When I was younger, my brother would always compete with me in everything. Especially sports. We would shoot hoops against each other, run sprints to see who would finish faster, farther, anything like that. At this point, I was bigger, stronger and more coordinated, so it wasn't always that difficult to beat him. I also didn't see beating him as much of a big deal. However, I can only imagine how important it was for him to beat me at anything. Well, it started with basketball. While I had a physical advantage, he worked on the other aspects of his game. He would work on a solid jumpshot. He would work on his mobility. Me, I took victory for granted. I didn't care much. I just enjoyed winning, and growing through puberty helped in that regard, until that fateful day that Ryan finally took his big brother on and beat him down. He's now bigger, faster, stronger, and cares more. I'd never play him in sports again, because he'd probably wipe the floor with me.
Why do I bring up these painful memories? Well, Michigan State University, the school I attend, has often been described as the "little brother" university to the University of Michigan. One friend of mine (known as the Wandering Wolverine) assumes that we have a severe inferiority complex with them. And you know what, the little brother comparison seems to work. Our year is always compared to UM. And let me tell you, it's been many years of disappointment. We can't help but look at the school just down the way and think, "Why can't our football team be like that? What do they have that we don't?" We've been put down to the point where we really, really, really want to win. On the flip side, my sources at UM tell me that they really don't care about us. They want to beat us, obviously, but after that, they could care less. Some even root for us in games. Shocking, I know.
Well, now is the time. Big brother looks weak, tired, beat up. They've struggled against powerhouse teams like Toledo. They're in a rebuilding stage, obviously. On the other side, little brother is looking like a program with upside. They look like a team that can compete for a January bowl game (note: Compete does not mean always get it, it just means that they'll be in the mix for it. Considering where they were my freshman year, it's a big step in the right direction). They have a coach that preaches toughness and unity. Could this be the time big brother falls?
If there were any year to be confident in a Michigan State victory, this would be the year. UM looks bad; before last week, Michigan State has looked pretty good. UM is still learning a new offense; Michigan State knows their systems and is ready. The drought Michigan State has had in the Big House still looms, but does it affect these new players coming in to this new system? That is the big question, but I don't think it will. In fact, I feel like the time is now. The time that the little brother finally strikes back and takes victory. They just have a better team this year.
I hope.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
In the future, NCAA requires all amateur athletes to remain in an 8x8 box, in order to retain their amateur status
At the beginning of my freshman year, there was a movement to try and get our preseason best player, Drew Stanton, on the early Heisman ballot. I mean, we believed he was going to be the greatest QB we've ever had. As part of that, someone made a bunch of "Drew Stanton for Heisman" T-shirts. Later in that year, after our season had started to collapse, and Stanton was injured...again... another group of people started a facebook group, along with T-shirts for sale, entitled "Brett Swenson for Heisman". Both shirts were fun, we realized that the odds of these winning the Heisman extremely low (for our poor kicker, absolutely no chance). Let's fast forward to this year.
It's after week 4 of the college football season. We now have a running back, the great Javon Ringer, with a legitimate, although small, chance to win the Heisman. And of course, I joined a "Javon Ringer for Heisman" facebook group and have received at lease one message saying that, surprise surprise, "Javon Ringer for Heisman" shirts are now on sale. I never planned on buying one anyway, but it's nice to know that the tradition still loves on. Well, so I thought. A few days ago, I got a message from the head of the group with this message (note: The bolded part is what I'll be focusing on for the rest of this post).
"hey guys, I guess the alumni club leaders got this email...so just make sure you arent buying the T-shirts or selling anything along these lines
===================
Dear Alumni Club Leaders,
Michigan State University was contacted this morning by the Heisman award organization regarding a t-shirt sale to promote Javon Ringer as a Heisman Trophy candidate. One of our regional clubs had been asked to forward an email solicitation from the individual promoting the sale. The sale of this t-shirt immediately jeopardizes Javon Ringers status as an amateur athlete. The Heisman award organization made it known that Javon’s candidacy for the Trophy would also be in jeopardy if the sale continues.
Please do not participate in any promotional activity regarding the sale of a Javon Ringer t-shirt. I have contacted the individual identified on the email solicitation and asked him to immediately stop the promotion and sale of the merchandise.
Thank you."
As it was explained to me, the problem is with Ringer's name being used in any sort of marketing. Because using a name is violating this idea of naming rights, which amateur athletes cannot have, this is a violation. To put it plainly, this means that if a fan uses his name in anyway way that might make money for someone, it's illegal. How stupid! This is awful! (As a sidenote, to avoid any rule violations, I will now refer to Javon Ringer as Spartan RB #23. Don't want to violate rules by posting his name in a public blog). Here's some of my reasons why.
#1) Why should an athlete be punished for a fan's thing, especially when the athlete has no knowledge of it and is not making money on it? I mean, as far as I know, Spartan RB #23 had no idea of any T-shirt designs, and was certainly not making any money off of it. He probably is flattered that we want to have him win the Heisman, but it's probably not much more than a passing thought, to be honest. So the NCAA is planning to punish a guy for doing nothing on his own? Yeah, that sounds logical. He is not responsible for doing anything, this isn't sanctioned by the University, why should the NCAA even bother?
#2) It isn't like Spartan RB #23 is gaining anything on campus or in his future because people are using his name. Guess what? Everyone on MSU's campus knows who Spartan RB #23 is, and how good he is. Everyone in the Big Ten realizes that Spartan RB #23 has the potential to get 200 yards on them. And everyone in the NFL knows is frantically figuring out how good of a prospect Spartan RB #23 is. So what is a few hundred T-shirts tops going to change. Speaking of how he got so big...
#3) Wait, doesn't ESPN among other places make money by analyzing these athletes, promoting these athletes, etc.? This is not a critique on ESPN. I would not want to hear analysis concerning Spartan RB #23, or Missouri QB #10, or any number of other athletes. It'd be confusing. Heck, they probably couldn't show anything, wouldn't want people to actually see on TV how these players are doing. But doesn't it seem a little hypocritical to you? Why would the NCAA allow ESPN to make money off these players by showing the games, analyzing the athletes, showing highlights, etc., yet they won't let a kid make a few bucks off a T-shirt to which there is no way it will benefit the athlete in question? (Wait, I know the answer to that. I'm guessing that the reason why the NCAA allows ESPN to function starts with a $).
Maybe the T-shirts are against the letter of the rule (though, I doubt it violates the reason why the rule was put in place). But, in my opinion, if there are rules to prevent shirts like this, a fun thing for fans, than maybe the rule should be changed. At least, I'd say so. Somehow, I doubt that'll happen.
It's after week 4 of the college football season. We now have a running back, the great Javon Ringer, with a legitimate, although small, chance to win the Heisman. And of course, I joined a "Javon Ringer for Heisman" facebook group and have received at lease one message saying that, surprise surprise, "Javon Ringer for Heisman" shirts are now on sale. I never planned on buying one anyway, but it's nice to know that the tradition still loves on. Well, so I thought. A few days ago, I got a message from the head of the group with this message (note: The bolded part is what I'll be focusing on for the rest of this post).
"hey guys, I guess the alumni club leaders got this email...so just make sure you arent buying the T-shirts or selling anything along these lines
===================
Dear Alumni Club Leaders,
Michigan State University was contacted this morning by the Heisman award organization regarding a t-shirt sale to promote Javon Ringer as a Heisman Trophy candidate. One of our regional clubs had been asked to forward an email solicitation from the individual promoting the sale. The sale of this t-shirt immediately jeopardizes Javon Ringers status as an amateur athlete. The Heisman award organization made it known that Javon’s candidacy for the Trophy would also be in jeopardy if the sale continues.
Please do not participate in any promotional activity regarding the sale of a Javon Ringer t-shirt. I have contacted the individual identified on the email solicitation and asked him to immediately stop the promotion and sale of the merchandise.
Thank you."
As it was explained to me, the problem is with Ringer's name being used in any sort of marketing. Because using a name is violating this idea of naming rights, which amateur athletes cannot have, this is a violation. To put it plainly, this means that if a fan uses his name in anyway way that might make money for someone, it's illegal. How stupid! This is awful! (As a sidenote, to avoid any rule violations, I will now refer to Javon Ringer as Spartan RB #23. Don't want to violate rules by posting his name in a public blog). Here's some of my reasons why.
#1) Why should an athlete be punished for a fan's thing, especially when the athlete has no knowledge of it and is not making money on it? I mean, as far as I know, Spartan RB #23 had no idea of any T-shirt designs, and was certainly not making any money off of it. He probably is flattered that we want to have him win the Heisman, but it's probably not much more than a passing thought, to be honest. So the NCAA is planning to punish a guy for doing nothing on his own? Yeah, that sounds logical. He is not responsible for doing anything, this isn't sanctioned by the University, why should the NCAA even bother?
#2) It isn't like Spartan RB #23 is gaining anything on campus or in his future because people are using his name. Guess what? Everyone on MSU's campus knows who Spartan RB #23 is, and how good he is. Everyone in the Big Ten realizes that Spartan RB #23 has the potential to get 200 yards on them. And everyone in the NFL knows is frantically figuring out how good of a prospect Spartan RB #23 is. So what is a few hundred T-shirts tops going to change. Speaking of how he got so big...
#3) Wait, doesn't ESPN among other places make money by analyzing these athletes, promoting these athletes, etc.? This is not a critique on ESPN. I would not want to hear analysis concerning Spartan RB #23, or Missouri QB #10, or any number of other athletes. It'd be confusing. Heck, they probably couldn't show anything, wouldn't want people to actually see on TV how these players are doing. But doesn't it seem a little hypocritical to you? Why would the NCAA allow ESPN to make money off these players by showing the games, analyzing the athletes, showing highlights, etc., yet they won't let a kid make a few bucks off a T-shirt to which there is no way it will benefit the athlete in question? (Wait, I know the answer to that. I'm guessing that the reason why the NCAA allows ESPN to function starts with a $).
Maybe the T-shirts are against the letter of the rule (though, I doubt it violates the reason why the rule was put in place). But, in my opinion, if there are rules to prevent shirts like this, a fun thing for fans, than maybe the rule should be changed. At least, I'd say so. Somehow, I doubt that'll happen.
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
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