Is it just me, or does anyone else find it ironic that the city of Dallas is covered with a white powdery substance during the week when all of the world’s eyes are fixated on that city? Kind of reminds me of the Cowboy’s heyday in the early 90’s, when America’s eyes were also fixated on Dallas Texas and “America’s Team”. Shout out to Michael Irvin.
I must say that I am interested in how the NFL reacts to the terrible weather that is putting a damper on the usually festive mood that surrounds the Super Bowl each year. I am watching closely because I live in Atlanta, which has hosted two previous Super Bowls. However, our bid for a third has been repeatedly denied due in large part to an ice storm that took place in late January 2000. Never mind the fact that the game was actually played in a comfortable 72 degree dome (where all football should be played in my opinion), and that it had one of the most amazing endings in Super Bowl history, the NFL simply will not award another Super Bowl to my great city. Although I think the most important thing about Super Bowl week in the actual SUPER BOWL, there are obviously those who feel as though the partying and corporate schmoozing that goes on is more important than the actual game. To those people, I say enjoy the snow, while we real football fans (who largely can’t afford tickets) enjoy the actual game.
Now, what you all have been waiting for….
THE SUPER BOWL (Steelers vs. Packers) – This game will feature the #1 and #3 ranked defenses in the league this year. Logically, this would lead you to believe that this game will be a low scoring defensive slugfest. If you believe this, you are absolutely WRONG! While the defenses on both sides are extremely good, both of these quarterbacks are great, and great usually beats good where I’m from. This game will be an absolute track-meet with both teams scoring in the 30’s. Trying to pick a winner is this game will be like splitting hairs. In a way these teams are mirror images of each other, which will make for a highly entertaining game. Let’s take a look at some of the key positional matchups in this game:
Quarterback
Ben Roethlisberger v/s Aaron Rodgers - Ben Roethlisberger has proven to be the best clutch quarterback in the NFL today. A fact that has Steelers’ fans absolutely giddy about the possibility of winning a 7th Super Bowl. However, Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers is quickly becoming THE BEST QUARTERBACK IN THE NFL! (I know that a lot of you won’t believe that I said that, considering the big football related man-crush that I have had on Peyton Manning, but I think that Rodgers is quickly surpassing him and all of the other usual suspects that are in that conversation). There was once a time when the Packer fan-base was split over Rodgers and a certain diva quarterback who wears #4 t-shirts in Wrangler commercials they way people were split over Michael Jackson and Prince in the 80’s. Looks like Rodgers has brought them all together to sing his praises in unison.
Running Back
No need to compare the running backs in this game because neither team will be able to run the ball, nor will they try very hard to establish the run. Look for both QB’s to throw for nearly 400 yards.
Wide Receiver
Mike Wallace is an absolute beast and is one of the five fastest players in the entire league, along with Chris Johnson, Devin Hester, DeSean Jackson, and…. Darius Heyward-Bey (one day when he actually catches a pass we will be able to see how fast he is with a football in his hands).
I know this isn’t comparing apples to apples and it is crossing sports, but who was the better draft pick, Darius Heyward-Bey (taken 7th overall by the Oakland Raiders when Michael Crabtree, Percy Harvin, Jeremy Maclin, Kenny Britt, and Hakeem Nicks were still available) or Marvin Williams (taken 2nd overall by the Atlanta Hawks when point guard was their obvious need and Chris Paul, Deron Williams, and Monte Ellis were all available).
I digress, I just love finding time to point out how terrible of a draft pick Marvin Williams was, and the fact that he has lived up to expectations by becoming a terrible NBA player (considering how high he was picked). By the way, Williams chimed in with a stellar 9 point effort Friday night (two below his career average of 11).
Sorry about that, but I had to vent. Now back to the regularly scheduled blog, already in progress….
Outside of Wallace, the Steelers’ receivers are rather pedestrian. Hines Ward is still a good player and a reliable third-down receiver, but he doesn’t scare anyone at this point in his career (actually I’m not sure if he ever did). Rodgers on the other-hand has the league’s best group of receivers at his disposal, which is led by Greg Jennings. Four of his receivers had 45 catches or more. This means that he can spread Pittsburgh’s defense out with four or even five receivers (that are legitimate threats), which will prove to be a huge advantage because the Steelers do not have four or five competent cornerbacks to cover this group. Look for both Jennings and James Jones to make a big play at some point during this game.
Defense
These are both hard-hitting and ridiculously athletic 3-4 defenses who run zone blitz schemes designed to confuse the quarterback by coming at him from every conceivable angle with players that they are not accustomed to seeing coming on a blitz. As a matter of fact these were the top two teams in the league this year at knocking the quarterback’s block off (the Steelers led the league with 48 sacks, and the Packers were second with 47). They were also second (Packers) and fifth (Steelers) in interceptions. As I stated earlier, conventional logic would suggest that these stats would lead to a low scoring defensive struggle, but as I also stated earlier, that will not be the case. However, this game will turn on a defensive play. One quarterback will make a big mistake that the defense will capitalize on. There will be a sack-fumble or a pick-six in this game that will make all of the difference. Many would assume that this play will be made by Troy Polamalu, James Harrison, Clay Matthews, or Charles Woodson. Those assumptions would be incorrect. The player that will make the Straight Cash Homey!!!! game-changing play of the game will be Green Bay cornerback Tramon Williams. This play will propel him to game MVP status (I bet you didn’t see that one coming).
The Bottom Line
This game will have everything that a football fan looks for in a Super Bowl, and for the fourth consecutive year, football fans will be treated to a phenomenal championship game. This will be the game in which the legend of Aaron Rodgers will begin to be built. Look for him to have a monster game and lead the Packers to victory.
My Prediction: Packers 38 – Steelers 31
One other thing….
I would be remised, if I didn’t give the proper credit to Jerry Jones and Roger Goddell for figuring out a way to take even more money from football crazed (and not all that intelligent) fans. They are giving people the opportunity to pay $200 per ticket (must purchase a minimum of four tickets) to stand outside of Cowboy’s Stadium and watch the game on HD televisions. That is absolutely foolish to me, but they are selling like crazy and even appearing on the secondary ticket market for around $330. Love or hate him, Jerry Jones is one brilliant businessman or should that be a Business, Man.
Also….
I usually don’t get into the Super Bowl commercials (I usually use that time to “refuel” with soft drinks of course), but I can’t wait to see what my little homey, the ETRADE baby comes up with this year. Those commercials are awesome!
Showing posts with label aaron rodgers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label aaron rodgers. Show all posts
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Monday, December 27, 2010
THE MYTHICAL BOOK
Can someone please show me the official NCAA rulebook? If you have a copy, please send it to me. I will even send you a self-addressed, pre-paid, Fed-Ex envelope in which to send it. I challenge anyone to produce this document, because I simply don’t believe that it exists. Until I see this book with my own eyes I will believe that the National Committee of Asinine Administrators are simple making up the rules as they go along, with a focus on accommodating the growth of their pocket books and the well-being of their highest revenue generating member institutions.
It’s no secret that I hate the NCAA, and would like nothing more than to see this hypocritical organization broken up like the $710 million revenue generating monopoly that they are. (This $710 million figure is according to THEIR 2009-2010 revenue budget), so FORGIVE ME FOR THINKING THAT THEY ARE NOT REPORTING EVERYTHING AND THAT THIS NUMBER IS INDEED UNDERSTATED!
I know that I may sound like the Mad Blogger right now (I keep hearing a voice in the back of my head shouting “tell’em why you mad son”), but the NCAA’s handling of the most recent incident at The University of Ohio State (at least that's what Pryor thinks that school is called) is absolutely ridiculous. Everyone outside of Auburn, Alabama should be mad as hell at this farce of a punishment that was given out to the NCAA darlings that reside in Columbus Ohio. Auburn fans, just keep your mouth shut on this one because you all are currently getting away with things that would make former SMU boosters proud (Cam Newton may be the highest paid state employee in Alabama).
Apparently four prominent (and six total) Buckeye football players (and allegedly student-athletes) have been found by the NCAA to have accepted improper benefits. These benefits were the proceeds that the players made by selling championship rings, jerseys, and other awards for cash. While I disagree with 90% of NCAA rules, I do believe that these stupid rules should be enforced fairly and evenly throughout all of their member institutions. This means that if players at two different schools violate an NCAA rule, they should be subject to the same punishment. This is obviously not the case with the NCAA. Apparently the punishment for selling memorabilia is a four to five game suspension (although I seriously doubt that we will see that in writing anywhere). I am guessing that this is the punishment because University of Georgia wide receiver AJ Greene (who should be the first receiver drafted in April) was forced to sit out four games and pay back the proceeds that he got from selling an Independence Bowl jersey. He sat out the first four games of Georgia’s season (presumably because they were the next four games after he was found to have violated the rules), which basically ended their season before it got started. The University of Ohio State on the other hand is governed by a different set of rules. Since they are among the NCAA and the bowl system's favorite programs, the punishment for their star players will be slightly different from Greene’s. They will face a five game suspension as opposed to Greene’s four game ban, however, this suspension does not start until next season. This means that these players will be able to play in the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 4th.
Many people are wondering how you can suspend players for the following season for violations that you discovered this season. Also isn’t it much more of a deterant to other players if the players are forced to miss a BS (the “C” is optional, so you can include it if you like) game. It is logical for people to feel this way, but the logical people who have these questions must remember two things. 1) The NCAA is not a logical organization therefore they do not make logical decisions, EVER! and 2) This is The University of Ohio State, which means that they are indeed above the law.
Just think back to the days of Maurice Clarett, who received thousands of dollars in improper benefits while leading the old Scarlett and Gray to a National Championship in 2002. In addition to the improper benefits, he repeatedly lied to NCAA investigators about his dealings in Columbus. Instead of punishing the program, the NCAA let The University of Ohio State simply toss Clarett to the wayside, without suffering any punishment. So in essence, the player who led the team in rushing and practically won the National Championship for them single-handidly (by making great offensive and defensive plays) was dismissed from school (which he deserved), but the school got to keep their National Championship and all of the revenue that came with it, and coach sweater-vest is still stalking the sidelines in Columbus beating up on glorified high school teams around the state of Ohio, while playing in a BS game almost every year. Their non-conference schedule annually includes Ohio University, Akron, and Youngstown State. In addition to that, they play in a Big Ten Conference that usually proves to be pretty weak, yet year in and year out they are highly ranked and virtually ensured in playing in a top bowl game. Even this season, when the Big Ten Conference had a three-way tie at the top, the Buckeye's still received a BS bid over Michigan State, because they have more of a national profile and they “travel well” (I guess any vacation is better than going to Cleveland), and thanks to the NCAA they will be traveling with their starting quarterback, running back, and two other key starters.
The thing that really makes this punishment laughable is the fact that the four key players that were suspended for the first five games of next season are all eligible to enter the NFL draft. If they choose to do so (which I am sure at least three will), The University of Ohio State would receive virtually no punishment for this incident, which is to be suspected because the boys up there in Columbus are definitely above the law. The NCAA stated along with this decision that postseason play is a “unique opportunity” that is “evaluated differently” when it comes to punishment, which is in essence saying that this is a high-profile game and we want to put our best product on the field, damn the rules that we created to govern ourselves by.
Although I gladly cheer each time this asinine organization makes a bone-headed decision that makes them look like the idiots that they are, I must applaud them for at least pretending to crack down on players who sell their memorabilia and paraphanelia. There are some that argue that these items belong to the players and are theirs to sell if they please. I strongly disagree with this argument, because this will open the door to players selling their $300 conference championship rings to boosters for $20,000. If that wouldn’t amount to a recruiting advantage, I don’t know what would. Just imagine coach sweater-vest telling a recruit that he should come to The University of Ohio State where he can win Big-Ten championships and sell the rings for tens of thousands of dollars. Worse yet, boosters of schools that are recruiting high profile prospects could potentially start buying thier high school championship rings and t-shirts for thousands of dollars, just to let the recruits know how much they "love a winner".
For all of the Division 1 athletes that may read this entry, I want to leave you with some words of advice. Do not sell your personal rings and other awards until you are eligible to go pro, and your chances of getting away with it increases ten-fold if you attend The University of Ohio State.
One Final Thought: The NCAA ruled the players eligible to play, but the idiots at The University of Ohio State can take a stand and do the right thing by suspending the players themselves. I seriously doubt that they will do such a thing, but there is still the remote possibility that they will do what's right.
AND NOW FOR MY BALLER & SCRUB OF THE WEEK:
BALLER OF THE WEEK: LeBron James (Miami Heat) – Last week he messed around and got a triple-double against the Lakers. LeBron proved once again that he is the best player in the league with his 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists on Christmas day.
BALLER OF THE WEEK: Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers) – 25 of 37 for 404 yards with 4 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. They say that big-time players show up in big-time games, which is what Rodgers did in a must win game for his team’s playoff hopes.
SCRUB OF THE WEEK: The NFC West – If Seattle beats St. Louis on Sunday they will win the division with a 7-9 record. Worse yet, they will have a HOME game to open the playoffs. If this happens, something tells me the NFL will be reseeding playoff teams by record next season. The NFL also shares in this honor for making this game the NBC Sunday Night Football game. What did the rest of us do to deserve to have this as a nationally telvised game? This punishment should be reserved for the people in Seattle and St. Louis only!
Totally Unrelated to the World of Sports: If you enjoy hip-hop and are in the market for something new to bump in your iPod, I strongly recommend Friday Night Lights by J. Cole. Give it a listen if you haven't already, you won't be disappointed. As a matter of fact, if you download it for FREE from his website at http://www.jcolemusic.com/ and don't like it, I will give you your money back!
It’s no secret that I hate the NCAA, and would like nothing more than to see this hypocritical organization broken up like the $710 million revenue generating monopoly that they are. (This $710 million figure is according to THEIR 2009-2010 revenue budget), so FORGIVE ME FOR THINKING THAT THEY ARE NOT REPORTING EVERYTHING AND THAT THIS NUMBER IS INDEED UNDERSTATED!
I know that I may sound like the Mad Blogger right now (I keep hearing a voice in the back of my head shouting “tell’em why you mad son”), but the NCAA’s handling of the most recent incident at The University of Ohio State (at least that's what Pryor thinks that school is called) is absolutely ridiculous. Everyone outside of Auburn, Alabama should be mad as hell at this farce of a punishment that was given out to the NCAA darlings that reside in Columbus Ohio. Auburn fans, just keep your mouth shut on this one because you all are currently getting away with things that would make former SMU boosters proud (Cam Newton may be the highest paid state employee in Alabama).
Apparently four prominent (and six total) Buckeye football players (and allegedly student-athletes) have been found by the NCAA to have accepted improper benefits. These benefits were the proceeds that the players made by selling championship rings, jerseys, and other awards for cash. While I disagree with 90% of NCAA rules, I do believe that these stupid rules should be enforced fairly and evenly throughout all of their member institutions. This means that if players at two different schools violate an NCAA rule, they should be subject to the same punishment. This is obviously not the case with the NCAA. Apparently the punishment for selling memorabilia is a four to five game suspension (although I seriously doubt that we will see that in writing anywhere). I am guessing that this is the punishment because University of Georgia wide receiver AJ Greene (who should be the first receiver drafted in April) was forced to sit out four games and pay back the proceeds that he got from selling an Independence Bowl jersey. He sat out the first four games of Georgia’s season (presumably because they were the next four games after he was found to have violated the rules), which basically ended their season before it got started. The University of Ohio State on the other hand is governed by a different set of rules. Since they are among the NCAA and the bowl system's favorite programs, the punishment for their star players will be slightly different from Greene’s. They will face a five game suspension as opposed to Greene’s four game ban, however, this suspension does not start until next season. This means that these players will be able to play in the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 4th.
Many people are wondering how you can suspend players for the following season for violations that you discovered this season. Also isn’t it much more of a deterant to other players if the players are forced to miss a BS (the “C” is optional, so you can include it if you like) game. It is logical for people to feel this way, but the logical people who have these questions must remember two things. 1) The NCAA is not a logical organization therefore they do not make logical decisions, EVER! and 2) This is The University of Ohio State, which means that they are indeed above the law.
Just think back to the days of Maurice Clarett, who received thousands of dollars in improper benefits while leading the old Scarlett and Gray to a National Championship in 2002. In addition to the improper benefits, he repeatedly lied to NCAA investigators about his dealings in Columbus. Instead of punishing the program, the NCAA let The University of Ohio State simply toss Clarett to the wayside, without suffering any punishment. So in essence, the player who led the team in rushing and practically won the National Championship for them single-handidly (by making great offensive and defensive plays) was dismissed from school (which he deserved), but the school got to keep their National Championship and all of the revenue that came with it, and coach sweater-vest is still stalking the sidelines in Columbus beating up on glorified high school teams around the state of Ohio, while playing in a BS game almost every year. Their non-conference schedule annually includes Ohio University, Akron, and Youngstown State. In addition to that, they play in a Big Ten Conference that usually proves to be pretty weak, yet year in and year out they are highly ranked and virtually ensured in playing in a top bowl game. Even this season, when the Big Ten Conference had a three-way tie at the top, the Buckeye's still received a BS bid over Michigan State, because they have more of a national profile and they “travel well” (I guess any vacation is better than going to Cleveland), and thanks to the NCAA they will be traveling with their starting quarterback, running back, and two other key starters.
The thing that really makes this punishment laughable is the fact that the four key players that were suspended for the first five games of next season are all eligible to enter the NFL draft. If they choose to do so (which I am sure at least three will), The University of Ohio State would receive virtually no punishment for this incident, which is to be suspected because the boys up there in Columbus are definitely above the law. The NCAA stated along with this decision that postseason play is a “unique opportunity” that is “evaluated differently” when it comes to punishment, which is in essence saying that this is a high-profile game and we want to put our best product on the field, damn the rules that we created to govern ourselves by.
Although I gladly cheer each time this asinine organization makes a bone-headed decision that makes them look like the idiots that they are, I must applaud them for at least pretending to crack down on players who sell their memorabilia and paraphanelia. There are some that argue that these items belong to the players and are theirs to sell if they please. I strongly disagree with this argument, because this will open the door to players selling their $300 conference championship rings to boosters for $20,000. If that wouldn’t amount to a recruiting advantage, I don’t know what would. Just imagine coach sweater-vest telling a recruit that he should come to The University of Ohio State where he can win Big-Ten championships and sell the rings for tens of thousands of dollars. Worse yet, boosters of schools that are recruiting high profile prospects could potentially start buying thier high school championship rings and t-shirts for thousands of dollars, just to let the recruits know how much they "love a winner".
For all of the Division 1 athletes that may read this entry, I want to leave you with some words of advice. Do not sell your personal rings and other awards until you are eligible to go pro, and your chances of getting away with it increases ten-fold if you attend The University of Ohio State.
One Final Thought: The NCAA ruled the players eligible to play, but the idiots at The University of Ohio State can take a stand and do the right thing by suspending the players themselves. I seriously doubt that they will do such a thing, but there is still the remote possibility that they will do what's right.
AND NOW FOR MY BALLER & SCRUB OF THE WEEK:
BALLER OF THE WEEK: LeBron James (Miami Heat) – Last week he messed around and got a triple-double against the Lakers. LeBron proved once again that he is the best player in the league with his 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists on Christmas day.
BALLER OF THE WEEK: Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers) – 25 of 37 for 404 yards with 4 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. They say that big-time players show up in big-time games, which is what Rodgers did in a must win game for his team’s playoff hopes.
SCRUB OF THE WEEK: The NFC West – If Seattle beats St. Louis on Sunday they will win the division with a 7-9 record. Worse yet, they will have a HOME game to open the playoffs. If this happens, something tells me the NFL will be reseeding playoff teams by record next season. The NFL also shares in this honor for making this game the NBC Sunday Night Football game. What did the rest of us do to deserve to have this as a nationally telvised game? This punishment should be reserved for the people in Seattle and St. Louis only!
Totally Unrelated to the World of Sports: If you enjoy hip-hop and are in the market for something new to bump in your iPod, I strongly recommend Friday Night Lights by J. Cole. Give it a listen if you haven't already, you won't be disappointed. As a matter of fact, if you download it for FREE from his website at http://www.jcolemusic.com/ and don't like it, I will give you your money back!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
I KNOW IT’S EARLY, BUT….
Football season is now in full swing. The “kiddies” have been playing for about four weeks and we are in Week 3 of the NFL season. MAN, I AM LOVING LIFE RIGHT NOW!!!! After watching a lot of football over the past month, I have made several observations and have some interesting opinions about what I have seen thus far. Below you will find my opinions and observations (in no particular order) about the college and NFL football seasons thus far. This list was put together as ideas and thoughts popped into my head, so the college and NFL comments are mixed together. Feel free to chime in on any of them and let me know if you agree, disagree, or have other opinions and comments of your own.
DeSean Jackson is the biggest idiot in sports right now. Don't believe me? Here's proof!
Apparently he didn’t just become an idiot, he was also one in High School. You still need proof? Alright, here you go!
DeSean Jackson cost everyone who started Donovan McNabb a lot of fantasy points, but gave those who started Brian Westbrook a freebie.
No disrespect to Jerry Rice, Chris Carter, Art Monk , Steve Largent, or even such greats as Andre Rison, Freddie Mitchell, or Peerless Price, but the BEST TWO RECEIVERS TO EVER PLAY IN THE NFL ARE RANDY MOSS AND TERRELL OWENS!!!!
I really enjoy every agonizing Notre Dame loss (Shout Out to Ty Willingham).
Last week’s Monday Night Football game was the best football game that I have ever seen (and just think it was regular season Week 2 game). I LOVE THE NFL!!!!
Watching Adrian Peterson’s running style reminds me of Eric Dickerson, minus the “Jheri Curl” and “Rec Specs.”
Knowshon Moreno is the best running back in college football.
Sunday’s game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Kansas City Chiefs might serve as the tie-breaker for the #1 overall draft pick. That is unless the Rams have something to say about that.
LSU’s defense is better than at least six NFL defenses right now.
Ohio State should stop playing non-conference games against teams from other BCS conferences. It’s starting to get embarrassing.
Georgia’s Matthew Stafford should be the first quarterback selected in the 2009 NFL Draft if he decides to leave school a year early.
I am still waiting on my consulting fee from Georgia Tech for the Paul Johnson hire.
Ron Jaworski & Pat Kirwin are the most brilliant football minds in America.
Every NFL fan should have Sirius NFL radio (The Best Radio on Radio).
The Saints (everyone’s pre-season favorite to win their division) better watch out for the Panthers & Buccaneers in the NFC South.
DeAngelo Hall is not an elite corner. His mother doesn’t even think so anymore.
Jay Cutler is the truth.
Vince Young will be out of the league soon.
At this point in their careers, I would take Aaron Rogers over Brett “Diva” Favre (Looks like the Packers made the right decision).
The Dallas Cowboys are the most impressive team in the NFL entering Week 3.
The Minnesota Vikings shouldn’t have benched Tavarris Jackson. They are making him the scapegoat. Although he hasn’t played great, he isn’t the sole reason they are 0 – 2.
Matt Cassel won’t finish the season as the Patriots’ starting quarterback.
Hey Minnesota, If Gus Frerotte’s the answer, I would love to know what the question is.
Note to Daunte Culpepper: You can’t retire from a league that you are not a part of.
This is a bad week to play the Chargers (Good Luck Mr. Favre).
Chase Daniel (University of Missouri quarterback) is a great “college quarterback”. I hope they pay well in Canada.
The Washington Redskins (I hate that nickname, it’s really offensive) are a really good football team. They will make the playoffs as long as their coach stays out of the way.
The New York Giants aren’t as good as everyone thinks.
Cleveland, Jacksonville, and San Diego are the three most disappointing teams in the NFL right now.
The Kansas City Chiefs started their third different quarterback of the season in Week 3. That’s never a good sign.
After predicting that it would happen for 5 straight years, it finally looks like the Arizona Cardinals have a shot at winning the NFC West.
These are just MY early observations and opinions about this football season. Chime in and let me know what you think. Also, feel free to add any of your own observations and opinions.
****COUNTDOWN TO ELECTION DAY****
WE ARE NOW 44 DAYS AWAY FROM ELECTING THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. I HOPE THAT EVERYONE READING THIS HAS ALREADY REGISTERED TO VOTE. IF NOT, PLEASE DO SO SOON. BE SURE TO LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!!!!
DeSean Jackson is the biggest idiot in sports right now. Don't believe me? Here's proof!
Apparently he didn’t just become an idiot, he was also one in High School. You still need proof? Alright, here you go!
DeSean Jackson cost everyone who started Donovan McNabb a lot of fantasy points, but gave those who started Brian Westbrook a freebie.
No disrespect to Jerry Rice, Chris Carter, Art Monk , Steve Largent, or even such greats as Andre Rison, Freddie Mitchell, or Peerless Price, but the BEST TWO RECEIVERS TO EVER PLAY IN THE NFL ARE RANDY MOSS AND TERRELL OWENS!!!!
I really enjoy every agonizing Notre Dame loss (Shout Out to Ty Willingham).
Last week’s Monday Night Football game was the best football game that I have ever seen (and just think it was regular season Week 2 game). I LOVE THE NFL!!!!
Watching Adrian Peterson’s running style reminds me of Eric Dickerson, minus the “Jheri Curl” and “Rec Specs.”
Knowshon Moreno is the best running back in college football.
Sunday’s game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Kansas City Chiefs might serve as the tie-breaker for the #1 overall draft pick. That is unless the Rams have something to say about that.
LSU’s defense is better than at least six NFL defenses right now.
Ohio State should stop playing non-conference games against teams from other BCS conferences. It’s starting to get embarrassing.
Georgia’s Matthew Stafford should be the first quarterback selected in the 2009 NFL Draft if he decides to leave school a year early.
I am still waiting on my consulting fee from Georgia Tech for the Paul Johnson hire.
Ron Jaworski & Pat Kirwin are the most brilliant football minds in America.
Every NFL fan should have Sirius NFL radio (The Best Radio on Radio).
The Saints (everyone’s pre-season favorite to win their division) better watch out for the Panthers & Buccaneers in the NFC South.
DeAngelo Hall is not an elite corner. His mother doesn’t even think so anymore.
Jay Cutler is the truth.
Vince Young will be out of the league soon.
At this point in their careers, I would take Aaron Rogers over Brett “Diva” Favre (Looks like the Packers made the right decision).
The Dallas Cowboys are the most impressive team in the NFL entering Week 3.
The Minnesota Vikings shouldn’t have benched Tavarris Jackson. They are making him the scapegoat. Although he hasn’t played great, he isn’t the sole reason they are 0 – 2.
Matt Cassel won’t finish the season as the Patriots’ starting quarterback.
Hey Minnesota, If Gus Frerotte’s the answer, I would love to know what the question is.
Note to Daunte Culpepper: You can’t retire from a league that you are not a part of.
This is a bad week to play the Chargers (Good Luck Mr. Favre).
Chase Daniel (University of Missouri quarterback) is a great “college quarterback”. I hope they pay well in Canada.
The Washington Redskins (I hate that nickname, it’s really offensive) are a really good football team. They will make the playoffs as long as their coach stays out of the way.
The New York Giants aren’t as good as everyone thinks.
Cleveland, Jacksonville, and San Diego are the three most disappointing teams in the NFL right now.
The Kansas City Chiefs started their third different quarterback of the season in Week 3. That’s never a good sign.
After predicting that it would happen for 5 straight years, it finally looks like the Arizona Cardinals have a shot at winning the NFC West.
These are just MY early observations and opinions about this football season. Chime in and let me know what you think. Also, feel free to add any of your own observations and opinions.
****COUNTDOWN TO ELECTION DAY****
WE ARE NOW 44 DAYS AWAY FROM ELECTING THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. I HOPE THAT EVERYONE READING THIS HAS ALREADY REGISTERED TO VOTE. IF NOT, PLEASE DO SO SOON. BE SURE TO LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!!!!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL
By looking at the title of this entry, you’re probably thinking that I’m talking about Terrell Owens (WRONG!!!!), or Chad Johnson (WRONG!!!!), or maybe even DeAngelo Hall (WRONG AGAIN!!!!). Although all of these players are well-known Diva’s, none of them qualify as the BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL. That distinction belongs to none other than the tractor-riding, King of the Cheese Heads himself, Mr. Brett Favre.
It pains me to look at Brett Favre as a Diva, because I have always looked at him as the ultimate tough guy. He has been under center for 275 consecutive games (counting playoffs). That means that he has always been dependable and there for his team, despite injuries or turmoil in his personal life. That certainly isn’t Diva behavior. As a matter of fact, I felt honored to be able to see him play in person. I was at the Georgia Dome on November 13, 2005 to witness Favre and the irrepressible Samkon Gado beat the Atlanta Falcons. For those who play Fantasy Football, that was the game that made Samkon Gado the hottest commodity on the waiver wire (he had 103 yards and 2 touchdowns on 23 carries and also 1 touchdown reception). Although I admire Brett, and acknowledge that he is a certain first ballot Hall of Famer, I must call a spade a spade. HE IS THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL.
What makes Brett Favre a Diva? The fact that he has been contemplating retirement FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS!!!! So for three straight years, Brett Favre got the full behind kissing treatment from the media, the NFL, and most noticeably his biggest fan Troy Aikman. For a guy who is the face of a TEAM, he seems to enjoy having all of the attention on HIMSELF. The hype started early. I remember watching the NFL Schedule Release show (what can I say, I love the NFL) on the NFL Network prior to the 2005 season. They were already selling the fact that “Brett Favre’s last game” will be televised on the NFL Network. On the day of the game, they even had a live broadcast of the pre-game show from Lambeau Field, complete with the dramatic scene of Favre coming on set and giving Steve Mariucci (his former QB coach) a hug. The Diva behavior continued after the game, with his victory lap around the stadium to take in all the love from the fans (he did a great job of making it look like he was actually retiring). Then suddenly, he said GOTCHA to everyone and decided to play again. He then went through the same song and dance after the 2006 season before playing again in 2007. Then after the 2007 season he finally decided to retire.
Now, the Diva has decided that he would like more attention. There are reports that say that Favre wants to comeback. If these reports are true, Brett Favre is essentially continuing to hold the Packers hostage and making it all about him, yet again. The Packers now have their backs against the wall in the court of public opinion. Although Ted Thompson (General Manager) and Mike McCarthy (Head Coach) don’t want to be known as the people who turned away Brett Favre, it is obvious that they are ready to move on without him. As a matter of fact, one report stated that his agent contacted the Packers about a possible return, and was told that the team had already moved on. In addition to that, they also scheduled his jersey retirement ceremony for the first game of the season and drafted not one but two quarterbacks in the recent NFL draft. Also, notice that no one from the Packers has stood behind a microphone and said, “We would love to have Brett Favre back.” If the Packers really wanted Brett Favre back, don’t you think that someone would say so.
It is not unusual for a professional athlete to struggle with the idea of retiring, and there are many cases where athletes actually retire, then decide to play again. I don’t have a problem with that, because everyone should have the right to change their mind. What I do have a problem with is when a player purposely holds a franchise hostage year after year, for his own selfish reasons. Brett Favre has long been looked at as the ultimate Packer, a great leader, and a great teammate. I for one, think that perception is not reality in this case. There have been many instances where he has proven not to be a great teammate and definitely not a leader. Along with his constant waffling about retiring or playing, I also point to two instances that show the real Diva in Brett Favre. The first being his refusal to serve as a mentor to Aaron Rodgers after Rodgers was drafted in 2005. I think that this is ridiculous because he knows that Rodgers is no threat to replace MR. PACKER in Green Bay, so why not help him learn the ropes in case he is forced into action due to an injury or you ACTUALLY RETIRING. The second instance occurred after the 2004 season. Javon Walker (a then Packer wide receiver) was threatening to hold out for a new contract. After having a breakout season (89 catches, 1,382 yards, 12 touchdowns), Walker wanted to renegotiate his contract. That is when the Diva himself, broke a man-law, and interfered in another player’s contract situation by speaking out against Walker holding out and trying to get a new contract. A good teammate never does that. His comments essentially turned the whole state of Wisconsin against Javon Walker.
Brett Favre is an all-time great and certainly a delight to watch each Sunday. He is definitely the KING OF THE CHEESE HEADS. Although he is universally loved (I am a huge fan of him on the field), we must look at him as we do all other NFL players. If any other player did the things that he has done, such as hold his team hostage each year and speak out about another players contract situation, he would be vilified by all sports fans. Favre is no different.
He has really backed the Packers into a tough spot. Everyone affiliated with the Packers know that having Favre gives them a better chance to win than not having Favre, but I’m sure that his yearly song and dance is getting old. There is a simple solution to this situation that should satisfy all parties involved. They should welcome him back with open arms, but with a totally redone contract. They should give him a two-year deal at his current pay rate, with one condition. That condition is that he must return for the second year of the contract or pay back his entire salary from the first year of the contract. This will allow Favre to continue his pursuit for a second Super Bowl ring and pad his records. The Packers will also be protected against Favre’s Waffling Version 2009. He will have the option of either giving them a two year commitment or playing for free.
As much as we all like (or love in the case of Troy Aikman) Brett Favre, we must look at the situation objectively and admit to ourselves that HE IS THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL, whether he has earned the right to be or not.
It pains me to look at Brett Favre as a Diva, because I have always looked at him as the ultimate tough guy. He has been under center for 275 consecutive games (counting playoffs). That means that he has always been dependable and there for his team, despite injuries or turmoil in his personal life. That certainly isn’t Diva behavior. As a matter of fact, I felt honored to be able to see him play in person. I was at the Georgia Dome on November 13, 2005 to witness Favre and the irrepressible Samkon Gado beat the Atlanta Falcons. For those who play Fantasy Football, that was the game that made Samkon Gado the hottest commodity on the waiver wire (he had 103 yards and 2 touchdowns on 23 carries and also 1 touchdown reception). Although I admire Brett, and acknowledge that he is a certain first ballot Hall of Famer, I must call a spade a spade. HE IS THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL.
What makes Brett Favre a Diva? The fact that he has been contemplating retirement FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS!!!! So for three straight years, Brett Favre got the full behind kissing treatment from the media, the NFL, and most noticeably his biggest fan Troy Aikman. For a guy who is the face of a TEAM, he seems to enjoy having all of the attention on HIMSELF. The hype started early. I remember watching the NFL Schedule Release show (what can I say, I love the NFL) on the NFL Network prior to the 2005 season. They were already selling the fact that “Brett Favre’s last game” will be televised on the NFL Network. On the day of the game, they even had a live broadcast of the pre-game show from Lambeau Field, complete with the dramatic scene of Favre coming on set and giving Steve Mariucci (his former QB coach) a hug. The Diva behavior continued after the game, with his victory lap around the stadium to take in all the love from the fans (he did a great job of making it look like he was actually retiring). Then suddenly, he said GOTCHA to everyone and decided to play again. He then went through the same song and dance after the 2006 season before playing again in 2007. Then after the 2007 season he finally decided to retire.
Now, the Diva has decided that he would like more attention. There are reports that say that Favre wants to comeback. If these reports are true, Brett Favre is essentially continuing to hold the Packers hostage and making it all about him, yet again. The Packers now have their backs against the wall in the court of public opinion. Although Ted Thompson (General Manager) and Mike McCarthy (Head Coach) don’t want to be known as the people who turned away Brett Favre, it is obvious that they are ready to move on without him. As a matter of fact, one report stated that his agent contacted the Packers about a possible return, and was told that the team had already moved on. In addition to that, they also scheduled his jersey retirement ceremony for the first game of the season and drafted not one but two quarterbacks in the recent NFL draft. Also, notice that no one from the Packers has stood behind a microphone and said, “We would love to have Brett Favre back.” If the Packers really wanted Brett Favre back, don’t you think that someone would say so.
It is not unusual for a professional athlete to struggle with the idea of retiring, and there are many cases where athletes actually retire, then decide to play again. I don’t have a problem with that, because everyone should have the right to change their mind. What I do have a problem with is when a player purposely holds a franchise hostage year after year, for his own selfish reasons. Brett Favre has long been looked at as the ultimate Packer, a great leader, and a great teammate. I for one, think that perception is not reality in this case. There have been many instances where he has proven not to be a great teammate and definitely not a leader. Along with his constant waffling about retiring or playing, I also point to two instances that show the real Diva in Brett Favre. The first being his refusal to serve as a mentor to Aaron Rodgers after Rodgers was drafted in 2005. I think that this is ridiculous because he knows that Rodgers is no threat to replace MR. PACKER in Green Bay, so why not help him learn the ropes in case he is forced into action due to an injury or you ACTUALLY RETIRING. The second instance occurred after the 2004 season. Javon Walker (a then Packer wide receiver) was threatening to hold out for a new contract. After having a breakout season (89 catches, 1,382 yards, 12 touchdowns), Walker wanted to renegotiate his contract. That is when the Diva himself, broke a man-law, and interfered in another player’s contract situation by speaking out against Walker holding out and trying to get a new contract. A good teammate never does that. His comments essentially turned the whole state of Wisconsin against Javon Walker.
Brett Favre is an all-time great and certainly a delight to watch each Sunday. He is definitely the KING OF THE CHEESE HEADS. Although he is universally loved (I am a huge fan of him on the field), we must look at him as we do all other NFL players. If any other player did the things that he has done, such as hold his team hostage each year and speak out about another players contract situation, he would be vilified by all sports fans. Favre is no different.
He has really backed the Packers into a tough spot. Everyone affiliated with the Packers know that having Favre gives them a better chance to win than not having Favre, but I’m sure that his yearly song and dance is getting old. There is a simple solution to this situation that should satisfy all parties involved. They should welcome him back with open arms, but with a totally redone contract. They should give him a two-year deal at his current pay rate, with one condition. That condition is that he must return for the second year of the contract or pay back his entire salary from the first year of the contract. This will allow Favre to continue his pursuit for a second Super Bowl ring and pad his records. The Packers will also be protected against Favre’s Waffling Version 2009. He will have the option of either giving them a two year commitment or playing for free.
As much as we all like (or love in the case of Troy Aikman) Brett Favre, we must look at the situation objectively and admit to ourselves that HE IS THE BIGGEST DIVA IN THE NFL, whether he has earned the right to be or not.
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