Brian A. Westerholt/Getty ImagesBearing in mind this column's being written quite quickly for numerous reasons (including getting to work on time), we're just throwing some predictions out there.Alabama will beat Florida. By 14. Mark Ingram will be too much for Florida's "D" to handle. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Iowa will handle Penn State (sadly)although it'll be closer than many of you think. Especially with two defensive-minded coaches.Oklahoma will beat Texasby 10. Texas really aren't that good. The turnover total could be higher than the total points in this one.Oregon will beat Stanford by 14. The Ducksin Autzenwill be too much for Andrew Luck to handle.Ohio State will crush Illinois. Sure, there will be Big Ten banana skins for the Buckeyes. This isn't one of them.Michigan State will beat Wisconsin. Big upset in Spartan Stadium. Why not? Mark D'Antonio's put fire in the team's belly, and Cousins is throwing touchdowns like it's going out of fashion. Plus, there's always a trick play up his sleeve. LSU will beat Tennessee, but not by much. That's because the Tigers really aren't that good (at 4-0), but the Vols are worse. Virginia Tech will win at NC State. Tyrod Taylor really hasn't shown up this season, and today might be his time to show. This might just be the year that a team beaten by mighty James Madison wins the ACC. Michigan will slap Indiana. No repeats of Michigan's fortunate win last year against the Hoosiers. This one may well be out of shape by halftime. 10. Notre Dame will beat Boston College in a game, apart from big Catholic schools, that few will care about or remember. Georgia will beat Colorado on AJ Green's return. If they don't, Mark Richt could be wandering around Athens with a shout behind him: "Dead. Man. Walking" Clemson will beat Miami in a squeaker. Miami hasn't been great on the road, and we all know that Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
Clemson's one of the most intimidating places to play in college football. The crowd will be a sea of noisy orange, and Jamie Harper will be too difficult to stop for the Hurricanes. Still, Jacory Harris has got a cannon, and Miami has athletes. This is going to the wire, people.This article is also featured onView From North America
2011年1月24日星期一
24 Jan 11 Oklahoma State Vs. Tulsa: The Houston Student Is Now The Cowboy Teacher
This game could be a shoot outChris Graythen/Getty ImagesOklahoma State thought it had the winning formula to defeat Houston last season with Zac Robinson and Dez Bryant.When it was all said and done, the student became the teacher.As a matter of fact, they were so impressed with Houston, they went outReebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
and hired its offensive coordinator.Luckily for the sake of this game, he came from the same conference that Tulsa was in.The Cowboys went out and hired offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen from Houston in the offseason, and the acquisition looks as if it will pay dividends.Without star WR Dez Bryant and their veteran QB Zac Robinson, the Cowboys have already put up more points in the first two games than they put up in any FBS game in 2009.With Tulsadefense they might be able to put up more, especially since Holgorsen will be familiar with it. After all, his Houston Cougars defeated Tulsa twice in the last two seasons, once scoring 70 points.Tulsa QB G.J. Kinne transferred from Texas, so the kid has athletic talent, and thereno doubt about that.Star WR Damarius Johnson is also back in the fold, so Tulsa should be the usual point scoring machine they have been lately.However, I wouldnoverlook the fact that Oklahoma State football program has a lot onit'smind lately.For one thing, thereno way coach Mike Gundy wants to lose to a Conference USA team Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
again, at home again, like he lost vs. Houston last season.Additionally, the Cowboys just earned a narrow victory over the Troy Trojans in a game that was a little too close for comfort. However, the Cowboys had five turnovers in the game and out-gained the Trojans by over 100 yards.Regardless, the Cowboys have the upper hand in this match up.Not only will their new offensive coordinator be familiar with a winning recipe to run over Tulsadefense, he now has Big 12 caliber talent to work with.Big 12 caliber talent means bigger and stronger players, generally speaking.Even in Tulsabest season, 2008, the team couldnbeat a losing BCS team. Going into Arkansas 8-0 and off a slew of blowouts including six games scoring 49-plus points, they lost to the Razorbacks, a team that won four FBS games that season.For Tulsa to win this game, they will have to man up and break the nasty streak of 19 consecutive losses to FBS teams and Boise State over the last decade (not including the Naval Academy).Not only have they lost every game theyve played against BCS Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
competition, never once did they get within less than a TD; Oklahoma State is favored by seven points.Expect a shoot out in this game, but I wouldnplan on the Cowboys turning the ball over five times again, and I wouldnplan on the Cowboys losing to another C-USA team at home in consecutive seasons.After all, the teacher is now on their sideline.MC
and hired its offensive coordinator.Luckily for the sake of this game, he came from the same conference that Tulsa was in.The Cowboys went out and hired offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen from Houston in the offseason, and the acquisition looks as if it will pay dividends.Without star WR Dez Bryant and their veteran QB Zac Robinson, the Cowboys have already put up more points in the first two games than they put up in any FBS game in 2009.With Tulsadefense they might be able to put up more, especially since Holgorsen will be familiar with it. After all, his Houston Cougars defeated Tulsa twice in the last two seasons, once scoring 70 points.Tulsa QB G.J. Kinne transferred from Texas, so the kid has athletic talent, and thereno doubt about that.Star WR Damarius Johnson is also back in the fold, so Tulsa should be the usual point scoring machine they have been lately.However, I wouldnoverlook the fact that Oklahoma State football program has a lot onit'smind lately.For one thing, thereno way coach Mike Gundy wants to lose to a Conference USA team Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
again, at home again, like he lost vs. Houston last season.Additionally, the Cowboys just earned a narrow victory over the Troy Trojans in a game that was a little too close for comfort. However, the Cowboys had five turnovers in the game and out-gained the Trojans by over 100 yards.Regardless, the Cowboys have the upper hand in this match up.Not only will their new offensive coordinator be familiar with a winning recipe to run over Tulsadefense, he now has Big 12 caliber talent to work with.Big 12 caliber talent means bigger and stronger players, generally speaking.Even in Tulsabest season, 2008, the team couldnbeat a losing BCS team. Going into Arkansas 8-0 and off a slew of blowouts including six games scoring 49-plus points, they lost to the Razorbacks, a team that won four FBS games that season.For Tulsa to win this game, they will have to man up and break the nasty streak of 19 consecutive losses to FBS teams and Boise State over the last decade (not including the Naval Academy).Not only have they lost every game theyve played against BCS Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
competition, never once did they get within less than a TD; Oklahoma State is favored by seven points.Expect a shoot out in this game, but I wouldnplan on the Cowboys turning the ball over five times again, and I wouldnplan on the Cowboys losing to another C-USA team at home in consecutive seasons.After all, the teacher is now on their sideline.MC
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Tennessee Football: Florida Gators Chomp Down On Vols, Win 31-17 In Knoxville
Grant Halverson/Getty ImagesThe upset-mindedTennessee Volunteers played host to the Florida Gators Saturday afternoon in Knoxville in the SEC opener for the Eastern Division rivals.A sellout crowd of 102,455filled Neyland Stadium, most in hopes of a resurgence onRocky Top. With a history of Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
championship implications on the line, it was the Gators and the Vols for the 40th time in football history. Tennessee'sfirst-year head coach, Derek Dooley, was looking for his first SEC win and trying to to put ahalt to Urban Meyer's five-game winning streak against the Vols. Neither happened. Tennessee opened the scoring with 1:22 left in the first quarter, on a 49-yard field goal byDaniel Lincoln. Lincoln's boot was set-up after the Vols' defense held the Gators on a 4th-and-1 rushing attempt by the Gators' Jeff Demps. Florida opened the second quarter scoring on a two-yard touchdown run by Mike Gillislee that capped a nine-play, 42-yard drive. After another three-and-out for the Tennessee offense, Florida return man Janoris Jenkins muffed a punt and Tennessee's Nick Reveiz recovered. The Vols looked to be in great scoring shape after quarterback Matt Simms connected with Zach Rogers for a 33-yard completion down to the Gators' seven-yard-line. With the Vols struggling to get the ground game going, Simms' pass attempt on 3rd-and-goal from the one-yard-line, intended for Da'Rick Rogers, was intercepted in the end zone by Florida middle linebacker Jonathan Bostic. Florida carried a 7-3 lead into the locker room at the half in this defensive struggle,while managing only 95 yards of total offense. The Vols were even worse, with only 69 yards of offense. The Gators, who are now53-3 when leading at the half under Meyer, opened the scoring in the second half on a 44-yard field goal by Caleb Sturgis with 10:35 remaining in the third quarter. Tennessee answered quickly 1:26 later on a 49-yard touchdown strike from Simms to wide receiver Denarius Moore to even the score at 10. It seemed as if the Vols had momentum on their side. On Florida's next possession, the Vols stopped the Gators again Arizona Cardinals jersey
on third down. But Coach Meyer reached into his bag of tricks,pulling out afake punt and converting for his eighth time in as many attempts while at Florida. Upback Omarius Hines took the direct snap from center and rambled 36 yards, clearly giving the momentumback to the Gators. Six plays later, on 3rd-and-goal from the eight-yard-line, Florida quarterback John Brantley hit a wide open Frankie Hammond, Jr. in the back of the end zone for a Gator touchdown. With Florida leading 17-10, the momentum kept rolling their way. Tennessee's next possession ended on Matt Simms' secondinterception, setting-up a short field for the Gators. It was Mike Gillislee again capping the Florida drive, this timefrom five yards out, to run the lead to 24-10 at the end of thethird quarter. The fourth quarter gave VolNation reasonfor hope when Jeff Demps had the ball stripped away by Tennessee's Austin Johnson. After review, the Vols were awarded possession on their own 49-yard-line. Simms then found a wide open Justin Hunter on 4th-and-6 for a 35-yard touchdown pass to cut the Gator lead to 24-17 with plenty of time remaining. But Florida answered right back, with Trey Burton capping Florida's final scoring drive with a two-yard run. Tennessee's final two possessions ended with a fumble by Tauren Poole and a turnover on downs. Final Score: Florida, 31, Tennessee, 17 The Gators improve to 3-0 as they return home next week to take on the Kentucky Wildcats. The loss drops the Vols to 1-2, as they finish out their opening four-game homestand next week by hosting UAB. Vol Notes QB Matt Simms finished up with 19-31 passing for 256 yards, two TDs, and two INTs. Tauren Poole, the SEC's leading rusher entering the game, was shut down by the Gator defense, gaining just 23 yards on 11 carries. Atlanta Falcons jersey
The Vols were penalized nine times for 53 yards and committed three turnovers. The Vols were just 2-of-13 on third down attempts for a 15 percent success rate. GatorNotes QB Jeff Brantley ended up 14-of-23 for 167 yards and a touchdown. Jeffrey Demps gained 72 yards on the ground in 26 attempts. Gators have now beaten the Vols six straight times. Florida was penalized five times for 25 yards and committed two turnovers. The Gators were an effective 8-for-14, or 57 percent, on third-down attempts.
championship implications on the line, it was the Gators and the Vols for the 40th time in football history. Tennessee'sfirst-year head coach, Derek Dooley, was looking for his first SEC win and trying to to put ahalt to Urban Meyer's five-game winning streak against the Vols. Neither happened. Tennessee opened the scoring with 1:22 left in the first quarter, on a 49-yard field goal byDaniel Lincoln. Lincoln's boot was set-up after the Vols' defense held the Gators on a 4th-and-1 rushing attempt by the Gators' Jeff Demps. Florida opened the second quarter scoring on a two-yard touchdown run by Mike Gillislee that capped a nine-play, 42-yard drive. After another three-and-out for the Tennessee offense, Florida return man Janoris Jenkins muffed a punt and Tennessee's Nick Reveiz recovered. The Vols looked to be in great scoring shape after quarterback Matt Simms connected with Zach Rogers for a 33-yard completion down to the Gators' seven-yard-line. With the Vols struggling to get the ground game going, Simms' pass attempt on 3rd-and-goal from the one-yard-line, intended for Da'Rick Rogers, was intercepted in the end zone by Florida middle linebacker Jonathan Bostic. Florida carried a 7-3 lead into the locker room at the half in this defensive struggle,while managing only 95 yards of total offense. The Vols were even worse, with only 69 yards of offense. The Gators, who are now53-3 when leading at the half under Meyer, opened the scoring in the second half on a 44-yard field goal by Caleb Sturgis with 10:35 remaining in the third quarter. Tennessee answered quickly 1:26 later on a 49-yard touchdown strike from Simms to wide receiver Denarius Moore to even the score at 10. It seemed as if the Vols had momentum on their side. On Florida's next possession, the Vols stopped the Gators again Arizona Cardinals jersey
on third down. But Coach Meyer reached into his bag of tricks,pulling out afake punt and converting for his eighth time in as many attempts while at Florida. Upback Omarius Hines took the direct snap from center and rambled 36 yards, clearly giving the momentumback to the Gators. Six plays later, on 3rd-and-goal from the eight-yard-line, Florida quarterback John Brantley hit a wide open Frankie Hammond, Jr. in the back of the end zone for a Gator touchdown. With Florida leading 17-10, the momentum kept rolling their way. Tennessee's next possession ended on Matt Simms' secondinterception, setting-up a short field for the Gators. It was Mike Gillislee again capping the Florida drive, this timefrom five yards out, to run the lead to 24-10 at the end of thethird quarter. The fourth quarter gave VolNation reasonfor hope when Jeff Demps had the ball stripped away by Tennessee's Austin Johnson. After review, the Vols were awarded possession on their own 49-yard-line. Simms then found a wide open Justin Hunter on 4th-and-6 for a 35-yard touchdown pass to cut the Gator lead to 24-17 with plenty of time remaining. But Florida answered right back, with Trey Burton capping Florida's final scoring drive with a two-yard run. Tennessee's final two possessions ended with a fumble by Tauren Poole and a turnover on downs. Final Score: Florida, 31, Tennessee, 17 The Gators improve to 3-0 as they return home next week to take on the Kentucky Wildcats. The loss drops the Vols to 1-2, as they finish out their opening four-game homestand next week by hosting UAB. Vol Notes QB Matt Simms finished up with 19-31 passing for 256 yards, two TDs, and two INTs. Tauren Poole, the SEC's leading rusher entering the game, was shut down by the Gator defense, gaining just 23 yards on 11 carries. Atlanta Falcons jersey
The Vols were penalized nine times for 53 yards and committed three turnovers. The Vols were just 2-of-13 on third down attempts for a 15 percent success rate. GatorNotes QB Jeff Brantley ended up 14-of-23 for 167 yards and a touchdown. Jeffrey Demps gained 72 yards on the ground in 26 attempts. Gators have now beaten the Vols six straight times. Florida was penalized five times for 25 yards and committed two turnovers. The Gators were an effective 8-for-14, or 57 percent, on third-down attempts.
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Florida Gators Need To Be Wary of Potential Upset Against Kentucky
Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesOn Saturday, the Kentucky Wildcats (3-0) will be taking on the No. 9 Florida Gators in Gainesville in what should be an interesting matchup. Though the odds are stacked against Kentucky, there is still the small possibility of an upset.Florida has won 23 straight games against the Wildcats, yetJacksonville Jaguars jersey
this may be the year Kentucky pulls off a victory. First of all, Florida's offense is struggling, especially their passing attack in which they are averaging 150 passing yards per game. Also, the trio of Mike Hartline, Randall Cobb, and Derrick Locke have the ability to take over a game and run up the score.All three of the aforementioned players will be in the NFL come next year. Locke, who decided to return for his senior season instead of enter the NFL Draft last year, is having a fantastic start and is arguably the best running back in the SEC other than Alabama's Mark Ingram.The 5',9" 190 pounder reached the 2,000 yard mark for his career last week after he gained 166 yards and scored two touchdowns against Akron. Locke currently leads the SEC in rushing yards with 372 and is tied for the most rushing touchdowns Kansas City Chiefs jersey
with five in the SEC.Even though Kentucky is 3-0, they have not really played tough competition in teams such as Louisville, Western Kentucky, and Akron. This SEC opener will be their first real test as they take on a Florida team who has a great secondary in Will Hill, Ahmad Black, and Janoris Jenkins.The Gators have only allowed 14 points per game against tougher teams in South Florida and Tennessee. The Wildcats will be Florida's toughest team offensively as they are 11th in scoring with 44 points per game.If Kentucky can get its offense going early with some big plays by Locke and Cobb, they will have an opportunity for a win. The Wildcats must also stop talented offensive threats in Jeffrey Demps and Deonte Thompson.It may be a bold prediction, but I will say that underdog Kentucky will come out with a win Miami Dolphins jersey
even though overall the Gators have better players and are more talented. I believe Florida will be overlooking Kentucky and will only be concerned with next week's game against No. 1 Alabama.The final score will be 42-35 UK.Next up for the No. 9 Gators is No. 1 Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Next up for the Wildcats is Ole Miss at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
this may be the year Kentucky pulls off a victory. First of all, Florida's offense is struggling, especially their passing attack in which they are averaging 150 passing yards per game. Also, the trio of Mike Hartline, Randall Cobb, and Derrick Locke have the ability to take over a game and run up the score.All three of the aforementioned players will be in the NFL come next year. Locke, who decided to return for his senior season instead of enter the NFL Draft last year, is having a fantastic start and is arguably the best running back in the SEC other than Alabama's Mark Ingram.The 5',9" 190 pounder reached the 2,000 yard mark for his career last week after he gained 166 yards and scored two touchdowns against Akron. Locke currently leads the SEC in rushing yards with 372 and is tied for the most rushing touchdowns Kansas City Chiefs jersey
with five in the SEC.Even though Kentucky is 3-0, they have not really played tough competition in teams such as Louisville, Western Kentucky, and Akron. This SEC opener will be their first real test as they take on a Florida team who has a great secondary in Will Hill, Ahmad Black, and Janoris Jenkins.The Gators have only allowed 14 points per game against tougher teams in South Florida and Tennessee. The Wildcats will be Florida's toughest team offensively as they are 11th in scoring with 44 points per game.If Kentucky can get its offense going early with some big plays by Locke and Cobb, they will have an opportunity for a win. The Wildcats must also stop talented offensive threats in Jeffrey Demps and Deonte Thompson.It may be a bold prediction, but I will say that underdog Kentucky will come out with a win Miami Dolphins jersey
even though overall the Gators have better players and are more talented. I believe Florida will be overlooking Kentucky and will only be concerned with next week's game against No. 1 Alabama.The final score will be 42-35 UK.Next up for the No. 9 Gators is No. 1 Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Next up for the Wildcats is Ole Miss at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 Detroit Lions Rod Marinelli Shaun Rogers Dan Wilkinson Steve Mariucci Marty Mornhinweg Dick Jauron
Throughout his five seasons as a member of the Detroit Lions, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers has yet to have a coach to truly motivate him. In his first two seasons, he had the infamous Marty "let's take the wind" Mornhinweg, followed by Steve Mariucci, and for the final five games of last season, Dick Jauron. While Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
Mariucci is and was a good coach, he never focused on the defense, and wasn't pushing Rogers.At the conclusion of the season, the team decided to go in a different direction with its coaching staff, bringing in defensive guru and motivator Rod Marinelli from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The former defensive line and assistant coach with the 'Bucs, he's known for getting the absolute best out of his tackles. Also known as a great motivator, he could be just what the doctor ordered for Rogers.A second-round pick in the 2001 draft out of Texas, the big (6-4, 345), strong tackle stepped in and started immediately. He posted a career-high 81 tackles in his rookie season, and added three sacks.Since then, his sack numbers have gone up slightly as he had a career best 5 ? last season. However, his tackles have steadily decreased to the tune of only 39 last year.There is no doubting the size, strength, and physical tools Rogers has. It's a wonder why Rogers hasn't put up better numbers, especially since he was teamed up with fellow defensive tackle Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson from 2003-2005. The best explanation is simply the defensive talent overall wasn't that good. With better coaching and motivation, there is no reason to believe Rogers won't turn into the All-Pro tackle the team thought he was becoming in Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
2001. The 27-year-old has been to consecutive Pro Bowls, but his numbers could still improve.If Marinelli can work his motivating magic with the Detroit Lions, expect Rogers to at least double his sack total from last season and become a force the defense needs so badly. 2006 could be the year of the Lion, and his third straight trip to Honolulu. Eric Krupka can be reached at ekrupkaGet more Detroit Lions info (1)
Mariucci is and was a good coach, he never focused on the defense, and wasn't pushing Rogers.At the conclusion of the season, the team decided to go in a different direction with its coaching staff, bringing in defensive guru and motivator Rod Marinelli from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The former defensive line and assistant coach with the 'Bucs, he's known for getting the absolute best out of his tackles. Also known as a great motivator, he could be just what the doctor ordered for Rogers.A second-round pick in the 2001 draft out of Texas, the big (6-4, 345), strong tackle stepped in and started immediately. He posted a career-high 81 tackles in his rookie season, and added three sacks.Since then, his sack numbers have gone up slightly as he had a career best 5 ? last season. However, his tackles have steadily decreased to the tune of only 39 last year.There is no doubting the size, strength, and physical tools Rogers has. It's a wonder why Rogers hasn't put up better numbers, especially since he was teamed up with fellow defensive tackle Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson from 2003-2005. The best explanation is simply the defensive talent overall wasn't that good. With better coaching and motivation, there is no reason to believe Rogers won't turn into the All-Pro tackle the team thought he was becoming in Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
2001. The 27-year-old has been to consecutive Pro Bowls, but his numbers could still improve.If Marinelli can work his motivating magic with the Detroit Lions, expect Rogers to at least double his sack total from last season and become a force the defense needs so badly. 2006 could be the year of the Lion, and his third straight trip to Honolulu. Eric Krupka can be reached at ekrupkaGet more Detroit Lions info (1)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Detroit Lions "Whatever you do, Lions fans, don't look at the schedule"
Rod Marinelli won;t quit on 0-4 Lions; ; article headline, ESPN.com, Oct. 6;D;oh!; ; Detroit Lions fans everywhereAn ugly realization must be settling in like an ugly Honolulu blue-and-silver cloud over Detroit after the Lions; worst performance yet in 2008 (and actually, their worst in quite a while, which is Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
really saying something): Namely, this team is grievously in danger of finishing 0-16. Now, all right, everybody knows breaking the hallowed mark of the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- who ended 0-14 -- is damn tough to do; after all, if last year;s Miami Dolphins (not to mention the 2001 Carolina Panthers) couldn;t top the Creamsicles of lore ... well, it;s pretty tough.On the other hand, admit that, no matter how bad you figured the Lions for two months ago, you couldn;t have conceived that they;d be this blitheringly brutal in getting outscored 147-66 ; and the games, outside of about 3 minutes of the Packer loss, haven;t even been as close as the 37-17 average score would imply.Back in June, this RealFootballer turned in a column rampantly speculating on the Lions; schedule for 2008. The piece included this bit on the first quarter of schedule:...the NFL schedule-makers appear to have been even crueler to the Lions for 2008. As a result, the Lions may again tease but the fade should come sooner.While not making any specific predictions on individual teams, few expect much from Atlanta, San Francisco and Chicago in 2008; the Lions play all three in the first four games. With a win over Green Bay in Detroit in Week 2, kicking off Week 6 with the Lions at 4-0 doesn;t feel improbable at all. Things veer sharply into the dangerous thereafter, though ...Guess the optimism vis-;-vis 4-0 was a poor bit of wishful prognostication ; hey, they were 6-2 at one point last season ; and now, the Lions' schedule looks, if anything, even more difficultReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
than it did in summer. Take a look:Week 6: at Minnesota. Let;s see, the 2-3 Vikings are coming off an invigorating last-minute win against the New Orleans Saints which may just have convinced the purple guys that the playoffs are possible; Detroit goes into Minny with its most deflating loss since, oh, last season;s 42-10 blowout in Week 13 at Minnesota. Oh, and Marinelli;s Kitties are 1-3 against the Vikings.Week 7: at Houston. Well, here;s an opportunity. Except that the Texans; 0-4 record is deceptive and includes an overtime loss to Jacksonville and a memorable choke job against Indianapolis that just wouldn;t be possible against Detroit. Additionally, the last time the Lions won away was in Week 8 of last season.Week 8: vs. Washington. Interceptions thrown by Jason Campbell in 2008: Zero. Interceptions notched by Detroit defense: Zero. Two questions: What do you think the over/under for Campbell interceptions in this game;ll be? And is it possible to total minus-1 interception? Surely, these Lions are in contention for that mark in this game.Week 9: at Chicago. Hey, maybe the Lions can get into double figures this time.Week 10: vs. Jacksonville. Hmmm, Jack del Rio vs. Rod Marinelli. Tough call there.Week 11: at Carolina. Do you realize the Lions are 3-15 in away games since 2006? And that, if everything goes according to the odds, they;ll be 3-18 coming into this game? To think Lane Kiffin;s already out of a job.Week 12: vs. Tampa Bay. Hmmm, Jon Gruden vs. Rod Marinelli. What a mental battle there.Week 13: vs. Tennessee. Hmmm, Jeff Fisher vs. Rod Marinelli on Thanksgiving in Detroit, a traditional game that the Lions have traditionally lost decisively since 2003; wow, can I use a lifeline, Regis?Trust me: It only gets worse after this, so we;ll stop here with the Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
Lions looking at an easy 0-13 and some of the worst yet to come. One wonders today why the domain name FireMarinelli.com remains property of GoDaddy.com; here;s to thinking that by December something will be there.Unless Detroit has, en masse, rightfully switched channels to Red Wings hockey and/or Pistons basketball. And who could blame them, really?
really saying something): Namely, this team is grievously in danger of finishing 0-16. Now, all right, everybody knows breaking the hallowed mark of the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- who ended 0-14 -- is damn tough to do; after all, if last year;s Miami Dolphins (not to mention the 2001 Carolina Panthers) couldn;t top the Creamsicles of lore ... well, it;s pretty tough.On the other hand, admit that, no matter how bad you figured the Lions for two months ago, you couldn;t have conceived that they;d be this blitheringly brutal in getting outscored 147-66 ; and the games, outside of about 3 minutes of the Packer loss, haven;t even been as close as the 37-17 average score would imply.Back in June, this RealFootballer turned in a column rampantly speculating on the Lions; schedule for 2008. The piece included this bit on the first quarter of schedule:...the NFL schedule-makers appear to have been even crueler to the Lions for 2008. As a result, the Lions may again tease but the fade should come sooner.While not making any specific predictions on individual teams, few expect much from Atlanta, San Francisco and Chicago in 2008; the Lions play all three in the first four games. With a win over Green Bay in Detroit in Week 2, kicking off Week 6 with the Lions at 4-0 doesn;t feel improbable at all. Things veer sharply into the dangerous thereafter, though ...Guess the optimism vis-;-vis 4-0 was a poor bit of wishful prognostication ; hey, they were 6-2 at one point last season ; and now, the Lions' schedule looks, if anything, even more difficultReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
than it did in summer. Take a look:Week 6: at Minnesota. Let;s see, the 2-3 Vikings are coming off an invigorating last-minute win against the New Orleans Saints which may just have convinced the purple guys that the playoffs are possible; Detroit goes into Minny with its most deflating loss since, oh, last season;s 42-10 blowout in Week 13 at Minnesota. Oh, and Marinelli;s Kitties are 1-3 against the Vikings.Week 7: at Houston. Well, here;s an opportunity. Except that the Texans; 0-4 record is deceptive and includes an overtime loss to Jacksonville and a memorable choke job against Indianapolis that just wouldn;t be possible against Detroit. Additionally, the last time the Lions won away was in Week 8 of last season.Week 8: vs. Washington. Interceptions thrown by Jason Campbell in 2008: Zero. Interceptions notched by Detroit defense: Zero. Two questions: What do you think the over/under for Campbell interceptions in this game;ll be? And is it possible to total minus-1 interception? Surely, these Lions are in contention for that mark in this game.Week 9: at Chicago. Hey, maybe the Lions can get into double figures this time.Week 10: vs. Jacksonville. Hmmm, Jack del Rio vs. Rod Marinelli. Tough call there.Week 11: at Carolina. Do you realize the Lions are 3-15 in away games since 2006? And that, if everything goes according to the odds, they;ll be 3-18 coming into this game? To think Lane Kiffin;s already out of a job.Week 12: vs. Tampa Bay. Hmmm, Jon Gruden vs. Rod Marinelli. What a mental battle there.Week 13: vs. Tennessee. Hmmm, Jeff Fisher vs. Rod Marinelli on Thanksgiving in Detroit, a traditional game that the Lions have traditionally lost decisively since 2003; wow, can I use a lifeline, Regis?Trust me: It only gets worse after this, so we;ll stop here with the Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
Lions looking at an easy 0-13 and some of the worst yet to come. One wonders today why the domain name FireMarinelli.com remains property of GoDaddy.com; here;s to thinking that by December something will be there.Unless Detroit has, en masse, rightfully switched channels to Red Wings hockey and/or Pistons basketball. And who could blame them, really?
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Aging 0: Comeback or Not, Gilbert Arenas' Career Peaked Long Ago
Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesGilbert Arenas' biography will inevitably mention his 2009 foray with firearms in the Washington Wizard locker room, and how it cost him a significant portion, if not the rest of his career as an NBA player. While so much of this bio has yet to be written, one thing is clear:Arenas' career has been spiraling out of control for years. More specifically, ever since May 5, 2006. If only suspended for the remainder of this season, Arenas would turn 29 in the middle of his first season back. While that is not old by any stretch, hed still beDetroit Lions
a guy nearing 30 who has only been able to play47 games over the past three seasons. Hislast meaningful and best season of 2006 would then be four years in the past. That a long time off for another team (as the Wizardscontinue to erase him from memory)to bank on an impact season.So let's say thismovie is overwhen was the climax?Arenas began his career as somewhat of an inspirational character. He was one of those hard working, never say die, second-round draft picks who wasn born a great NBA player, but made himself a great NBA player. He developed into one of the game up-and-comers his first two years with Golden State.A year after joining the Washington Wizardshe helped themimprove by 20 games from the 2004 to 2005 season.In 2005 he became a team captain, earned the first ofthree consecutive All-Star nods, and not only helped the Wizards reach the playoffs but win a series over the Chicago Bulls.With his career and popularity on the rise, and an Adidas endorsement deal in hand, Arenas went on to have the best statistical season of his career in 2006 averaging 29.4 points per game (good forfourth in league) along with five assists and two steals. His name was being mentioned in the same breath as the other elite young talents who were taking over the NBA, and he was revered as a unique league personality, a quirky-funny and fresh quote.Entering the 2006 playoffs, Gilbert Arenas was on top of his game. It funny to think that back then he and LeBron James were considered contemporaries, the building blocks of their respective franchises and equal talents facing off in what was sure to be a memorable playoff duel. As different as their careers have gone since, in 2006 they were the marquee first-round matchup the world was watching.And the world saw a dandy of a series. Each team alternated victories and traded blows to the other home court advantage, until the Cavs were finally able to pull-away by winning Games Five and Six. Three games were decided by one point and two were decided in overtime, forging the beginning of a new Eastern Conference rivalry. Arenas was simply masterful, averaging 34 points and more than five assists per game, but his most lasting and significant contribution to that series came in the form of two missed free throws in the Game Six finale May 5. With the Wizards up 113-112 in overtime, Arenas stepped to the free-throw line with two shots to give the Wizards a 3-point lead with just 15 seconds left to play. Literally with the game on the line and a chance to force Green Bay Packers jersey
Game 7, Arenas missed both free throws, leaving the door open for the Cavs in the final seconds. This sequence was highlighted by LeBron James whispering something to Arenas just before he took and missed that last crucial free throw.The Cavstook full advantage, withDamon Jones nailing a 17-footer on the ensuing possession to give the Cavs the 114-113 win, the series, and the Wizards overall.It was only later that we found out LeBron whispered to Arenas "If you miss this shot, it's over." It only now that we understand the ultimate meaning of that statement: he meant the game was over, he meant the series was over, and he meant Arenas career was over.Was LeBron wrong? Gilbertplayed well in the following 2007 season, but severely injured his knee and was lost for the playoffs, another loss to the Cavs. He was averaging 28 points per game and was voted a starter in his third and final All-Star game, but never got the chance to amend what happened a year earlier in the playoffs.Next year in 2008, he managed to play only 13 games after suffering additional and self-imposed setbacks tothat injury. He returnedfor the Wizards' third and final playoff elimination (in a row) at the hands of the Cavs.In that series Arenas averaged 23 fewer minutes, and 23 fewer points per game than the last time he was able to suit up. His image had slowly been shaded as flaky, vain, selfish, and eccentric.He played only two games for the Wizards in 2009. Their record plunged 24 games and they missed the playoffs. Then this year, Arenas made it through just32 games before getting suspended for what many believe will be the rest of the NBA season, if not more.Which brings us back to his peak, the climax, and the last time he was relevant on the court instead of in court. He was an NBA stara tall guard who could set the arena on fire, had trademark sizzle, and who gave the Cleveland Cavaliers all they could handle in LeBron first postseason experience. He played over 47 minutes per game that 2006 series (including overtime) and averaged 34, 5, 5 and 2... but In just one breath, LeBron James was able to break Arenas and the Wizards forever.It probably why the Wizards have come to hate the Cavs and LeBron so much. They brutally robbed the Wizards of any future through a magical curse James cast on their franchise's best and most charismatic player. In fact, LeBron was celebrated for having the gall and gamesmanship to utter a series/career-ending ultimatum on the court to another player. When the Wizards tried the same thing they were warned not to again. They tried everything in fact, but could never get over the Cavsand as it turns out this was to be their destiny.The Wizardsalways fought hard, they even fought dirty, they even tried the same trick of whispering something cryptic in LeBron Houston Texans jersey
ear during a free throw, but in the end, those two shots were as close as they ever got. Those two shotswere as close asArenas ever got.January 10, 2010 will forever be etchedin Gilbert Arenas' bio as the day hewas deemed no longer fit to take the court in an NBA gamebut the cracks began to show three-and-a half years earlier. While this might not be the last we see of him, whatever it is we do see from him, if anything, will be considered a footnote in the twilight of a career not the renaissance of it. RIP Agent 0: 2001-2006 Jimmy Weinland
a guy nearing 30 who has only been able to play47 games over the past three seasons. Hislast meaningful and best season of 2006 would then be four years in the past. That a long time off for another team (as the Wizardscontinue to erase him from memory)to bank on an impact season.So let's say thismovie is overwhen was the climax?Arenas began his career as somewhat of an inspirational character. He was one of those hard working, never say die, second-round draft picks who wasn born a great NBA player, but made himself a great NBA player. He developed into one of the game up-and-comers his first two years with Golden State.A year after joining the Washington Wizardshe helped themimprove by 20 games from the 2004 to 2005 season.In 2005 he became a team captain, earned the first ofthree consecutive All-Star nods, and not only helped the Wizards reach the playoffs but win a series over the Chicago Bulls.With his career and popularity on the rise, and an Adidas endorsement deal in hand, Arenas went on to have the best statistical season of his career in 2006 averaging 29.4 points per game (good forfourth in league) along with five assists and two steals. His name was being mentioned in the same breath as the other elite young talents who were taking over the NBA, and he was revered as a unique league personality, a quirky-funny and fresh quote.Entering the 2006 playoffs, Gilbert Arenas was on top of his game. It funny to think that back then he and LeBron James were considered contemporaries, the building blocks of their respective franchises and equal talents facing off in what was sure to be a memorable playoff duel. As different as their careers have gone since, in 2006 they were the marquee first-round matchup the world was watching.And the world saw a dandy of a series. Each team alternated victories and traded blows to the other home court advantage, until the Cavs were finally able to pull-away by winning Games Five and Six. Three games were decided by one point and two were decided in overtime, forging the beginning of a new Eastern Conference rivalry. Arenas was simply masterful, averaging 34 points and more than five assists per game, but his most lasting and significant contribution to that series came in the form of two missed free throws in the Game Six finale May 5. With the Wizards up 113-112 in overtime, Arenas stepped to the free-throw line with two shots to give the Wizards a 3-point lead with just 15 seconds left to play. Literally with the game on the line and a chance to force Green Bay Packers jersey
Game 7, Arenas missed both free throws, leaving the door open for the Cavs in the final seconds. This sequence was highlighted by LeBron James whispering something to Arenas just before he took and missed that last crucial free throw.The Cavstook full advantage, withDamon Jones nailing a 17-footer on the ensuing possession to give the Cavs the 114-113 win, the series, and the Wizards overall.It was only later that we found out LeBron whispered to Arenas "If you miss this shot, it's over." It only now that we understand the ultimate meaning of that statement: he meant the game was over, he meant the series was over, and he meant Arenas career was over.Was LeBron wrong? Gilbertplayed well in the following 2007 season, but severely injured his knee and was lost for the playoffs, another loss to the Cavs. He was averaging 28 points per game and was voted a starter in his third and final All-Star game, but never got the chance to amend what happened a year earlier in the playoffs.Next year in 2008, he managed to play only 13 games after suffering additional and self-imposed setbacks tothat injury. He returnedfor the Wizards' third and final playoff elimination (in a row) at the hands of the Cavs.In that series Arenas averaged 23 fewer minutes, and 23 fewer points per game than the last time he was able to suit up. His image had slowly been shaded as flaky, vain, selfish, and eccentric.He played only two games for the Wizards in 2009. Their record plunged 24 games and they missed the playoffs. Then this year, Arenas made it through just32 games before getting suspended for what many believe will be the rest of the NBA season, if not more.Which brings us back to his peak, the climax, and the last time he was relevant on the court instead of in court. He was an NBA stara tall guard who could set the arena on fire, had trademark sizzle, and who gave the Cleveland Cavaliers all they could handle in LeBron first postseason experience. He played over 47 minutes per game that 2006 series (including overtime) and averaged 34, 5, 5 and 2... but In just one breath, LeBron James was able to break Arenas and the Wizards forever.It probably why the Wizards have come to hate the Cavs and LeBron so much. They brutally robbed the Wizards of any future through a magical curse James cast on their franchise's best and most charismatic player. In fact, LeBron was celebrated for having the gall and gamesmanship to utter a series/career-ending ultimatum on the court to another player. When the Wizards tried the same thing they were warned not to again. They tried everything in fact, but could never get over the Cavsand as it turns out this was to be their destiny.The Wizardsalways fought hard, they even fought dirty, they even tried the same trick of whispering something cryptic in LeBron Houston Texans jersey
ear during a free throw, but in the end, those two shots were as close as they ever got. Those two shotswere as close asArenas ever got.January 10, 2010 will forever be etchedin Gilbert Arenas' bio as the day hewas deemed no longer fit to take the court in an NBA gamebut the cracks began to show three-and-a half years earlier. While this might not be the last we see of him, whatever it is we do see from him, if anything, will be considered a footnote in the twilight of a career not the renaissance of it. RIP Agent 0: 2001-2006 Jimmy Weinland
12 Jan 11 LEE FREE: Lone Star Shut Out Of Mid Season Party In Lone Star State
Every February, there is spirited debate once the NBA All-Star rosters have been announced. This yearwould bedifferent.Fans from all across the country will always contend with the select few that we affectionately call "snubs". So Thursday evening when we were revealed the names, much too many NBA fans delight, a fewperineal snubs got the nod, most noticeably, Joe Johnson and Zach Randolph. Two players whom have certainly played at an All-Star level for quite soem time now.However, this years selections would not be different in its entiretyPhiladelphia Eagles jersey
. For what can be seen as an unambiguous "snub" was New York Kinicks foward David Lee. Thinking back to a year ago, when David was faced with the same fate, the arguement of his snub-hood, did not hold nearly as much clout as it does this year. Lee finished last year with 16.0 points and a robust 11.7 rebounds while leading the entire league in double-doubles (the same league that Dwight Howard andTim Duncan play in). This gave him some substantial momentum coming into the 2009-2010 season. It was his for the taking. What did he do? All he did was raise his game. Over the course of the first half of the season, Lee has shown everyone he is not just a lunchpail rebounder. This year we are seeing a certian sophistication to Lee's game. His face up game is dramtically improved, he is starting to feature a reliable 12-15 footer, which in time, if it becomes automatic should launch him to superstardom. When defenders develop a concrete respect for his jumper, it will open the door for him on dribble drives in which Lee is very adept at finishing at the rim with either hand. We've also seen him blossom as a passer, trusting his teamates, being a leader and making players around him better. Through Saturday, Lee is averaging 19.7 points and 11.5 rebounds, to go along with a career high 3.4 assists. Sound like an Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
all-star to you?So he did not make it, and maybe this is belaboring the point. Ironically what makes it worse, is how much class Lee has handled this year's (and last year's, for that matter) All-Star "snub". His basic message after the news was that he will "use it as motivation to attempt to make it next year". You almost wanted him to get upset and give us a soundbyte. Furthermore, do not think the players didn't notice. When Shaquille O'Neal, when asked about his (alleged) "snub" Shaq said "I'm more dissapointed for a guy like David Lee" and tagged him in Diesel fasion, "the Human Double-Double". I'd be remiss if i failed to mention O'Neal has played in a few of these games, so he might know what he's talking about.It probably only makes it sting a little bit more to Knick fans. They could use Lee to be touted as an All-Star, with the summer of 2010 coming. My sources tell me there is supposed to a be free agent class coming up, in case you had not already heard. The title brings a sense of allure to the franchise. A sense of "that guy made the All-star Team !?!?! San Diego Chargers jersey
Imagine how good he'd be if heplaye withME!!?!?!? I just hope the Knicks brass don't gaze into the stars too long this summer, they may let the one they have slip right out of their hands.Class act. Coachable. Prepared. Hard Worker. 19.7-11.5-3.4 Sound like an all-star to you?
. For what can be seen as an unambiguous "snub" was New York Kinicks foward David Lee. Thinking back to a year ago, when David was faced with the same fate, the arguement of his snub-hood, did not hold nearly as much clout as it does this year. Lee finished last year with 16.0 points and a robust 11.7 rebounds while leading the entire league in double-doubles (the same league that Dwight Howard andTim Duncan play in). This gave him some substantial momentum coming into the 2009-2010 season. It was his for the taking. What did he do? All he did was raise his game. Over the course of the first half of the season, Lee has shown everyone he is not just a lunchpail rebounder. This year we are seeing a certian sophistication to Lee's game. His face up game is dramtically improved, he is starting to feature a reliable 12-15 footer, which in time, if it becomes automatic should launch him to superstardom. When defenders develop a concrete respect for his jumper, it will open the door for him on dribble drives in which Lee is very adept at finishing at the rim with either hand. We've also seen him blossom as a passer, trusting his teamates, being a leader and making players around him better. Through Saturday, Lee is averaging 19.7 points and 11.5 rebounds, to go along with a career high 3.4 assists. Sound like an Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
all-star to you?So he did not make it, and maybe this is belaboring the point. Ironically what makes it worse, is how much class Lee has handled this year's (and last year's, for that matter) All-Star "snub". His basic message after the news was that he will "use it as motivation to attempt to make it next year". You almost wanted him to get upset and give us a soundbyte. Furthermore, do not think the players didn't notice. When Shaquille O'Neal, when asked about his (alleged) "snub" Shaq said "I'm more dissapointed for a guy like David Lee" and tagged him in Diesel fasion, "the Human Double-Double". I'd be remiss if i failed to mention O'Neal has played in a few of these games, so he might know what he's talking about.It probably only makes it sting a little bit more to Knick fans. They could use Lee to be touted as an All-Star, with the summer of 2010 coming. My sources tell me there is supposed to a be free agent class coming up, in case you had not already heard. The title brings a sense of allure to the franchise. A sense of "that guy made the All-star Team !?!?! San Diego Chargers jersey
Imagine how good he'd be if heplaye withME!!?!?!? I just hope the Knicks brass don't gaze into the stars too long this summer, they may let the one they have slip right out of their hands.Class act. Coachable. Prepared. Hard Worker. 19.7-11.5-3.4 Sound like an all-star to you?
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 The Only Thing Standing Between The Blazers and a Title Is Health
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThe 2009-2010 Portland Trailblazers season has been a drama of epic, almost Biblical proportions. It the stuff of Greek Mythology,19th Century Russian literature,20th Century American Realism and the Book of Job all rolled into one.Well, maybe that an exaggeration, but at times it has certainly felt like all of these things.The Blazers started the year as a favorite, along with the Spurs and the Nuggets, to challenge for the Western Conference title. Loaded with talent and seemingly unafraid of the Lakers, the Blazers looked like a lock to get home-court advantage in the playoffs for the second year in a row. With luck and the help of an experienced veteran like point guard Andre Miller, Blazer fans could realistically set their sights on the Conference Finals.But then fate intervened.Watching the Blazers this season reminded me of the film LEGENDS OF THE FALL. You remember that movie, don't know? You start off getting sucked in by the various characters and their little dramas. There a sibling rivalry. There a battle or New York Jets jersey
two. There some camaraderie and some laughs. There even a romance. Then, about halfway through the story, just when you think everything is going to be resolved for the good of all, the author basically says "Now that youve fallen in love with these people, Im going to kill them all off in horrible fashion." From that point on, LEGENDS OF THE FALL becomes something of a snuff film as one character after another is stomped into the ground by the fickle foot of fate.That's what this year has been like for the Blazers and theirfans.Theyhave endured preseason injuries to last year starting small forward Nicolas Batum and this season rookies Jeff Pendergraph and Patty Mills. Theseplayers were allsidelined for the first two months of the season.But that was nothing. Blazer fans then endured a Portland-career ending injury to Travis Outlaw. They were forced to watch Greg Oden go down with a season ending knee-cap injury, followed rapidly by an even more serious (and possibly career threatening) knee injury to Oden backup, Joel Przybilla. That was followed by back surgery and five weeks of recovery for Rudy Fernandez. Shortly after Fernandez came back, All-Star Brandon Roy went out with a hamstring injury.Yesterday, however, Blazer fans finally found some reason for hope. Portland completed a trade that sent back-up point guard Steve Blake and the aforementioned Outlaw to the Clippers for center Marcus Camby. Even though the Blazers might miss the clutch shooting both of these guys provided, and will certainly miss them in the locker room, this trade was acoup for Portland. Camby is one of the best defenders in the NBA and is, even at age 35, the second leading rebounder in the league. With Brandon Roy expected to return to the lineup this week, the Blazers were suddenly looking to make a serious playoff run this year, after all.Then, in true LEGENDS OF THE FALL fashion, at the very moment things were looking up again, the Blazers season was fatally crushed by that Divine Jackboot. Brandon Roy tested his hamstring in last night game against the Clippers, and left expressing doubts that he will return at all this season.Cue Aidan Quinn lying dead on the ground. Cue Anna Karenina jumping in front of a train. Cue George pulling the trigger on an unsuspecting Lenny. Cue every Jack London protagonist dying at the end of every Jack London novel.That, at least, was my initial reaction.However, Blazer fans can console themselves with this thought: the Portland Trailblazers are not Great Literature. They are not Epic Cinema. They have no particular cosmic or religious significance. They are not symbolic of anything, and they are not tragic.They are an NBA franchise. They will be back next year.In fact, in terms of a story arc, the Blazers might well be more like Frankenstein Monster or Jason from the Friday the 13th movies. Just when you thought the monster was dead, he turns up very much alive and kicking in an even more frightening sequel. No explanation need be given.This being the case, the rest of the NBA should be afraid of the Blazers next year. They should be very afraid.Rather than thinking in terms of 19th Century Russian Literature, we should be thinking in terms of19th Century German Philosophy. As in Frederick Nietzsche. As in "What does not destroy me, makes me stronger."In my opinion, the only thing standing between the Portland Trailblazers and a futureNBA championship is health. A healthy Blazer team would contend for a title as early as next year.Don believe me? Just look at the roster. Oakland Raiders jersey
Greg Oden, before he went down with his injury, was an absolute beast. He wasn just an impact player while he was on the floor: he was a topfive impact player in the NBA.To begin with, Oden was ranked Number 1 overall in Defensive Rating by Basketball-reference.com. He was leading the league in blocked shots and blocked shot percentage. He was leading the league in overall rebound percentage. He was fourth in the NBA in Defensive Win-Share while playing only 24 minutes a game! As a bonus, he was showing offensive skills nobody dreamed he had.Imagine a healthy Greg Oden and LaMarcus Aldridge backed up by a healthy Marcus Camby and a healthy Joel Przybilla. Just for a minute. Imagine it.Now throw Juwan Howard in there just for fun. It may well be the most frightening front-court tandem anyone has seen since Bill Walton won the 6th Man Award for the Celtics.Now, imagine that some combination of Nicolas Batum and Martell Webster are joining this front court. Both of these guys are still developing, but Batum arms are already as long as Oden and he Scottie Pippen quick defensively. Both he and a newly toughened Martell Webster provide a difficult defensive match-up, superior athleticism and streaky offense at thethree spot.Now, imagine that a healthy Brandon Roy and Andre Miller are running the offense. Neither of these guys is going to make very many mistakes. Miller is adept at passing to the big guys and scoring when you think he has no chance, and Roy can pick and roll or isolate other teams to death.Then, imagine a healthy, streamlined bench of Rudy Fernandez, Jerryd Bayless (or Patty Mills), Dante Cunningham and Jeff Pendergraph joining Howard, Camby, Przybilla and either Webster or Batum.That a starting lineup of Roy, Miller, Oden, Aldridge and Webster (or Batum), a second unit of Fernandez, Bayless, Przybilla, Camby and Batum (or Webster), and some combination of Howard, Cunningham, Pendergraph and Mills rounding things out.This could be the best rebounding and shot blocking team in the NBA, the best defensive team overall, and a high efficiency offensive team as well.Think about the possibilities. You could put a defensive lineup of Roy, Webster, Oden, Camby and Batum on the floor. Or you could go really big with Roy, Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Batum, Oden, Camby and Aldridge. That mind-boggling.You could put out an offensive lineup of Roy, Bayless, Oden, Aldridge and either Fernandez or Webster. Or, if you need a three pointer, you could go Roy, Mills, Aldridge, Webster and Fernandez. Or you could just stick with the starting lineup, which looks to be pretty good at scoring.The beauty of this roster is that it is Greg Oden foul-proof. If he picks up his third or fourth foul, no worries: you just plug Marcus Camby or Joel Pryzbilla into the lineup.Now, Im not saying that this roster is actually going to be on the floor next year. Obviously, the Blazers would have to re-sign Howard, Camby and Pryzbilla, but that could certainly happen. Beyond that, however, my entire argument is based on the assumption that everyonegets healthy and stays that way. If you swallow that horse-sized pill, you have to believe the Blazers are instant title contenders.After all, they have everything a championship team needs: a perennial All-Star in Roy; potential All-Stars in Oden and Aldridge; truly great defensive players in Oden, Camby and Batum as well assolid defensive players in Przybilla and Aldridge; all the rebounding any team could ever want and then some; guys who have the ability to get to the foul line (Roy, Miller, Bayless, Aldridge); and, ironically, veteran leadership.I say ironically because only last year Portland was seriously lacking in this department. Now, with Miller, Howard and potentially Camby, they have it in spades.About the only area in which the Blazers might be lacking is clutch shooting. Of course they have Brandon Roy, who is one of the best closers in the NBA, but they will miss Blake and Outlaw.However, Portland is not lacking for guys who are willing totake the big shot. Miller will take it. Bayless will take it. Webster will take it. Fernandez will take it. Batum will take it. Even Howard will take it. Whether the shotgoes in or not is another question, but as long as Miller and Roy are around to create open shots, every one of those guys is willing to take them.By Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
next year, you would hope LaMarcus Aldridge would make this list as well.Which brings me back to the Nietzsche quote. What Portland has gone through this year has not yet destroyed them. In fact, the blessing in disguise with all of these injuries and the recent trade is that guys like Aldridge, Bayless and Webster will get opportunities to come through in crunch time, and that will only make them stronger. And that could help the Blazers become a championship team.Provided, of course, the fickle foot (and knee) of fate stays out of the way.
two. There some camaraderie and some laughs. There even a romance. Then, about halfway through the story, just when you think everything is going to be resolved for the good of all, the author basically says "Now that youve fallen in love with these people, Im going to kill them all off in horrible fashion." From that point on, LEGENDS OF THE FALL becomes something of a snuff film as one character after another is stomped into the ground by the fickle foot of fate.That's what this year has been like for the Blazers and theirfans.Theyhave endured preseason injuries to last year starting small forward Nicolas Batum and this season rookies Jeff Pendergraph and Patty Mills. Theseplayers were allsidelined for the first two months of the season.But that was nothing. Blazer fans then endured a Portland-career ending injury to Travis Outlaw. They were forced to watch Greg Oden go down with a season ending knee-cap injury, followed rapidly by an even more serious (and possibly career threatening) knee injury to Oden backup, Joel Przybilla. That was followed by back surgery and five weeks of recovery for Rudy Fernandez. Shortly after Fernandez came back, All-Star Brandon Roy went out with a hamstring injury.Yesterday, however, Blazer fans finally found some reason for hope. Portland completed a trade that sent back-up point guard Steve Blake and the aforementioned Outlaw to the Clippers for center Marcus Camby. Even though the Blazers might miss the clutch shooting both of these guys provided, and will certainly miss them in the locker room, this trade was acoup for Portland. Camby is one of the best defenders in the NBA and is, even at age 35, the second leading rebounder in the league. With Brandon Roy expected to return to the lineup this week, the Blazers were suddenly looking to make a serious playoff run this year, after all.Then, in true LEGENDS OF THE FALL fashion, at the very moment things were looking up again, the Blazers season was fatally crushed by that Divine Jackboot. Brandon Roy tested his hamstring in last night game against the Clippers, and left expressing doubts that he will return at all this season.Cue Aidan Quinn lying dead on the ground. Cue Anna Karenina jumping in front of a train. Cue George pulling the trigger on an unsuspecting Lenny. Cue every Jack London protagonist dying at the end of every Jack London novel.That, at least, was my initial reaction.However, Blazer fans can console themselves with this thought: the Portland Trailblazers are not Great Literature. They are not Epic Cinema. They have no particular cosmic or religious significance. They are not symbolic of anything, and they are not tragic.They are an NBA franchise. They will be back next year.In fact, in terms of a story arc, the Blazers might well be more like Frankenstein Monster or Jason from the Friday the 13th movies. Just when you thought the monster was dead, he turns up very much alive and kicking in an even more frightening sequel. No explanation need be given.This being the case, the rest of the NBA should be afraid of the Blazers next year. They should be very afraid.Rather than thinking in terms of 19th Century Russian Literature, we should be thinking in terms of19th Century German Philosophy. As in Frederick Nietzsche. As in "What does not destroy me, makes me stronger."In my opinion, the only thing standing between the Portland Trailblazers and a futureNBA championship is health. A healthy Blazer team would contend for a title as early as next year.Don believe me? Just look at the roster. Oakland Raiders jersey
Greg Oden, before he went down with his injury, was an absolute beast. He wasn just an impact player while he was on the floor: he was a topfive impact player in the NBA.To begin with, Oden was ranked Number 1 overall in Defensive Rating by Basketball-reference.com. He was leading the league in blocked shots and blocked shot percentage. He was leading the league in overall rebound percentage. He was fourth in the NBA in Defensive Win-Share while playing only 24 minutes a game! As a bonus, he was showing offensive skills nobody dreamed he had.Imagine a healthy Greg Oden and LaMarcus Aldridge backed up by a healthy Marcus Camby and a healthy Joel Przybilla. Just for a minute. Imagine it.Now throw Juwan Howard in there just for fun. It may well be the most frightening front-court tandem anyone has seen since Bill Walton won the 6th Man Award for the Celtics.Now, imagine that some combination of Nicolas Batum and Martell Webster are joining this front court. Both of these guys are still developing, but Batum arms are already as long as Oden and he Scottie Pippen quick defensively. Both he and a newly toughened Martell Webster provide a difficult defensive match-up, superior athleticism and streaky offense at thethree spot.Now, imagine that a healthy Brandon Roy and Andre Miller are running the offense. Neither of these guys is going to make very many mistakes. Miller is adept at passing to the big guys and scoring when you think he has no chance, and Roy can pick and roll or isolate other teams to death.Then, imagine a healthy, streamlined bench of Rudy Fernandez, Jerryd Bayless (or Patty Mills), Dante Cunningham and Jeff Pendergraph joining Howard, Camby, Przybilla and either Webster or Batum.That a starting lineup of Roy, Miller, Oden, Aldridge and Webster (or Batum), a second unit of Fernandez, Bayless, Przybilla, Camby and Batum (or Webster), and some combination of Howard, Cunningham, Pendergraph and Mills rounding things out.This could be the best rebounding and shot blocking team in the NBA, the best defensive team overall, and a high efficiency offensive team as well.Think about the possibilities. You could put a defensive lineup of Roy, Webster, Oden, Camby and Batum on the floor. Or you could go really big with Roy, Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Batum, Oden, Camby and Aldridge. That mind-boggling.You could put out an offensive lineup of Roy, Bayless, Oden, Aldridge and either Fernandez or Webster. Or, if you need a three pointer, you could go Roy, Mills, Aldridge, Webster and Fernandez. Or you could just stick with the starting lineup, which looks to be pretty good at scoring.The beauty of this roster is that it is Greg Oden foul-proof. If he picks up his third or fourth foul, no worries: you just plug Marcus Camby or Joel Pryzbilla into the lineup.Now, Im not saying that this roster is actually going to be on the floor next year. Obviously, the Blazers would have to re-sign Howard, Camby and Pryzbilla, but that could certainly happen. Beyond that, however, my entire argument is based on the assumption that everyonegets healthy and stays that way. If you swallow that horse-sized pill, you have to believe the Blazers are instant title contenders.After all, they have everything a championship team needs: a perennial All-Star in Roy; potential All-Stars in Oden and Aldridge; truly great defensive players in Oden, Camby and Batum as well assolid defensive players in Przybilla and Aldridge; all the rebounding any team could ever want and then some; guys who have the ability to get to the foul line (Roy, Miller, Bayless, Aldridge); and, ironically, veteran leadership.I say ironically because only last year Portland was seriously lacking in this department. Now, with Miller, Howard and potentially Camby, they have it in spades.About the only area in which the Blazers might be lacking is clutch shooting. Of course they have Brandon Roy, who is one of the best closers in the NBA, but they will miss Blake and Outlaw.However, Portland is not lacking for guys who are willing totake the big shot. Miller will take it. Bayless will take it. Webster will take it. Fernandez will take it. Batum will take it. Even Howard will take it. Whether the shotgoes in or not is another question, but as long as Miller and Roy are around to create open shots, every one of those guys is willing to take them.By Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
next year, you would hope LaMarcus Aldridge would make this list as well.Which brings me back to the Nietzsche quote. What Portland has gone through this year has not yet destroyed them. In fact, the blessing in disguise with all of these injuries and the recent trade is that guys like Aldridge, Bayless and Webster will get opportunities to come through in crunch time, and that will only make them stronger. And that could help the Blazers become a championship team.Provided, of course, the fickle foot (and knee) of fate stays out of the way.
10 Jan 11 Happy Birthday Michael Jordan and Jim Brown!
Today, February 17th, is a special day in the world of sports. It is a day in which two of the arguably greatest pro athletes of all-time were bornMichael Jordan, 47, and Jim Brown, 74.They each are arguably the greatest ever to play their respective sports, and on their birthday, I thought the least I could do in order to serve them justice would be to properly honor and remind others of their extraordinary body of work.At a young age, both played multiple sports and were offered full ride athletic scholarships from nearly every college in the nation.Jordan attended UNC for Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
three years, and Brown graduated from Syracuse. The pinnacle of Jordan's college career was winning a national championship and both the Naismith and Wooden College Player of the Year Awards after a strong junior campaign. For Brown, it was finishing fifth in the Heisman Trophy ballots in his senior year.Their domination in college and their tremendous pro potential made Jordan the 3rd overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft, and Brown the sixth overall pick in the 1957 NFL Draft.Brown had a rather brief, nine year, NFL career (1957-1965). However, during his time he set several recordsincluding the most single season and career rushing yards, most career touchdowns, as well as most career all-purpose yards. Despite playing in an era where the talent level is no where close to where it is today, his achievements are still magnificent, especially considering the fact that he was one of the few African Americans in the league at that time. He was known for his bruising style of play as he would fight for every inch on the gridiron that the defense would allow.Brown attended the Pro Bowl all nine seasons, and was selected as a First-Team All-Pro in all but one, when he was selected to the Second-Team in 62. He is a three time NFL MVP, and is a Super Bowl winner.Jordan, on the other hand had a muchReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
longer career as an NBA superstar, and as a result has more accolades. He was a versatile player, capable of playing both SG and SF. He was known for being a clutch performer and persevering through adverse situations. Jordan owns numerous records and awards. He has 10 scoring titles (record), 5 MVP (2nd most), and 6 consecutive NBA Finals victories, all of which he was MVP of. In addition, he was also part of the 1992 Dream Team in the Olympics. Jordan is undoubtedly the most decorated player in NBA history.Both players spectacular careers got them a spot in their respective sports Hall of Fame. What amazes me about Brown, and what most don know, is the fact that he is not only in the College and Pro Football Hall of Fame, but also in the Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Unfortunately for Michael, his baseball career didn pan out the way he hoped it would.In the years following their professional careers, the two have gone in different directions. Jordan has been a successful business man, teaming up with Nike and selling millions of shoes and athletic apparel from his famous Air Jordan line worldwide. Recently he has been in active pursuit to acquire the majority of the Charlotte Bobcats franchise, and inches closer to doing so.On the other hand, Brown has dedicated himself to being a civil rights activist and worked towards eliminating gang violence. In fact, not that, in an interview, Jim Brown criticized both Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods for their lack of social activism. Putting the controversy aside, both have demonstrated that their hard work ethic, Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
vision, and hunger for success has propelled them to winning not only on the field, but off-the-field too.Overall, these are two special men who have revolutionized the way the game is played. They both set the bar for future athletes, and will always be admired as one of the greatest ever. Both leave behind tremendous, long-lasting and well-deserving legacies. For these reasons, as well as many more, I wish them a very Happy Birthday.
three years, and Brown graduated from Syracuse. The pinnacle of Jordan's college career was winning a national championship and both the Naismith and Wooden College Player of the Year Awards after a strong junior campaign. For Brown, it was finishing fifth in the Heisman Trophy ballots in his senior year.Their domination in college and their tremendous pro potential made Jordan the 3rd overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft, and Brown the sixth overall pick in the 1957 NFL Draft.Brown had a rather brief, nine year, NFL career (1957-1965). However, during his time he set several recordsincluding the most single season and career rushing yards, most career touchdowns, as well as most career all-purpose yards. Despite playing in an era where the talent level is no where close to where it is today, his achievements are still magnificent, especially considering the fact that he was one of the few African Americans in the league at that time. He was known for his bruising style of play as he would fight for every inch on the gridiron that the defense would allow.Brown attended the Pro Bowl all nine seasons, and was selected as a First-Team All-Pro in all but one, when he was selected to the Second-Team in 62. He is a three time NFL MVP, and is a Super Bowl winner.Jordan, on the other hand had a muchReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
longer career as an NBA superstar, and as a result has more accolades. He was a versatile player, capable of playing both SG and SF. He was known for being a clutch performer and persevering through adverse situations. Jordan owns numerous records and awards. He has 10 scoring titles (record), 5 MVP (2nd most), and 6 consecutive NBA Finals victories, all of which he was MVP of. In addition, he was also part of the 1992 Dream Team in the Olympics. Jordan is undoubtedly the most decorated player in NBA history.Both players spectacular careers got them a spot in their respective sports Hall of Fame. What amazes me about Brown, and what most don know, is the fact that he is not only in the College and Pro Football Hall of Fame, but also in the Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Unfortunately for Michael, his baseball career didn pan out the way he hoped it would.In the years following their professional careers, the two have gone in different directions. Jordan has been a successful business man, teaming up with Nike and selling millions of shoes and athletic apparel from his famous Air Jordan line worldwide. Recently he has been in active pursuit to acquire the majority of the Charlotte Bobcats franchise, and inches closer to doing so.On the other hand, Brown has dedicated himself to being a civil rights activist and worked towards eliminating gang violence. In fact, not that, in an interview, Jim Brown criticized both Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods for their lack of social activism. Putting the controversy aside, both have demonstrated that their hard work ethic, Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
vision, and hunger for success has propelled them to winning not only on the field, but off-the-field too.Overall, these are two special men who have revolutionized the way the game is played. They both set the bar for future athletes, and will always be admired as one of the greatest ever. Both leave behind tremendous, long-lasting and well-deserving legacies. For these reasons, as well as many more, I wish them a very Happy Birthday.
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 It's Time to Realign Our 2010 Celtics Expectations
Elsa/Getty ImagesYou can view the original article here at Loscy.comIf you were to take a walk down Celtics Avenue in the neighborhood of the Boston Celtics blogosphere, it wouldn take a genius to come to the realization that every resident there is pissed. Neighbors aren mad at each other, per say, but just in a sour mood about what happening around them.Disappointed. Frustrated. Confused. Angry. Offended, even?It pretty easy to see why. Aside from dropping a silly game to the Nets, the Celtics have been anything but consistent since, well, October.Since the new year dawned upon us, things have been even worse. Injuries, rumors, trades, inconsistent play, flat effort, lack of energy, and no gritty fights during feasible comebacks have had plenty of people questioning the integrity, Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
leadership, and capabilities of this team The same team that was easily a pick as a title contender in the off-season, pre-season, and the beginning of the season.Let just face it: we are a long way away from the 23-5 after beating the Magicians on Christmas Day. Since then, we have been 13-16, for a grand total of 36 wins and 21 losses.Not encouraging. Not even in the slightest.At some point in the last eight weeks of treacherous/sub-par basketball, Ive slowly been waking up. The alarm wasn sudden, and the bell has been subtle. It time to realign our 2010 Celtics expectations: we aren a top three team, not even a top five team, but we are a top 10 team.If you missed Hollinger recent Power Rankings , be sure to check it out.Im not always on the same page as our friend John, but in this case he right. Unfortunately, he right. We just aren a top five team, and that difficult for many of you (including me) to get over.Our record against top 10 teams in the league have been atrocious. We have given up the most second half double-digit leads in the association this season. We have been three games under .500 in the last two months. Nothing in this paragraph should make anyone excited about the playoffs.But, therein lays the key. This team can be looked at as a legitimate, viable contender for the title. Critics, writers, players, coaches, and most importantly non-Celtics fans, have already moved on.Anyone who is anyone that follows basketball realizes that the Celtics have a lot of wrinkles that need ironing out, yet the iron itself isn even plugged in. Only the stubborn fans remain cemented in a block of naivet.Many Celtics fans are standing strong, steadfast, and staying put. It good for us to stand still: as fans, that is our job, obligation, and duty. It an easy job, really: just root for your team.Although it can be difficult because we want to feel so close to the Celtics and feel we all have the answers to fix this team, we are the furthest away from the players. Nothing we say or do determines the outcome of a game, how hard a player plays, how often his shots is falling, or the flow of team chemistry.What we can do, however, is turn up the dial of common sense and realize what going on here: the Cavs, Lakers, Nuggets, Mavs, Magic, Hawks, Jazz, and Suns are better than us.I Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
don necessarily agree that the Thunder and Spurs are better than us, especially in a series. I don even know if I agree with the fact that the Suns are better than us in a series, but the other teams are clearly LIGHT YEARS ahead of the Celtics.At the moment.What if this is the story of this team? What if this team really is built for the playoffs? That the vets are putting it in cruise control to coast to the playoffs?The comforting reality of this entire scenario is that the Celtics will make the playoffs. Something incredibly disastrous would have to happen in order for the C to not make the playoffs. Theyll make the playoffs. The Celtics is also a team that has better odds against their opponent in a series.Why? The odds are better, the vets have experience, they really do have a talented starting 5 and a fairly deep bench, and their coach is a pretty good coachOr, this season could just turn into a bust. This is just as likely to happen as the optimistic side of me that thinks this team has two more deadly gears in them that theyve shown flashes of so far this season. Or, maybe not.Either way, I am realigning my expectations of this year team. The Celtics are a top 10 team, but not top five, three, and definitely not top two The team often exemplifies the persona of a young team (giving up big leads, not playing to potential, an inability to execute through and through, lots of fouls and technicals), which is eerily ironic considering how old they are as a whole. Weird.Im looking for the Celtics to win the first round of the playoffs. Before you write me off as Captain Obvious, hear this one last argument out: if youre a top 10 team in the league, you should win the first round for sure, and then it 50/50 in the conference semis.I am not talking 50/50 you might win or lose (duh), Im talking about what are the REAL odds if you making it to the conference finals. If the Celtics can get past the first round, I think they still stand a good chance to see the Cavs in the ECF. The fire can come back. They can will themselves that far. But much further? I just don think so.Theyre not a top two team. Theyre not a top three team. Theyre not a top five team. Theyre barely a top 10 team. Top 10 teams just don win titles. It time to realign my expectations of this year team.I am done looking over my right shoulder to Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
compare how the Lakers, Cavs, Nuggets, Magic, Hawks, and Jazz are playing. It not worth it. But this doesn mean I am giving up on them, or will stop cheering.If anything, Ill cheer even more because I love the underdog. I love underdog stories. It an easy job as a fan: just root for your team. So that what I will do until they exit the playoffs, whenever and wherever that may be.
leadership, and capabilities of this team The same team that was easily a pick as a title contender in the off-season, pre-season, and the beginning of the season.Let just face it: we are a long way away from the 23-5 after beating the Magicians on Christmas Day. Since then, we have been 13-16, for a grand total of 36 wins and 21 losses.Not encouraging. Not even in the slightest.At some point in the last eight weeks of treacherous/sub-par basketball, Ive slowly been waking up. The alarm wasn sudden, and the bell has been subtle. It time to realign our 2010 Celtics expectations: we aren a top three team, not even a top five team, but we are a top 10 team.If you missed Hollinger recent Power Rankings , be sure to check it out.Im not always on the same page as our friend John, but in this case he right. Unfortunately, he right. We just aren a top five team, and that difficult for many of you (including me) to get over.Our record against top 10 teams in the league have been atrocious. We have given up the most second half double-digit leads in the association this season. We have been three games under .500 in the last two months. Nothing in this paragraph should make anyone excited about the playoffs.But, therein lays the key. This team can be looked at as a legitimate, viable contender for the title. Critics, writers, players, coaches, and most importantly non-Celtics fans, have already moved on.Anyone who is anyone that follows basketball realizes that the Celtics have a lot of wrinkles that need ironing out, yet the iron itself isn even plugged in. Only the stubborn fans remain cemented in a block of naivet.Many Celtics fans are standing strong, steadfast, and staying put. It good for us to stand still: as fans, that is our job, obligation, and duty. It an easy job, really: just root for your team.Although it can be difficult because we want to feel so close to the Celtics and feel we all have the answers to fix this team, we are the furthest away from the players. Nothing we say or do determines the outcome of a game, how hard a player plays, how often his shots is falling, or the flow of team chemistry.What we can do, however, is turn up the dial of common sense and realize what going on here: the Cavs, Lakers, Nuggets, Mavs, Magic, Hawks, Jazz, and Suns are better than us.I Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
don necessarily agree that the Thunder and Spurs are better than us, especially in a series. I don even know if I agree with the fact that the Suns are better than us in a series, but the other teams are clearly LIGHT YEARS ahead of the Celtics.At the moment.What if this is the story of this team? What if this team really is built for the playoffs? That the vets are putting it in cruise control to coast to the playoffs?The comforting reality of this entire scenario is that the Celtics will make the playoffs. Something incredibly disastrous would have to happen in order for the C to not make the playoffs. Theyll make the playoffs. The Celtics is also a team that has better odds against their opponent in a series.Why? The odds are better, the vets have experience, they really do have a talented starting 5 and a fairly deep bench, and their coach is a pretty good coachOr, this season could just turn into a bust. This is just as likely to happen as the optimistic side of me that thinks this team has two more deadly gears in them that theyve shown flashes of so far this season. Or, maybe not.Either way, I am realigning my expectations of this year team. The Celtics are a top 10 team, but not top five, three, and definitely not top two The team often exemplifies the persona of a young team (giving up big leads, not playing to potential, an inability to execute through and through, lots of fouls and technicals), which is eerily ironic considering how old they are as a whole. Weird.Im looking for the Celtics to win the first round of the playoffs. Before you write me off as Captain Obvious, hear this one last argument out: if youre a top 10 team in the league, you should win the first round for sure, and then it 50/50 in the conference semis.I am not talking 50/50 you might win or lose (duh), Im talking about what are the REAL odds if you making it to the conference finals. If the Celtics can get past the first round, I think they still stand a good chance to see the Cavs in the ECF. The fire can come back. They can will themselves that far. But much further? I just don think so.Theyre not a top two team. Theyre not a top three team. Theyre not a top five team. Theyre barely a top 10 team. Top 10 teams just don win titles. It time to realign my expectations of this year team.I am done looking over my right shoulder to Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
compare how the Lakers, Cavs, Nuggets, Magic, Hawks, and Jazz are playing. It not worth it. But this doesn mean I am giving up on them, or will stop cheering.If anything, Ill cheer even more because I love the underdog. I love underdog stories. It an easy job as a fan: just root for your team. So that what I will do until they exit the playoffs, whenever and wherever that may be.
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 NCAA Tournament: The Madness Marches On
Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images What a weekend in Indianapolis! If Ohio State was a cat, they justused up about three of their lives on Friday and Saturday.They defeated Michigan on an improbable 35 foot shot by Evan Turner (thanks Coach Beilein for not guarding the inbounds passer or trying to deny Turner the ball), and then going double OT with Illinois after trailing by double digits in the second half.Once again ET showed why he is the player of the year! Turner not only hit the big shot to stick it to the Wolverines, but carried the Buckeyes in crunch time agaisntReebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
the Illini. It is never easy to defeat a good team three times in one year, but OSU accomplished that when they came back to down the men in orange. Honestly Ihad my doubts about Sunday's game, feelingthe team would let down. Ohio State had already secured a number two seed and additionally was dealing with tired legs. But it was Minnesota that appeared fatigued in the second half as David Lighty and Evan Turnerdisplayed amazing spring in their stepsand flat took it to the Gophers in dominating fashion.What thissquad lacks in depth they make up for in determination and if there was any doubt about who is the best team in the Big Ten this year, it was erased at Conseco Fieldhouse this past weekend. Now onto the NCAAtourney where the selection committee did the team no favors. SinceKansasReebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
was named the No. 1 overall seed, why did OSU wind up in their bracket? Having established themselves aseither the fifth or sixth best team in the nation, they deserved a better draw.However, long before thinking about the Jayhawks, OSU has plenty of business to attend to, including the unenviable task of taking onGeorgetown and their beast of a post player in Greg Monroe. He has caused all kinds of matchup problems for several tournament teams. My personal thought is if Ohio State can make the elite eight (which will be difficult with their six man rotation), they could be a worse draw than Kansas. Ibelieve Kentucky, despite their youth, brings the most talent to the table, and their gigantic frontline would spell big problems for the undersized Bucks.So, rather than moan, I hope the team goes out with some hunger, Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
after bowing out in the first round a year ago. Regardless of what happens the next couple weekends this has been a special year. Ohio State has been marked with great coaching, tireless effort on the court, and true brilliance on the part of the Villain, Evan Turner. Hats off to the Buckeye hoopsters and good luck this Friday in Milwaukee.This article is also featured onThe Silver Bullet
the Illini. It is never easy to defeat a good team three times in one year, but OSU accomplished that when they came back to down the men in orange. Honestly Ihad my doubts about Sunday's game, feelingthe team would let down. Ohio State had already secured a number two seed and additionally was dealing with tired legs. But it was Minnesota that appeared fatigued in the second half as David Lighty and Evan Turnerdisplayed amazing spring in their stepsand flat took it to the Gophers in dominating fashion.What thissquad lacks in depth they make up for in determination and if there was any doubt about who is the best team in the Big Ten this year, it was erased at Conseco Fieldhouse this past weekend. Now onto the NCAAtourney where the selection committee did the team no favors. SinceKansasReebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
was named the No. 1 overall seed, why did OSU wind up in their bracket? Having established themselves aseither the fifth or sixth best team in the nation, they deserved a better draw.However, long before thinking about the Jayhawks, OSU has plenty of business to attend to, including the unenviable task of taking onGeorgetown and their beast of a post player in Greg Monroe. He has caused all kinds of matchup problems for several tournament teams. My personal thought is if Ohio State can make the elite eight (which will be difficult with their six man rotation), they could be a worse draw than Kansas. Ibelieve Kentucky, despite their youth, brings the most talent to the table, and their gigantic frontline would spell big problems for the undersized Bucks.So, rather than moan, I hope the team goes out with some hunger, Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
after bowing out in the first round a year ago. Regardless of what happens the next couple weekends this has been a special year. Ohio State has been marked with great coaching, tireless effort on the court, and true brilliance on the part of the Villain, Evan Turner. Hats off to the Buckeye hoopsters and good luck this Friday in Milwaukee.This article is also featured onThe Silver Bullet
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