.
Predictions? That's for somebody with a crystal ball. I'm just happy to find a pair of socks in the morning. I don't know what the stock market will do or which football teams will prosper during the '05 college football season.
However, I do think it's going to be a good year for tech stocks and don't bet on the Badgers to be in the Rose Bowl. Too many holes to fill. It'll be a middle to lower Big 10 finish for Bucky next fall. AD Alvarez better make sure Coach Alvarez has a good recruiting class. Yet, the Music City Bowl is okay for us Wisconsin fans whereas it doesn't work for Michigan Blue Blockers.
Now, for the news of the day ...
- The New Orleans Hornets need to move. First off, their team is terrible. Worse than the Bulls post-Pippen and Jordan. Second, the city cannot support a team that has 41+ home games each season. There is no disposable income in the city and it's hard to get that metro area fired up about a regular season game when big events are the norm in the Crescent City. Third, there is no corporate infrastructure in the market to buy the suites, seats, and concessions. I believe only one Fortune 500 company calls the town home. That's not enough to make the economics of sports work in 2005. We'll revisit the Hornets on 2/1/05 and see if they've won 5 games at that point - that's the over/under.
- The Astros have blown their off-season waiting for Boras. Steve Finley was available and playable in center until Willy Taveras was ready for the majors. He's since signed a contract. As have many others. Yet, the Astros played ball with Boras and have nothing to show for it - except the re-upping of Jose Vizcaino. Could be a long year at the juice box.
- I'm not going to comment on the Bobby Petrino contract situation. If you want to move on, don't sign a contract. Plain and simple as that. If it's a recruiting ploy, than it's a recruiting ploy and kids/parents will see through it. But, I do want to give management props to Tom Jurich, the athletic director. He's brought in Rick Pitino, John L. Smith, and Bobby Petrino to helm the ship of his money making sports. He's brought Louisville to a level of prominence in athletics it only expects on the first Saturday in May. That's a management trait that often gets overlooked - hiring talent. Jurich found the right people and deserves credit for that. Now, if he wants to fire Petrino, that's his right, but place your bet on the fact he can find another good coach to run the football program - probably somebody we haven't heard of yet.
- The Les Miles Experiment at LSU. Should be interesting. He's out of Bob Stoops shadow and the Bayou Bengal fans have high expectations - polar opposite from the expectations in Stillwater. LSU football is an experience. Oklahoma State football just fills time between trips to the dentist - at least a few seasons pass between trips to the DDS.
