Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Rain Game
You know what I love? Going to football games. In the rain. Why? There's just something about it. The fact that it brings out the most hardcore fans. The idea of feeling cool water on your face as the game goes on. Watching the havoc that rain causes. And the feeling of accomplishment, knowing that you are a more awesome fan than anyone that left early. Just so awesome! 17-0 Michigan State over Florida Atlantic.
Friday, September 5, 2008
NFL Season Preview: What you (and me) have been waiting for
Let's go right into it, division by division.
AFC East:
1) New England Patriots: I looked at their schedule, and it's a cakewalk (it helps to be in a bad division). They also were really, really good last year. So it seems pretty logical that they'll run away with this division, and go deep in the playoffs. Final Record: 14-2
2) New York Jets: I'm not sold on them being that good with the Brett Favre circus in town. Maybe they will be, but I don't see them making a huge jump. Yeah, they'll probably win a game or two they shouldn't because of Favre, but they'll also lose a game or two they should win because of Favre. Also, I'm not sure their defense will be good enough. Was it good last year? I don't remember it being very good. Final Record: 7-9
3) Buffalo: I like Marshaun Lynch to make a jump into Top 10 Running Backdom (assuming he stays healthy). However, their coach is a coach that plays not to lose often times, I don't like their QB or their receivers, and I hate their defense. Final Record: 5-11
4) Miami: Uggh. Your biggest moves this year so far were trading away your best player (btw, I thought this was the right move), signing a pothead to a 1 year extension, and handing the keys to a QB that I might be able to out-throw distance wise (well, that last one is a huge exagerration, but I'm sure you get my point). The only good thing? It doesn't get much worse than last year. Final Record: 2-14
AFC North:
1) Pittsburgh: Mostly by default. They still have Roethlisberger, and their defense is solid. There's just something about them that I don't like. I don't know why. Final Record: 10-6
2) Baltimore: If they had any quarterback, any quarterback at all, I might pick them to win this division. I like their defense, I like McGahee, but I'm not sure Flacco or anyone else on their team is worth anything at QB this year. Final Record: 7-9
3) Cleveland: This has the look of a team that is just going to collapse this year. Overly high expectations? Potential 1 year wonder QB? Old running back? Semi-old defense? How does this sound to you? Final Record: 6-10
4) Cincinnati: All kidding aside, this team does not impress me. Yeah, they have offensive weapons, but their defense is bad. Ocho Cinco is a distraction, Chris Henry is a distraction, I'm not sold. Final Record: 6-10
AFC South
1) Indianapolis: I'm not that concerned about the Manning injury. I'm not that concerned about Freeney coming back from an injury. I'm not overly concerned about the Jeff Saturday injury. This team could win it all. They will be good. Final Record: 13-3
2) Jacksonville: I love Garrard this season. He will be great. The running game is still great, so is the defense. If they weren't in the same division as the Colts, they'd easily be the top team in their division. Final Record: 11-5
3) Houston: Yes, Houston. Shock of the year, they'll be that team that no one expects to come through, and they do. If Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson stay healthy, I'd watch out. Final Record: 10-6
4) Tennessee: Well, someone has to be the loser in this division. They'll be okay, but not great. Vince Young will make some small steps forward, but not enough. Their receivers still suck. Final Record: 7-9
AFC West
1) San Diego: Obvious choice here. LT wins the division single-handedly, basically. Still don't like Norv Turner. Final Record: 11-5
2) Denver: Jay Cutler could make some steps forward. That defense could be better than it was last year. I just don't see it. Final Record: 7-9
3) Oakland: An interesting team that could spoil a couple of teams seasons. However, I wasn't a big fan of JaMarcus Russell in college, and I still am not a fan. I'm not sure they have any weapons. Their defense is going to have to carry them. Final Record: 5-11
4) Kansas City: They just look bad. If Larry Johnson doesn't carry the load (and all signs point toward him getting injured again, in my opinion), then this season will be in huge trouble. Final Record: 3-13
NFC East
NOTE: The opinions in this section were finished BEFORE last night's game. The Giants/Redskins showdown had no effect on the rankings.
1) Dallas: This team is too talented NOT to win this division. Jessica Simpson's boyfriend (I think she and Tony Romo are still going out, but I don't follow up on this celebrity garbage) will by default get 4000 yards, and their offense wins the division, and probably the NFC. But... all bets are off when the playoffs hit. Final Record: 13-3
2) Philadelphia: I believe that Donovan McNabb will stay healthy all season. If he does, he will only add to an already very good team. I'm sold (also, go Brian Westbrook. Lead me to my dorm Fantasy Football championship!). Final Record: 10-6
3) New York Giants: I'm not sold. They lost a few key players on defense. Will Eli Manning be the Manning of the playoffs, or the Manning of the last few regular season games? Final Record: 7-9
4) Washington: Their offense looks bad (even last night). Their defense doesn't look good enough to carry them. They're in a tough division. This looks ugly. Final Record: 5-11
NFC South
1) Carolina: They were really, really injured last year. They're bound to be healthier. Other than that, this is more of a hunch than anything else. Final Record: 10-6
2) Tampa Bay: Something about them just makes me wonder if they'll be that good. Could Earnest Graham be a 1-year wonder? Is there defense going to hold up? I just don't know. Luckily, they're in the NFC. Final Record: 9-7
3) New Orleans: I just don't think their offense can carry them this year. They started really slow last year, keep in mind. Reggie Bush seems to be more of a bust than the boom they were hoping for. Final Record: 7-9
4) Atlanta: You know, the team that finished last in the NFC South has finished in first the next year every year. I don't believe the pattern continues, this team just looks bad. It's not a good sign when you are starting a rookie quarterback, one whom I didn't like coming out of college, and I am forced to agree, thinking he is in fact the best QB on the team. Final Record: 2-14
NFC West
1) Seattle: Guess what? This team is good. They have been for a while. They'll still be good. And they'll be playing for their coach, who is in his last season. Final Record: 11-5
2) Arizona: I don't think they'll be that good. I think that Kurt Warner will be good enough so that Arizona might be better than the rest. But keep in mind, they still are Arizona. Final Record: 7-9
3) St. Louis: Well, they'll be healthier. Still won't mean that they'll be better, in this case. Final Record: 6-10
4) San Francisco: I didn't see the hype last year. I still don't see the small amount of hype they may have this year. Mike Martz is becoming more mad than genius. Final Record: 5-11
And now, the moment you've been waiting for. There is one division that features more bad quarterbacks than any other. 1 division that features potentially 4 bad teams (although I've talked myself into liking one). 1 division that features my favorite team. Here we go!
NFC North
1) Green Bay: They weren't my pick to win the division a week ago. And yes, I realize Aaron Rodgers has proven nothing, and has the weight of an entire city full of crazed football fans on his shoulders. But look at the rest of this team. Offensive line: good. Running back: probably good. Receivers: Very good. Defense: Excellent, and improving. If the Bears could make the Super Bowl 2 years ago with Rex Grossman as their quarterback, then Green Bay should at least win this division. Final Record: 11-5
2) Minnesota: Speaking of that Bears team a few years ago, this Minnesota team actually reminds me a lot of them. Good defense, good running back, good offensive line, awful QB. However, I am less sold on many things on this team. 1) Can that defense be great, like 2006 Chicago was? 2) Can Adrian Peterson stay healthy all season (he hasn't since his freshman year at Oklahoma)? 3) Can Tavaris Jackson even live up to Rex Grossman, 2006? I just am not sure. Final Record: 8-8
3) Chicago: So many things that could go wrong with my Bears this year. Their defense is starting to look old, and I think our really bad offense from last year may have gotten worse. I don't know how that happened, but it saddens me. Well, I am always the optimist, and will pick them to win for a while anyways, but I just don't like how this season could play out. Final Record: 6-10
4) Detroit: Because the average offense was a huge problem, especially compared to their awful defense, they fire their offensive coordinator. Yeah, that's a good move. But in more serious thoughts, their defense is still bad, Jon Kitna's a year older (and still Jon Kitna), they have no one good running the ball. This team looks bad.... again. But look at it this way, William Clay Ford is helping the mentally handicapped, by keeping his GM. Final Record: 5-11
AFC East:
1) New England Patriots: I looked at their schedule, and it's a cakewalk (it helps to be in a bad division). They also were really, really good last year. So it seems pretty logical that they'll run away with this division, and go deep in the playoffs. Final Record: 14-2
2) New York Jets: I'm not sold on them being that good with the Brett Favre circus in town. Maybe they will be, but I don't see them making a huge jump. Yeah, they'll probably win a game or two they shouldn't because of Favre, but they'll also lose a game or two they should win because of Favre. Also, I'm not sure their defense will be good enough. Was it good last year? I don't remember it being very good. Final Record: 7-9
3) Buffalo: I like Marshaun Lynch to make a jump into Top 10 Running Backdom (assuming he stays healthy). However, their coach is a coach that plays not to lose often times, I don't like their QB or their receivers, and I hate their defense. Final Record: 5-11
4) Miami: Uggh. Your biggest moves this year so far were trading away your best player (btw, I thought this was the right move), signing a pothead to a 1 year extension, and handing the keys to a QB that I might be able to out-throw distance wise (well, that last one is a huge exagerration, but I'm sure you get my point). The only good thing? It doesn't get much worse than last year. Final Record: 2-14
AFC North:
1) Pittsburgh: Mostly by default. They still have Roethlisberger, and their defense is solid. There's just something about them that I don't like. I don't know why. Final Record: 10-6
2) Baltimore: If they had any quarterback, any quarterback at all, I might pick them to win this division. I like their defense, I like McGahee, but I'm not sure Flacco or anyone else on their team is worth anything at QB this year. Final Record: 7-9
3) Cleveland: This has the look of a team that is just going to collapse this year. Overly high expectations? Potential 1 year wonder QB? Old running back? Semi-old defense? How does this sound to you? Final Record: 6-10
4) Cincinnati: All kidding aside, this team does not impress me. Yeah, they have offensive weapons, but their defense is bad. Ocho Cinco is a distraction, Chris Henry is a distraction, I'm not sold. Final Record: 6-10
AFC South
1) Indianapolis: I'm not that concerned about the Manning injury. I'm not that concerned about Freeney coming back from an injury. I'm not overly concerned about the Jeff Saturday injury. This team could win it all. They will be good. Final Record: 13-3
2) Jacksonville: I love Garrard this season. He will be great. The running game is still great, so is the defense. If they weren't in the same division as the Colts, they'd easily be the top team in their division. Final Record: 11-5
3) Houston: Yes, Houston. Shock of the year, they'll be that team that no one expects to come through, and they do. If Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson stay healthy, I'd watch out. Final Record: 10-6
4) Tennessee: Well, someone has to be the loser in this division. They'll be okay, but not great. Vince Young will make some small steps forward, but not enough. Their receivers still suck. Final Record: 7-9
AFC West
1) San Diego: Obvious choice here. LT wins the division single-handedly, basically. Still don't like Norv Turner. Final Record: 11-5
2) Denver: Jay Cutler could make some steps forward. That defense could be better than it was last year. I just don't see it. Final Record: 7-9
3) Oakland: An interesting team that could spoil a couple of teams seasons. However, I wasn't a big fan of JaMarcus Russell in college, and I still am not a fan. I'm not sure they have any weapons. Their defense is going to have to carry them. Final Record: 5-11
4) Kansas City: They just look bad. If Larry Johnson doesn't carry the load (and all signs point toward him getting injured again, in my opinion), then this season will be in huge trouble. Final Record: 3-13
NFC East
NOTE: The opinions in this section were finished BEFORE last night's game. The Giants/Redskins showdown had no effect on the rankings.
1) Dallas: This team is too talented NOT to win this division. Jessica Simpson's boyfriend (I think she and Tony Romo are still going out, but I don't follow up on this celebrity garbage) will by default get 4000 yards, and their offense wins the division, and probably the NFC. But... all bets are off when the playoffs hit. Final Record: 13-3
2) Philadelphia: I believe that Donovan McNabb will stay healthy all season. If he does, he will only add to an already very good team. I'm sold (also, go Brian Westbrook. Lead me to my dorm Fantasy Football championship!). Final Record: 10-6
3) New York Giants: I'm not sold. They lost a few key players on defense. Will Eli Manning be the Manning of the playoffs, or the Manning of the last few regular season games? Final Record: 7-9
4) Washington: Their offense looks bad (even last night). Their defense doesn't look good enough to carry them. They're in a tough division. This looks ugly. Final Record: 5-11
NFC South
1) Carolina: They were really, really injured last year. They're bound to be healthier. Other than that, this is more of a hunch than anything else. Final Record: 10-6
2) Tampa Bay: Something about them just makes me wonder if they'll be that good. Could Earnest Graham be a 1-year wonder? Is there defense going to hold up? I just don't know. Luckily, they're in the NFC. Final Record: 9-7
3) New Orleans: I just don't think their offense can carry them this year. They started really slow last year, keep in mind. Reggie Bush seems to be more of a bust than the boom they were hoping for. Final Record: 7-9
4) Atlanta: You know, the team that finished last in the NFC South has finished in first the next year every year. I don't believe the pattern continues, this team just looks bad. It's not a good sign when you are starting a rookie quarterback, one whom I didn't like coming out of college, and I am forced to agree, thinking he is in fact the best QB on the team. Final Record: 2-14
NFC West
1) Seattle: Guess what? This team is good. They have been for a while. They'll still be good. And they'll be playing for their coach, who is in his last season. Final Record: 11-5
2) Arizona: I don't think they'll be that good. I think that Kurt Warner will be good enough so that Arizona might be better than the rest. But keep in mind, they still are Arizona. Final Record: 7-9
3) St. Louis: Well, they'll be healthier. Still won't mean that they'll be better, in this case. Final Record: 6-10
4) San Francisco: I didn't see the hype last year. I still don't see the small amount of hype they may have this year. Mike Martz is becoming more mad than genius. Final Record: 5-11
And now, the moment you've been waiting for. There is one division that features more bad quarterbacks than any other. 1 division that features potentially 4 bad teams (although I've talked myself into liking one). 1 division that features my favorite team. Here we go!
NFC North
1) Green Bay: They weren't my pick to win the division a week ago. And yes, I realize Aaron Rodgers has proven nothing, and has the weight of an entire city full of crazed football fans on his shoulders. But look at the rest of this team. Offensive line: good. Running back: probably good. Receivers: Very good. Defense: Excellent, and improving. If the Bears could make the Super Bowl 2 years ago with Rex Grossman as their quarterback, then Green Bay should at least win this division. Final Record: 11-5
2) Minnesota: Speaking of that Bears team a few years ago, this Minnesota team actually reminds me a lot of them. Good defense, good running back, good offensive line, awful QB. However, I am less sold on many things on this team. 1) Can that defense be great, like 2006 Chicago was? 2) Can Adrian Peterson stay healthy all season (he hasn't since his freshman year at Oklahoma)? 3) Can Tavaris Jackson even live up to Rex Grossman, 2006? I just am not sure. Final Record: 8-8
3) Chicago: So many things that could go wrong with my Bears this year. Their defense is starting to look old, and I think our really bad offense from last year may have gotten worse. I don't know how that happened, but it saddens me. Well, I am always the optimist, and will pick them to win for a while anyways, but I just don't like how this season could play out. Final Record: 6-10
4) Detroit: Because the average offense was a huge problem, especially compared to their awful defense, they fire their offensive coordinator. Yeah, that's a good move. But in more serious thoughts, their defense is still bad, Jon Kitna's a year older (and still Jon Kitna), they have no one good running the ball. This team looks bad.... again. But look at it this way, William Clay Ford is helping the mentally handicapped, by keeping his GM. Final Record: 5-11
Monday, September 1, 2008
The Unveiling
Here it is, my fantasy football teams. The moment none of you have been waiting for. Let's get into it.
League 1) My Church League. Unusual rules: 6 pts per Passing touchdown, 3 flex positions, no mandatory tight end.
Matt Hasselbeck
David Garrard
LaDainian Tomlinson
Marshaun Lynch
Ryan Grant
Maurice Jones-Drew
Thomas Jones
Torry Holt
Santonio Holmes
Donald Driver
Jericho Cotchery
Devin Hester
Jacksonville
Washington
Nate Kaeding
Strengths: My running backs are beasts, especially with a league with 4 flex spots. My receivers have a bit of upside with them. They should carry my team above any other.
Weaknesses: My defenses leave much to be desired. My quarterbacks are okay, and a great value where I got them in the draft, but there is a chance they won't pan out.
League 2) My floor league. Unusual Rules: 6 pts per passing touchdown, 1 pt per catch
Donovan McNabb
Matt Schaub
Brian Westbrook
Ryan Grant
Edgerrin James
Fred Taylor
Chester Taylor
Andre Johnson
Anquan Boldin
Brandon Marshall
Roddy White
Ted Ginn
Devin Hester
Chris Cooley
Dallas
Josh Scobee
Strengths- Again, I like my running backs and my receivers. This time, I like my receivers a little bit more, especially with point per catch.
Weaknesses- My quarterbacks are bad, unless McNabb finds the fountain of youth. I need a second defense, and I'm not sold on Dallas as a #1 defense.
Either team should still win my league, but we'll see what happens.
Stay tuned for a full preview tomorrow.
League 1) My Church League. Unusual rules: 6 pts per Passing touchdown, 3 flex positions, no mandatory tight end.
Matt Hasselbeck
David Garrard
LaDainian Tomlinson
Marshaun Lynch
Ryan Grant
Maurice Jones-Drew
Thomas Jones
Torry Holt
Santonio Holmes
Donald Driver
Jericho Cotchery
Devin Hester
Jacksonville
Washington
Nate Kaeding
Strengths: My running backs are beasts, especially with a league with 4 flex spots. My receivers have a bit of upside with them. They should carry my team above any other.
Weaknesses: My defenses leave much to be desired. My quarterbacks are okay, and a great value where I got them in the draft, but there is a chance they won't pan out.
League 2) My floor league. Unusual Rules: 6 pts per passing touchdown, 1 pt per catch
Donovan McNabb
Matt Schaub
Brian Westbrook
Ryan Grant
Edgerrin James
Fred Taylor
Chester Taylor
Andre Johnson
Anquan Boldin
Brandon Marshall
Roddy White
Ted Ginn
Devin Hester
Chris Cooley
Dallas
Josh Scobee
Strengths- Again, I like my running backs and my receivers. This time, I like my receivers a little bit more, especially with point per catch.
Weaknesses- My quarterbacks are bad, unless McNabb finds the fountain of youth. I need a second defense, and I'm not sold on Dallas as a #1 defense.
Either team should still win my league, but we'll see what happens.
Stay tuned for a full preview tomorrow.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Cheers and Boos from Opening Weekend, College Style
I have a few random thoughts concerning this first week, and rather do small paragraphs about each, I'm going to give out Cheers (for things I enjoyed from this past week) and Boos (for things that just made me sick). Maybe this will be a trend, maybe not. But for now, here we go! These are in order of how passionately I feel about them, from high to low.
Cheers! to East Carolina, for the biggest upset of the weekend. It may not be Appalachian State, it may not be Super Bowl XLII, but it was a big upset nonetheless. Good show! You definitely deserved the win, and pulled off in dramatic fashion. Enjoy it while you can!
Cheers! to USC, Missouri, Illinois, West Virginia, Clemson, and Alabama. You are RANKED teams, and you had the guts to schedule your opening game against a team from a BCS school that had a winning record last year. Illinois and Alabama, double cheers for you for going ON THE ROAD against a ranked team. I love it. You guys got guts. On the flip side....
BOOS! to Georgia, Ohio State, Oklahoma, LSU, Auburn, Texas, Texas Tech, Wisconsin, Kansas, Arizona State, BYU, South Florida, and Penn State. Either you scheduled:
A) A team that was really bad last year in a non-BCS conference
B) A team that I'm pretty sure is Division 1-AA
C) A team that I didn't know existed until now
Some of you committed multiple infractions. You should be embarrassed. How does that cupcake taste, at the end of the day?
BOOS! to California. You beat Michigan State. You make me sad. And yes, I am going to ignore the fact that you outplayed us in basically every facet of the game, and that the game was not as close as the score was. Okay, more seriously...
BOOS! to Brian "Freaking" Hoyer. You know what? I'm guessing your summer wasn't that great. I understand that. But don't take it out on this year by sucking again! Along with this, BOO! to our coaching staff in general. Our team looked at times undisciplined and unprepared. Fix it for next game, please!
Cheers! to Otis Wiley. You singlehandedly kept us in the game. Your plays at the end of the half were incredible! You're becoming my favorite player for this year.
Cheers! to USC. Again. That play against a semi-real team? National Championship, anyone?
Cheers! to Utah. You beat Michigan. Gotta love that!
BOOS! to anyone that voted for Pittsburgh in the top 25. Congratulations! Don't you feel stupid. Also, BOOS! to Pittsburgh themselves. You obviously lost your pride. It showed.
BOOS! to ESPN. I realize that LSU-Appalachian State had to be moved up. But could you have moved that to a channel that I had High Definition on, not ESPN Classic which few people get?
BOOS! to ESPN/ABC announcers. You still aren't very good. You still say stupid and very obvious things. Half of you still are not exciting at all. Please fix this!
Cheers! to Duke. You won! You are 1-0. You won by 24, somehow. To everyone else: Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven must be near.
BOOS! to me. I wanted to have a Big 10 preview by last Friday done. But, as you can see, that didn't happen. I have no excuse (except that Big 10 season doesn't start for another few weeks, so I have some time).
With that being said, my NFL preview is in the works and will be up tomorrow, along with the unveiling of two future Championship Fantasy Football teams. Until tomorrow!
Cheers! to East Carolina, for the biggest upset of the weekend. It may not be Appalachian State, it may not be Super Bowl XLII, but it was a big upset nonetheless. Good show! You definitely deserved the win, and pulled off in dramatic fashion. Enjoy it while you can!
Cheers! to USC, Missouri, Illinois, West Virginia, Clemson, and Alabama. You are RANKED teams, and you had the guts to schedule your opening game against a team from a BCS school that had a winning record last year. Illinois and Alabama, double cheers for you for going ON THE ROAD against a ranked team. I love it. You guys got guts. On the flip side....
BOOS! to Georgia, Ohio State, Oklahoma, LSU, Auburn, Texas, Texas Tech, Wisconsin, Kansas, Arizona State, BYU, South Florida, and Penn State. Either you scheduled:
A) A team that was really bad last year in a non-BCS conference
B) A team that I'm pretty sure is Division 1-AA
C) A team that I didn't know existed until now
Some of you committed multiple infractions. You should be embarrassed. How does that cupcake taste, at the end of the day?
BOOS! to California. You beat Michigan State. You make me sad. And yes, I am going to ignore the fact that you outplayed us in basically every facet of the game, and that the game was not as close as the score was. Okay, more seriously...
BOOS! to Brian "Freaking" Hoyer. You know what? I'm guessing your summer wasn't that great. I understand that. But don't take it out on this year by sucking again! Along with this, BOO! to our coaching staff in general. Our team looked at times undisciplined and unprepared. Fix it for next game, please!
Cheers! to Otis Wiley. You singlehandedly kept us in the game. Your plays at the end of the half were incredible! You're becoming my favorite player for this year.
Cheers! to USC. Again. That play against a semi-real team? National Championship, anyone?
Cheers! to Utah. You beat Michigan. Gotta love that!
BOOS! to anyone that voted for Pittsburgh in the top 25. Congratulations! Don't you feel stupid. Also, BOOS! to Pittsburgh themselves. You obviously lost your pride. It showed.
BOOS! to ESPN. I realize that LSU-Appalachian State had to be moved up. But could you have moved that to a channel that I had High Definition on, not ESPN Classic which few people get?
BOOS! to ESPN/ABC announcers. You still aren't very good. You still say stupid and very obvious things. Half of you still are not exciting at all. Please fix this!
Cheers! to Duke. You won! You are 1-0. You won by 24, somehow. To everyone else: Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven must be near.
BOOS! to me. I wanted to have a Big 10 preview by last Friday done. But, as you can see, that didn't happen. I have no excuse (except that Big 10 season doesn't start for another few weeks, so I have some time).
With that being said, my NFL preview is in the works and will be up tomorrow, along with the unveiling of two future Championship Fantasy Football teams. Until tomorrow!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Lessons From Summer
It's kinda funny. I did a lot of stuff at work. I accomplished quite a bit at home. Yet, if I were to sum up basically everything I learned this summer, it would be a simple sentence, that I believe to be completely true.
It is better to do nothing in the company of friends than to be doing the greatest things in the world with no one around to enjoy them.
It's a little ironic, don't you think? Especially considering that I have friends that want to know some of the things that happen at work. But the thing is, instead of talking about my job and some of the misadventures there, I'd much rather talk about spending an afternoon with my friend Ben, laughing at the most random things (like Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan). Or I could talk the hours I spent working on blogs, or just random new insights I gained. But, I'd probably not mention those and talk about singing "I'm a lumberjack and I'm okay" with my friend John, and having people look at me like I'm crazy (correction: more crazy than usual).
It took me a summer where a lot of the time where I was alone, but I was reminded the value of friendship. Good thing too, because school is about to start. After all, seeing all types of people will eventually cause me go back to my more normal, somewhat shy self and wondering why all these people are bothering me because I need a moment's peace!
Completely unrelated announcements to this topic but need to be brought up.
1) I'm going to work real hard and doing updates weekly. Why? Football season is starting, school is in full force, which means I should have a lot more to talk about.
2) I now have a facebook group called "People who read All About 42 or just want to join another facebook group"
http://www.facebook.com/groups/edit.php?info&gid=27150146510#/group.php?gid=27150146510
It is better to do nothing in the company of friends than to be doing the greatest things in the world with no one around to enjoy them.
It's a little ironic, don't you think? Especially considering that I have friends that want to know some of the things that happen at work. But the thing is, instead of talking about my job and some of the misadventures there, I'd much rather talk about spending an afternoon with my friend Ben, laughing at the most random things (like Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan). Or I could talk the hours I spent working on blogs, or just random new insights I gained. But, I'd probably not mention those and talk about singing "I'm a lumberjack and I'm okay" with my friend John, and having people look at me like I'm crazy (correction: more crazy than usual).
It took me a summer where a lot of the time where I was alone, but I was reminded the value of friendship. Good thing too, because school is about to start. After all, seeing all types of people will eventually cause me go back to my more normal, somewhat shy self and wondering why all these people are bothering me because I need a moment's peace!
Completely unrelated announcements to this topic but need to be brought up.
1) I'm going to work real hard and doing updates weekly. Why? Football season is starting, school is in full force, which means I should have a lot more to talk about.
2) I now have a facebook group called "People who read All About 42 or just want to join another facebook group"
http://www.facebook.com/groups/edit.php?info&gid=27150146510#/group.php?gid=27150146510
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Is The Joker the Greatest Movie Villain Ever?
Before reading this, let me warn you that there are spoilers for The Dark Knight, as well as the original Star Wars Trilogy and The Silence of the Lambs. If you haven't seen Dark Knight, go look up the earliest time at your local theater and go see it. Now. This will be here when you get back. Along the same vein, if you've never seen the Star Wars Trilogy, you've not only lived a deprived life, but you need to watch Episodes IV, V, and VI now. Silence of The Lambs is also a must watch, so rent that too while you are at it (although that one may not have the same universal appeal, if you don't like thrillers, you may want to just read this blog without watching the movie, because it is creepy. But awesome too. If you have liked any thriller movie ever, rent it).
Anyone who has seen The Dark Knight can agree, Heath Ledger's performance as The Joker was awesome. The Joker creeped me out in many ways, and the only way he could have been more scary is if he walked out of the movie screen, into the movie theater and started shooting members of the audience. But is the character the greatest villain ever portrayed on the big screen? I don't believe this question has been asked... until now. Only seen here on All About 42, we have a great competition between the new guy (The Joker) and two contestants who are legendary in the world of movie villains.
But first, it is my sad duty to report that a third invitee could not make it tonight. Norman Bates was originally scheduled to attend, but sadly, his dear mother has fallen ill, and is already somewhat crazy (or so I'm told). We are waiting to hear from our correspondents on the scene (they were supposed to check in at the hotel earlier today, but I'm not that worried).
With that out of the way, let me introduce our other two contestants.
Coming to the stage now is a towering beast. Standing at over 6'8", he has ruled over many galaxies as the second in command of The Galatic Empire. He is the master of the Dark Side, merciless, and a living legend. Give it up for.... Darth Vader!
Our last contestant was once considered a brilliant psychologist, but I wouldn't recommend going to his sessions. He isn't only a murderer, but he goes so far as to eat his victims. His 17 minutes in The Silence Of The Lambs are enough to scare you for life. Please, give your applause to.... Dr. Hannibal Lector.
Our three contestants will be judged on a variety of catagories to determine which villain is the greatest. The panelists are an esteemed group of three (me, myself, and I). Now without further ado, let's get on to the first category.
First Impression: Pretty simple. What did you think of the first time you saw the character on screen.
Darth Vader- While still trying to figure out what's going on, all of a sudden Darth Vader walks on to the ship with some menacing music come on. And he just looks proud, strong, ready to kick some rebel butt. Certainly someone powerful, but does he really do much on this first trip? Yes, he shows himself to be a total badass later, but just through this, I'm not convinced.
Hannibal Lector- Heading down to this cellar, you see him in his cell. And he doesn't look that bad. But then, hearing him speak to Clarice, you get shivers down your spine. And all I could think was "Oh my God, this guy has got to be the creepiest guy I've ever seen." Very impressive.
Joker- In the middle of a robbery, people are killing each other left and right. Then, after being the last man left in the robbery, the mastermind reveals himself to be the actual Joker. On top of that, it is shown that he robbed the mob. Smart, crazy, merciless. All good things to show for a villain.
Final Verdict: Lector's "I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti." at the beginning still freaks me out. He wins this category easily. Second: Joker. Third: Vader.
Greatest Strengths: What are these villains best at?
Lector- A great psychological mind. He convinced a guy to choke himself to death, he escaped by having a mask using another person's face. Although maybe not impressive on the outside, his mind is a most powerful weapon.
Joker- Creative use of weaponry. He kills a guy with a "disappearing" pencil. He straps a bomb to a cell phone to escape. Works on a great "social experiment" and has explosives on some ferries, and tries to get the passengers to blow them up. Gifted, as well as impressive.
Vader- The dark side of the Force. Seriously, he is one of the best with a lightsaber, he can use powers that most Jedi couldn't imagine, and he's a great pilot. Force choke is one of those special things that shouldn't be trifled with.
Final Verdict: This is a hard one, because all three have great gifts (would beat any other villain that has ever appeared). But, considering that the Force is superhuman, while the others are not, I'm going with Darth Vader. Second: Lector. Third: Joker
Moment of Weakness: Who screwed up the least in their moment of weakness?
Joker- He could never convince Batman to kill (aka, break his only rule). To counteract this, he created Harvey Two-Face. "An ace in the hole." Clever, and a good solution. Plus, failing on dying is a decent consolation.
Vader- He ended up showing mercy on his son, killing his former master and turning into a good guy at the end. In terms of the movie, it was a touching moment and a good way to end it. In terms of movie villainy, poor show Vader. Poor show.
Lector- He may be a bad guy, but he's still helping Clarice find another bad guy. Also, he does appear to have a sense of a little morality, based on Clarice saying to her friend "He won't come after me... he'd consider it rude." Interesting, but not convenient for him.
Final Verdict: It's probably obvious, but Joker's failings keep him alive. Good job for him. Second: Lector. Third: Vader.
Diabolical Schemes: Who has the best goals in life?
Vader- Rule the galaxy as the most powerful being. Hardcore, to the point, and overall, very good, even though it's tradtional.
Lector- His main plan is to escape, so he can get a good meal. More plans of necessity than anything else, but considering how he gets a good meal, they are still solid.
Joker- Total anarchy. How fun. How crazy. How awesome.
Final Verdict: Yeah, it's traditional, but I really like how Darth Vader rolls here. Second: Joker. Third: Lector
Legacy: How are you going to remember these guys years from now.
Lector- He is the creepiest character I've ever seen. Seeing him on screen will always give me chills.
Joker- I will remember him more as Heath Ledger's last role, and how psychotic this guy was. Because I'm convinced the only thing crazier he could have tried was walking out of the movie screen and killing a few audience members.
Vader- So much here. Hearing the Imperial March, and seeing him just demand presence. Just awesome.
Final Verdict: Really grasping for straws here. I can't choose. It's a tie. Between all 3.
Greatest Moment: What defines their greatness.
Joker- "I'd like to show you a magic trick." Is there any way to strike fear into someone else, in such an entertaining way?
Vader- "No, I am you father!" It isn't just the line. It's all that's going on. Vader is threatening to KILL his own son. Also, he has already cut off his hand, leaving him defenseless.
Lector- His escape. Well planned, violent, creepy, but very, very well done.
Final Verdict: It was his own son after all. Vader wins. Second- Lector. Third- Joker (It's sad I have to put the magic trick third).
Conclusion
In the end (without looking at the catagory wins, granted), I'd still go with Darth Vader and Hannibal Lector over the new Joker. But it's close. I think anyone can agree that this Joker is incredible, and makes the Dark Knight the best film of the year (so far).
Let the debating begin.
Anyone who has seen The Dark Knight can agree, Heath Ledger's performance as The Joker was awesome. The Joker creeped me out in many ways, and the only way he could have been more scary is if he walked out of the movie screen, into the movie theater and started shooting members of the audience. But is the character the greatest villain ever portrayed on the big screen? I don't believe this question has been asked... until now. Only seen here on All About 42, we have a great competition between the new guy (The Joker) and two contestants who are legendary in the world of movie villains.
But first, it is my sad duty to report that a third invitee could not make it tonight. Norman Bates was originally scheduled to attend, but sadly, his dear mother has fallen ill, and is already somewhat crazy (or so I'm told). We are waiting to hear from our correspondents on the scene (they were supposed to check in at the hotel earlier today, but I'm not that worried).
With that out of the way, let me introduce our other two contestants.
Coming to the stage now is a towering beast. Standing at over 6'8", he has ruled over many galaxies as the second in command of The Galatic Empire. He is the master of the Dark Side, merciless, and a living legend. Give it up for.... Darth Vader!
Our last contestant was once considered a brilliant psychologist, but I wouldn't recommend going to his sessions. He isn't only a murderer, but he goes so far as to eat his victims. His 17 minutes in The Silence Of The Lambs are enough to scare you for life. Please, give your applause to.... Dr. Hannibal Lector.
Our three contestants will be judged on a variety of catagories to determine which villain is the greatest. The panelists are an esteemed group of three (me, myself, and I). Now without further ado, let's get on to the first category.
First Impression: Pretty simple. What did you think of the first time you saw the character on screen.
Darth Vader- While still trying to figure out what's going on, all of a sudden Darth Vader walks on to the ship with some menacing music come on. And he just looks proud, strong, ready to kick some rebel butt. Certainly someone powerful, but does he really do much on this first trip? Yes, he shows himself to be a total badass later, but just through this, I'm not convinced.
Hannibal Lector- Heading down to this cellar, you see him in his cell. And he doesn't look that bad. But then, hearing him speak to Clarice, you get shivers down your spine. And all I could think was "Oh my God, this guy has got to be the creepiest guy I've ever seen." Very impressive.
Joker- In the middle of a robbery, people are killing each other left and right. Then, after being the last man left in the robbery, the mastermind reveals himself to be the actual Joker. On top of that, it is shown that he robbed the mob. Smart, crazy, merciless. All good things to show for a villain.
Final Verdict: Lector's "I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti." at the beginning still freaks me out. He wins this category easily. Second: Joker. Third: Vader.
Greatest Strengths: What are these villains best at?
Lector- A great psychological mind. He convinced a guy to choke himself to death, he escaped by having a mask using another person's face. Although maybe not impressive on the outside, his mind is a most powerful weapon.
Joker- Creative use of weaponry. He kills a guy with a "disappearing" pencil. He straps a bomb to a cell phone to escape. Works on a great "social experiment" and has explosives on some ferries, and tries to get the passengers to blow them up. Gifted, as well as impressive.
Vader- The dark side of the Force. Seriously, he is one of the best with a lightsaber, he can use powers that most Jedi couldn't imagine, and he's a great pilot. Force choke is one of those special things that shouldn't be trifled with.
Final Verdict: This is a hard one, because all three have great gifts (would beat any other villain that has ever appeared). But, considering that the Force is superhuman, while the others are not, I'm going with Darth Vader. Second: Lector. Third: Joker
Moment of Weakness: Who screwed up the least in their moment of weakness?
Joker- He could never convince Batman to kill (aka, break his only rule). To counteract this, he created Harvey Two-Face. "An ace in the hole." Clever, and a good solution. Plus, failing on dying is a decent consolation.
Vader- He ended up showing mercy on his son, killing his former master and turning into a good guy at the end. In terms of the movie, it was a touching moment and a good way to end it. In terms of movie villainy, poor show Vader. Poor show.
Lector- He may be a bad guy, but he's still helping Clarice find another bad guy. Also, he does appear to have a sense of a little morality, based on Clarice saying to her friend "He won't come after me... he'd consider it rude." Interesting, but not convenient for him.
Final Verdict: It's probably obvious, but Joker's failings keep him alive. Good job for him. Second: Lector. Third: Vader.
Diabolical Schemes: Who has the best goals in life?
Vader- Rule the galaxy as the most powerful being. Hardcore, to the point, and overall, very good, even though it's tradtional.
Lector- His main plan is to escape, so he can get a good meal. More plans of necessity than anything else, but considering how he gets a good meal, they are still solid.
Joker- Total anarchy. How fun. How crazy. How awesome.
Final Verdict: Yeah, it's traditional, but I really like how Darth Vader rolls here. Second: Joker. Third: Lector
Legacy: How are you going to remember these guys years from now.
Lector- He is the creepiest character I've ever seen. Seeing him on screen will always give me chills.
Joker- I will remember him more as Heath Ledger's last role, and how psychotic this guy was. Because I'm convinced the only thing crazier he could have tried was walking out of the movie screen and killing a few audience members.
Vader- So much here. Hearing the Imperial March, and seeing him just demand presence. Just awesome.
Final Verdict: Really grasping for straws here. I can't choose. It's a tie. Between all 3.
Greatest Moment: What defines their greatness.
Joker- "I'd like to show you a magic trick." Is there any way to strike fear into someone else, in such an entertaining way?
Vader- "No, I am you father!" It isn't just the line. It's all that's going on. Vader is threatening to KILL his own son. Also, he has already cut off his hand, leaving him defenseless.
Lector- His escape. Well planned, violent, creepy, but very, very well done.
Final Verdict: It was his own son after all. Vader wins. Second- Lector. Third- Joker (It's sad I have to put the magic trick third).
Conclusion
In the end (without looking at the catagory wins, granted), I'd still go with Darth Vader and Hannibal Lector over the new Joker. But it's close. I think anyone can agree that this Joker is incredible, and makes the Dark Knight the best film of the year (so far).
Let the debating begin.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Something of Note I found
I realize I haven't actually blogged in a while, and I'll probably have a real update soon (okay well maybe, maybe not). However, I was sent this earlier today and I feel it should be shared.
Michael Jordan having "retired," with $40 million in endorsements, makes $178,100 a day, working or not.
If he sleeps 7 hours a night, he makes $52,000 every night while visions of sugarplums dance in his head.
If he goes to see a movie, it'll cost him $7.00, but he'll make $18,550 while he's there.
If he decides to have a 5-minute egg, he'll make $618 while boiling it.
He makes $7,415/hr more than minimum wage.
He'll make $3,710 while watching each episode of Friends.
If he wanted to save up for a new Acura NSX ($90,000) it would take him a whole 12 hours.
If someone were to hand him his salary and endorsement money, they would have to do it at the rate of $2.00 every second.
He'll probably pay around $200 for a nice round of golf, but will be reimbursed $33,390 for that round.
Assuming he puts the federal maximum of 15% of his income into a tax deferred account (401k), his contributions will hit the federal cap of $9500 at 8:30 a.m. on January 1st.
If you were given a penny for every 10 dollars he made, you'd be living comfortably at $65,000 a year.
He'll make about $19.60 while watching the 100 meter dash in the Olympics, and about $15,600 during the Boston Marathon.
While the common person is spending about $20 for a meal in his trendy Chicago restaurant, he'll pull in about $5600.
This year, he'll make more than twice as much as all U.S. past presidents for all of their terms combined. Amazing isn't it?
However...
If Jordan saves 100% of his income for the next 450 years, he'll still have less than Bill Gates has today.
$$$ Game over. Nerd wins.
Michael Jordan having "retired," with $40 million in endorsements, makes $178,100 a day, working or not.
If he sleeps 7 hours a night, he makes $52,000 every night while visions of sugarplums dance in his head.
If he goes to see a movie, it'll cost him $7.00, but he'll make $18,550 while he's there.
If he decides to have a 5-minute egg, he'll make $618 while boiling it.
He makes $7,415/hr more than minimum wage.
He'll make $3,710 while watching each episode of Friends.
If he wanted to save up for a new Acura NSX ($90,000) it would take him a whole 12 hours.
If someone were to hand him his salary and endorsement money, they would have to do it at the rate of $2.00 every second.
He'll probably pay around $200 for a nice round of golf, but will be reimbursed $33,390 for that round.
Assuming he puts the federal maximum of 15% of his income into a tax deferred account (401k), his contributions will hit the federal cap of $9500 at 8:30 a.m. on January 1st.
If you were given a penny for every 10 dollars he made, you'd be living comfortably at $65,000 a year.
He'll make about $19.60 while watching the 100 meter dash in the Olympics, and about $15,600 during the Boston Marathon.
While the common person is spending about $20 for a meal in his trendy Chicago restaurant, he'll pull in about $5600.
This year, he'll make more than twice as much as all U.S. past presidents for all of their terms combined. Amazing isn't it?
However...
If Jordan saves 100% of his income for the next 450 years, he'll still have less than Bill Gates has today.
$$$ Game over. Nerd wins.
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