No, it's not just the name of David Brent's band (bonus points to anyone who gets that reference).
The Cleveland Cavaliers never really had a doubt about making the NBA Playoffs this year. But it'll be made official sometime this week. The Cavs stand at 40-31 right now and there's 11 games left in their regular season. If they win two more games, they're in. Their next two games, however, are against a couple of the NBAs best, New Orleans (Wed) and Detroit (Sat). Winning both of those would be a big boost towards post-season confidence, and it would secure late April basketball at The Q.
New Jersey could also make it easier on us. Two losses from the Nets and the Cavs get the playoff berth. They play Indiana twice (Wed and Fri) and then Phoenix on Saturday. By next Monday, we'll have clinched.
And the Chicago Bulls still suck. They're the 11th best team in the East. Ha ha.
-----------------------
Michigan blogs are in panic mode this afternoon. Apparently a couple of offensive linemen are getting ready to quit and/or transfer. Only speculation on names and other specifics, but this has indded been a lot of fun to watch.
Nice job, Rich Rod. You're doing a heckuva job up there.
----------------------
Oh, and another thing....
In 2006-07, Michigan men's basketball goes 20-11
In 2006-07, West Virginia men's basketball goes 27-9, winning the NIT.
In late March, Michigan fires their Head Coach, Tommy Amaker and hires John Beilein away from West Virginia.
This year, Michigan's record was 9-21. 11 and a half games worse than they were under Amaker.
West Virginia hired Bob Huggins to lead their team. West Virginia is now 26-10 and will play Thursday night in the NCAA's Sweet Sixteen.
Beilein's old team is slightly better than they were with him as their coach.
Beilein's new team sucks a lot more with him as their head coach.
My God, that's hilarious.
-------------------------
Oh, yeah. I forgot. The Buckeyes will play Dayton tomorrow night in Columbus for the chance to go to New Yortk City and the Final Four of the NIT. We crushed Cal last night, but we should have done that. The Flyers are a good but not great team, but they'll be REALLY motivated to try and knock off the giant school in their own state. Should be a good game.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Citizens of Michigan, bow down to your owners.....
Oh, yeah....let me taste those tears.....
First, the bigger news. Yes, Terrelle Pryor signed with us. Yes, it was the most likely scenario, based on a month or so of speculation and "insider rumors".
But don't let the Michiganders fool you, they wanted him BAD, and it is eating up at their very fragile egos that he snubbed them. Regardless of what you may hear elsewhere (i.e. "we didn't want him anyway"), Blue fans were singing a MUCH different tune a few short months ago.
For example, Brian (who always has an excuse) was telling his readers in December that the hiring of Rich Rodriguez may have been told to Pryor first, and that immediately Terrelle told a friend to "put them on my list". MgoBlog reported back then that Pryor was "likely to commit", but shied away from any actual source on that.
In February, he was begging Charlie Batch to send his prodigy to Michigan. He even did it in all caps so you would know he was reeeeealllllly serious. And he even mentioned that "there's no one to throw to at Penn State". But at Michigan, he was sure to have a wide array of targets....like, ummmmm, uhhhhh.....Antonio Bass? Or Greg Mathews? Oh, yeah, there's Adrian Arrington if he doesn't get caught beating up women again.
So it's no surprise that MGoBlog is now trying to bury its' proverbial oversized head in the sand now that Pryor will not set foot in Ann Arbor for another 19 months. Expect Brian to post a few diatribes soon about how his presence in scarlet and gray will mean very little and that he will be a big bust. The cat may know how to use a thesaurus, but his prognostications and his ability to properly dissect are often very very suspect. For proof of that, I take you to this delightful piece, written in August of 2007, when MGoBlog was previewing the Big Ten teams for the 2007 campaign;
It's hard to extrapolate from a freshman year in which (Beanie) Wells was a
backup who got most of his carries against Northwestern, Minnesota, Michigan
State, and the like. He is unlikely to average 5.5 yards per carry as the
primary threat, especially without Smith, Ginn, and Gonzalez drawing all sorts of attention.
MGB was correct. Wells did not average 5.5 yards per carry on the season.
He averaged 5.9 yards per carry.
And I'm pretty sure that he got a LOT of attention all by himself, especially when he ran for 222 yards against Michigan (by the way, that's 129 yards more than the entire Wolverine offense that day).
Oh, and one more thing. The Cleveland Cavaliers embarrassed the Detroit Pistons tonight 89-73. Bow down, bitches.
Suck it, Michigan fans
Rich Rod supposedly had the system that was PERRRRRFECT for Terrelle Pryor. Michigan proimised him he'd start from Day One.
And yet....
Rich Rodriguez - a failure before his very first game.
All hail Jim Tressel, the king of Big Ten recruiting.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Pryor to announce Wednesday at Noon
Expect two things to happen.
1) A bunch of people to get really excited over their new prospect.
2) A bunch of other people to begin screaming about how they never really wanted him and he sucks and he's a troublemaker.
Everyone in the media is reporting that it's between Ohio State and Penn State, except for the media that has the word "Detroit" in their titles....they still believe that Michigan will get him (where he'll immediately start at quarterback, wide receiver, tailback and defensive end because nobody else will).
Pryor was expected to announce about 6 weeks ago, but balked at the last minute, stating he wanted to visit Oregon and Penn State. He never visited Oregon, and the only time he even set foot in Happy Valley was to win the state basketball championship, and he didn't get the "official" visit out of that weekend.
Also, since his delay began, he did not return to Michigan's campus. He did go back to Columbus once more though.
Nothing has changed, except the calendar. He'll be in scarlet and gray in about 12 hours.
------------------------
UPDATE - Apparently Michigan fans need their diapers changed. Rumor has it that this posting is "entirely inaccurate". Let's see about that, shall we? I've given footnotes to the facts here....
- Oregon visit? Nope, Pryor never made it out west*. BBC 1, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Penn State visit? Nope, he never visited Penn State**. BBC 2, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Hasn't returned to Michigan campus since delaying his announcement? Nope, he never went back to Ann Arbor***. BBC 3, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Pryor went to Columbus since his delay? Yes, he did****. BBC 4, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Michigan fans starting the "he sucks anyway" excuse?***** Yep, they started it about 7 hours ago in the mainstream press. BBC 5, Anonymous Pussy 0
That's five points in a row that I win.
Get used to hearing about five in a row. You'll be feeling that pain again in November.
* - Jan. 15, 2008: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Pryor schedules a visit to Oregon. Because of scheduling conflicts with basketball, the visit never happens.
** - Pryor delayed his decision on signing day last month because he wanted to take official visits to Oregon and Penn State. Neither of those visits happened.
*** - Pryor was at Ohio State on Feb. 24 — apparently, his only campus trip since his last news conference.
**** - See above referenced article.
***** - Article in the Detroit Free Press entitled "Terrelle Pryor could be a bust like past No. 1s"
1) A bunch of people to get really excited over their new prospect.
2) A bunch of other people to begin screaming about how they never really wanted him and he sucks and he's a troublemaker.
Everyone in the media is reporting that it's between Ohio State and Penn State, except for the media that has the word "Detroit" in their titles....they still believe that Michigan will get him (where he'll immediately start at quarterback, wide receiver, tailback and defensive end because nobody else will).
Pryor was expected to announce about 6 weeks ago, but balked at the last minute, stating he wanted to visit Oregon and Penn State. He never visited Oregon, and the only time he even set foot in Happy Valley was to win the state basketball championship, and he didn't get the "official" visit out of that weekend.
Also, since his delay began, he did not return to Michigan's campus. He did go back to Columbus once more though.
Nothing has changed, except the calendar. He'll be in scarlet and gray in about 12 hours.
------------------------
UPDATE - Apparently Michigan fans need their diapers changed. Rumor has it that this posting is "entirely inaccurate". Let's see about that, shall we? I've given footnotes to the facts here....
- Oregon visit? Nope, Pryor never made it out west*. BBC 1, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Penn State visit? Nope, he never visited Penn State**. BBC 2, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Hasn't returned to Michigan campus since delaying his announcement? Nope, he never went back to Ann Arbor***. BBC 3, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Pryor went to Columbus since his delay? Yes, he did****. BBC 4, Anonymous Pussy 0
- Michigan fans starting the "he sucks anyway" excuse?***** Yep, they started it about 7 hours ago in the mainstream press. BBC 5, Anonymous Pussy 0
That's five points in a row that I win.
Get used to hearing about five in a row. You'll be feeling that pain again in November.
* - Jan. 15, 2008: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Pryor schedules a visit to Oregon. Because of scheduling conflicts with basketball, the visit never happens.
** - Pryor delayed his decision on signing day last month because he wanted to take official visits to Oregon and Penn State. Neither of those visits happened.
*** - Pryor was at Ohio State on Feb. 24 — apparently, his only campus trip since his last news conference.
**** - See above referenced article.
***** - Article in the Detroit Free Press entitled "Terrelle Pryor could be a bust like past No. 1s"
Buckeyes win an easy one, Akron shocks Florida State
Weird game at The Schott tonight. Weird indeed.
Thad Matta got his 20th win tonight, extending his streak, and the Buckeyes won an easy one 84-66 in the opening round of the NIT over North Carolina (Asheville). Check out some of these stats;
Ohio State's leading rebounder had four boards. Yes, I said four.
The Buckeyes hit two free throws on the entire night.
We were outrebounded 33-25, and committed 6 more fouls.
And yet, we won easily....why? Because of this stat;
The Buckeyes starting five shot nearly 60 percent from the field.
That was the key, no doubt about it.
Ohio State will play at home again on Monday night, as they await the winner of tomorrow's game between New Mexico and California.
Meanwhile, Akron took a hurried flight to Florida State yesterday and showed no signs of being road-weary as they knocked off the Seminoles 65-60 in overtime. Nick Dials scored something like 35 points in the OT alone. OK, so he actually scored 13 of the Zips 14 points in the extra period, but it was a sight to behold. The kid was on fire, burying three 3-pointers and hitting on all four of his free throw attempts.
Akron will now travel back up north and go play at Massachusetts, but as of this moment, we don't know exactly when that game will be. The decision will be made shortly, but not as of "press time".
Holy shit, I just wrote an NIT recap post.....
Thad Matta got his 20th win tonight, extending his streak, and the Buckeyes won an easy one 84-66 in the opening round of the NIT over North Carolina (Asheville). Check out some of these stats;
Ohio State's leading rebounder had four boards. Yes, I said four.
The Buckeyes hit two free throws on the entire night.
We were outrebounded 33-25, and committed 6 more fouls.
And yet, we won easily....why? Because of this stat;
The Buckeyes starting five shot nearly 60 percent from the field.
That was the key, no doubt about it.
Ohio State will play at home again on Monday night, as they await the winner of tomorrow's game between New Mexico and California.
Meanwhile, Akron took a hurried flight to Florida State yesterday and showed no signs of being road-weary as they knocked off the Seminoles 65-60 in overtime. Nick Dials scored something like 35 points in the OT alone. OK, so he actually scored 13 of the Zips 14 points in the extra period, but it was a sight to behold. The kid was on fire, burying three 3-pointers and hitting on all four of his free throw attempts.
Akron will now travel back up north and go play at Massachusetts, but as of this moment, we don't know exactly when that game will be. The decision will be made shortly, but not as of "press time".
Holy shit, I just wrote an NIT recap post.....
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Ladies and gentlemen, your TOP-SEEDED Ohio State Buckeyes!!!!
Well, it's at least true. Only it's not the tournament we wanted.
As was expected, Ohio State was left out of the NCAA Tournament. One victory shy. No, I can't say "they got screwed", because they had a BIG chance down the stretch and fell apart. Going 4-7 at the end wasn't good, even if half of those wins were against ranked teams.
However, let me just say this....OREGON??? ARIZONA???? KENTUCKY???? There's 18 wins for each of those teams and THEY get in?
The previous moment of outrage was brought to you on behalf of the fans of Akron (23-10), Cleveland State (21-10), Illinois State (23-9), VCU (24-7), and Dayton (21-10).
Ohio State had their chance and didn't get the job done. In my opinion, the NCAA went with bigger names rather than reward 21-24 win schools with what they indeed deserve.
As for the Buckeyes, they get another chance to extend Thad Matta's 20-win season streak on Tuesday night at home against North Carolina. OK, so it's North Carolina-Asheville. Gimme a break, I'm clinging to relevancy here.
As was expected, Ohio State was left out of the NCAA Tournament. One victory shy. No, I can't say "they got screwed", because they had a BIG chance down the stretch and fell apart. Going 4-7 at the end wasn't good, even if half of those wins were against ranked teams.
However, let me just say this....OREGON??? ARIZONA???? KENTUCKY???? There's 18 wins for each of those teams and THEY get in?
The previous moment of outrage was brought to you on behalf of the fans of Akron (23-10), Cleveland State (21-10), Illinois State (23-9), VCU (24-7), and Dayton (21-10).
Ohio State had their chance and didn't get the job done. In my opinion, the NCAA went with bigger names rather than reward 21-24 win schools with what they indeed deserve.
As for the Buckeyes, they get another chance to extend Thad Matta's 20-win season streak on Tuesday night at home against North Carolina. OK, so it's North Carolina-Asheville. Gimme a break, I'm clinging to relevancy here.
Terrelle Pryor says no to Michigan
We've been waiting for a long time to hear where superstar quarterback prospect Terrelle Pryor was going to attend college. It was down to two schools (Ohio State and Michigan) as of signing day, but Pryor held off on his announcement and even added two schools to the list (Oregon and Penn State).
If Pryor doesn't announce and sign with a school by April 1st, he's ineligible to play college football in 2008. Obviously, that's not going to happen, but it looked as if Pryor was waiting until the 11th hour to announce.
Until now.
Last night, Pryor's Jennette High School won the PA Class AA state basketball championship. Following the victory, he gave us this tidbit;
One would correctly assume that we'll have our winner by Friday night.
Even better, Pryor whittled his choices down to OSU and PSU. Which means that Michigan Head Coach Rich Rodriguez is already a colossal loser. His "spread offense" that was supposedly "tailored to fit Pryor's style of play" failed to attract the one component that could make it work....Pryor. Nice job, Rich Rod. Enjoy a long lifetime of getting punked by your rivals.
As for Pryor, it's down to two choices; Go with Ohio State and a proven winner, or stay with your hometown at Penn State and be guaranteed a coaching change at some point in your collegiate career. Yeah, I'm biased....but tell me what part of my previous sentence is wrong, if you can.
One last note - if Pryor announces this week, he'd better do it on Tuesday or Wednesday. Otherwise, the kid has a LOT to learn about manipulating the news cycle to his advantage.
-If he announces Monday, he's drowned out by the sports world's excessive discussion of the NCAA Tournament selection....who got in, who got screwed, etc etc etc.
- If he announces Thursday, he's drowned out by a day's worth of first-round tournament action.
- If he announces Friday, ditto.
Do the smart thing, Pryor. Announce on Tuesday afternoon. You'll get more action out of it.
UPDATE - Men Of The Scarlet And Gray reminds me that the "official signing deadline" is indeed April 1st, but it's not a deadline for ineligibility. So why the hell is it a deadline at all? Whateva. Either way, Rich Rod still blows donkey balls for failing miserably, and the Michigan blogs have begun an entire "we didn't want Pryor anyway" excuse. That's what you have to do when you lose 37 out of your 22 starters of a team that lost nearly half their home games, and you're facing a season where you wish for a whole slew of cupcake teams like Appalach-----.....ummmm.....never mind.
If Pryor doesn't announce and sign with a school by April 1st, he's ineligible to play college football in 2008. Obviously, that's not going to happen, but it looked as if Pryor was waiting until the 11th hour to announce.
Until now.
Last night, Pryor's Jennette High School won the PA Class AA state basketball championship. Following the victory, he gave us this tidbit;
"Next week, I’m going to say the school I’m going to, sign it and get it over
with.”
One would correctly assume that we'll have our winner by Friday night.
Even better, Pryor whittled his choices down to OSU and PSU. Which means that Michigan Head Coach Rich Rodriguez is already a colossal loser. His "spread offense" that was supposedly "tailored to fit Pryor's style of play" failed to attract the one component that could make it work....Pryor. Nice job, Rich Rod. Enjoy a long lifetime of getting punked by your rivals.
As for Pryor, it's down to two choices; Go with Ohio State and a proven winner, or stay with your hometown at Penn State and be guaranteed a coaching change at some point in your collegiate career. Yeah, I'm biased....but tell me what part of my previous sentence is wrong, if you can.
One last note - if Pryor announces this week, he'd better do it on Tuesday or Wednesday. Otherwise, the kid has a LOT to learn about manipulating the news cycle to his advantage.
-If he announces Monday, he's drowned out by the sports world's excessive discussion of the NCAA Tournament selection....who got in, who got screwed, etc etc etc.
- If he announces Thursday, he's drowned out by a day's worth of first-round tournament action.
- If he announces Friday, ditto.
Do the smart thing, Pryor. Announce on Tuesday afternoon. You'll get more action out of it.
UPDATE - Men Of The Scarlet And Gray reminds me that the "official signing deadline" is indeed April 1st, but it's not a deadline for ineligibility. So why the hell is it a deadline at all? Whateva. Either way, Rich Rod still blows donkey balls for failing miserably, and the Michigan blogs have begun an entire "we didn't want Pryor anyway" excuse. That's what you have to do when you lose 37 out of your 22 starters of a team that lost nearly half their home games, and you're facing a season where you wish for a whole slew of cupcake teams like Appalach-----.....ummmm.....never mind.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
God hates the SEC
As Mississippi State led 64-61 with 2:11 left in overtime, a loud blast was
heard inside the dome. The girders near the dome's roof began to swing, and a
gaping section of the north part of the roof was ripped open, dropping debris
that included nuts and bolts.
The severe storm ripped a hole in the roof of the Georgia Dome during
the Southeastern Conference tournament Friday, delaying Mississippi State's
69-67 overtime win over Alabama for more than an hour and postponing a game
between Georgia and Kentucky.
God hates the SEC, and is therefore a Buckeye fan.
There can be no other explanation.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Big Ten teams in the NCAA - 4 or 5....or 6?
Well, whaddya know......yesterday's "warm-up" round of the Big Ten tournament was actually entertaining. We nearly had a full slate of upsets.
First, 9th-seed Michigan (10-21) knocked off 8th-seed Iowa (13-19) by a surprising score of 55-47. Not that much of an upset, but when you head into the tournament with 9 wins, you're sure as hell not the favored team. Congratulations Wolverines. You actually can claim that you won the season series from SOMEBODY (unless you want to count winning the season series over Eastern Washington 1 game to 0).
Mid-day action gave us another upset when 10th-seed Illinois (14-18) beat 7th-seed Penn State(15-16) on a final shot, 64-63. This one will sting Penn State badly. They had a shot at making the NIT, but falling below .500 will keep them out of post-season play. Winning this game would have put them into the "Field of 97". JoePa must be rolling over in his grave right now.
Finally in the nightcap, 11th-seed Northwetern (8-22) shit their pants in the second half and fell to 6th-seed Minnesota (19-12) 55-52. With a little over 2 minutes to play in the first half, Northwestern led by 16 points at 34-18. Then they realized that there was a reason they had lost 85% of their games in 2008. From that point on, they couldn't have hit water if they fell out of a boat.
Minnesota escaped with the win and many people may now see a win against Indiana as the springboard into the NCAAs.
I disagree. I think beating the Hoosiers is not enough. They need to win tonight, and then also beat either Purdue or Illinois in the semifinals. 20 wins will not get Minnesota in. They HAVE to have 21 and here's why;
It's time for Gopher Trivia!
Minnesota has 19 wins right now. How many of those wins came against a team that will play in the NCAA Tournament?
Answer - zero, maybe one. If Ohio State is selected, that will be the ONLY win the Gophers have against a team in the Big Dance.
After reading that, do you still think a win tonight is enough? Neither do I.
That brings us to Ohio State. Two weeks ago, they were unpacking their bags and preparing for the NIT. Since then, two wins against ranked opponents has put them back on the bubble. Beating Michigan State again tonight will add a third team to that, and it'll get them in. 20 wins will do the trick for the Buckeyes, but only because of those final three.
Hopes are high again in the Buckeye State, especially after seeing the boys win big games recently. But this is not a home game, and we've had a long time since our last game. Do we still have momentum?
We'll find out in about 3 hours.
First, 9th-seed Michigan (10-21) knocked off 8th-seed Iowa (13-19) by a surprising score of 55-47. Not that much of an upset, but when you head into the tournament with 9 wins, you're sure as hell not the favored team. Congratulations Wolverines. You actually can claim that you won the season series from SOMEBODY (unless you want to count winning the season series over Eastern Washington 1 game to 0).
Mid-day action gave us another upset when 10th-seed Illinois (14-18) beat 7th-seed Penn State(15-16) on a final shot, 64-63. This one will sting Penn State badly. They had a shot at making the NIT, but falling below .500 will keep them out of post-season play. Winning this game would have put them into the "Field of 97". JoePa must be rolling over in his grave right now.
Finally in the nightcap, 11th-seed Northwetern (8-22) shit their pants in the second half and fell to 6th-seed Minnesota (19-12) 55-52. With a little over 2 minutes to play in the first half, Northwestern led by 16 points at 34-18. Then they realized that there was a reason they had lost 85% of their games in 2008. From that point on, they couldn't have hit water if they fell out of a boat.
Minnesota escaped with the win and many people may now see a win against Indiana as the springboard into the NCAAs.
I disagree. I think beating the Hoosiers is not enough. They need to win tonight, and then also beat either Purdue or Illinois in the semifinals. 20 wins will not get Minnesota in. They HAVE to have 21 and here's why;
It's time for Gopher Trivia!
Minnesota has 19 wins right now. How many of those wins came against a team that will play in the NCAA Tournament?
Answer - zero, maybe one. If Ohio State is selected, that will be the ONLY win the Gophers have against a team in the Big Dance.
After reading that, do you still think a win tonight is enough? Neither do I.
That brings us to Ohio State. Two weeks ago, they were unpacking their bags and preparing for the NIT. Since then, two wins against ranked opponents has put them back on the bubble. Beating Michigan State again tonight will add a third team to that, and it'll get them in. 20 wins will do the trick for the Buckeyes, but only because of those final three.
Hopes are high again in the Buckeye State, especially after seeing the boys win big games recently. But this is not a home game, and we've had a long time since our last game. Do we still have momentum?
We'll find out in about 3 hours.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
NIT-bound? Not yet.....
Damn, the Buckeyes just don't want to accept their NIT fate just yet.
After losing 6 out of 8 games (including two to a pair of goin'-nowhere teams), Ohio State appeared to be headed towards an NIT bid. Then something funny happened on the way to Madison Square Garden....Ohio State found a way to beat TWO ranked teams in a row. They just finished up the regular season with a 63-54 win over 17th-ranked Michigan State.
Poor shooting did in the Spartans. Senior Drew Neitzel scored just 6 points in 30 minutes on 2-9 shooting. Four Buckeyes scored double figures, led by Jamar Butler's 20. Evan Turner only put in 3 points, but it didn't matter....Ohio State shot 50% for the game, and won it going away. 40 points in the second half really did the trick.
So now we need to win one game....just one...to get into the NCAA Tournament. At 19-12, we're not getting in. But a 20th win (accomplished by having three consecutive quality wins) would do it.
Friday afternoon at 230pm, Ohio State plays Michigan State again in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament.
It's that simple. Win and you're in. Lose and you host an NIT game early the following week.
Either way, it looks like Thad Matta's 20-win season streak is still possible.
After losing 6 out of 8 games (including two to a pair of goin'-nowhere teams), Ohio State appeared to be headed towards an NIT bid. Then something funny happened on the way to Madison Square Garden....Ohio State found a way to beat TWO ranked teams in a row. They just finished up the regular season with a 63-54 win over 17th-ranked Michigan State.
Poor shooting did in the Spartans. Senior Drew Neitzel scored just 6 points in 30 minutes on 2-9 shooting. Four Buckeyes scored double figures, led by Jamar Butler's 20. Evan Turner only put in 3 points, but it didn't matter....Ohio State shot 50% for the game, and won it going away. 40 points in the second half really did the trick.
So now we need to win one game....just one...to get into the NCAA Tournament. At 19-12, we're not getting in. But a 20th win (accomplished by having three consecutive quality wins) would do it.
Friday afternoon at 230pm, Ohio State plays Michigan State again in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament.
It's that simple. Win and you're in. Lose and you host an NIT game early the following week.
Either way, it looks like Thad Matta's 20-win season streak is still possible.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Snowbound and bored
16-20 inches of snow buried me at home over the past two days. My restaurant hasn't been open since Friday at about 7pm (and there weren't many guests in the hours leading up to that), so I haven't had much in the way of "things to do".
Soooooo, since I had my daughter here all weekend, I decided to show her a little historical movie from my own youth. Tonight, she saw "Bill And Ted's Excellent Adventure" for the first time. She LOVED it....she's 9, so props to her for appreciating something like that. Someday when she's in her 20s, she'll go watch it again, and she'll actually understand why daddy was laughing so hard when Sigmund Freud was holding a corn-dog at the mall. I think the subtle parts of that movie were what made it so hilarious. Plus, how many other movies have Billy The Kid playing with a Nerf football in ancient Greece?
Hopefully by Monday, the roads will be better and I can get back to work again. This week, I'm supposed to train a new employee....she's Brian Hartline's cousin, and she is SMOKIN hot. No, you can't see pictures. How am I supposed to explain that one? "Hey, can I take a picture of you to put on the internets?" Yeah, that'll work. Just take my word for it.....smokin. Maybe someday I'll be able to get her to agree to SideBoob Friday.
Soooooo, since I had my daughter here all weekend, I decided to show her a little historical movie from my own youth. Tonight, she saw "Bill And Ted's Excellent Adventure" for the first time. She LOVED it....she's 9, so props to her for appreciating something like that. Someday when she's in her 20s, she'll go watch it again, and she'll actually understand why daddy was laughing so hard when Sigmund Freud was holding a corn-dog at the mall. I think the subtle parts of that movie were what made it so hilarious. Plus, how many other movies have Billy The Kid playing with a Nerf football in ancient Greece?
Hopefully by Monday, the roads will be better and I can get back to work again. This week, I'm supposed to train a new employee....she's Brian Hartline's cousin, and she is SMOKIN hot. No, you can't see pictures. How am I supposed to explain that one? "Hey, can I take a picture of you to put on the internets?" Yeah, that'll work. Just take my word for it.....smokin. Maybe someday I'll be able to get her to agree to SideBoob Friday.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Mid-day reach-around....I mean wrap-up
OK, I admit. It's nowhere near as good as Sideboob Friday, but it's all I've got. Let me have my pride, man!
Here's what's happening in my own little world;
Ohio State basketball
Last week, I counted the Buckeyes out as I sent them off to the NIT. They got pissed at me for such horrific lack of faith, and knocked Purdue from the top of the Big Ten. Now, it's only one win, but it actually could breathe new life into Ohio State's NCAA Tournament hopes.
The Buckeyes are now 18-12. Still on the outside of the bubble. They're not getting in at 18 wins, no way, no how. They won't get in with 19 either, so they're not even close yet.
Still, they have their chance. Michigan State comes calling on Sunday afternoon, and they've been as erratic as the Buckeyes over the past 4 weeks. Losing to lowly Penn State, and falling to three of the Big Ten's top four teams.....but absolutely walloping 25-5 Indiana (by 29 points), this team is all over the place.
The Spartans can be dangerous....but will they be dangerous on Sunday? At 24-6, they've secured their place in the NCAA tourney, and there is no possible mathematical scenario that will give them anything except the 4th seed in the Big Ten Tournament. This game is meaningless to them.
In order for Ohio State to make the show, they'll have to beat MSU AND their first opponent in the Big Ten tourney....which, by the way, is guaranteed to be Michigan State. We hold the 5th-seed and the tiebreaker with Minnesota. That kinda sucks for us, because Minnesota is at 18 wins, and they need to beat Illinois (12-18) and Northwestern (8-20) in their first-round Big Ten Tournament matchup to get to 20 wins. Fuckers.
So there it is guys. Beat Sparty twice, or go to the NIT. I'm optimistic, but I still see NIT on the horizon.
Cleveland Cavaliers basketball
Damn, when are we going to get all our players healthy? No Zadrunas, no Boobie Gibson, no Sasha. And yet we're still 5-3 since the trade.
The good news - barring no new injuries, we will be at full strength by playoff time.
The bad news - will we be ready with a whole new set of players trying to learn each other during the first round of the playoffs?
Last night was a disappointment, but how many times have we won the second game of back-to-back games on the road? We've had 15 consecutive-night games, and we are 6-9 in the second game of those. Players get tired in those stretches, and I really do hate to see one team travel for back-to-backers while the other team has had a couple days rest. Oh, well. It happens. The good news is that there is ALWAYS at least a day's rest in the NBA Playoffs.
High School basketball
Last year, Canton Timken finished the season with a first-round sectional loss in the tournament. They went 3-18 for the entire year. It was quite typical for the Trojans, who have never made much noise in basketball during my lifetime. Usually, all the good basketball players in Canton City go to McKinley, known well for their athletics.
But something happened in the summer of 2007. A few players decided to transfer from McKinley to Timken (it's a long story, but it has a lot to do with administrative bullshit and a head coach). Timken had a positive outlook for the first time in a LONG time.
Last night, Timken beat Akron Firestone 75-65 in the Regional Semifinals. The Trojans are 24-0, and are one win away from the Final Four. They'll battle Toledo Whitmer (19-5) on Saturday night.
The entire city ignored them for decades, and now the entire city is behind them. Good luck, Timken. Go get 'em.
Here's what's happening in my own little world;
Ohio State basketball
Last week, I counted the Buckeyes out as I sent them off to the NIT. They got pissed at me for such horrific lack of faith, and knocked Purdue from the top of the Big Ten. Now, it's only one win, but it actually could breathe new life into Ohio State's NCAA Tournament hopes.
The Buckeyes are now 18-12. Still on the outside of the bubble. They're not getting in at 18 wins, no way, no how. They won't get in with 19 either, so they're not even close yet.
Still, they have their chance. Michigan State comes calling on Sunday afternoon, and they've been as erratic as the Buckeyes over the past 4 weeks. Losing to lowly Penn State, and falling to three of the Big Ten's top four teams.....but absolutely walloping 25-5 Indiana (by 29 points), this team is all over the place.
The Spartans can be dangerous....but will they be dangerous on Sunday? At 24-6, they've secured their place in the NCAA tourney, and there is no possible mathematical scenario that will give them anything except the 4th seed in the Big Ten Tournament. This game is meaningless to them.
In order for Ohio State to make the show, they'll have to beat MSU AND their first opponent in the Big Ten tourney....which, by the way, is guaranteed to be Michigan State. We hold the 5th-seed and the tiebreaker with Minnesota. That kinda sucks for us, because Minnesota is at 18 wins, and they need to beat Illinois (12-18) and Northwestern (8-20) in their first-round Big Ten Tournament matchup to get to 20 wins. Fuckers.
So there it is guys. Beat Sparty twice, or go to the NIT. I'm optimistic, but I still see NIT on the horizon.
Cleveland Cavaliers basketball
Damn, when are we going to get all our players healthy? No Zadrunas, no Boobie Gibson, no Sasha. And yet we're still 5-3 since the trade.
The good news - barring no new injuries, we will be at full strength by playoff time.
The bad news - will we be ready with a whole new set of players trying to learn each other during the first round of the playoffs?
Last night was a disappointment, but how many times have we won the second game of back-to-back games on the road? We've had 15 consecutive-night games, and we are 6-9 in the second game of those. Players get tired in those stretches, and I really do hate to see one team travel for back-to-backers while the other team has had a couple days rest. Oh, well. It happens. The good news is that there is ALWAYS at least a day's rest in the NBA Playoffs.
High School basketball
Last year, Canton Timken finished the season with a first-round sectional loss in the tournament. They went 3-18 for the entire year. It was quite typical for the Trojans, who have never made much noise in basketball during my lifetime. Usually, all the good basketball players in Canton City go to McKinley, known well for their athletics.
But something happened in the summer of 2007. A few players decided to transfer from McKinley to Timken (it's a long story, but it has a lot to do with administrative bullshit and a head coach). Timken had a positive outlook for the first time in a LONG time.
Last night, Timken beat Akron Firestone 75-65 in the Regional Semifinals. The Trojans are 24-0, and are one win away from the Final Four. They'll battle Toledo Whitmer (19-5) on Saturday night.
The entire city ignored them for decades, and now the entire city is behind them. Good luck, Timken. Go get 'em.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Selective memory on a NBA blog
Following the recent blockbuster trade that sent key players from Chicago to Cleveland, Cleveland to Chicago, and Seattle to Cleveland, but nothing to Seattle (seriously, what did the Sonics get out of that trade?), I have been waiting for today to arrive.
Today, the new-look Cleveland Cavaliers took on the new-look-but-still-suck Chicago Bulls. Even without Zadrunas Ilgauskas, Sasha Pavlovic and Boobie Gibson, the Cavaliers took care of business 95-86. The final score doesn't really capture how close the game actually was, but it does magnify how LeBron James took over the game when it counted the most. And it also showed that the Cavs are no longer a one-man team (well, not ALL the time).
James accounted for a LOT of the team's points in the first half (more than 50%, to be precise), and he did score 6 points down the stretch when we pulled away, but James now knows he has a LOT of depth around him. When double-teams converged on him, he dished off to Joe Smith (who scored 8 4th-quarter points), or found a wide-open Wally Szczerbiak behind the 3-point line (17 points for the new papa off the bench)*.
The final 5 minutes of the game was fun. Watching LeBron take over a game, seeing Andres Noccioni try to bear-hug him to keep him from getting the ball (and still failing), witnessing Larry Hughes fling up 23-footers with his eyes closed, and seeing JoaKim Noah realize that he's a bat-boy in a man's game....that all was quite enjoyable.
But not nearly as much fun as watching the subhumans at Blog-A-Bull desperately flail their arms in outrage. Some of the highlights from their open game thread;
Zero recollection of what the Jordan Rules were, I take it? Do you have ANY memories of the 4-step cha-cha that Jordan got to take every night? That infamous "final shot" of his career against Utah? He pushed off and got away with it.
Are the NBA refs usually easier on the superstars? Yes.
Do violations often get overlooked? Yes.
Is it unfair? Yes.
But the LAST people who should EVER bitch and whine about it are Bulls fans.
Thank God we won't have to deal with these losers in the playoffs.
* - side note - Szczerbiak named his newborn son "Maximillian Jack". Yes, the kid's name is Max Jack Szczerbiak. Say it out loud. S'fun.
Today, the new-look Cleveland Cavaliers took on the new-look-but-still-suck Chicago Bulls. Even without Zadrunas Ilgauskas, Sasha Pavlovic and Boobie Gibson, the Cavaliers took care of business 95-86. The final score doesn't really capture how close the game actually was, but it does magnify how LeBron James took over the game when it counted the most. And it also showed that the Cavs are no longer a one-man team (well, not ALL the time).
James accounted for a LOT of the team's points in the first half (more than 50%, to be precise), and he did score 6 points down the stretch when we pulled away, but James now knows he has a LOT of depth around him. When double-teams converged on him, he dished off to Joe Smith (who scored 8 4th-quarter points), or found a wide-open Wally Szczerbiak behind the 3-point line (17 points for the new papa off the bench)*.
The final 5 minutes of the game was fun. Watching LeBron take over a game, seeing Andres Noccioni try to bear-hug him to keep him from getting the ball (and still failing), witnessing Larry Hughes fling up 23-footers with his eyes closed, and seeing JoaKim Noah realize that he's a bat-boy in a man's game....that all was quite enjoyable.
But not nearly as much fun as watching the subhumans at Blog-A-Bull desperately flail their arms in outrage. Some of the highlights from their open game thread;
What a shitty gameKeep in mind....these are fans of the FUCKING CHICAGO BULLS!
And the cavs don't really play basketball... It's just Bronball. As a basketball purist I am nauseated.
by Bass on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 01:18:00 PM EDT
I'll take a charge over a travel
But it would be nice if they called traveling on LBJ at least ONCE a game...
by Bass on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 01:28:38 PM EDT
Not ONE WORD
about the Bulls during half time...no surprise.
And who really gives a crap about LeBron being the youngest player to hit 10,000 points?
Rather academic when you don't ever play one college game and go straight to the NBA from high school.
by BullishPNW on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 02:30:31 PM EDT
That was a clear fucking moving pick
by Lebron on that 3 point shot
by RogersPark Kris on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 03:11:57 PM EDT
So the Cavs are permitted moving screens
Thanks NBA refs.
by NBA Observer on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 03:29:26 PM EDT
That one
would have been nice to get a travel call on!
Which it was...
by Bass on Sun Mar 02, 2008 at 03:29:29 PM EDT
Zero recollection of what the Jordan Rules were, I take it? Do you have ANY memories of the 4-step cha-cha that Jordan got to take every night? That infamous "final shot" of his career against Utah? He pushed off and got away with it.
Are the NBA refs usually easier on the superstars? Yes.
Do violations often get overlooked? Yes.
Is it unfair? Yes.
But the LAST people who should EVER bitch and whine about it are Bulls fans.
Thank God we won't have to deal with these losers in the playoffs.
* - side note - Szczerbiak named his newborn son "Maximillian Jack". Yes, the kid's name is Max Jack Szczerbiak. Say it out loud. S'fun.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Helloooooooo NIT
As the past few weeks have unfolded, I have been expecting the Buckeyes to break out of their slump, to get their 20th win, and to get into the NCAA tourney.
It doesn't look like those will all happen anymore.
The Bucks lost their 6th game in the past 8 contests tonight, 71-57 to Minnesota. The loss drops their record to 17-12, and it looks like it'll take a minor miracle to get into the Big Dance.
They have home games against NCAA-locks Purdue and Michigan State, followed by the Big Ten Tournament.
Maybe, just maybe if they win both home games and two games in the tournament, they might be able to salvage a berth in the NCAAs...but I just don't see it happening right now. The only other option is to win the Big Ten tournament, which will require four wins in four days in Indianapolis.
An NIT bid is most likely on our schedule, and at least it'll mean some more home games. And a better chance for Thad Matta to continue his streak of 20-win seasons.....
It doesn't look like those will all happen anymore.
The Bucks lost their 6th game in the past 8 contests tonight, 71-57 to Minnesota. The loss drops their record to 17-12, and it looks like it'll take a minor miracle to get into the Big Dance.
They have home games against NCAA-locks Purdue and Michigan State, followed by the Big Ten Tournament.
Maybe, just maybe if they win both home games and two games in the tournament, they might be able to salvage a berth in the NCAAs...but I just don't see it happening right now. The only other option is to win the Big Ten tournament, which will require four wins in four days in Indianapolis.
An NIT bid is most likely on our schedule, and at least it'll mean some more home games. And a better chance for Thad Matta to continue his streak of 20-win seasons.....
Friday, February 29, 2008
One thing I dont understand....
....why is every football analyst proclaiming Jake Long to be a better player than Vernon Gholston?
Gholston simply OWNED Long every time the two played against each other.
Example;
Gholston simply OWNED Long every time the two played against each other.
Example;
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Defending LeBron 5 on 1 - no more of that
Keep in perspective, this is the memphis Grizzlies. They're 14-41, so they're not the best team to use as a measuring stick.
But the Cavs/Grizz game is midway through the third quarter, and it's already completely obvious that this is a whole new Cavaliers team.
No longer are there four guys standing around waiting for LeBron to do something. Players are slashing to the rim, setting up for open 3-point shots, setting picks. On defense, the Cavs have more options inside, and LeBron is not constantly forced to crash the defensive boards.
What this trade means to Cleveland is that opposing teams will actually have to devise a REAL defense against the Cavs. No more "double-and-triple team James and force somebody else to play basketball."
As I'm writing this, Delonte West just dribbled around the right wing and came off a pick by Ben Wallace. West quickly passed it to Wallace, who delivered a sky-high one-handed slam dunk. It was gorgeous.
Now, imagine what these guys will play like when they've actually practiced with each other.
UPDATE - The Cavaliers won this one easily, 109-89. Here's the major statistical figures;
-LeBron James had a near triple-double with 25 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds
-Zadrunas had a double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds
-Ben Wallace had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds
-Joe Smith had 14 points and 6 rebounds off the bench
-Szczerbiak had 10 points off the bench
-Damon Jones had 11 points off the bench
This team looked like it wanted to find an open man FIRST, rather than shoot the ball, and it showed. They had 27 assists on the night.
Best moment of the game - With three minutes to play in a game that was out of reach, Wallace scored an easy bucket, then quickly jumped on the Grizzlies point guard on defense. He successfully forced Memphis into a 5-second violation.
Chicago Bulls fans should be piiiiiiiiiised........
But the Cavs/Grizz game is midway through the third quarter, and it's already completely obvious that this is a whole new Cavaliers team.
No longer are there four guys standing around waiting for LeBron to do something. Players are slashing to the rim, setting up for open 3-point shots, setting picks. On defense, the Cavs have more options inside, and LeBron is not constantly forced to crash the defensive boards.
What this trade means to Cleveland is that opposing teams will actually have to devise a REAL defense against the Cavs. No more "double-and-triple team James and force somebody else to play basketball."
As I'm writing this, Delonte West just dribbled around the right wing and came off a pick by Ben Wallace. West quickly passed it to Wallace, who delivered a sky-high one-handed slam dunk. It was gorgeous.
Now, imagine what these guys will play like when they've actually practiced with each other.
UPDATE - The Cavaliers won this one easily, 109-89. Here's the major statistical figures;
-LeBron James had a near triple-double with 25 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds
-Zadrunas had a double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds
-Ben Wallace had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds
-Joe Smith had 14 points and 6 rebounds off the bench
-Szczerbiak had 10 points off the bench
-Damon Jones had 11 points off the bench
This team looked like it wanted to find an open man FIRST, rather than shoot the ball, and it showed. They had 27 assists on the night.
Best moment of the game - With three minutes to play in a game that was out of reach, Wallace scored an easy bucket, then quickly jumped on the Grizzlies point guard on defense. He successfully forced Memphis into a 5-second violation.
Chicago Bulls fans should be piiiiiiiiiised........
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Inspiration lost?
As you might have read earlier this week, Buckeye Commentary was going to call it quits. Keith has been writing at that site for a long time, and in his own words he was "tapped out".
When I first read that, I was bummed out and began to write a tribute to Buckeye Commentary. But I couldn't finish it. How do you pay proper closing tribute to one of the sites that originally made you want to blog? It's heartbreaking to say the least. I guess I couldn't finish it because I didn't want to close that chapter just yet.
Before I had The BBC, I was making highlight videos of the Buckeyes. It's no secret that my first video used a lot of clips that were downloaded from Buckeye Commentary. Without Keith, my start in the blogging community is not possible.
Eventually, I began full-game downloads (courtesy TimBUCK 2 at Buckeye Planet), and started editing my own highlights out of the larger file and used those as my basis for later videos. I managed to give Keith's bandwidth a bit of a rest, but I never missed a day of his writings.
Well, BC is not going to die away after all. Keith is no longer going to be running the site, but he has chosen his successor, Massey.
Here's a toast to Keith. We all wish him well in whatever he does in life, and may Massey continue at Buckeye Commentary with the same passion and delight.
When I first read that, I was bummed out and began to write a tribute to Buckeye Commentary. But I couldn't finish it. How do you pay proper closing tribute to one of the sites that originally made you want to blog? It's heartbreaking to say the least. I guess I couldn't finish it because I didn't want to close that chapter just yet.
Before I had The BBC, I was making highlight videos of the Buckeyes. It's no secret that my first video used a lot of clips that were downloaded from Buckeye Commentary. Without Keith, my start in the blogging community is not possible.
Eventually, I began full-game downloads (courtesy TimBUCK 2 at Buckeye Planet), and started editing my own highlights out of the larger file and used those as my basis for later videos. I managed to give Keith's bandwidth a bit of a rest, but I never missed a day of his writings.
Well, BC is not going to die away after all. Keith is no longer going to be running the site, but he has chosen his successor, Massey.
Here's a toast to Keith. We all wish him well in whatever he does in life, and may Massey continue at Buckeye Commentary with the same passion and delight.
Friday, February 22, 2008
The Cavaliers are scary-good.....
Heading into tonight's game, the word was that our four new acquisitions would be unable to play at all. Wallace, West, and Smith arrived in Cleveland around 4pm, and Szcerbiak would get here after 8pm. None of them would have the time to even complete their required physical, let alone learn any of the playbook.
So with six warm bodies (and two pickups from the Developmental League), we were in trouble.
Not so fast.
LeBron James had 33 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists (barely shy of a third-straight triple double), and Damon Jones had 27 points to lead the Cavaliers to a 90-89 win over Washington. Even Devin Brown had a double-double with 10 points and 10 boards. And to top it off, Billy Thomas scored 9 points within a few hours of signing a 10-day contract.. Yeah, I know. WTF?
With Wallace, Szcerbiak, West and Smith watching from GM Danny Ferry's loge, the arena was buzzing all night long. Fans were anxious to see the new-look Cavaliers, and the players were clearly fired up for the new arrivals.
When the final horn sounded, Damon Jones climbed on top of the scorer's table and emphatically pointed to his four new teammates in celebration. You can feel the excitement these guys have for the new era. I swear, I haven't seen this much anticipation since the arrival of King James. The players are showing excitement that I have not seen in a LONG time (well, except for beating the Pistons last year).
This is a team that KNOWS they have the talent to go far in the playoffs, and now they KNOW they are the scariest team in the East. An inside enforcer, a 45% 3-point shooter, two more experienced guards who average double-digits...and you are adding that to a team that just won playing 8 warm bodies.
Scary-good.
And now they're energized for the stretch run.
Oh, and by the way...did I mention that we get Anderson Varejao back on Sunday.
Scary-good.
So with six warm bodies (and two pickups from the Developmental League), we were in trouble.
Not so fast.
LeBron James had 33 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists (barely shy of a third-straight triple double), and Damon Jones had 27 points to lead the Cavaliers to a 90-89 win over Washington. Even Devin Brown had a double-double with 10 points and 10 boards. And to top it off, Billy Thomas scored 9 points within a few hours of signing a 10-day contract.. Yeah, I know. WTF?
With Wallace, Szcerbiak, West and Smith watching from GM Danny Ferry's loge, the arena was buzzing all night long. Fans were anxious to see the new-look Cavaliers, and the players were clearly fired up for the new arrivals.
When the final horn sounded, Damon Jones climbed on top of the scorer's table and emphatically pointed to his four new teammates in celebration. You can feel the excitement these guys have for the new era. I swear, I haven't seen this much anticipation since the arrival of King James. The players are showing excitement that I have not seen in a LONG time (well, except for beating the Pistons last year).
This is a team that KNOWS they have the talent to go far in the playoffs, and now they KNOW they are the scariest team in the East. An inside enforcer, a 45% 3-point shooter, two more experienced guards who average double-digits...and you are adding that to a team that just won playing 8 warm bodies.
Scary-good.
And now they're energized for the stretch run.
Oh, and by the way...did I mention that we get Anderson Varejao back on Sunday.
Scary-good.
Tonight's Cavs game is gonna suck
If you read all about the blockbuster deal the Cavs pulled off yesterday, you've got to be excited for the new look of the team. Tonight, Cleveland takes the floor against the Washington Wizards.
But the game will not be pretty for the good guys.
First of all, Daniel Gibson will not be available for another 4-6 weeks. His severely sprained ankle will keep him out until the final week of the regular season, most likely.
Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao are also not going to be in uniform, both still sitting out with injuries (AV will be back soon, but not tonight).
Wally Szcerbiak and Delonte West were 2,500 miles away in Portland, Oregon Thursday when the trade was announced. They have about 28 hours from the trade to gametime to get packed, get themselves into town, get situated, learn the team's gameplan and get on the court. I'll be surprised if either player sees the floor tonight (and if they do, it's minimal time at best).
Ben Wallace was in Chicago when he was told of the trade, but he expected to be sent elsewhere. He was probably on a plane already last night and may have arrived in Cleveland already. He might get some game time, especially since his biggest task will involve defense (a team concept much easier to adapt to than the offensive scheme is). But again, I'd be shocked if he got a lot of game time.
Joe Smith was also in Chicago, but I'm not sure if he was prepared to be traded. But if Wallace is in Cleveland, so is Smith. The Cavs would have put him on the same plane. However, Smith's appearance tonight isn't expected.
So where does that leave us? Here's our roster for tonight;
LeBron James
Zadrunas Ilgauskas
Devin Brown
Eric Snow
Damon Jones
Dwayne Jones
Yep. That's it. Six guys.
If you're paying attention to sports radio today, expect to hear about a few players being signed from the NBA Developmental League. A bunch of 10-day contracts are about to be awarded, which will really only last for one game, but the Cavs will still have to pay the 10-day salary.
A small price to pay for what this team is now capable of.
But the game will not be pretty for the good guys.
First of all, Daniel Gibson will not be available for another 4-6 weeks. His severely sprained ankle will keep him out until the final week of the regular season, most likely.
Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao are also not going to be in uniform, both still sitting out with injuries (AV will be back soon, but not tonight).
Wally Szcerbiak and Delonte West were 2,500 miles away in Portland, Oregon Thursday when the trade was announced. They have about 28 hours from the trade to gametime to get packed, get themselves into town, get situated, learn the team's gameplan and get on the court. I'll be surprised if either player sees the floor tonight (and if they do, it's minimal time at best).
Ben Wallace was in Chicago when he was told of the trade, but he expected to be sent elsewhere. He was probably on a plane already last night and may have arrived in Cleveland already. He might get some game time, especially since his biggest task will involve defense (a team concept much easier to adapt to than the offensive scheme is). But again, I'd be shocked if he got a lot of game time.
Joe Smith was also in Chicago, but I'm not sure if he was prepared to be traded. But if Wallace is in Cleveland, so is Smith. The Cavs would have put him on the same plane. However, Smith's appearance tonight isn't expected.
So where does that leave us? Here's our roster for tonight;
LeBron James
Zadrunas Ilgauskas
Devin Brown
Eric Snow
Damon Jones
Dwayne Jones
Yep. That's it. Six guys.
If you're paying attention to sports radio today, expect to hear about a few players being signed from the NBA Developmental League. A bunch of 10-day contracts are about to be awarded, which will really only last for one game, but the Cavs will still have to pay the 10-day salary.
A small price to pay for what this team is now capable of.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Thirty minutes that changed an entire perspective
At 2:50pm today, Cavalier diehards were on the edge of their seats. Danny Ferry, General Manager of the Cleveland Cavaliers, has been hailed as the guy to keep Wine and Gold dominance possible for years to come. But over the past seven months, grumbling has begun over the team's inactivity from the front office. LeBron James wants help and dammit, he's gonna get it.
So as the minutes ticked away towards the end of the trading deadline, Cavs fans were ready to heave Ferry into Lake Erie. Either he pulls off a big trade, or he risks losing Lebron James to a team with higher aspirations at the end of his contract. And that would be devastating to Cavalier fans. Yes, it would be a crushing blow......think along the lines of Ted Stepien.
Three o'clock passed, and ESPN analysts were still discussing the 3-team trade that involved Bonzi Wells leaving Houston. No word on the Cavs pulling the trigger. Blood pressures all over northeast Ohio rose. No activity would NOT please LeBron, and it would NOT please Cav fans. This was a day that must go well....or else.
At 3:20 pm, everything changed. The deal was announced.
The Cavaliers, in need of an outside shooter, a dominant force inside, and a point guard, got the trade they needed.
Ben Wallace, the dominant center, is now a Cavalier.
Wally Szcerbiak, the outside shooter, is now a Cavalier.
Delonte West, another guard with experience at point, is now a Cavalier.
Joe Smith, another forward, is now a Cavalier.
In exchange for these four players, the Cavs unloaded the following;
- Larry Hughes, whose shooting touch is coming around but at a high salary.
- Drew Gooden, the quiet performer that can match up on the boards often.
- Donyell Marshall, who can hit a three now and again, but played no defense.
- Ira Newble, an incredible guy but never much of a factor in games.
- Shannon Brown, a flop from the start but could do well with a fresh start.
- Cedric Simmons, yeah who cares?
In my eyes, this is a HUGE trade in favor of the Cavs. They got what they needed, and they dumped off a lot of baggage.
Take a look at what Cleveland can put on the court now;
Forward - All-Star LeBron James. The best player in the NBA today.
Center - All-Star Zadrunas Ilgauskas, who averages a double-double
Forward - All-Star Ben Wallace, the enforcer inside with defense written all over him. 4 Defensive Player of the Year awards in 5 seasons? Hell yes.
Guard - All-Star Wally Szcerbiak, the guy who shoots 44 freaking percent from BEHIND the 3-point stripe.
Now we can focus on putting Daniel Gibson at point guard and letting him run the show. We no longer need his shot as much as we previously did, and Boobie can focus on just one aspect....running the point.
Off the bench;
- Delonte West - West's only putting up 6.8 points per game this year, but gets 10 points per game in his career. 10 points per game from a backup guard? Yes, thank you. He also shoots over 33% from 3-point range.
- Anderson Varejao. This guy will be a nightmare for teams who SHOULD be relieved to see either Z or Big Ben sit down for rest. We should have him back in a week, with plenty of time to get used to his new team in time for the playoffs.
- Joe Smith - The guy averages 11.2 points per game! And he's backing up LeBron James! I'm in heaven!
- Sasha Pavlovic - Sasha has potential to become big-time, but needs to clean up the rust. The experience and and guidance he will get from this new position will be crucial and he gets another two seasons before he has to be "the man". It'll be huge for his confidence. Pavs can properly return from his injury and he'll have two weeks to get ready for the postseason...and we won't have to rush his progress back so soon. He can be in full swing at the right time!
- Damon Jones - Holy Crap, will any team playing against us get to rest ever? Jones has a wicked outside shot and we know we can count on him already.
- Devin Brown - The guy has put in some quality minutes and been a nice surprise for us all year. It's sad that he'll be our 11th man.
- Eric Snow - A decent backup point guard. We'll be counting on Snow to show the ropes to Boobie and lend his wisdom to the kid. Other than that, we're just letting him ride out his contract.
In 30 minutes we went from burning effigies to praising the skies above.
On paper, it looks fantastic. Now let's get these guys into town and see them in action. The Cleveland Cavaliers defense of the Eastern Conference Championship, Version 2.0 begins tomorrow night at the Q.
So as the minutes ticked away towards the end of the trading deadline, Cavs fans were ready to heave Ferry into Lake Erie. Either he pulls off a big trade, or he risks losing Lebron James to a team with higher aspirations at the end of his contract. And that would be devastating to Cavalier fans. Yes, it would be a crushing blow......think along the lines of Ted Stepien.
Three o'clock passed, and ESPN analysts were still discussing the 3-team trade that involved Bonzi Wells leaving Houston. No word on the Cavs pulling the trigger. Blood pressures all over northeast Ohio rose. No activity would NOT please LeBron, and it would NOT please Cav fans. This was a day that must go well....or else.
At 3:20 pm, everything changed. The deal was announced.
The Cavaliers, in need of an outside shooter, a dominant force inside, and a point guard, got the trade they needed.
Ben Wallace, the dominant center, is now a Cavalier.
Wally Szcerbiak, the outside shooter, is now a Cavalier.
Delonte West, another guard with experience at point, is now a Cavalier.
Joe Smith, another forward, is now a Cavalier.
In exchange for these four players, the Cavs unloaded the following;
- Larry Hughes, whose shooting touch is coming around but at a high salary.
- Drew Gooden, the quiet performer that can match up on the boards often.
- Donyell Marshall, who can hit a three now and again, but played no defense.
- Ira Newble, an incredible guy but never much of a factor in games.
- Shannon Brown, a flop from the start but could do well with a fresh start.
- Cedric Simmons, yeah who cares?
In my eyes, this is a HUGE trade in favor of the Cavs. They got what they needed, and they dumped off a lot of baggage.
Take a look at what Cleveland can put on the court now;
Forward - All-Star LeBron James. The best player in the NBA today.
Center - All-Star Zadrunas Ilgauskas, who averages a double-double
Forward - All-Star Ben Wallace, the enforcer inside with defense written all over him. 4 Defensive Player of the Year awards in 5 seasons? Hell yes.
Guard - All-Star Wally Szcerbiak, the guy who shoots 44 freaking percent from BEHIND the 3-point stripe.
Now we can focus on putting Daniel Gibson at point guard and letting him run the show. We no longer need his shot as much as we previously did, and Boobie can focus on just one aspect....running the point.
Off the bench;
- Delonte West - West's only putting up 6.8 points per game this year, but gets 10 points per game in his career. 10 points per game from a backup guard? Yes, thank you. He also shoots over 33% from 3-point range.
- Anderson Varejao. This guy will be a nightmare for teams who SHOULD be relieved to see either Z or Big Ben sit down for rest. We should have him back in a week, with plenty of time to get used to his new team in time for the playoffs.
- Joe Smith - The guy averages 11.2 points per game! And he's backing up LeBron James! I'm in heaven!
- Sasha Pavlovic - Sasha has potential to become big-time, but needs to clean up the rust. The experience and and guidance he will get from this new position will be crucial and he gets another two seasons before he has to be "the man". It'll be huge for his confidence. Pavs can properly return from his injury and he'll have two weeks to get ready for the postseason...and we won't have to rush his progress back so soon. He can be in full swing at the right time!
- Damon Jones - Holy Crap, will any team playing against us get to rest ever? Jones has a wicked outside shot and we know we can count on him already.
- Devin Brown - The guy has put in some quality minutes and been a nice surprise for us all year. It's sad that he'll be our 11th man.
- Eric Snow - A decent backup point guard. We'll be counting on Snow to show the ropes to Boobie and lend his wisdom to the kid. Other than that, we're just letting him ride out his contract.
In 30 minutes we went from burning effigies to praising the skies above.
On paper, it looks fantastic. Now let's get these guys into town and see them in action. The Cleveland Cavaliers defense of the Eastern Conference Championship, Version 2.0 begins tomorrow night at the Q.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Aaaarghhhhh....I can't stand it!
I turned on the Ohio State-Indiana game today. Ohio State was up 2-0. Shortly after I began watching, Indiana went on a tear and led 8-2 in a hurry.
So I switched away.
Played a couple songs of Guitar Hero III with my 9-year-old daughter. Then we finished packing up the cut-out cookies we made for her Valentine's Day party at school this week.
Then I went back to the game. Ohio State trailed by 2 points early in the second half. As soon as I started watching again, Indiana went on a 7-0 run to take a 9-point lead.
So I switched away.
I have no idea what the score is...because I refuse to watch. I think I'm bad luck today. I'm taking one for the team.
So I switched away.
Played a couple songs of Guitar Hero III with my 9-year-old daughter. Then we finished packing up the cut-out cookies we made for her Valentine's Day party at school this week.
Then I went back to the game. Ohio State trailed by 2 points early in the second half. As soon as I started watching again, Indiana went on a 7-0 run to take a 9-point lead.
So I switched away.
I have no idea what the score is...because I refuse to watch. I think I'm bad luck today. I'm taking one for the team.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Pryor's non-sign - Bad for OSU, worse for Michigan
When Terrelle Pryor decided to hold off on his decision this morning, it disappointed a lot of college football fans around the midwest. But the story between the lines runs pretty deep.
Pryor had been set to sign with Ohio State, and he has now decided to take a longer look at Penn State and Oregon. He now has until April 1st to make his choice or he cannot play college football in 2008. Word is that he'll decide much sooner than the NCAA deadline of 4/1.
Ohio State was his first choice, but it's now been pushed back to a "possible selection" with Oregon and PSU getting another look. That's not good for the Buckeyes, but all we have to do now is hope that we put on a good enough presentation than the Ducks or Lions.
But Michigan....they're on life support right now. They were already 2nd on the list according to all the experts and friends close to Pryor. Now the Wolverines have to pray that Oregon and Penn State do not impress much, and THEN pray that somebody ELSE convinces Pryor to give on Ohio State, the school that he was "within hours of signing with".
Translation - Michigan, start warming up Threet at QB. He's your man. Pryor will be playing at Michigan Stadium sometime in 2009....that's the next time that either PSU or OSU comes to the Big House for a game.
Pryor had been set to sign with Ohio State, and he has now decided to take a longer look at Penn State and Oregon. He now has until April 1st to make his choice or he cannot play college football in 2008. Word is that he'll decide much sooner than the NCAA deadline of 4/1.
Ohio State was his first choice, but it's now been pushed back to a "possible selection" with Oregon and PSU getting another look. That's not good for the Buckeyes, but all we have to do now is hope that we put on a good enough presentation than the Ducks or Lions.
But Michigan....they're on life support right now. They were already 2nd on the list according to all the experts and friends close to Pryor. Now the Wolverines have to pray that Oregon and Penn State do not impress much, and THEN pray that somebody ELSE convinces Pryor to give on Ohio State, the school that he was "within hours of signing with".
Translation - Michigan, start warming up Threet at QB. He's your man. Pryor will be playing at Michigan Stadium sometime in 2009....that's the next time that either PSU or OSU comes to the Big House for a game.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Where will YOU be at 12:05 tomorrow afternoon?
I already have my place to watch the announcement tomorrow....
Terrelle Pryor has announced that he will disclose his college of choice on Wednesday afternoon, a few minutes after Noon. It's down to three schools, Ohio State, Penn State, and Michigan. Frankly, I doubt that Penn State is even in the running, but it's still among his listed schools.
What's it gonna be, Terrelle? Are you going to Olde Tex, or U.C.C?
It means a lot to both OSU and UM. But I think it means A LOT more to Michigan....if they don't get Pryor, they're stuck with one quarterback. He's some kid named Threet, who has never taken a snap in college. And he was going to be behind Ryan Mallett, so how scary could he be? If they get Pryor, they've got a star right from the start, and if they don't get him they are saddled with HUGE problems on the offensive side of the ball.
If Ohio State doesn't sign Pryor, we have get ready and prepare for the rivalry to take a new turn. Pryor would play to our weaknesses on defense, and we'd have ourselves some trouble defending him. But if we DO get him, we've got two bonuses. One, we've got ourselves a quarterback controversy in 2009 between Pryor and Antonio Henton. Two, we kept him away from Michigan. That alone is worth it's weight in sweet, sweet gold.
So saddle up boys and girls...tomorrow's a big, big day!
Terrelle Pryor has announced that he will disclose his college of choice on Wednesday afternoon, a few minutes after Noon. It's down to three schools, Ohio State, Penn State, and Michigan. Frankly, I doubt that Penn State is even in the running, but it's still among his listed schools.
What's it gonna be, Terrelle? Are you going to Olde Tex, or U.C.C?It means a lot to both OSU and UM. But I think it means A LOT more to Michigan....if they don't get Pryor, they're stuck with one quarterback. He's some kid named Threet, who has never taken a snap in college. And he was going to be behind Ryan Mallett, so how scary could he be? If they get Pryor, they've got a star right from the start, and if they don't get him they are saddled with HUGE problems on the offensive side of the ball.
If Ohio State doesn't sign Pryor, we have get ready and prepare for the rivalry to take a new turn. Pryor would play to our weaknesses on defense, and we'd have ourselves some trouble defending him. But if we DO get him, we've got two bonuses. One, we've got ourselves a quarterback controversy in 2009 between Pryor and Antonio Henton. Two, we kept him away from Michigan. That alone is worth it's weight in sweet, sweet gold.
So saddle up boys and girls...tomorrow's a big, big day!
Sunday, February 03, 2008
New York Giants - 1, Bill Belichick's ego - 0
OK, let me get this out of the way....I was wrong. I said that the Giants would never win this game, and I was wrong.
That being said, let me just say this.....the New England Patriots are the 2nd-biggest chokers in the history of sports. UNLV losing in the Final Four back when I was a teenager is still tops (they were something like 34-0 and hadn't been in a game decided by less than ten points all year). When you're 18-0 and favored by 2 TDs over a team that shouldn't even be in the Super Bowl, you'd better win. They didn't, they get the silver medal for all-time chokes.
But the reason for this defeat? Bill Belichick's ego.
The Patriots had the ball at the Giants 31-yard line in the 3rd quarter, and faced a 4th-and-18. Their kicker is a young stud who can kick it from beyond 50 yards easily, and there's NO FREAKING WIND in the dome. The Pats didn't kick that FG because Belichick thinks his team can score anytime they want anywhere they want....and it bit him in his oversized classless ass.
Had Belichick actually COACHED this game instead of merely sit back and expect to win, he'd have sent his kicker onto the field. But those of us who know BB and all his whiny-baby attitude (example - Browns fans who remember Bernie Kosar's final pass on the lakefront), well, lets just say we are enjoying this moment.
Belichick's ego couldn't even allow him to stay on the field with his team for the final play. He high-tailed it into the locker room with one play left in the game. That's low-class, and richly deserving of Belichick.
I for one enjoyed every second of the game, watching that historical defeat. My hat is off to the New York Giants. Long live Eli Manning, who began the season as my Fantasy Football QB, but pissed me off so badly that I traded him for David Garrard. It was a good move, since my season ended in Week 15, but I'm glad the Giants didn't give up on him so easily.
Oh, and one last note to Tom Brady....remember when you laughed at Plaxico Burress for predicting a 23-17 Giant win? Here's what you said....
You WISH you had scored 17.
So go back to your fancy cars, and your designer clothes, and Victoria Silvestedt, Playmate of the Year.....
That being said, let me just say this.....the New England Patriots are the 2nd-biggest chokers in the history of sports. UNLV losing in the Final Four back when I was a teenager is still tops (they were something like 34-0 and hadn't been in a game decided by less than ten points all year). When you're 18-0 and favored by 2 TDs over a team that shouldn't even be in the Super Bowl, you'd better win. They didn't, they get the silver medal for all-time chokes.
But the reason for this defeat? Bill Belichick's ego.
The Patriots had the ball at the Giants 31-yard line in the 3rd quarter, and faced a 4th-and-18. Their kicker is a young stud who can kick it from beyond 50 yards easily, and there's NO FREAKING WIND in the dome. The Pats didn't kick that FG because Belichick thinks his team can score anytime they want anywhere they want....and it bit him in his oversized classless ass.
Had Belichick actually COACHED this game instead of merely sit back and expect to win, he'd have sent his kicker onto the field. But those of us who know BB and all his whiny-baby attitude (example - Browns fans who remember Bernie Kosar's final pass on the lakefront), well, lets just say we are enjoying this moment.
Belichick's ego couldn't even allow him to stay on the field with his team for the final play. He high-tailed it into the locker room with one play left in the game. That's low-class, and richly deserving of Belichick.
I for one enjoyed every second of the game, watching that historical defeat. My hat is off to the New York Giants. Long live Eli Manning, who began the season as my Fantasy Football QB, but pissed me off so badly that I traded him for David Garrard. It was a good move, since my season ended in Week 15, but I'm glad the Giants didn't give up on him so easily.
Oh, and one last note to Tom Brady....remember when you laughed at Plaxico Burress for predicting a 23-17 Giant win? Here's what you said....
"We're only going to score 17 points?" Brady said before chuckling about it. "OK. Is Plax playing defense? I wish he had said 45-42 and gave us a little credit for scoring more points."
You WISH you had scored 17.
So go back to your fancy cars, and your designer clothes, and Victoria Silvestedt, Playmate of the Year.....
Friday, February 01, 2008
Time to play catch-up!
OK, everything is in order and I'm ready to get back at this blogging thing. I want to thank EVERYBODY for their kind words and e-mails. But I've missed a lot since early January, so I've got some ground to catch up on.....
Let's go pro first, shall we?
Cleveland Cavaliers
Raise your hand if you wrote the Cavaliers off for dead. OK, everybody put your hands down now.
After a meh November and an absolutely horrifying December, the Cavs are looking like the strongest team in the NBA right now. They've now won 13 of their last 17 games, and they even looked strong in three of those four losses. Hell, they even came close to winning on the road in Seattle last night without LeBron James on the court.
Currently occupying the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference, the Cavs have managed to get the critics off their backs by....well, let's be honest, they're fucking scary right now.
If you want to see how good they are, look at last week's Lakers game. They started the game without Sasha Pavlovic, Anderson Varejao went down with a bad injury in the 3rd quarter, and Zadrunas Ilgauskas fouled out midway through the 4th quarter. You put those together, and you're usually going to lose. Plus, it was being played IN Los Angeles against a Lakers team that is playing like they FINALLY should be.
But the Cavs made Kobe Bryant look like a fool with a stifling defense late in the game, and LeBron was clutch down the stretch, adding up to a 3-point victory in the Staples Center.
Oh, and by the way, if you have front-row seats to a game against the Cavs on the road...PLEASE taunt LeBron during the game. Go ahead. See what happens.
As for the injuries to Varejao and Pavlovic, we're going to have a rough time while they're out, but we should have AV back around February 20th, and Pavs back in late March. That'll mean that we get the full team back on the court with three weeks to tune things up for the playoffs.
And if you're wondering, the Cavs first fielded a full team in the second week of December...about three weeks before they gelled into the team that has rattled off 13 of their last 17.
The Super Bowl
When the Giants kicked the field goal to beat the Packers, I said "worst Super Bowl ever". Frankly, I still believe it.
Yes, I know the Giants have played awesome football in the playoffs. The week off will destroy them. They just don't have the talent to win this game on momentum anyway, and now that's gone, so who cares?
Yes, I know the Patriots have looked weaker the past month. They're not playing a cold-weather game this weekend though. They seem to be weaker in those games. Plus, they're not going to get rattled by the media frenzy in this game. They've been in this spotlight over and over again.
As much as I want to see Bill Belichick and Tom Brady and Randy Moss die a slow painful miserable death on the field, it ain't gonna happen. Maybe their bus will get lost on the way to the game this Sunday.
And if not....hey, at least Mike Vrabel gets another ring, huh? How bout that?
Ohio State basketball
Damn...imagine what we'd be if the NBA had the same age rule as the NFL. We'd have Mike Conley Jr. and Greg Oden on this team. Would we be 21-0 instead of 15-6? Absolutely.
But that's fantasy, and besides...what the hell is so bad about 15-6? The Buckeyes have looked great at times (beating Syracuse and Florida), and have looked rough around the edges at times (the whole second half against both A&M and Butler...did we send the same guys on the floor as in the first half?).
But I can honestly say that of the six games we lost, I think we probably should have lost. Take a look at this week's rankings....here's who our six losses are to;
- #4 North Carolina (19-1)
- #7 Tennessee (17-2)
- #8 Michigan State (18-2)
- #12 Butler (19-2)
- #23 Texas A&M (16-4)
- Purdue (16-5)
All of those teams will be in the NCAA tournament. Three of those teams have an excellent shot at being a #1 seed, and four of them are leading their own conference (it'd be five, but Duke has a half-game lead on UNC).
Realistically, we're going to need 22 wins to get into the NCAAs. Most teams would not get in with 22, but in order for Ohio State to get to that number, we will NEED to get at least 2 "quality wins". So we need to get 7 more wins, and we have 11 games to do it (but we could have up to 13 chances as we advance in the Big Ten Tournament).
Here's the remainder of the schedule...I think this looks like an NCAA bid for us, but see if you agree with me;
- @ Iowa (10-12)
- Michigan (5-16)
- Indiana (17-3)
- @ Northwestern (7-11)
- @ Michigan (5-16)
- Wisconsin (17-3)
- @ Indiana (17-3)
- @ Minnesota (13-6)
- Purdue (16-5)
- Michigan State (19-2)
- @ 2008 Big Ten Tournament
Four games are "must wins" (@ Iowa, @ Northwestern, @ Michigan, Michigan).
One game is a "should win" (@ Minnesota)
Of the five difficult games, four of them are at the Schottenstein Center (Indiana, Wisconsin, Purdue, and Michigan State). Win two of those five games, and you've got up to four quality wins and your 22-win season. And that's even before the Big Ten tournament.
This team is going to end up between 19 and 25 wins. 19 gets you a nice shiny NIT bid. 25 gets you a top 4 seed in the NCAAs.
Let's see what the boys are made of.
Oh, and by the way...Memphis is ranked #1 at 20-0. Last team to beat them?
One last item....hat tip goes to Boiled Sports for this one.....here, in all his douchebaggery, is Chris Berman.
Hey, Chris...you've worked in TV for a long time. How about YOU learn to concentrate and let everybody else do THEIR jobs? As long as they don't wander onto the set and get on camera, what the fuck do YOU care? Concentrate, tubby!
Let's go pro first, shall we?
Cleveland Cavaliers
Raise your hand if you wrote the Cavaliers off for dead. OK, everybody put your hands down now.
After a meh November and an absolutely horrifying December, the Cavs are looking like the strongest team in the NBA right now. They've now won 13 of their last 17 games, and they even looked strong in three of those four losses. Hell, they even came close to winning on the road in Seattle last night without LeBron James on the court.
Currently occupying the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference, the Cavs have managed to get the critics off their backs by....well, let's be honest, they're fucking scary right now.
If you want to see how good they are, look at last week's Lakers game. They started the game without Sasha Pavlovic, Anderson Varejao went down with a bad injury in the 3rd quarter, and Zadrunas Ilgauskas fouled out midway through the 4th quarter. You put those together, and you're usually going to lose. Plus, it was being played IN Los Angeles against a Lakers team that is playing like they FINALLY should be.
But the Cavs made Kobe Bryant look like a fool with a stifling defense late in the game, and LeBron was clutch down the stretch, adding up to a 3-point victory in the Staples Center.
Oh, and by the way, if you have front-row seats to a game against the Cavs on the road...PLEASE taunt LeBron during the game. Go ahead. See what happens.
As for the injuries to Varejao and Pavlovic, we're going to have a rough time while they're out, but we should have AV back around February 20th, and Pavs back in late March. That'll mean that we get the full team back on the court with three weeks to tune things up for the playoffs.
And if you're wondering, the Cavs first fielded a full team in the second week of December...about three weeks before they gelled into the team that has rattled off 13 of their last 17.
The Super Bowl
When the Giants kicked the field goal to beat the Packers, I said "worst Super Bowl ever". Frankly, I still believe it.
Yes, I know the Giants have played awesome football in the playoffs. The week off will destroy them. They just don't have the talent to win this game on momentum anyway, and now that's gone, so who cares?
Yes, I know the Patriots have looked weaker the past month. They're not playing a cold-weather game this weekend though. They seem to be weaker in those games. Plus, they're not going to get rattled by the media frenzy in this game. They've been in this spotlight over and over again.
As much as I want to see Bill Belichick and Tom Brady and Randy Moss die a slow painful miserable death on the field, it ain't gonna happen. Maybe their bus will get lost on the way to the game this Sunday.
And if not....hey, at least Mike Vrabel gets another ring, huh? How bout that?
Ohio State basketball
Damn...imagine what we'd be if the NBA had the same age rule as the NFL. We'd have Mike Conley Jr. and Greg Oden on this team. Would we be 21-0 instead of 15-6? Absolutely.
But that's fantasy, and besides...what the hell is so bad about 15-6? The Buckeyes have looked great at times (beating Syracuse and Florida), and have looked rough around the edges at times (the whole second half against both A&M and Butler...did we send the same guys on the floor as in the first half?).
But I can honestly say that of the six games we lost, I think we probably should have lost. Take a look at this week's rankings....here's who our six losses are to;
- #4 North Carolina (19-1)
- #7 Tennessee (17-2)
- #8 Michigan State (18-2)
- #12 Butler (19-2)
- #23 Texas A&M (16-4)
- Purdue (16-5)
All of those teams will be in the NCAA tournament. Three of those teams have an excellent shot at being a #1 seed, and four of them are leading their own conference (it'd be five, but Duke has a half-game lead on UNC).
Realistically, we're going to need 22 wins to get into the NCAAs. Most teams would not get in with 22, but in order for Ohio State to get to that number, we will NEED to get at least 2 "quality wins". So we need to get 7 more wins, and we have 11 games to do it (but we could have up to 13 chances as we advance in the Big Ten Tournament).
Here's the remainder of the schedule...I think this looks like an NCAA bid for us, but see if you agree with me;
- @ Iowa (10-12)
- Michigan (5-16)
- Indiana (17-3)
- @ Northwestern (7-11)
- @ Michigan (5-16)
- Wisconsin (17-3)
- @ Indiana (17-3)
- @ Minnesota (13-6)
- Purdue (16-5)
- Michigan State (19-2)
- @ 2008 Big Ten Tournament
Four games are "must wins" (@ Iowa, @ Northwestern, @ Michigan, Michigan).
One game is a "should win" (@ Minnesota)
Of the five difficult games, four of them are at the Schottenstein Center (Indiana, Wisconsin, Purdue, and Michigan State). Win two of those five games, and you've got up to four quality wins and your 22-win season. And that's even before the Big Ten tournament.
This team is going to end up between 19 and 25 wins. 19 gets you a nice shiny NIT bid. 25 gets you a top 4 seed in the NCAAs.
Let's see what the boys are made of.
Oh, and by the way...Memphis is ranked #1 at 20-0. Last team to beat them?
One last item....hat tip goes to Boiled Sports for this one.....here, in all his douchebaggery, is Chris Berman.
Hey, Chris...you've worked in TV for a long time. How about YOU learn to concentrate and let everybody else do THEIR jobs? As long as they don't wander onto the set and get on camera, what the fuck do YOU care? Concentrate, tubby!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Family problems
OK, so this post is to inform everyone about my whereabouts....especially since I've been away for so long.
Over the course of the past 25 years, my father has had 8 brain surgeries to have various tumors removed. All the tumors have been the non-cancerous kind, and we've been fortunate in that respect. But the every-three-years rotation of having his brain surgically repaired has taken a slow toll on him. His ability to write, his basic motor skills, his walking abilities....these have all been affected by years of health issues. He did a lot of work from his home computer, but he longer can even do that, and has had to retire.
Financially, he and my mom are fine, but the extra income is no longer available and disability checks will keep coming for another 4 years, then it's social security.
Anyway, the strain on dad's health has led him to astronomical amounts of prescription medication (and bills to go with it). So to summarize...things are rough.
Over the past few weeks, I made a decision to pack up my apartment and take over living quarters in their home. This will allow me to better take care of my dad. With me around, mom can worry less and continue to work, and being here makes it easier on me too (I'm trying to save enough money to move to Utah and marry my girlfriend).
So the past few weeks has been chock full of me working, then getting home and trying to pack up my stuff and gradually take up residence elsewhere. Normally, this would have a smaller effect on my time spent at the computer....but I made the mistake of having my utilities shut off earlier than expected, and when the cable/internet went away prematurely, I saw no need to call them back and have it restored.
So now I'm back on a more full-time basis. Yes, I'm alive and well, and yes I'll be back in full swing again. Prayers for my dad are appreciated, and thanks for caring.
Jeff, The BBC
Over the course of the past 25 years, my father has had 8 brain surgeries to have various tumors removed. All the tumors have been the non-cancerous kind, and we've been fortunate in that respect. But the every-three-years rotation of having his brain surgically repaired has taken a slow toll on him. His ability to write, his basic motor skills, his walking abilities....these have all been affected by years of health issues. He did a lot of work from his home computer, but he longer can even do that, and has had to retire.
Financially, he and my mom are fine, but the extra income is no longer available and disability checks will keep coming for another 4 years, then it's social security.
Anyway, the strain on dad's health has led him to astronomical amounts of prescription medication (and bills to go with it). So to summarize...things are rough.
Over the past few weeks, I made a decision to pack up my apartment and take over living quarters in their home. This will allow me to better take care of my dad. With me around, mom can worry less and continue to work, and being here makes it easier on me too (I'm trying to save enough money to move to Utah and marry my girlfriend).
So the past few weeks has been chock full of me working, then getting home and trying to pack up my stuff and gradually take up residence elsewhere. Normally, this would have a smaller effect on my time spent at the computer....but I made the mistake of having my utilities shut off earlier than expected, and when the cable/internet went away prematurely, I saw no need to call them back and have it restored.
So now I'm back on a more full-time basis. Yes, I'm alive and well, and yes I'll be back in full swing again. Prayers for my dad are appreciated, and thanks for caring.
Jeff, The BBC
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Still alive....
No, I didn't commit suicide or anything.
I'm in the process of moving, and I have no internet connection. Using my Blackberry for this one....
I'll be posting regularly again in a day or two. Promise.
I'm in the process of moving, and I have no internet connection. Using my Blackberry for this one....
I'll be posting regularly again in a day or two. Promise.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
OK I'm back
...but NO time to post, so sorry.
I'll tell lots of Vegas-related stories tomorrow. Until then;
GO BUCKEYES!!!!
I'll tell lots of Vegas-related stories tomorrow. Until then;
GO BUCKEYES!!!!
Urban Meyer is a douchebag
Wow, just wow at what Florida head coach Urban Meyer had to say following his team's loss to Michigan yesterday;
I work with a guy who is a HUGE Michigan fan. Just before the game, he said he would love to see Lloyd Carr punch Meyer in the face during pre-game warmups, but that he has way too much class to actually do it. As it turns out, by the end of the day, Carr proved he has that class and Meyer proved he has none.
"Well, for those guys who just put in their time and didn't make any real contributions, it's time for you to go. It won't be hard to say goodbye to some of those guys who just went through the motions.Throwing your own kids under the bus? That's despicable. But we expected nothing less from the man who cried his way into last year's title game.
Now for those kids who actually bought into the program, and who made some sacrifices and contributions -- you know, like Bubba Caldwell....he's a graduate of UF and had a great career -- you'll really miss those guys. But just because you're a senior doesn't mean you have any value."
I work with a guy who is a HUGE Michigan fan. Just before the game, he said he would love to see Lloyd Carr punch Meyer in the face during pre-game warmups, but that he has way too much class to actually do it. As it turns out, by the end of the day, Carr proved he has that class and Meyer proved he has none.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Michigan vs. Ohio State/Michigan vs. Florida
Michigan vs. Ohio State - 15 possessions, 91 yards
Michigan vs. Florida - first possession, 93 yards
I'm just sayin'
Michigan vs. Florida - first possession, 93 yards
I'm just sayin'
Bowl preview, part 13
I'm packing my suitcase right now while watching the Sugar Bowl. I leave for Vegas tomorrow, and probably won't blog much while I'm gone (hey, would YOU blog much if you were in Vegas on vaca?)
So here's the remainder of the bowl games, starting with tomorrow's game.
- Oklahoma will crush West Virginia. They didn't deserve their chance at the National Championship, and Pitt merely exposed that factoid.
- Virginia Tech will provide a beatdown of Kansas. Kansas skated by all year long, and the Jayhawks loss will provide Missouri fans with a great big "told ya so" for years to come.
- Rutgers over Ball State. Don't be stupid.
- Tulsa over Bowling Green. Did I really have to have THAT game as the penultimate bowl game of this season?
- Ohio State over LSU. You know why.
Vegas, baby....Vegas!
So here's the remainder of the bowl games, starting with tomorrow's game.
- Oklahoma will crush West Virginia. They didn't deserve their chance at the National Championship, and Pitt merely exposed that factoid.
- Virginia Tech will provide a beatdown of Kansas. Kansas skated by all year long, and the Jayhawks loss will provide Missouri fans with a great big "told ya so" for years to come.
- Rutgers over Ball State. Don't be stupid.
- Tulsa over Bowling Green. Did I really have to have THAT game as the penultimate bowl game of this season?
- Ohio State over LSU. You know why.
Vegas, baby....Vegas!
I'm so proud of you, Michigan!
Michigan just beat Florida 41-35....they gave Lloyd a win in his final game.
Mike Hart tried to give it away, fumbling twice inside the 5-yard line, but Florida couldn't stop that slow Big 10 team.
Tim Tebow threw four awful passes in his final possession, none of them landing anywhere near a Florida WR. This was a great win for the conference.
Congrats, TTUN. You deserve it.
Mike Hart tried to give it away, fumbling twice inside the 5-yard line, but Florida couldn't stop that slow Big 10 team.
Tim Tebow threw four awful passes in his final possession, none of them landing anywhere near a Florida WR. This was a great win for the conference.
Congrats, TTUN. You deserve it.
Bowl preview, part 12
Dear God, I sucked yesterday. And I leave for Vegas in 36 hours....pray that I have better luck today or I may come home shirtless next week!
These are going to be short because I have to leave in about 30 minutes.
Missouri vs. Arkansas
Cotton Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1130am
Missouri has a lot of talent and something to prove. Arkansas has one very talented man who has been ravaged and vindicated and ravaged again in the press. It'll be a very good game, but I think the talent of Chase Daniel will overcome the talent of Darren McFadden.
Missouri also needs to show the BCS committee why the "onlt two teams per conference rule" needs to be eliminated. They got screwed, and they'll prove it.
Missouri 34
Arkansas 28
------------------------------
Florida vs. Michigan
Capital One Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1pm
Florida is the defending National Champions. They have the Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. Michigan lost four games this year, three in the Big House, one to a Division 1-AA school.
You know what? Screw all that noise. Florida's been told for 6 weeks that they are a lock, and Michigan is pissed. Plus, when you have a fully healthy Chad Henne, a fully healthy Mike Hart, and a MESS of players looking to win one final game for Lloyd Carr, you've got motivation.
Michigan 28
Florida 27
And if it doesn't happen, we get to laugh at Mike Hart for going 0-8 in bowl games and against Ohio State.
-----------------------------
Virginia vs. Texas Tech
Gator Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1pm
Virginia's had it's share of big wins this year, and I like them a lot. But I am concerned about their ability to stop a high-powered Texas Tech offense. There will be a LOT of passes thrown in this game, and I think TT will win out. Nuff said.
Texas Tech 45
Virginia 35
--------------------------
USC vs. Illinois
Rose Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 430pm
Our first BCS game!
Juice Williams, Rashard Mendenhall and Stepan Pamon just killed us when we played in Columbus. That won't happen here. USC is a beast in bowl games, and Pete Carroll doesn't let players overlook opponents in bowl games. Except Oklahoma.
USC 45
Illinois 21
-------------------------------
Hawaii vs. Georgia
Sugar Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 8pm
Remember the Fiesta Bowl? Boise State vs. Oklahoma?
Also remember that this is the year of upsets. I'm going to risk my luck on this one and hope that I end this day better than yesterday.
Hawaii 28
Georgia 27
These are going to be short because I have to leave in about 30 minutes.
Missouri vs. Arkansas
Cotton Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1130am
Missouri has a lot of talent and something to prove. Arkansas has one very talented man who has been ravaged and vindicated and ravaged again in the press. It'll be a very good game, but I think the talent of Chase Daniel will overcome the talent of Darren McFadden.
Missouri also needs to show the BCS committee why the "onlt two teams per conference rule" needs to be eliminated. They got screwed, and they'll prove it.
Missouri 34
Arkansas 28
------------------------------
Florida vs. Michigan
Capital One Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1pm
Florida is the defending National Champions. They have the Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. Michigan lost four games this year, three in the Big House, one to a Division 1-AA school.
You know what? Screw all that noise. Florida's been told for 6 weeks that they are a lock, and Michigan is pissed. Plus, when you have a fully healthy Chad Henne, a fully healthy Mike Hart, and a MESS of players looking to win one final game for Lloyd Carr, you've got motivation.
Michigan 28
Florida 27
And if it doesn't happen, we get to laugh at Mike Hart for going 0-8 in bowl games and against Ohio State.
-----------------------------
Virginia vs. Texas Tech
Gator Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 1pm
Virginia's had it's share of big wins this year, and I like them a lot. But I am concerned about their ability to stop a high-powered Texas Tech offense. There will be a LOT of passes thrown in this game, and I think TT will win out. Nuff said.
Texas Tech 45
Virginia 35
--------------------------
USC vs. Illinois
Rose Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 430pm
Our first BCS game!
Juice Williams, Rashard Mendenhall and Stepan Pamon just killed us when we played in Columbus. That won't happen here. USC is a beast in bowl games, and Pete Carroll doesn't let players overlook opponents in bowl games. Except Oklahoma.
USC 45
Illinois 21
-------------------------------
Hawaii vs. Georgia
Sugar Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 8pm
Remember the Fiesta Bowl? Boise State vs. Oklahoma?
Also remember that this is the year of upsets. I'm going to risk my luck on this one and hope that I end this day better than yesterday.
Hawaii 28
Georgia 27
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Bowl preview, part 11
Had an amazing time at the Browns game today. This picture was taken from my seat;
Not too shabby, I think.
On with the preview;
Florida State vs. Kentucky
Music City Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 4pm
Florida State cheats, and they lost 35 players to suspension.
This will be my second-shortest preview.
Kentucky 51
Florida State 21
--------------------------
Oklahoma State vs. Indiana
Insight Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 530pm
If you follow college football more on a historical level, you would pick Oklahoma State in this game. The Cowboys always have a pretty decent squad while Indiana is known as a basketball school - and nothing more.
However, if you actually FOLLOW college football, and have paid attention for the past 12 months, you probably should take the Hoosiers. These kids are hungry, and they have a universe full of motivation on their side. Since their head coach Terry Hoeppner passed away, Indiana is on a mission. Bill Lynch took the helm and rallied his boys around Hoeppner's death, and the result has been nothing short of remarkable.
They have still struggled with the Big Ten elite, but pulled off a fantastic upset of Purdue on the final play of the regular season to get their bowl eligibility. I have no reason to believe they will waste this opportunity.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma State has not been much to write home about. They give up a LOT of points, and their only quality wins have been against Texas Tech and Florida Atlantic...and when a Big 12 school has to pimp a win over FAU, they're not very good. Blowout losses to Oklahoma, Kansas, Georgia, and Troy (yeah, Troy) show that they are likely to get their door kicked in by a quality opponent. Indianaisn't quality yet, but they are ready to take that next step. It'll be a close win for the Hoosiers.
Indiana 31
Oklahoma State 28
---------------------
Clemson vs. Auburn
Chick-Fil-A Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 730pm
A good quality game, and the bowl representatives should be proud of the matchup they have put together.
Both teams are capable of pulling off a big upset and both teams have good defenses. The difference might be Clemson's ability to score.
Clemson has a winner in QB Cullen Harper. The kid's thrown for nearly 3,000 yards and has 27 TDs on the season. Add in a pair of RBs who combined for over 1,600 yards and you have your difference in the game...at least on paper.
Auburn dismantled Florida's offense, winning 20-17 in the Swamp. They also held Darren McFadden to 43 yards rushing, and had a lead on LSU until the final offensive play of the game.
Like I said, this one is a tough game to pick, so I'm going with the Tigers. If you're laughing right now, then you know your mascots.
Clemson 27
Auburn 24
--------------------------
Tennessee vs. Wisconsin
Outback Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 11am
The biggest question in this game will be "which Wisconsin team will show up?" Will it be the team that got embarrassed by Ohio State and Penn State, or the team that crushed Michigan?
We already know what team Tennessee will show up with....an understaffed one. Several players have been suspended for academic ineligibility, and the defense will be reshuffled for the game.
This could be huge for a team with strong players like P.J. Hill and Travis Beckum. Hill ran for over 1,000 yards in an injury-shortened season, and Beckum caught just under 1,000 yards worth of passes (and the kid has great hands).
I'm going to go with history on this one...Wisconsin has had great recent success in January against SEC teams. I think it'll continue on Tuesday.
Wisconsin 37
Tennessee 31
Not too shabby, I think.On with the preview;
Florida State vs. Kentucky
Music City Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 4pm
Florida State cheats, and they lost 35 players to suspension.
This will be my second-shortest preview.
Kentucky 51
Florida State 21
--------------------------
Oklahoma State vs. Indiana
Insight Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 530pm
If you follow college football more on a historical level, you would pick Oklahoma State in this game. The Cowboys always have a pretty decent squad while Indiana is known as a basketball school - and nothing more.
However, if you actually FOLLOW college football, and have paid attention for the past 12 months, you probably should take the Hoosiers. These kids are hungry, and they have a universe full of motivation on their side. Since their head coach Terry Hoeppner passed away, Indiana is on a mission. Bill Lynch took the helm and rallied his boys around Hoeppner's death, and the result has been nothing short of remarkable.
They have still struggled with the Big Ten elite, but pulled off a fantastic upset of Purdue on the final play of the regular season to get their bowl eligibility. I have no reason to believe they will waste this opportunity.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma State has not been much to write home about. They give up a LOT of points, and their only quality wins have been against Texas Tech and Florida Atlantic...and when a Big 12 school has to pimp a win over FAU, they're not very good. Blowout losses to Oklahoma, Kansas, Georgia, and Troy (yeah, Troy) show that they are likely to get their door kicked in by a quality opponent. Indianaisn't quality yet, but they are ready to take that next step. It'll be a close win for the Hoosiers.
Indiana 31
Oklahoma State 28
---------------------
Clemson vs. Auburn
Chick-Fil-A Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 730pm
A good quality game, and the bowl representatives should be proud of the matchup they have put together.
Both teams are capable of pulling off a big upset and both teams have good defenses. The difference might be Clemson's ability to score.
Clemson has a winner in QB Cullen Harper. The kid's thrown for nearly 3,000 yards and has 27 TDs on the season. Add in a pair of RBs who combined for over 1,600 yards and you have your difference in the game...at least on paper.
Auburn dismantled Florida's offense, winning 20-17 in the Swamp. They also held Darren McFadden to 43 yards rushing, and had a lead on LSU until the final offensive play of the game.
Like I said, this one is a tough game to pick, so I'm going with the Tigers. If you're laughing right now, then you know your mascots.
Clemson 27
Auburn 24
--------------------------
Tennessee vs. Wisconsin
Outback Bowl
Tuesday, January 1st - 11am
The biggest question in this game will be "which Wisconsin team will show up?" Will it be the team that got embarrassed by Ohio State and Penn State, or the team that crushed Michigan?
We already know what team Tennessee will show up with....an understaffed one. Several players have been suspended for academic ineligibility, and the defense will be reshuffled for the game.
This could be huge for a team with strong players like P.J. Hill and Travis Beckum. Hill ran for over 1,000 yards in an injury-shortened season, and Beckum caught just under 1,000 yards worth of passes (and the kid has great hands).
I'm going to go with history on this one...Wisconsin has had great recent success in January against SEC teams. I think it'll continue on Tuesday.
Wisconsin 37
Tennessee 31
It's way too damn early!
It's 4:15am (and Michigan still sucks), and I'm up getting dressed. Why?
I'm going to the Browns game today!
First time I've tailgated for a Browns game in about 5 years. The tailgating starts at 6am for the group of people I'm headed up with and we leave at 4:45. We've got a keg of Dortmunder, a pot of sauerkraut kielbasa, and a full log of prime rib. If the teevee catches a shot of me today, I'll post it (I've got front-row seats on the 5-yard-line by the visiting team tunnel).
I'll be shocked if I survive the day, so upon my imminent demise, I hereby bequeath the Buckeye Battle Cry to be divided up evenly between the proprietors of Eleven Warriors, Men Of The Scarlet And Grey, and Halftime Adjustments.
Go Browns....and go Colts, too!
I'm going to the Browns game today!
First time I've tailgated for a Browns game in about 5 years. The tailgating starts at 6am for the group of people I'm headed up with and we leave at 4:45. We've got a keg of Dortmunder, a pot of sauerkraut kielbasa, and a full log of prime rib. If the teevee catches a shot of me today, I'll post it (I've got front-row seats on the 5-yard-line by the visiting team tunnel).
I'll be shocked if I survive the day, so upon my imminent demise, I hereby bequeath the Buckeye Battle Cry to be divided up evenly between the proprietors of Eleven Warriors, Men Of The Scarlet And Grey, and Halftime Adjustments.
Go Browns....and go Colts, too!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Bowl preview, part 10
Colorado vs. Alabama
Independence Bowl
Sunday, December 30th - 8pm
Who gives a shit?
Colorado 21
Alabama 20
Actual score
Alabama 30
Colorado 24
The BBC - 11-4
---------------------
Air Force vs. California
Armed Forces Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 1230pm
Can anybody actually believe that Cal was once ranked #2 in the nation? Not only that, but they were #2 heading into a game in which #1 had already lost earlier in the day?
That was a long time ago, and somewhere along the way, California decided to stop trying. That loss to Oregon State ruined the Bears, who have lost 6 of their last 7 games. The only win during that stretch was a squeaker over 5-7 Washington State. Cal probably doesn't deserve a bowl, and they are only eligible for one thanks to an Oregon fumble.
Meanwhile, Air Force has themselves a good offense that can put up some points. And they get their biggest chunks on the ground. Their best running back has only 8 yards fewer than their top passer....how many teams can make that claim?
The Falcons need to get off to a good start and put some early points on the board. Cal packed it in long before the season was complete, and they might have regained some confidence with time off. If Air Force jumps out early, Cal will fold.
Air Force 41
California 31
Actual score
California 42
Air Force 36
The BBC - 11-5
-----------------------------------
Georgia Tech vs. Fresno State
Humanitarian Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 2pm
The Smurf Bowl! If you watch this game, do not attempt to adjust the tint on your TV. That turf is actually blue. It took me two or three years before I got used to it. You'll be OK.
Bowl games are supposed to be a reward for having a good season. If you played football in Georgia or California, would you consider going to Idaho a "reward"? Yeah, me neither.
I'm not incredibly impressed by either team...both are good, but there's no major difference to highlight. Fresno State's defense is more suspect, and it seems when they lose, they give up a LOT of points (they have allowed 43 points per game in their 4 losses). If Georgia Tech opens up the playbook, they'll have some success on the scoreboard.
I expect a high-scoring game, and Fresno State loses those ones.
Georgia Tech 52
Fresno State 48
Actual score
Fresno State 40
Georgia Tech 28
The BBC - 11-6
--------------------------
South Florida vs. Oregon
Sun Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 2pm
Ah, what could have been. Oregon might be playing for the National Championship if not for a knee injury to Denis Dixon. Hell, we could have had a Heisman Trophy for the kid too. They fell apart without him, and he won't be playing in the bowl game either. When Dixon played, the Ducks offense was high-flying and scored a LOT of points. Without him, they got shut out by UCLA in the middle of a 3-game losing streak.
South Florida started off strong, then let the hype get into their heads. After going 6-0 and rising to #2 in the nation, they actually began to believe they were going to win a national championship, a Heisman Trophy, and the Nobel Peace Prize. But they weren't ready for prime time just yet and they dropped three straight and fell right out of the BCS rankings altogether.
Since then, three straight wins have them at 9-3 and they are believing in themselves again...only this time, they have a more realistic view of their own importance. But now they have to re-convince the nation that they are worthy again. Oregon will give them that chance.
South Florida's offense puts up big numbers and that should continue in Texas on Monday
South Florida 37
Oregon 21
Actual Score
Oregon 56
S. Florida 21
The BBC - 11-7
Independence Bowl
Sunday, December 30th - 8pm
Who gives a shit?
Colorado 21
Alabama 20
Actual score
Alabama 30
Colorado 24
The BBC - 11-4
---------------------
Air Force vs. California
Armed Forces Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 1230pm
Can anybody actually believe that Cal was once ranked #2 in the nation? Not only that, but they were #2 heading into a game in which #1 had already lost earlier in the day?
That was a long time ago, and somewhere along the way, California decided to stop trying. That loss to Oregon State ruined the Bears, who have lost 6 of their last 7 games. The only win during that stretch was a squeaker over 5-7 Washington State. Cal probably doesn't deserve a bowl, and they are only eligible for one thanks to an Oregon fumble.
Meanwhile, Air Force has themselves a good offense that can put up some points. And they get their biggest chunks on the ground. Their best running back has only 8 yards fewer than their top passer....how many teams can make that claim?
The Falcons need to get off to a good start and put some early points on the board. Cal packed it in long before the season was complete, and they might have regained some confidence with time off. If Air Force jumps out early, Cal will fold.
Air Force 41
California 31
Actual score
California 42
Air Force 36
The BBC - 11-5
-----------------------------------
Georgia Tech vs. Fresno State
Humanitarian Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 2pm
The Smurf Bowl! If you watch this game, do not attempt to adjust the tint on your TV. That turf is actually blue. It took me two or three years before I got used to it. You'll be OK.
Bowl games are supposed to be a reward for having a good season. If you played football in Georgia or California, would you consider going to Idaho a "reward"? Yeah, me neither.
I'm not incredibly impressed by either team...both are good, but there's no major difference to highlight. Fresno State's defense is more suspect, and it seems when they lose, they give up a LOT of points (they have allowed 43 points per game in their 4 losses). If Georgia Tech opens up the playbook, they'll have some success on the scoreboard.
I expect a high-scoring game, and Fresno State loses those ones.
Georgia Tech 52
Fresno State 48
Actual score
Fresno State 40
Georgia Tech 28
The BBC - 11-6
--------------------------
South Florida vs. Oregon
Sun Bowl
Monday, December 31st - 2pm
Ah, what could have been. Oregon might be playing for the National Championship if not for a knee injury to Denis Dixon. Hell, we could have had a Heisman Trophy for the kid too. They fell apart without him, and he won't be playing in the bowl game either. When Dixon played, the Ducks offense was high-flying and scored a LOT of points. Without him, they got shut out by UCLA in the middle of a 3-game losing streak.
South Florida started off strong, then let the hype get into their heads. After going 6-0 and rising to #2 in the nation, they actually began to believe they were going to win a national championship, a Heisman Trophy, and the Nobel Peace Prize. But they weren't ready for prime time just yet and they dropped three straight and fell right out of the BCS rankings altogether.
Since then, three straight wins have them at 9-3 and they are believing in themselves again...only this time, they have a more realistic view of their own importance. But now they have to re-convince the nation that they are worthy again. Oregon will give them that chance.
South Florida's offense puts up big numbers and that should continue in Texas on Monday
South Florida 37
Oregon 21
Actual Score
Oregon 56
S. Florida 21
The BBC - 11-7
Bowl preview, part 9
11 games out of the way, and I'm 9-2 so far.I'm feeling pretty good about it so far, but there's some tough games coming up. Let's get back into it, but I have to be quick to get Saturday's games previewed;
Mississippi State vs. Central Florida
Liberty Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 430pm
Mississippi State wasn't supposed to play in a bowl game. They had too tough of a schedule and they weren't going to get enough wins to be eligible. Then, late in the season, they knocked off Kentucky and Alabama - both were ranked at the time. They surprised a few teams in the SEC, and they earned their spot in the Liberty Bowl.
Central Florida has won 7 in a row and ran away with the Conference USA Championship, beating 9-4 Tulsa along the way twice. Their best game, one which they will brag about, was a loss. Facing #6 Texas, they had the ball with a chance to win late before falling 35-32. Central Florida is no cupcake.
The difference in this game will be the best running back in college football, Kevin Smith. The guy has over 2,200 yards....THIS YEAR. He'll be huge.
Central Florida 37
Mississippi State 31
Actual score
Miss State 10
C. Florida 3
The BBC - 10-3
------------------------
Texas A&M vs. Penn State
Alamo Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 8pm
The battle of the two schools filled with the biggest assholes on the planet. From PSUs students whipping full beer cans at people's heads (and celebrating it online) to students dressing up like dead Virginia Tech students (and celebrating it online) to A&M cheerleaders referring to Joe Paterno going home "in a coffin", how the hell do you cheer for either school here?
A&M slipped into this bowl by NOT losing their last four games. After allowing the three best Big 12 schools beat them in weeks 9, 10, and 11, they managed to squeak by Texas in week 12. Plus, these guys lost to Miami. I'm literally laughing out loud at this moment.
Penn State started out strong and has some quality wins, but they couldn't handle the top of the Big Ten, losing to Ohio State, Illinois, and Michigan. MSU put them down in the finale in the waning moments.
I think the intangibles will be huge in this game, and that's all about Paterno. He's coaching his 500th game, and I'm calling the upset.
Penn State 31
Texas A&M 30
Actual score
Penn State 24
Texas A&M 17
The BBC - 11-3
Mississippi State vs. Central Florida
Liberty Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 430pm
Mississippi State wasn't supposed to play in a bowl game. They had too tough of a schedule and they weren't going to get enough wins to be eligible. Then, late in the season, they knocked off Kentucky and Alabama - both were ranked at the time. They surprised a few teams in the SEC, and they earned their spot in the Liberty Bowl.
Central Florida has won 7 in a row and ran away with the Conference USA Championship, beating 9-4 Tulsa along the way twice. Their best game, one which they will brag about, was a loss. Facing #6 Texas, they had the ball with a chance to win late before falling 35-32. Central Florida is no cupcake.
The difference in this game will be the best running back in college football, Kevin Smith. The guy has over 2,200 yards....THIS YEAR. He'll be huge.
Central Florida 37
Mississippi State 31
Actual score
Miss State 10
C. Florida 3
The BBC - 10-3
------------------------
Texas A&M vs. Penn State
Alamo Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 8pm
The battle of the two schools filled with the biggest assholes on the planet. From PSUs students whipping full beer cans at people's heads (and celebrating it online) to students dressing up like dead Virginia Tech students (and celebrating it online) to A&M cheerleaders referring to Joe Paterno going home "in a coffin", how the hell do you cheer for either school here?
A&M slipped into this bowl by NOT losing their last four games. After allowing the three best Big 12 schools beat them in weeks 9, 10, and 11, they managed to squeak by Texas in week 12. Plus, these guys lost to Miami. I'm literally laughing out loud at this moment.
Penn State started out strong and has some quality wins, but they couldn't handle the top of the Big Ten, losing to Ohio State, Illinois, and Michigan. MSU put them down in the finale in the waning moments.
I think the intangibles will be huge in this game, and that's all about Paterno. He's coaching his 500th game, and I'm calling the upset.
Penn State 31
Texas A&M 30
Actual score
Penn State 24
Texas A&M 17
The BBC - 11-3
Friday, December 28, 2007
Bowl preview, part 8
There probably wouldn't be so many parts to this whole bowl preview thingy if I just did more bowls at a time.....
Well, here's the next installment. And by the way, if you happen to be on the sidelines for any upcoming bowl games, try not to run out onto the field to grab a live ball.
Connecticut vs. Wake Forest
Meineke Car Care Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 1pm
A pair of teams that started the season with very little fanfare will get to prove a LOT about themselves in a late December bowl game, and it could go either way.
Nobody expected Connecticut to battle for the Big East title back in early September, but it wasn't long before the Huskies forced a lot of people to pay attention. They started off at 5-0 (but it was against weak competition). However, knocking off Rutgers and South Florida en route to an 8-1 record moved them from pretenders to contenders in a hurry. Soon after, they fell back to earth, getting outscored 93-24 in a pair of losses to Cincinnati and West Virginia.
Meanwhile, Wake Forest has played a bear of a schedule and did quite well with it. After opening up at 0-2, the Deacons ran off six wins in a row (including wins against Florida State, Maryland, and North Carolina). They finished up at 8-4 with all four losses to teams that have seen their names in the rankings this season.
For Wake Forest to win this game, they must have a great game from QB Riley Skinner. He's got an incredible completion percentage but that's due to a lot of short dump-offs. Skinner has only had two passes all season go for more than 40 yards. WF will use a lot of ball-control in this game.
UConn will have to rely on their defense. Wake Forest is not a dominating team, but they can put up points. The Huskies have shown some serious weakness down the stretch and have to overcome their late-season collapse. When their D is playing well, they can shut down an offense. Those losses to UC and WVU marked the only two games all season that an opponent scored more than 19 points. Even the high-flying Louisville Cardinals only put up 17.
End result? I trust the weekly competition of the ACC more than the Big East. Wake Forest wins.
Wake Forest 27
Connecticut 24
Actual score
Wake Forest 24
Connecticut 10
The BBC - 10-2
Well, here's the next installment. And by the way, if you happen to be on the sidelines for any upcoming bowl games, try not to run out onto the field to grab a live ball.
Connecticut vs. Wake Forest
Meineke Car Care Bowl
Saturday, December 29th - 1pm
A pair of teams that started the season with very little fanfare will get to prove a LOT about themselves in a late December bowl game, and it could go either way.
Nobody expected Connecticut to battle for the Big East title back in early September, but it wasn't long before the Huskies forced a lot of people to pay attention. They started off at 5-0 (but it was against weak competition). However, knocking off Rutgers and South Florida en route to an 8-1 record moved them from pretenders to contenders in a hurry. Soon after, they fell back to earth, getting outscored 93-24 in a pair of losses to Cincinnati and West Virginia.
Meanwhile, Wake Forest has played a bear of a schedule and did quite well with it. After opening up at 0-2, the Deacons ran off six wins in a row (including wins against Florida State, Maryland, and North Carolina). They finished up at 8-4 with all four losses to teams that have seen their names in the rankings this season.
For Wake Forest to win this game, they must have a great game from QB Riley Skinner. He's got an incredible completion percentage but that's due to a lot of short dump-offs. Skinner has only had two passes all season go for more than 40 yards. WF will use a lot of ball-control in this game.
UConn will have to rely on their defense. Wake Forest is not a dominating team, but they can put up points. The Huskies have shown some serious weakness down the stretch and have to overcome their late-season collapse. When their D is playing well, they can shut down an offense. Those losses to UC and WVU marked the only two games all season that an opponent scored more than 19 points. Even the high-flying Louisville Cardinals only put up 17.
End result? I trust the weekly competition of the ACC more than the Big East. Wake Forest wins.
Wake Forest 27
Connecticut 24
Actual score
Wake Forest 24
Connecticut 10
The BBC - 10-2
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Bowl preview, part 7
Back to the bowl previews....
Houston vs. Texas Christian
Texas Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 8pm
This will be (by FAR) the least-watched bowl game of the 2007 campaign. I guarantee it. For starters, you have two teams that do not really have a wide fan base. Second, a game with two better teams starts 30 minutes after this one kicks off. Then, for some unknown reason, the game is being shown on the NFL Network (which NOBODY has in their home anyway).
Add it all up and you've got a stinker of a bowl game.
These two teams are actually pretty evenly matched in my opinion.
Both teams have had similar schedules....a handful of cupcakes sprinkled with a handful of teams that made bowl games. Both teams beat the teams they should have, and both squads lost to the teams that made bowls. This is one of those previews in which I will flip a coin in my head and select a winner.
I choose TCU to win this game. I base my choice on two reasons.
1) Houston had a chance to win the Conference USA West Division when they played Tulsa. A win would have clinched it....they lost 56-7. They wet the bed in a BIG way.
2) Karma is still kicking Houston's ass for intentionally running up the scores back in the mid-80s. They would try to put up 80, 90, 100 points on cupcakes regularly and they gloat about it. Karma is a bitch, boys. You haven't been in the spotlight since then for a reason.
Texas Christian 90
Houston 21
(not really, but TCU will win)
Actual score
TCU 20
Houston 13
The BBC - 8-2
-------------------------------
Oregon State vs. Maryland
Emerald Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 830pm
Now THIS is a bowl game I am looking forward to. Two teams from BCS conferences, both of whom have knocked off big teams, both with something to prove. I like it!
You may remember Oregon State as the team that catapulted Ohio State into the #1 slot back on October 13th. Earlier in the day, #1 LSU lost to Kentucky, and Oregon State went into California and finished off the #2 Bears to put us in the top spot. The Beavers did us a HUGE favor that day, but as we later found out...Cal would have choked on about 4 other teams as the season went along. Oregon State also knocked off Utah and Oregon, although they beat the Ducks without Dennis Dixon...and the Dixon-less Oregon squad still put up 31 points. Yikes.
Meanwhile, Maryland has a resume that includes defeating two Top 10 teams, Rutgers and Boston College. Five years ago, everybody beat those two teams. Even Notre Dame. But times have changed, and that feat is now quite impressive. I don't know how the Terrapins finished 6-6. ESPN calls it "split personality". I say they suck. But enough about ESPN, let's talk about Maryland again.
Both teams have a balanced attack, and neither has a quarterback that will light up the sky. Both teams have two running backs that have combined for 1,500 yards. Expect this game to stay close and be won in the trenches. I'm thinking it'll be Oregon State in a close one. They've already been to California once and played their best game of the year. I think they'll do it again.
Oregon State 24
Maryland 21
Actual score
Oregon State 21
Maryland 14
The BBC - 9-2
Houston vs. Texas Christian
Texas Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 8pm
This will be (by FAR) the least-watched bowl game of the 2007 campaign. I guarantee it. For starters, you have two teams that do not really have a wide fan base. Second, a game with two better teams starts 30 minutes after this one kicks off. Then, for some unknown reason, the game is being shown on the NFL Network (which NOBODY has in their home anyway).
Add it all up and you've got a stinker of a bowl game.
These two teams are actually pretty evenly matched in my opinion.
Both teams have had similar schedules....a handful of cupcakes sprinkled with a handful of teams that made bowl games. Both teams beat the teams they should have, and both squads lost to the teams that made bowls. This is one of those previews in which I will flip a coin in my head and select a winner.
I choose TCU to win this game. I base my choice on two reasons.
1) Houston had a chance to win the Conference USA West Division when they played Tulsa. A win would have clinched it....they lost 56-7. They wet the bed in a BIG way.
2) Karma is still kicking Houston's ass for intentionally running up the scores back in the mid-80s. They would try to put up 80, 90, 100 points on cupcakes regularly and they gloat about it. Karma is a bitch, boys. You haven't been in the spotlight since then for a reason.
Texas Christian 90
Houston 21
(not really, but TCU will win)
Actual score
TCU 20
Houston 13
The BBC - 8-2
-------------------------------
Oregon State vs. Maryland
Emerald Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 830pm
Now THIS is a bowl game I am looking forward to. Two teams from BCS conferences, both of whom have knocked off big teams, both with something to prove. I like it!
You may remember Oregon State as the team that catapulted Ohio State into the #1 slot back on October 13th. Earlier in the day, #1 LSU lost to Kentucky, and Oregon State went into California and finished off the #2 Bears to put us in the top spot. The Beavers did us a HUGE favor that day, but as we later found out...Cal would have choked on about 4 other teams as the season went along. Oregon State also knocked off Utah and Oregon, although they beat the Ducks without Dennis Dixon...and the Dixon-less Oregon squad still put up 31 points. Yikes.
Meanwhile, Maryland has a resume that includes defeating two Top 10 teams, Rutgers and Boston College. Five years ago, everybody beat those two teams. Even Notre Dame. But times have changed, and that feat is now quite impressive. I don't know how the Terrapins finished 6-6. ESPN calls it "split personality". I say they suck. But enough about ESPN, let's talk about Maryland again.
Both teams have a balanced attack, and neither has a quarterback that will light up the sky. Both teams have two running backs that have combined for 1,500 yards. Expect this game to stay close and be won in the trenches. I'm thinking it'll be Oregon State in a close one. They've already been to California once and played their best game of the year. I think they'll do it again.
Oregon State 24
Maryland 21
Actual score
Oregon State 21
Maryland 14
The BBC - 9-2
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Bowl preview, part 6
Well, I had a fun holiday season. How about you? Spent the day yesterday with my family. My brother got Rock Band for his 360, and it was a blast! My daughter LOVED her Wii, and my girlfriend sent us a couple of games for it.
Sorry I've been away....but let's get back to the bowl previews.
By the way, I'm 5-1 so far in bowl selections...Boise State totally blew the first half, or I'd be 6-0. They haven't called or written to apologize yet.
Arizona State vs. Texas
Holiday Bowl
Thursday, December 27th - 8pm
This is a tough game to call. In this season of upsets where many teams are mediocre, some average teams are going to get ranked, and some undeserving teams are going to get ranked even higher. We may have a game which involves two such teams.
Texas is the mediocre team in this scenario. They have a bad defense and an offense that scores barely enough points to beat bad teams. For example, a 28-25 win over Nebraska. That same Nebraska team allowed 172 points over their final THREE games (yes, that's 57 points per game).
ASU is the undeserving team that got a high ranking. The Sun Devils started out 8-0 and climbed the rankings like an undefeated team should. But on further reflection, the 8 teams that Arizona State beat early on......only one of them (Oregon State) ended up with a winning record. Add another little tidbit to that....the fact that ASU went 2-2 down the stretch, losing badly to Oregon and USC, while barely beating bad teams like Arizona (3 points) and UCLA (4 points).
So we have a couple of overachievers battling it out, and that could lead to a good game. But I will make my selection based on two key factors;
- Arizona State's QB Rudy Carpenter has thrown for over 3,000 yards this season, and has a 149.5 quarterback rating. Texas' pass defense is ranked 109th in the nation, allowing over 275 yards per game.
- The aforementioned girlfriend went to Arizona State. She's going to be pulling for the Buckeyes, and I will be pulling for the Sun Devils.
Arizona State 37
Texas 31
Actual score
Texas 52
Arizona State 34
The BBC - 6-2
------------------
Boston College vs. Michigan State
Champs Sports Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 5pm
Matt Ryan is a good quarterback and probably could have gotten a LOT more exposure at a different university...maybe even a Heisman. Michigan State is about to discover that.
I was fully prepared to take BC in a close game, with a hint of doubt, based on knowing that Mark Dantonio is a hell of a coach in Spartyville.
Not anymore. Yesterday, Michigan State announced that 5 players would be suspended for the bowl game, based on academic reasons. Jonal Saint-Dic and SirDarean Adams (I know, the names sound made-up, don't they?) are the main components of Michigan State's defense, and without them, it might get ugly.
Take the Eagles in a big way.
Boston College 31
Michigan State 21
Actual score
Boston College 24
Michigan State 21
The BBC - 7-2
Sorry I've been away....but let's get back to the bowl previews.
By the way, I'm 5-1 so far in bowl selections...Boise State totally blew the first half, or I'd be 6-0. They haven't called or written to apologize yet.
Arizona State vs. Texas
Holiday Bowl
Thursday, December 27th - 8pm
This is a tough game to call. In this season of upsets where many teams are mediocre, some average teams are going to get ranked, and some undeserving teams are going to get ranked even higher. We may have a game which involves two such teams.
Texas is the mediocre team in this scenario. They have a bad defense and an offense that scores barely enough points to beat bad teams. For example, a 28-25 win over Nebraska. That same Nebraska team allowed 172 points over their final THREE games (yes, that's 57 points per game).
ASU is the undeserving team that got a high ranking. The Sun Devils started out 8-0 and climbed the rankings like an undefeated team should. But on further reflection, the 8 teams that Arizona State beat early on......only one of them (Oregon State) ended up with a winning record. Add another little tidbit to that....the fact that ASU went 2-2 down the stretch, losing badly to Oregon and USC, while barely beating bad teams like Arizona (3 points) and UCLA (4 points).
So we have a couple of overachievers battling it out, and that could lead to a good game. But I will make my selection based on two key factors;
- Arizona State's QB Rudy Carpenter has thrown for over 3,000 yards this season, and has a 149.5 quarterback rating. Texas' pass defense is ranked 109th in the nation, allowing over 275 yards per game.
- The aforementioned girlfriend went to Arizona State. She's going to be pulling for the Buckeyes, and I will be pulling for the Sun Devils.
Arizona State 37
Texas 31
Actual score
Texas 52
Arizona State 34
The BBC - 6-2
------------------
Boston College vs. Michigan State
Champs Sports Bowl
Friday, December 28th - 5pm
Matt Ryan is a good quarterback and probably could have gotten a LOT more exposure at a different university...maybe even a Heisman. Michigan State is about to discover that.
I was fully prepared to take BC in a close game, with a hint of doubt, based on knowing that Mark Dantonio is a hell of a coach in Spartyville.
Not anymore. Yesterday, Michigan State announced that 5 players would be suspended for the bowl game, based on academic reasons. Jonal Saint-Dic and SirDarean Adams (I know, the names sound made-up, don't they?) are the main components of Michigan State's defense, and without them, it might get ugly.
Take the Eagles in a big way.
Boston College 31
Michigan State 21
Actual score
Boston College 24
Michigan State 21
The BBC - 7-2
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