Have you ever watched some sort of sporting event, like the Super Bowl or an all-star game, and then wondered who got to select the game's MVP? And why, exactly, did those voters select who they did?
I'll fill you in on our thought process for the R&L Holiday Classic, specifically the boys game. And I'll be honest, I think our job of selecting a tournament-wide MVP is much tougher than selecting one for a single game. We have multiple games to consider, and in some cases, teams play a different number of total games, which skews stats.
Before the boys championship game between Lake Norman and Statesville, fellow sports writer Brian Meadows and I compiled a list of players who had done well and deserved MVP consideration. Anybody is eligible for MVP but, like in most instances, it typically goes to a member of the winning team.
Once the game was final - Lake Norman 68, Statesville 58 - there was only time for a brief consultation of stats and discussion before presenting our selection.
It's pretty demanding, actually. We're already there to cover the game, look for interesting story lines and keep our own stats, in addition to constantly thinking about the MVP selection.
It came down to two people, both from Lake Norman - sophomore Paul Larsen and senior Nathan Bowers (if Statesville won, it probably would have been either T.J. McCombs or William Marion).
Let's take a quick look at the numbers: Nathan Bowers finished with 37 points and 24 rebounds in two games. He played great defense and picked up timely rebounds and blocked shots. Paul Larsen finished with 39 points and 22 rebounds in two games. He also played great defense and picked up timely blocked shots and rebounds.
Talk about a doozy - nearly identical numbers and impact.
Here's a few other things we considered: Bowers' best game was against North Iredell in the semifinals. He had 24 points, was 9-of-16 from the field and pulled down 11 rebounds before fouling out in the fourth quarter. There's no way Lake Norman would have won without him.
Larsen's best game was in the championship, when he scored 26 points and had 14 rebounds. He scored 11 points in the final six minutes of the game, including eight in a row at one point. In the semifinals against North Iredell, he made two game-winning free throws with 0.7 seconds left.
Taking all of that into consideration, Paul Larsen won the MVP. The biggest reason behind that was his clutch play in the championship game. That doesn't take anything away from Bowers, because he had an outstanding tournament as well. It was about as close as you could get.
Thanks for reading, and have a happy New Year.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Red, white and ... rainbow?
I was puttering along the road yesterday when a very old white van passed me.
When it passed me, I noticed a gigantic bumper sticker on the back window. It was one of those "Power of Pride" stickers, but it was a bit different. This thing was HUGE. It nearly stretched all the way across the entire back window.
But then something else jumped out at me.
Halfway across the sticker, between the "r" and the "i" in Pride, it appeared another bumper sticker was slapped on. A gigantic picture of Jeff Gordon's head came into view, with the phrase "Rainbow Warrior" and a picture of his No. 24 car.
So the person in this van, after purchasing this Jeff Gordon sticker, was so intent on people seeing it, he completely covered up his American sticker.
Yes, it's true. People in Statesville love Jeff Gordon more than their country.
When it passed me, I noticed a gigantic bumper sticker on the back window. It was one of those "Power of Pride" stickers, but it was a bit different. This thing was HUGE. It nearly stretched all the way across the entire back window.
But then something else jumped out at me.
Halfway across the sticker, between the "r" and the "i" in Pride, it appeared another bumper sticker was slapped on. A gigantic picture of Jeff Gordon's head came into view, with the phrase "Rainbow Warrior" and a picture of his No. 24 car.
So the person in this van, after purchasing this Jeff Gordon sticker, was so intent on people seeing it, he completely covered up his American sticker.
Yes, it's true. People in Statesville love Jeff Gordon more than their country.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Football thoughts
This is one of my favorite times of the year as it relates to sports. In fact, it's right up there with March Madness.
All of the college football bowl games are set. Intriguing matches dot the landscape, and conversations will take place about who got snubbed, the biggest Cinderella and the best matchups.
In the NFL, there are only four games left in the regular season and the playoffs are beginning to take shape.
Here's what I'm thinking heading into what should be a very exciting next few months.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
I really don't mind the BCS national championship game of Ohio State vs. LSU. I think both teams are very good, and there's a ton of story lines. But I think the best team in the nation is Oklahoma. I know the Sooners lost to Colorado, which was a long time ago. More recently, they lost to Texas Tech, but keep in mind that was without Sam Bradford. They just smashed the No. 1 team in the nation in a game everybody was watching. I would have liked to see them get a shot at the title. But LSU also lost twice, and it took six total overtimes for them to lose. They deserve it as well. Plus-one, anybody?
I'm also pretty intrigued by most of the BCS matchups this year. Oklahoma and West Virginia is a great pairing. The traditional power team versus the up-and-coming Mountaineers and their speed and spread offense. Georgia and Hawaii should also be a lot of fun, and I think Hawaii will make this an interesting game.
The biggest snub - easily - has to go to Missouri. Missouri lost twice this year, both times to Oklahoma. They defeated Kansas fairly easily, and they also beat Illinois to open the season. Somehow, Kansas and Illinois (with three losses, but a marquee win) are in the BCS and Missouri is going to the Cotton Bowl.
Other intriguing bowl games I like are:
Gator Bowl: Texas Tech vs. Virginia
Two completely different styles here. Virginia's running game and strong defense against air-it-out Texas Tech.
Armed Forces: Air Force vs. California
Cal was once ranked No. 2 in the country and on pace to play for the BCS title. Since then, the Bears have lost six of seven, including last week's defeat against Stanford. Air Force is a great story this year, and they have a very good team. It's a team stoked to be in a bowl against a team which had BCS aspirations.
Capital One Bowl: Michigan vs. Florida
So many reasons to love this one. Michigan's senior class trying to win its first bowl game. Michigan's coaching situation. Florida's spread offense. Keep in mind Michigan's defense was overwhelmed by Appalachian State's and Oregon's spread offense. Florida runs a spread better than anybody in the country. With a month to prepare, can the Wolverines finally shut down a fast, dynamic offense?
NFL
I can't remember a season where, with four games remaining, every division race was essentially over, but the playoff picture still has a bunch of scenarios. New England has clinched its division and Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and San Diego all have a two-game lead. The gap is even wider in the NFC. Green Bay has a whopping four-game lead while Dallas and Tampa Bay are ahead three games and Seattle is ahead two. But check out the wild-card scenarios in both leagues.
AFC: Jacksonville (8-4), Cleveland (7-5), Tennessee (7-5), Buffalo (6-6) and a host of a 5-7 teams are still alive. The Jaguars have played a great season and should be in, but the race for that last spot will be intense.
It's even wackier in the NFC wild card race: the New York Giants, at 8-4, should be in. But there are EIGHT teams within one game of each other for the final spot. Arizona, Detroit and Minnesota are 6-6, and Carolina, Chicago, New Orleans, Philadelphia and Washington are 5-7. The Panthers have an absolutely brutal schedule remaining and I think they won't make it. I also think the fading Lions will be eliminated from contention, as will the Redskins and Eagles. I'd look for the surging Vikings, behind a suddenly explosive offense, to clinch the No. 6 seed.
All of the college football bowl games are set. Intriguing matches dot the landscape, and conversations will take place about who got snubbed, the biggest Cinderella and the best matchups.
In the NFL, there are only four games left in the regular season and the playoffs are beginning to take shape.
Here's what I'm thinking heading into what should be a very exciting next few months.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
I really don't mind the BCS national championship game of Ohio State vs. LSU. I think both teams are very good, and there's a ton of story lines. But I think the best team in the nation is Oklahoma. I know the Sooners lost to Colorado, which was a long time ago. More recently, they lost to Texas Tech, but keep in mind that was without Sam Bradford. They just smashed the No. 1 team in the nation in a game everybody was watching. I would have liked to see them get a shot at the title. But LSU also lost twice, and it took six total overtimes for them to lose. They deserve it as well. Plus-one, anybody?
I'm also pretty intrigued by most of the BCS matchups this year. Oklahoma and West Virginia is a great pairing. The traditional power team versus the up-and-coming Mountaineers and their speed and spread offense. Georgia and Hawaii should also be a lot of fun, and I think Hawaii will make this an interesting game.
The biggest snub - easily - has to go to Missouri. Missouri lost twice this year, both times to Oklahoma. They defeated Kansas fairly easily, and they also beat Illinois to open the season. Somehow, Kansas and Illinois (with three losses, but a marquee win) are in the BCS and Missouri is going to the Cotton Bowl.
Other intriguing bowl games I like are:
Gator Bowl: Texas Tech vs. Virginia
Two completely different styles here. Virginia's running game and strong defense against air-it-out Texas Tech.
Armed Forces: Air Force vs. California
Cal was once ranked No. 2 in the country and on pace to play for the BCS title. Since then, the Bears have lost six of seven, including last week's defeat against Stanford. Air Force is a great story this year, and they have a very good team. It's a team stoked to be in a bowl against a team which had BCS aspirations.
Capital One Bowl: Michigan vs. Florida
So many reasons to love this one. Michigan's senior class trying to win its first bowl game. Michigan's coaching situation. Florida's spread offense. Keep in mind Michigan's defense was overwhelmed by Appalachian State's and Oregon's spread offense. Florida runs a spread better than anybody in the country. With a month to prepare, can the Wolverines finally shut down a fast, dynamic offense?
NFL
I can't remember a season where, with four games remaining, every division race was essentially over, but the playoff picture still has a bunch of scenarios. New England has clinched its division and Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and San Diego all have a two-game lead. The gap is even wider in the NFC. Green Bay has a whopping four-game lead while Dallas and Tampa Bay are ahead three games and Seattle is ahead two. But check out the wild-card scenarios in both leagues.
AFC: Jacksonville (8-4), Cleveland (7-5), Tennessee (7-5), Buffalo (6-6) and a host of a 5-7 teams are still alive. The Jaguars have played a great season and should be in, but the race for that last spot will be intense.
It's even wackier in the NFC wild card race: the New York Giants, at 8-4, should be in. But there are EIGHT teams within one game of each other for the final spot. Arizona, Detroit and Minnesota are 6-6, and Carolina, Chicago, New Orleans, Philadelphia and Washington are 5-7. The Panthers have an absolutely brutal schedule remaining and I think they won't make it. I also think the fading Lions will be eliminated from contention, as will the Redskins and Eagles. I'd look for the surging Vikings, behind a suddenly explosive offense, to clinch the No. 6 seed.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Where to go from here
I had a couple of comments from people on my last post asking about the Panthers, and it's probably better to address all of the Panthers woes in a separate post. It may get a little lengthy.
My initial thought of Carolina looking like a 7-9 team seems very generous right now, seeing the Panthers would have to go 3-2 to get there.
The remaining schedule is as follows, with games where the Panthers will not be favored in bold:
Dec. 2: vs San Francisco
Dec. 9: at Jacksonville
Dec. 16: vs Seattle
Dec. 22: vs Dallas
Dec. 30: at Tampa Bay
The Panthers better win against the 49ers this week, because the schedule is brutal the rest of the way.
The game at Jacksonville and the home game against Dallas are practically guaranteed losses. My best guess now it Carolina will find a way to beat the Niners, then spring an upset on either Seattle or Tampa and finish 6-10. But I wouldn't be surprised if the team finished 4-12 either.
A couple of other thoughts:
I've heard from a bunch of people that this season cannot be necessarily blamed on coach John Fox or general manager Marty Hurney because the Panthers have been beset by a rash of injuries. I don't buy that for a second. It's the responsibility of the general manager - and coach, too - to put together a team that is capable of overcoming big injuries. Jake Delhomme has gone down with a major elbow injury, and might never be the same again. The Panthers brass hand-picked David Carr as the much-needed backup, and it was a bad signing. Thinking back to when it happened, more teams were interested in Trent Dilfer than Carr, who got serious consideration from only two teams.
The team also relied way too much on Dan Morgan, who will almost certainly be forced to retire now, and tries to skirt through positions with little to no depth.
Carolina essentially has three defensive ends - Julius Peppers, Mike Rucker and Stanley McClover. Charles Johnson has been inactive this year. At linebacker, the story is the same. Beason is a monster player, and Thomas Davis and Na'il Diggs are quite serviceable, but the lone backup who could actually produce is James Anderson. The secondary is patchwork. Richard Marshall is a solid option at No. 3 cornerback, but Panthers management stubbornly refused to get a big safety. Then they tried to sell Deke Cooper as a viable option, even though he's been cut by several teams throughout the league.
Offensively, it's not a lot better. DeShaun Foster got a a fistful of money for having produced very little as a Panther, and the zone blocking schemes have been mediocre to this point.
I'm not trying to blast this team, but if you take a long, honest look at evaluating this roster from the top down, it's not very good.
The big question is where does that leave Fox and Hurney at the end of the season? The team needs to show at least some signs, or both will be gone. Both may be gone regardless. But if the Panthers show some life in these last few weeks and finish on a high note - say 7-9 - that could be enough.
My initial thought of Carolina looking like a 7-9 team seems very generous right now, seeing the Panthers would have to go 3-2 to get there.
The remaining schedule is as follows, with games where the Panthers will not be favored in bold:
Dec. 2: vs San Francisco
Dec. 9: at Jacksonville
Dec. 16: vs Seattle
Dec. 22: vs Dallas
Dec. 30: at Tampa Bay
The Panthers better win against the 49ers this week, because the schedule is brutal the rest of the way.
The game at Jacksonville and the home game against Dallas are practically guaranteed losses. My best guess now it Carolina will find a way to beat the Niners, then spring an upset on either Seattle or Tampa and finish 6-10. But I wouldn't be surprised if the team finished 4-12 either.
A couple of other thoughts:
I've heard from a bunch of people that this season cannot be necessarily blamed on coach John Fox or general manager Marty Hurney because the Panthers have been beset by a rash of injuries. I don't buy that for a second. It's the responsibility of the general manager - and coach, too - to put together a team that is capable of overcoming big injuries. Jake Delhomme has gone down with a major elbow injury, and might never be the same again. The Panthers brass hand-picked David Carr as the much-needed backup, and it was a bad signing. Thinking back to when it happened, more teams were interested in Trent Dilfer than Carr, who got serious consideration from only two teams.
The team also relied way too much on Dan Morgan, who will almost certainly be forced to retire now, and tries to skirt through positions with little to no depth.
Carolina essentially has three defensive ends - Julius Peppers, Mike Rucker and Stanley McClover. Charles Johnson has been inactive this year. At linebacker, the story is the same. Beason is a monster player, and Thomas Davis and Na'il Diggs are quite serviceable, but the lone backup who could actually produce is James Anderson. The secondary is patchwork. Richard Marshall is a solid option at No. 3 cornerback, but Panthers management stubbornly refused to get a big safety. Then they tried to sell Deke Cooper as a viable option, even though he's been cut by several teams throughout the league.
Offensively, it's not a lot better. DeShaun Foster got a a fistful of money for having produced very little as a Panther, and the zone blocking schemes have been mediocre to this point.
I'm not trying to blast this team, but if you take a long, honest look at evaluating this roster from the top down, it's not very good.
The big question is where does that leave Fox and Hurney at the end of the season? The team needs to show at least some signs, or both will be gone. Both may be gone regardless. But if the Panthers show some life in these last few weeks and finish on a high note - say 7-9 - that could be enough.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Panthers' season slipping away
It looks like the Carolina Panthers are destined for third place in the NFC South.
Tampa Bay has played consistent football all season (and already owns a win over Carolina), and the surging Saints appear to have their offense in top form. The Panthers, meanwhile, have shown no ability to get the ball to Steve Smith in the crunch (or at all) and may start Matt Moore at quarterback next week.
Let's get this straight. Jake Delhomme goes out with a season-ending elbow injury, David Carr gets his back messed up, Vinny Testaverde's improbable return gives the Panthers a win, but then he gets injured, and Carr suffers a concussion against the Titans.
Yes, there are lots of things Carolina could and should be doing better, but this might be the most injured team in the league overall. Remember, in addition to the quarterbacks, Dan Morgan has missed lots of time (shock), Mike Rucker is coming off a major knee injury and several other players have been nursing minor-but-nagging injuries throughout the season.
It's been a weird year for Carolina. I thought the win against St. Louis in the opening week would set the tone for an 11-5 season. When the Panthers lost the next week to Houston, I was sure they were a 6-10 team. Therein lies another problem. The team is so inconsistent week to week.
This week? It looks like a 7-9 team.
Tampa Bay has played consistent football all season (and already owns a win over Carolina), and the surging Saints appear to have their offense in top form. The Panthers, meanwhile, have shown no ability to get the ball to Steve Smith in the crunch (or at all) and may start Matt Moore at quarterback next week.
Let's get this straight. Jake Delhomme goes out with a season-ending elbow injury, David Carr gets his back messed up, Vinny Testaverde's improbable return gives the Panthers a win, but then he gets injured, and Carr suffers a concussion against the Titans.
Yes, there are lots of things Carolina could and should be doing better, but this might be the most injured team in the league overall. Remember, in addition to the quarterbacks, Dan Morgan has missed lots of time (shock), Mike Rucker is coming off a major knee injury and several other players have been nursing minor-but-nagging injuries throughout the season.
It's been a weird year for Carolina. I thought the win against St. Louis in the opening week would set the tone for an 11-5 season. When the Panthers lost the next week to Houston, I was sure they were a 6-10 team. Therein lies another problem. The team is so inconsistent week to week.
This week? It looks like a 7-9 team.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Can the Patriots go undefeated?
I've always maintained that, in this era in the NFL, no team is able to go undefeated. Looks like the New England Patriots are testing that theory.
The Pats, 8-0 heading into this week's game against the also undefeated Indianapolis Colts, are simply toying with teams right now. The defense is as dominant as ever, Tom Brady is in the zone of a lifetime and head coach Bill Belichick is not holding anything back in coaching ... and running up the score.
So will the Patriots go undefeated? I'm going to stick with my guns and say no, although this is the best NFL team I've ever seen. It also helps that they play in an incredibly weak conference, and are all but assured of a 6-0 conference record.
With that said, here's a breakdown of their remaining schedule with some thoughts at the end.
Nov. 3: New England at Indianapolis
Nov. 10: Bye
Nov. 18: New England at Buffalo
Nov. 25: Philadelphia at New England
Dec. 3: New England at Baltimore
Dec. 9: Pittsburgh at New England
Dec. 16: New York Jets at New England
Dec. 23: Miami at New England
Dec. 29: New England at New York Giants
The games in bold are, in my opinion, mortal locks that the Pats will win. And yes, I included the bye week.
I think New England will win at Indianapolis this week. So the biggest test remaining?
Actually, there are two. Dec. 3 at Baltimore and Dec. 9 at home against Pittsburgh.
The game against Baltimore stands out because the Ravens are one of the few teams in the league as physical as New England. That's a big Monday night game, too. If New England wins that game, then it has a short week to prepare for the Steelers, another physical team.
If New England somehow makes it to 15-0, which is certainly possible, what will Belichick do in Week 17? Will he play his starters the entire game, or will he rest them for the playoffs? With Dallas having a pretty good year, too, this game might decide the NFC East for the Giants, so they'll play their top guys all game.
There's just too many different scenarios for the Patriots to go undefeated. I don't think they'll do it. They will win the Super Bowl, though, and easily.
The Pats, 8-0 heading into this week's game against the also undefeated Indianapolis Colts, are simply toying with teams right now. The defense is as dominant as ever, Tom Brady is in the zone of a lifetime and head coach Bill Belichick is not holding anything back in coaching ... and running up the score.
So will the Patriots go undefeated? I'm going to stick with my guns and say no, although this is the best NFL team I've ever seen. It also helps that they play in an incredibly weak conference, and are all but assured of a 6-0 conference record.
With that said, here's a breakdown of their remaining schedule with some thoughts at the end.
Nov. 3: New England at Indianapolis
Nov. 10: Bye
Nov. 18: New England at Buffalo
Nov. 25: Philadelphia at New England
Dec. 3: New England at Baltimore
Dec. 9: Pittsburgh at New England
Dec. 16: New York Jets at New England
Dec. 23: Miami at New England
Dec. 29: New England at New York Giants
The games in bold are, in my opinion, mortal locks that the Pats will win. And yes, I included the bye week.
I think New England will win at Indianapolis this week. So the biggest test remaining?
Actually, there are two. Dec. 3 at Baltimore and Dec. 9 at home against Pittsburgh.
The game against Baltimore stands out because the Ravens are one of the few teams in the league as physical as New England. That's a big Monday night game, too. If New England wins that game, then it has a short week to prepare for the Steelers, another physical team.
If New England somehow makes it to 15-0, which is certainly possible, what will Belichick do in Week 17? Will he play his starters the entire game, or will he rest them for the playoffs? With Dallas having a pretty good year, too, this game might decide the NFC East for the Giants, so they'll play their top guys all game.
There's just too many different scenarios for the Patriots to go undefeated. I don't think they'll do it. They will win the Super Bowl, though, and easily.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Random thoughts
Here are a couple of my quick-hit thoughts on a rainy Friday night.
The Colorado Rockies are down 2-0 to Boston. Was it the long layoff that hurt? Or are the Red Sox just a better team? I say a little bit of both. Colorado had a magical end to its season, but there's no way it can come back in this series.
Watched the Boston College/Virginia Tech game on Thursday. I Tivo'd it and, for a while, was certain I wouldn't finish it. Boy am I glad I stayed awake to watch the whole thing. Keep giving Matt Ryan all the credit, he deserves it, but man Virginia Tech sure blew it. The Hokies shut down the Eagles all game, but allowed two late touchdowns and failed to recover an onside kick.
So what happens if Ohio State loses to Penn State or Michigan and Boston College loses one of its final four games remaining? (And let's be honest, Kansas and Arizona State will not go undefeated). That could potentially leave college football with the following one-loss teams: Ohio State, Boston College, LSU, USC/Oregon/Arizona State, Oklahoma, West Virginia, South Florida and Missouri. Theoretically, that could happen. All of those teams probably won't finish with just one loss, and conference championship games will clear off some off the riff-raff, but who gets the nod into the BCS Title game? A lot of times, whoever lost earliest in the season gets a get out of jail free card. People tend to forget about losses in Week 2 or 3 while losses in Week 10 knock you out of the national title picture.
No way should Hawaii play in a BCS bowl. This team struggled to beat Louisiana Tech on the road and has one of the softest schedules in college football history.
I think four area teams will make the football playoffs: Statesville, West Iredell, South Iiredell and Mooresville. I don't know who will advance the furthest, but I think out of that group, Statesville will be the toughest out. They have a ton of speed.
The NBA season will start soon. Anyone else care?
The Colorado Rockies are down 2-0 to Boston. Was it the long layoff that hurt? Or are the Red Sox just a better team? I say a little bit of both. Colorado had a magical end to its season, but there's no way it can come back in this series.
Watched the Boston College/Virginia Tech game on Thursday. I Tivo'd it and, for a while, was certain I wouldn't finish it. Boy am I glad I stayed awake to watch the whole thing. Keep giving Matt Ryan all the credit, he deserves it, but man Virginia Tech sure blew it. The Hokies shut down the Eagles all game, but allowed two late touchdowns and failed to recover an onside kick.
So what happens if Ohio State loses to Penn State or Michigan and Boston College loses one of its final four games remaining? (And let's be honest, Kansas and Arizona State will not go undefeated). That could potentially leave college football with the following one-loss teams: Ohio State, Boston College, LSU, USC/Oregon/Arizona State, Oklahoma, West Virginia, South Florida and Missouri. Theoretically, that could happen. All of those teams probably won't finish with just one loss, and conference championship games will clear off some off the riff-raff, but who gets the nod into the BCS Title game? A lot of times, whoever lost earliest in the season gets a get out of jail free card. People tend to forget about losses in Week 2 or 3 while losses in Week 10 knock you out of the national title picture.
No way should Hawaii play in a BCS bowl. This team struggled to beat Louisiana Tech on the road and has one of the softest schedules in college football history.
I think four area teams will make the football playoffs: Statesville, West Iredell, South Iiredell and Mooresville. I don't know who will advance the furthest, but I think out of that group, Statesville will be the toughest out. They have a ton of speed.
The NBA season will start soon. Anyone else care?
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Rockies playing incredible baseball
I think it's great the Colorado Rockies are in the World Series. It's always an interesting angle when some unknown team sneaks into the playoffs and suddenly makes the championships game.
What makes this team even more remarkable is that they are 7-0 in the postseason and 21-1 in its last 22 games. 21-1! That's inconceivable, especially in baseball, the game of inches.
Here's a couple of things on my mind regarding Colorado.
Will this long layoff hurt? The World Series begins Oct. 24, which means Colorado players will have more than a week without playing a game. I'd think not, but momentum and layoffs can be a funny thing.
Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, how will the Rockies respond to a loss? It looks like Cleveland is the best team in the league, and Boston's second. Both are more talented than Colorado. Let's face it, the Rockies will not sweep the World Series (at least I don't think they will). What would a loss in Game 1 do to them?
What makes this team even more remarkable is that they are 7-0 in the postseason and 21-1 in its last 22 games. 21-1! That's inconceivable, especially in baseball, the game of inches.
Here's a couple of things on my mind regarding Colorado.
Will this long layoff hurt? The World Series begins Oct. 24, which means Colorado players will have more than a week without playing a game. I'd think not, but momentum and layoffs can be a funny thing.
Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, how will the Rockies respond to a loss? It looks like Cleveland is the best team in the league, and Boston's second. Both are more talented than Colorado. Let's face it, the Rockies will not sweep the World Series (at least I don't think they will). What would a loss in Game 1 do to them?
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Carolina's new quarterback
I only have one thing to say about the Carolina Panthers signing Vinny Testaverde (43 years old) to be their backup quarterback.
At least it's not Aaron Brooks.
At least it's not Aaron Brooks.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Why Lou Piniella was wrong
I hate to question Lou Piniella.
I thought the Cubs hired the wrong guy before the season (Joe Girardi would have been my choice), but he proved to be the right person for the job by leading the Cubs to the Central Division title.
Piniella made timely, key decisions during the season, kept his players motivated and orchestrated a tirade at an umpire that energized the team and swept it into the playoffs.
All that said, he was wrong to pull Carlos Zambrano after six innings last night against Arizona.
Look, I understand the logic behind it. Zambrano will pitch again on Sunday in Game 4 (if the series gets that far). Piniella wants to be sure he’s rested, and relied on a bullpen that had been steady the last two weeks.
But if you are Chicago and tied with Arizona 1-1 in Arizona with Brandon Webb pitching, that’s almost a must-win game.
Despite giving up a solo home run, Zambrano was absolutely filthy. Why take him out for essentially a rookie? Carlos Marmol had a great regular season, but he’s still young and without playoff experience.
I think you have to leave in your horse and ride him through about eight innings. Hey, Zambrano is a big-game pitcher too. Even on three-days rest, he’s be ready to go on Sunday.
A 1-0 lead in a best-of-five series is crucial — almost essential. When you have a real chance to get that done, you stick with your best players.
I thought the Cubs hired the wrong guy before the season (Joe Girardi would have been my choice), but he proved to be the right person for the job by leading the Cubs to the Central Division title.
Piniella made timely, key decisions during the season, kept his players motivated and orchestrated a tirade at an umpire that energized the team and swept it into the playoffs.
All that said, he was wrong to pull Carlos Zambrano after six innings last night against Arizona.
Look, I understand the logic behind it. Zambrano will pitch again on Sunday in Game 4 (if the series gets that far). Piniella wants to be sure he’s rested, and relied on a bullpen that had been steady the last two weeks.
But if you are Chicago and tied with Arizona 1-1 in Arizona with Brandon Webb pitching, that’s almost a must-win game.
Despite giving up a solo home run, Zambrano was absolutely filthy. Why take him out for essentially a rookie? Carlos Marmol had a great regular season, but he’s still young and without playoff experience.
I think you have to leave in your horse and ride him through about eight innings. Hey, Zambrano is a big-game pitcher too. Even on three-days rest, he’s be ready to go on Sunday.
A 1-0 lead in a best-of-five series is crucial — almost essential. When you have a real chance to get that done, you stick with your best players.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Breaking down the North Piedmont 3A
Coaches around Iredell County said all throughout the offseason that winning the 10-team North Piedmont 3A would be no easy task.
Turns out that was exactly right.
Here we are four games into the nine-game schedule, the time where usually one or two teams have separated themselves from the rest of the pack. Not so in this league.
East Rowan, Mooresville, Northwest Cabarrus, Statesville, West Iredell and West Rowan are all 3-1 in conference play.
Obviously, any of the six teams has the talent and ability to win the conference, but let's take a look at which team is in the best shape and the big matches each week.
Easiest schedule remaining: West Rowan
The Falcons' remaining five opponents currently have an 8-12 record, and they have three nearly gimmies against Carson (0-4), Lake Norman (1-3) and South Rowan (1-3).
Easiest schedule remaining out of county schools: West Iredell
The Warriors still have North Iredell and Carson (0-8 in NPC) on the schedule. They’ll play three teams currently at 3-1, but get two of them at home.
Hardest schedule remaining: Statesville
The Greyhounds’ remaining five opponents are 12-8, although Statesville does have a few key games at home. All of Statesville's conference wins have come against sub-.500 teams.
County school in the best position: West Iredell
By defeating defending conference champion West Rowan last week, the Warriors should have a leg up on the other two county schools. West Rowan might still be the best team in the conference, and I think the Falcons have a good chance to win the rest of their games. If the Warriors win out, they’ll be tied with West Rowan and will hold the tiebreaker.
Biggest games (by week) the rest of the year
October 5: Northwest Cabarrus at Statesville
This is the only conference game between two teams with winning records during this week. After losing a heartbreaker at home to West Rowan two weeks ago, Statesville gets another shot with a big home game.
October 12: Mooresville at Statesville/West Iredell at Northwest Cabarrus (tie)
Huge week in the NPC –East Rowan will also play at West Rowan. These games could be elimination games in the NPC race for the Greyhounds and Mooresville (who will still have West Rowan left).
October 19: Statesville at West Iredell
This will conclude a brutal three-game stretch for the Hounds.
October 26: Mooresville at West Iredell
Should be a good one when Mooresville's run-it-right-at-you offense takes on West's spread-out-the-field squad.
November 3: West Rowan at Mooresville
If West Rowan and Mooresville both go undefeated until this point, this game will decide the conference champion. Even if one team has lost again, they’ll have a great shot to play the spoiler role and perhaps still clinch a share of the conference crown.
Turns out that was exactly right.
Here we are four games into the nine-game schedule, the time where usually one or two teams have separated themselves from the rest of the pack. Not so in this league.
East Rowan, Mooresville, Northwest Cabarrus, Statesville, West Iredell and West Rowan are all 3-1 in conference play.
Obviously, any of the six teams has the talent and ability to win the conference, but let's take a look at which team is in the best shape and the big matches each week.
Easiest schedule remaining: West Rowan
The Falcons' remaining five opponents currently have an 8-12 record, and they have three nearly gimmies against Carson (0-4), Lake Norman (1-3) and South Rowan (1-3).
Easiest schedule remaining out of county schools: West Iredell
The Warriors still have North Iredell and Carson (0-8 in NPC) on the schedule. They’ll play three teams currently at 3-1, but get two of them at home.
Hardest schedule remaining: Statesville
The Greyhounds’ remaining five opponents are 12-8, although Statesville does have a few key games at home. All of Statesville's conference wins have come against sub-.500 teams.
County school in the best position: West Iredell
By defeating defending conference champion West Rowan last week, the Warriors should have a leg up on the other two county schools. West Rowan might still be the best team in the conference, and I think the Falcons have a good chance to win the rest of their games. If the Warriors win out, they’ll be tied with West Rowan and will hold the tiebreaker.
Biggest games (by week) the rest of the year
October 5: Northwest Cabarrus at Statesville
This is the only conference game between two teams with winning records during this week. After losing a heartbreaker at home to West Rowan two weeks ago, Statesville gets another shot with a big home game.
October 12: Mooresville at Statesville/West Iredell at Northwest Cabarrus (tie)
Huge week in the NPC –East Rowan will also play at West Rowan. These games could be elimination games in the NPC race for the Greyhounds and Mooresville (who will still have West Rowan left).
October 19: Statesville at West Iredell
This will conclude a brutal three-game stretch for the Hounds.
October 26: Mooresville at West Iredell
Should be a good one when Mooresville's run-it-right-at-you offense takes on West's spread-out-the-field squad.
November 3: West Rowan at Mooresville
If West Rowan and Mooresville both go undefeated until this point, this game will decide the conference champion. Even if one team has lost again, they’ll have a great shot to play the spoiler role and perhaps still clinch a share of the conference crown.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Appalachian's response?
Now, we'll find out of this Appalachian State team is a true champion.
After 17 consecutive wins, the Mountaineers dropped a 42-31 decision to Wofford over the weekend.
I had a gut feeling Wofford would present a huge challenge to the Mountaineers, which turned out to be the case. The Terriers won the battle up front, controlled the clock, played smarter, played hungrier and just flat out played better.
It's tough to prepare for an offense that you'll see only once a year - like Wofford's Wingbone. It's also tough to beat a team who plays like its the Super Bowl. That's the way Wofford approached the game, and it worked.
Give all the credit to the Terriers, they played an outstanding game.
Now, let's see how the Mountaineers respond.
Appalachian has not played a good, solid, game since the season-opening win over Michigan. The team sleep-walked (slept-walked? What's the official term here?) to an easy win over Lenoir-Rhyne and showed up in spurts in a win over Northern Arizona.
The defensive line has been suspect, the defense has a whole has not created turnovers and the running game has been grounded. The players still hear about the Michigan game daily.
Perhaps this loss, ultimately, was the best thing that could have happened.
After 17 consecutive wins, the Mountaineers dropped a 42-31 decision to Wofford over the weekend.
I had a gut feeling Wofford would present a huge challenge to the Mountaineers, which turned out to be the case. The Terriers won the battle up front, controlled the clock, played smarter, played hungrier and just flat out played better.
It's tough to prepare for an offense that you'll see only once a year - like Wofford's Wingbone. It's also tough to beat a team who plays like its the Super Bowl. That's the way Wofford approached the game, and it worked.
Give all the credit to the Terriers, they played an outstanding game.
Now, let's see how the Mountaineers respond.
Appalachian has not played a good, solid, game since the season-opening win over Michigan. The team sleep-walked (slept-walked? What's the official term here?) to an easy win over Lenoir-Rhyne and showed up in spurts in a win over Northern Arizona.
The defensive line has been suspect, the defense has a whole has not created turnovers and the running game has been grounded. The players still hear about the Michigan game daily.
Perhaps this loss, ultimately, was the best thing that could have happened.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Panthers get out-Fox-ed
Was at the Carolina Panthers game on Sunday and was one of the many who bolted for the exits in the fourth quarter.
I did manage to beat some of the traffic, but also missed Steve Smith's 74-yard touchdown in person.
Call it an even trade.
I think the biggest thing to take from this is that Houston completely outcoached Carolina's staff. From playcalling to schemes to in-game adjustments, John Fox and Co. were handled by Gary Kubiak. The Texans exploited the middle the field the entire game, taking advantage of sub par Carolina safeties (deemed a non "impact" position earlier in the year). And for some reason, the Panthers went away from Steve Smith in the second and third quarters.
Houston got pressure up front with its defensive line, and Julius Peppers was a non-factor. For some reason, Carolina stuck Dan Morgan on wide receiver Andre Johnson when he lined up in the slot, resulting in two big plays and a touchdown. I don't care how fast a linebacker is, he can't cover Andre Johnson.
The other thing to take is that Carolina again lost all the momentum of a big win. It seems like whenever the Panthers get momentum on their side, they lose it very quickly by losing games big or losing games they ought to win.
Fox will face considerable pressure if a team this talented continues this hot-and-cold routine the rest of the season.
I did manage to beat some of the traffic, but also missed Steve Smith's 74-yard touchdown in person.
Call it an even trade.
I think the biggest thing to take from this is that Houston completely outcoached Carolina's staff. From playcalling to schemes to in-game adjustments, John Fox and Co. were handled by Gary Kubiak. The Texans exploited the middle the field the entire game, taking advantage of sub par Carolina safeties (deemed a non "impact" position earlier in the year). And for some reason, the Panthers went away from Steve Smith in the second and third quarters.
Houston got pressure up front with its defensive line, and Julius Peppers was a non-factor. For some reason, Carolina stuck Dan Morgan on wide receiver Andre Johnson when he lined up in the slot, resulting in two big plays and a touchdown. I don't care how fast a linebacker is, he can't cover Andre Johnson.
The other thing to take is that Carolina again lost all the momentum of a big win. It seems like whenever the Panthers get momentum on their side, they lose it very quickly by losing games big or losing games they ought to win.
Fox will face considerable pressure if a team this talented continues this hot-and-cold routine the rest of the season.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Official NFL predictions
It's that time, the annual make-your-NFL-predictions week.
I'm getting mine in just before the unofficial deadline, which is before the NFL's first games.
Here are my predictions - also, please don't e-mail me and tell me my wins and losses don't add up. I'm just guessing, not going through the schedule and predicting every game.
AFC
East
New England 12-4
Buffalo 7-9
Miami 7-9
New York 6-10
North
Baltimore 11-5
Pittsburgh 9-7
Cincinnati 9-7
Cleveland 5-11
South
Indianapolis 11-5
Tennessee 8-8
Jacksonville 8-8
Houston 6-10
West
San Diego 11-5
Denver 10-6
Kansas City 6-10
Oakland 4-12
NFC
East
Philadelphia 10-6
Dallas 9-7
Washington 8-8
New York 6-10
North
Chicago 12-4
Green Bay 7-9
Detroit 7-9
Minnesota 5-11
South
New Orleans 12-4
Carolina 9-7
Tampa Bay 7-9
Atlanta 5-11
West
St. Louis 10-6
Seattle 9-7
San Francisco 8-8
Arizona 7-9
Playoffs
AFC: New England, Baltimore, Indianapolis, San Diego, Denver, Pittsburgh
NFC: Philadelphia, Chicago, New Orleans, St. Louis, Seattle, Carolina
Title games
AFC: New England over San Diego
NFC: New Orleans over St. Louis
New England wins the Super Bowl (shocker). By the way, I had St. Louis in the Super Bowl for about six hours before I came to my senses and edited this post.
I'm getting mine in just before the unofficial deadline, which is before the NFL's first games.
Here are my predictions - also, please don't e-mail me and tell me my wins and losses don't add up. I'm just guessing, not going through the schedule and predicting every game.
AFC
East
New England 12-4
Buffalo 7-9
Miami 7-9
New York 6-10
North
Baltimore 11-5
Pittsburgh 9-7
Cincinnati 9-7
Cleveland 5-11
South
Indianapolis 11-5
Tennessee 8-8
Jacksonville 8-8
Houston 6-10
West
San Diego 11-5
Denver 10-6
Kansas City 6-10
Oakland 4-12
NFC
East
Philadelphia 10-6
Dallas 9-7
Washington 8-8
New York 6-10
North
Chicago 12-4
Green Bay 7-9
Detroit 7-9
Minnesota 5-11
South
New Orleans 12-4
Carolina 9-7
Tampa Bay 7-9
Atlanta 5-11
West
St. Louis 10-6
Seattle 9-7
San Francisco 8-8
Arizona 7-9
Playoffs
AFC: New England, Baltimore, Indianapolis, San Diego, Denver, Pittsburgh
NFC: Philadelphia, Chicago, New Orleans, St. Louis, Seattle, Carolina
Title games
AFC: New England over San Diego
NFC: New Orleans over St. Louis
New England wins the Super Bowl (shocker). By the way, I had St. Louis in the Super Bowl for about six hours before I came to my senses and edited this post.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
What it all means
Appalachian State 34, No. 5 Michigan 32.
Holy smokes.
Appalachian State, my alma mater, was the focus of all the Web pages and college football shows yesterday. It was THE story of the day, and will be THE story of the season. What does it mean to be an ASU grad right now? I'll try to sum up some thoughts (this might get long, so just bear with me).
Appalachian's two consecutive FCS (formerly Division I-AA) national championships are instantly justified in a world of big-time college football. In an ACC-minded state, there was teasing and trash talk about the implied level of competition ASU faced the last two seasons. Some was just good-natured ribbing, some was just ignorance. Any future prodding of Appalachian's "junior varsity championship" can be quickly rebuked with one simple phrase: 34-32.
Some national columnists were quick to rip apart Michigan. "Congrats to Appalachian, but Michigan ....." I watched the entire game, and the reason Appalachian won was because it completely outplayed (and outcoached) Michigan. That's not only my opinion - Michigan players Mike Hart and Jake Long said the exact same thing. Michigan, one of the most heralded football programs in the country, could not contain Appalachian's speed. This game was not given to the Mountaineers. They went into the Big House and took it.
When Michigan took the lead late in the game, most people - myself included - figured that was the end of the Mountaineers. But, as corny as this may sound, if Appalachian has proven anything over the past two years it's that the team knows how to win football games.
From now on, whenever a big upset in any sport appears like it has a chance of happening, Appalachian State will somehow be mentioned. When football teams all over the country - from middle school to high school to college - take the field against a much bigger, favored opponent, head coaches will use ASU as a motivational too. "If Appalachian can beat Michigan, then we can win, too."
Big-time programs will also use this game as a motivational tool to get players ready against a perceived weaker team. "If Appalachian State can beat Michigan, then this team can beat us, too."
A few more final thoughts:
One of the coolest things about the win was how many people were cheering for ASU. I've read comments by Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan State and Iowa fans all congratulating Appalachian.
I sent and received more than 150 text messages in a four-hour span.
One thing a lot of people don't remember - or know - was that ASU was undermanned in that game. Starting safety Titus Howard was suspended for a violation of team rules, and All-American center Scott Suttle sat out with an injury.
So many plays that had to be made, and so many players that made them. T.J. Courman making a nifty move on the sideline and gaining an extra 10 yards before going out of bounds on that last drive ... converted quarterback CoCo Hillary having the presence to NOT throw downfield on a called WR-pass on the last drive ... offensive guard Kerry Brown's three monster blocks that sent bigger linemen tumbling ... Brian Quick, dropping a sure touchdown pass, and then blocking a field goal moments later ... Leonard Love's interception ... Kevin Richardson gutting out 90 yards against a monster defensive line ...
I think most ASU alumni would not trade those two FCS national championships for anything. But there's no question the exposure the university will receive for this win dwarfs everything else.
Finally, out of every video I've seen, this one is by far my favorite.
Holy smokes.
Appalachian State, my alma mater, was the focus of all the Web pages and college football shows yesterday. It was THE story of the day, and will be THE story of the season. What does it mean to be an ASU grad right now? I'll try to sum up some thoughts (this might get long, so just bear with me).
Appalachian's two consecutive FCS (formerly Division I-AA) national championships are instantly justified in a world of big-time college football. In an ACC-minded state, there was teasing and trash talk about the implied level of competition ASU faced the last two seasons. Some was just good-natured ribbing, some was just ignorance. Any future prodding of Appalachian's "junior varsity championship" can be quickly rebuked with one simple phrase: 34-32.
Some national columnists were quick to rip apart Michigan. "Congrats to Appalachian, but Michigan ....." I watched the entire game, and the reason Appalachian won was because it completely outplayed (and outcoached) Michigan. That's not only my opinion - Michigan players Mike Hart and Jake Long said the exact same thing. Michigan, one of the most heralded football programs in the country, could not contain Appalachian's speed. This game was not given to the Mountaineers. They went into the Big House and took it.
When Michigan took the lead late in the game, most people - myself included - figured that was the end of the Mountaineers. But, as corny as this may sound, if Appalachian has proven anything over the past two years it's that the team knows how to win football games.
From now on, whenever a big upset in any sport appears like it has a chance of happening, Appalachian State will somehow be mentioned. When football teams all over the country - from middle school to high school to college - take the field against a much bigger, favored opponent, head coaches will use ASU as a motivational too. "If Appalachian can beat Michigan, then we can win, too."
Big-time programs will also use this game as a motivational tool to get players ready against a perceived weaker team. "If Appalachian State can beat Michigan, then this team can beat us, too."
A few more final thoughts:
One of the coolest things about the win was how many people were cheering for ASU. I've read comments by Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan State and Iowa fans all congratulating Appalachian.
I sent and received more than 150 text messages in a four-hour span.
One thing a lot of people don't remember - or know - was that ASU was undermanned in that game. Starting safety Titus Howard was suspended for a violation of team rules, and All-American center Scott Suttle sat out with an injury.
So many plays that had to be made, and so many players that made them. T.J. Courman making a nifty move on the sideline and gaining an extra 10 yards before going out of bounds on that last drive ... converted quarterback CoCo Hillary having the presence to NOT throw downfield on a called WR-pass on the last drive ... offensive guard Kerry Brown's three monster blocks that sent bigger linemen tumbling ... Brian Quick, dropping a sure touchdown pass, and then blocking a field goal moments later ... Leonard Love's interception ... Kevin Richardson gutting out 90 yards against a monster defensive line ...
I think most ASU alumni would not trade those two FCS national championships for anything. But there's no question the exposure the university will receive for this win dwarfs everything else.
Finally, out of every video I've seen, this one is by far my favorite.
Monday, August 27, 2007
The Vick's
Here's something my sports editor and I were talking about yesterday.
Remember how everybody thought Marcus Vick, Michael Vick's younger brother, was the degenerate in the family?
The Cliffs Notes version of Marcus Vick's collegiate career: he was arrested for allegedly supplying alcohol to underage girls, was charged with reckless driving and possession of marijuana, caught driving with a suspended license and maliciously stomped on the calf of Louisville defensive end Elvis Dumervil during the 2006 Gator Bowl, which eventually got him kicked off Virginia Tech's football team.
Who would have ever thought that Marcus Vick was the "good" brother?
Remember how everybody thought Marcus Vick, Michael Vick's younger brother, was the degenerate in the family?
The Cliffs Notes version of Marcus Vick's collegiate career: he was arrested for allegedly supplying alcohol to underage girls, was charged with reckless driving and possession of marijuana, caught driving with a suspended license and maliciously stomped on the calf of Louisville defensive end Elvis Dumervil during the 2006 Gator Bowl, which eventually got him kicked off Virginia Tech's football team.
Who would have ever thought that Marcus Vick was the "good" brother?
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Quick hits
Here's a few quick thoughts on the sports world, both local in Iredell County and nationally. Make sure you check out the post below and watch our first "Sports Show."
Before the baseball season started, I threw out a few predictions for the playoffs. To recap: my division winners were Boston, Detroit, Oakland, New York Mets, St. Louis and Arizona with the Angels and Braves earning the wild cards. Some hits and misses. I said I wasn't ready to pick Milwaukee - or the Cubs - to win the division, when it was the Cardinals who had a big drop-off. I can at least defend the Oakland pick in that I just read the book "Money Ball" and loved it so much I became an A's homer. If I had a re-do? Right now, I'd go with Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles and the Mariners (barely over the Indians for the wild card) in the AL and New York, Chicago (homer!) and the surprising Diamondbacks (my best pick) with the Braves still in the wild card. World Series? I'd begrudgingly take Boston and Atlanta.
It's almost fantasy football time, and my self-promise of being in only one league this year didn't last through July. As of now, I am in three - including a college fantasy football league, something I've never done before. Despite my terrible No. 1 overall selection of Shaun Alexander and my platoon of Joseph Addai, Reggie Bush and Maurice Jones-Drew, I somehow made the championship game of our league last season. My best drafting advice for this year? Draft running backs in the first two rounds no matter what. Don't feel pressured to take a quarterback early. NEVER draft a kicker until the last round. And try to draft a top tight end, if possible.
I'll be at the South Iredell-Lake Norman football game Friday night and the Mooresville-North Iredell soccer match on Monday. Some of my thoughts on the South Iredell-Lake Norman game can be found on The Sports Show Web cast, but to expound on them a little bit, this is a fascinating matchup in my eyes. I know some of you readers don't live near Iredell County, so to sort of put it in perspective, this would be like Texas Tech (Lake Norman) against Navy (South Iredell), the air attack versus the ground game. I picked South Iredell, and my predicted score would be 17-14 or something along those lines.
So, is the Little League World Series the next "big" thing? I don't mind that the games are on T.V., and I might decide to put them on in the background if I'm bored, but all-day showings complete with highlights on SportsCenter? Is this a bit much?
Before the baseball season started, I threw out a few predictions for the playoffs. To recap: my division winners were Boston, Detroit, Oakland, New York Mets, St. Louis and Arizona with the Angels and Braves earning the wild cards. Some hits and misses. I said I wasn't ready to pick Milwaukee - or the Cubs - to win the division, when it was the Cardinals who had a big drop-off. I can at least defend the Oakland pick in that I just read the book "Money Ball" and loved it so much I became an A's homer. If I had a re-do? Right now, I'd go with Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles and the Mariners (barely over the Indians for the wild card) in the AL and New York, Chicago (homer!) and the surprising Diamondbacks (my best pick) with the Braves still in the wild card. World Series? I'd begrudgingly take Boston and Atlanta.
It's almost fantasy football time, and my self-promise of being in only one league this year didn't last through July. As of now, I am in three - including a college fantasy football league, something I've never done before. Despite my terrible No. 1 overall selection of Shaun Alexander and my platoon of Joseph Addai, Reggie Bush and Maurice Jones-Drew, I somehow made the championship game of our league last season. My best drafting advice for this year? Draft running backs in the first two rounds no matter what. Don't feel pressured to take a quarterback early. NEVER draft a kicker until the last round. And try to draft a top tight end, if possible.
I'll be at the South Iredell-Lake Norman football game Friday night and the Mooresville-North Iredell soccer match on Monday. Some of my thoughts on the South Iredell-Lake Norman game can be found on The Sports Show Web cast, but to expound on them a little bit, this is a fascinating matchup in my eyes. I know some of you readers don't live near Iredell County, so to sort of put it in perspective, this would be like Texas Tech (Lake Norman) against Navy (South Iredell), the air attack versus the ground game. I picked South Iredell, and my predicted score would be 17-14 or something along those lines.
So, is the Little League World Series the next "big" thing? I don't mind that the games are on T.V., and I might decide to put them on in the background if I'm bored, but all-day showings complete with highlights on SportsCenter? Is this a bit much?
Internet star?
Well, it happened. The first Sports Show is officially on the Web, and I'm well on my way to being the next Stephen A. Smith.
Check it out: http://media.gatewaync.com/srl/sports/show/
Keep in mind this was our first show. We'll tweak the set up a bit, and will begin to include some thoughts on other sports and will answer a reader question of the week.
Let me know any thoughts or ideas of improvement.
Check it out: http://media.gatewaync.com/srl/sports/show/
Keep in mind this was our first show. We'll tweak the set up a bit, and will begin to include some thoughts on other sports and will answer a reader question of the week.
Let me know any thoughts or ideas of improvement.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Good start for Iredell football
It couldn't have gone any better for Iredell County on opening night.
South and North Iredell played a close-until-the-end game, and three other county schools picked up victories.
South handed North a 21-10 loss after scoring a touchdown in the final few minutes to pull away, which was a good start to the Ed Masterton era.
Mooresville went on the road and beat a very good - albeit understaffed - Bandys squad. The Blue Devils' 22-0 win was a bit of payback from last year's 35-7 loss, and it was an important win. I think they still would have won even if Bandys' stud running back Lequan McCorkle was playing (he sat with an injury).
West Iredell running back Bobby Morrison ran for a school-record 274 yards on only 16 carries and the Warriors pasted Forbush 51-0.
And Lake Norman, a 1-10 team last season, picked up a 28-13 win over a decent North Lincoln squad.
Only three county teams play this week when Lake Norman visits South Iredell and Statesville travels to 3A power Hickory.
South and North Iredell played a close-until-the-end game, and three other county schools picked up victories.
South handed North a 21-10 loss after scoring a touchdown in the final few minutes to pull away, which was a good start to the Ed Masterton era.
Mooresville went on the road and beat a very good - albeit understaffed - Bandys squad. The Blue Devils' 22-0 win was a bit of payback from last year's 35-7 loss, and it was an important win. I think they still would have won even if Bandys' stud running back Lequan McCorkle was playing (he sat with an injury).
West Iredell running back Bobby Morrison ran for a school-record 274 yards on only 16 carries and the Warriors pasted Forbush 51-0.
And Lake Norman, a 1-10 team last season, picked up a 28-13 win over a decent North Lincoln squad.
Only three county teams play this week when Lake Norman visits South Iredell and Statesville travels to 3A power Hickory.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Now that's funny
An R&L news writer ventured down to Mooresville on April 29 for the late Dale Earnhardt's birthday celebration.
He came back and wrote a great story, accompanied by some great photos.
The one thing that sort of stuck out to me, though, was how many people had Dale Earnhardt Jr. tattoos. Not necessarily of Junior's mug, but instead huge tats of "No. 8" that took up large portions of their arm.
I guess I really shouldn't take pleasure in other people's misfortune, but those people will look pretty hilarious now that Junior is switching car numbers and the No. 8 car may be driven by someone else.
You know what they say about tattoos - they're permanent.
He came back and wrote a great story, accompanied by some great photos.
The one thing that sort of stuck out to me, though, was how many people had Dale Earnhardt Jr. tattoos. Not necessarily of Junior's mug, but instead huge tats of "No. 8" that took up large portions of their arm.
I guess I really shouldn't take pleasure in other people's misfortune, but those people will look pretty hilarious now that Junior is switching car numbers and the No. 8 car may be driven by someone else.
You know what they say about tattoos - they're permanent.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Finally - an update
I apologize for the lack of updates recently. I took a week-long trip to the beach with my family as sort of a last-gasp vacation before the sports season started again, and now I'm back in the swing of things.
A couple of things to espect from us at the R&L this fall.
We've tweaked our coverage a little bit as it relates to high school. I'll handle stories from Mooresville, North Iredell and South Iredell while Brian Meadows writes about Lake Norman, Statesville and West Iredell.
The 2007 high school football tab comes out this Friday - hard to believe it's already game time. Each team is profiled, and we'll have a video preview of each team on the Web site as well. I'll make sure to post that link once it becomes available.
We'll have a sports portal that will keep track of all football stats for the six county teams. So now fans and players can compare statistics as the season progresses.
A weekly video show will air on the Web. We don't have it completely ironed out, but the show will include me, Brian and our sports editor Jason Bullard. We'll discuss the happenings in Iredell County sports, and will also make predictions for Friday's football games. This may be your one and only chance to ever see me on video.
I'll blog about more specific national and local topics later this week as well, but here's a very good read from ESPN's ombudsman.
A couple of things to espect from us at the R&L this fall.
We've tweaked our coverage a little bit as it relates to high school. I'll handle stories from Mooresville, North Iredell and South Iredell while Brian Meadows writes about Lake Norman, Statesville and West Iredell.
The 2007 high school football tab comes out this Friday - hard to believe it's already game time. Each team is profiled, and we'll have a video preview of each team on the Web site as well. I'll make sure to post that link once it becomes available.
We'll have a sports portal that will keep track of all football stats for the six county teams. So now fans and players can compare statistics as the season progresses.
A weekly video show will air on the Web. We don't have it completely ironed out, but the show will include me, Brian and our sports editor Jason Bullard. We'll discuss the happenings in Iredell County sports, and will also make predictions for Friday's football games. This may be your one and only chance to ever see me on video.
I'll blog about more specific national and local topics later this week as well, but here's a very good read from ESPN's ombudsman.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
On Skip Prosser
One of the worst months in sports history just got a lot bleaker.
Wake Forest head coach Skip Prosser died Thursday afternoon after suffering what appears to have been a sudden, massive heart attack. He was 56. And once again, the sporting realm of society has reminded us of another valuable life lesson.
Often times, these lessons we learn from sports are of triumph and perseverance, the ability to accomplish anything through hard work and dedication. Of overcoming the odds to do something unthinkably great.
But this lesson was much more blunt.
Sometimes, you just plain forget how fragile life really is.
Sometimes in the sports realm, people get so caught up in steroids and scandals, in “Who’s Now?” brackets and fantasy football trades, that we — myself included — forget about what really matters.
As in life, it’s good people who shape and mold the minds of a younger generation that matter.
The past month in sports has been littered with bad news after bad news from hugely successful, recognizable names and organizations.
Michael Vick and dog fighting. NBA referee Tim Donaghy and betting. Barry Bonds and steroids.
Prosser’s death is almost like a dose of reality, that all of these sports figures we read and write about are indeed human, not just a picture in a newspaper or a sound bite on a radio show.
Perhaps that’s why this seems so surreal.
Sometimes, bad things happen to good people.
There will be many, many things written about Prosser and his life. If you read any you like, feel free to share.
I thought this column by Dan Wetzel was very good.
Wake Forest head coach Skip Prosser died Thursday afternoon after suffering what appears to have been a sudden, massive heart attack. He was 56. And once again, the sporting realm of society has reminded us of another valuable life lesson.
Often times, these lessons we learn from sports are of triumph and perseverance, the ability to accomplish anything through hard work and dedication. Of overcoming the odds to do something unthinkably great.
But this lesson was much more blunt.
Sometimes, you just plain forget how fragile life really is.
Sometimes in the sports realm, people get so caught up in steroids and scandals, in “Who’s Now?” brackets and fantasy football trades, that we — myself included — forget about what really matters.
As in life, it’s good people who shape and mold the minds of a younger generation that matter.
The past month in sports has been littered with bad news after bad news from hugely successful, recognizable names and organizations.
Michael Vick and dog fighting. NBA referee Tim Donaghy and betting. Barry Bonds and steroids.
Prosser’s death is almost like a dose of reality, that all of these sports figures we read and write about are indeed human, not just a picture in a newspaper or a sound bite on a radio show.
Perhaps that’s why this seems so surreal.
Sometimes, bad things happen to good people.
There will be many, many things written about Prosser and his life. If you read any you like, feel free to share.
I thought this column by Dan Wetzel was very good.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Updated NFL rankings
Two months ago, I posted my way-too-early "power rankings" for all 32 NFL teams in regards to the upcoming season. Now that preseason camps are about to fully begin and a few trades have been made, it's time to update the rankings and get excited about football season again.
I'll put the original rankings in parentheses after the team name.
1. New England (1)
2. Indianapolis (2)
3. San Diego (5)
4. New Orleans (7)
5. Chicago (4)
6. Baltimore (6)
7. Denver (3)
8. Seattle (9)
9. Philadelphia (12)
10. Dallas (10)
11. Pittsburgh (13)
12. Carolina (11)
13. Cincinnati (8)
14. New York Jets (14)
15. Jacksonville (17)
16. St. Louis (19)
17. San Francisco (15)
18. Tennessee (21)
19. Miami (28)
20. Detroit (29)
21. New York Giants (16)
22. Arizona (18)
23. Buffalo (23)
24. Washington (26)
25. Kansas City (20)
26. Atlanta (22)
27. Houston (27)
28. Minnesota (24)
29. Green Bay (25)
30. Tampa Bay (31)
31. Cleveland (30)
32. Oakland (32)
Biggest risers: Miami (28 to 19) and Detroit (29 to 20)
Miami's trade for Trent Green at the very least brings the Dolphins close to respectability. Green is aging, but has been one of the most successful quarterbacks in the league the last few years. This could be a breakout year for Ronnie Brown, and Chris Chambers, Marty Booker and Ten Ginn Jr. (in the slot) could be a fast-paced offense. The aging defense must hold up, and the secondary must improve to compete for a wildcard spot.
I moved the Lions way up, mainly because of more analysis. It's just so easy to plug Detroit in at the bottom of any rankings and be pretty accurate. But this may be the year they compete for a playoff spot - or at least for .500. Quarterback Jon Kitna loves Calvin Johnson, and Johnson and Roy Williams create a receiver tandem few defenses can match. Mike Martz will get the most out of the offense, which needs to play much more consistently to keep pace with the underrated defense.
Biggest fallers: Cincinnati (8 to 13) and Kansas City (20 to 25)
The Bengals have a lot of talent, but failed to get better in the offseason. That's a big mistake, in my view. Team's that don't upgrade talent, mix it up with new signings or have a rock-solid draft class typically seem to slip a bit, and that could be the case for the Bengals.
As for the Chiefs, they have quarterback concerns, slow wide receivers, a rebuilt offensive line and an underachieving defense (again). It could be a long year in Kansas City.
I'll put the original rankings in parentheses after the team name.
1. New England (1)
2. Indianapolis (2)
3. San Diego (5)
4. New Orleans (7)
5. Chicago (4)
6. Baltimore (6)
7. Denver (3)
8. Seattle (9)
9. Philadelphia (12)
10. Dallas (10)
11. Pittsburgh (13)
12. Carolina (11)
13. Cincinnati (8)
14. New York Jets (14)
15. Jacksonville (17)
16. St. Louis (19)
17. San Francisco (15)
18. Tennessee (21)
19. Miami (28)
20. Detroit (29)
21. New York Giants (16)
22. Arizona (18)
23. Buffalo (23)
24. Washington (26)
25. Kansas City (20)
26. Atlanta (22)
27. Houston (27)
28. Minnesota (24)
29. Green Bay (25)
30. Tampa Bay (31)
31. Cleveland (30)
32. Oakland (32)
Biggest risers: Miami (28 to 19) and Detroit (29 to 20)
Miami's trade for Trent Green at the very least brings the Dolphins close to respectability. Green is aging, but has been one of the most successful quarterbacks in the league the last few years. This could be a breakout year for Ronnie Brown, and Chris Chambers, Marty Booker and Ten Ginn Jr. (in the slot) could be a fast-paced offense. The aging defense must hold up, and the secondary must improve to compete for a wildcard spot.
I moved the Lions way up, mainly because of more analysis. It's just so easy to plug Detroit in at the bottom of any rankings and be pretty accurate. But this may be the year they compete for a playoff spot - or at least for .500. Quarterback Jon Kitna loves Calvin Johnson, and Johnson and Roy Williams create a receiver tandem few defenses can match. Mike Martz will get the most out of the offense, which needs to play much more consistently to keep pace with the underrated defense.
Biggest fallers: Cincinnati (8 to 13) and Kansas City (20 to 25)
The Bengals have a lot of talent, but failed to get better in the offseason. That's a big mistake, in my view. Team's that don't upgrade talent, mix it up with new signings or have a rock-solid draft class typically seem to slip a bit, and that could be the case for the Bengals.
As for the Chiefs, they have quarterback concerns, slow wide receivers, a rebuilt offensive line and an underachieving defense (again). It could be a long year in Kansas City.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
East-West week
The East-West All-Star games in basketball, soccer and football take place in Greensboro this weekend, and the R&L will staff both soccer games tonight.
South Iredell's Tiffany Whiting was the first Viking to play in the girls basketball game since the mid 1980s. She didn't score, but was pretty positive afterwards. It was tough for Whiting to get her shots off, going against more athletic guards who played tight man-to-man defense the entire game. Plus, in those types of all-star games, the "headliners" typically try to hog the show.
The East, down by 18 points, roared back to win by eight last night.
Lake Norman graduate Rachel Steeb will play in the girls soccer game today at 7 p.m., and Allen Lomax - also from Lake Norman - will play in the boys game at 9 p.m.
We'll have the girls story in the paper tomorrow, and a boys game recap will be available on www.statesville.com tomorrow as well.
South Iredell's Tiffany Whiting was the first Viking to play in the girls basketball game since the mid 1980s. She didn't score, but was pretty positive afterwards. It was tough for Whiting to get her shots off, going against more athletic guards who played tight man-to-man defense the entire game. Plus, in those types of all-star games, the "headliners" typically try to hog the show.
The East, down by 18 points, roared back to win by eight last night.
Lake Norman graduate Rachel Steeb will play in the girls soccer game today at 7 p.m., and Allen Lomax - also from Lake Norman - will play in the boys game at 9 p.m.
We'll have the girls story in the paper tomorrow, and a boys game recap will be available on www.statesville.com tomorrow as well.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Bobcats forecast
Signing Gerald Wallace was big on many fronts.
It ensured the Bobcats continued to get an investment on the expansion draft. The trade for Jason Richardson now officially means something - if the Bobcats traded for J-Rich and lost Wallace, the team wouldn't be better.
Perhaps most importantly, however, it showed the disgruntled and borderline paranoid Charlotte fans that Bob Johnson will indeed spend the money it takes to win.
Now the bad news? By committing more than $50 to both Richardson and Wallace, and spending $27 on Matt Carroll, Charlotte is thin up front.
Emeka Okafor is a great player, when healthy, and Sean May is a solid option at power forward. Thing is, the Bobcats will be in trouble when Okafor missed five or six games with recurring back problems, and May isn't a picture of perfect health either. With Primoz Brezec, Ryan Hollins, Othella Harrington and Jake Voskuhl as the posts on the bench (no, Walter Hermann doesn't count - he's a wing).
That's a situation worth watching, but with Raymond Felton running downcourt with Wallace on one side and Richardson on the other, the Bobcats should contend for a playoff spot.
It ensured the Bobcats continued to get an investment on the expansion draft. The trade for Jason Richardson now officially means something - if the Bobcats traded for J-Rich and lost Wallace, the team wouldn't be better.
Perhaps most importantly, however, it showed the disgruntled and borderline paranoid Charlotte fans that Bob Johnson will indeed spend the money it takes to win.
Now the bad news? By committing more than $50 to both Richardson and Wallace, and spending $27 on Matt Carroll, Charlotte is thin up front.
Emeka Okafor is a great player, when healthy, and Sean May is a solid option at power forward. Thing is, the Bobcats will be in trouble when Okafor missed five or six games with recurring back problems, and May isn't a picture of perfect health either. With Primoz Brezec, Ryan Hollins, Othella Harrington and Jake Voskuhl as the posts on the bench (no, Walter Hermann doesn't count - he's a wing).
That's a situation worth watching, but with Raymond Felton running downcourt with Wallace on one side and Richardson on the other, the Bobcats should contend for a playoff spot.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Defense betrays Mooresville
Going head to head against Rowan County, easily the best American Legion team in the Area III Southern Division, one thing the eighth-seeded Moors of Mooresville could not do was make simple mistakes.
Check out how Game 2 of the best-of-five series ended last night. Even if you don't follow American Legion ball, I think you'd be hard pressed to recall a weirder ending than this one.
A truly masterful, gutsy performance by rising junior Nick Lomascolo was indeed completely undone in the 60 seconds after he was removed. He did a great job, battling with a more experienced pitcher in Cy Young (yes, that's his name).
Anybody out there have a fond - or maybe not so fond - memory of a crazy ending to a sporting event?
Check out how Game 2 of the best-of-five series ended last night. Even if you don't follow American Legion ball, I think you'd be hard pressed to recall a weirder ending than this one.
A truly masterful, gutsy performance by rising junior Nick Lomascolo was indeed completely undone in the 60 seconds after he was removed. He did a great job, battling with a more experienced pitcher in Cy Young (yes, that's his name).
Anybody out there have a fond - or maybe not so fond - memory of a crazy ending to a sporting event?
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Taking a stand
I can't tell you how pleased I was when I read the first part of this column.
With so many different forms of information in today's world - newspapers, blogs, radio, television, Web sites - breaking information or a juicy scoop can appear on one medium at a certain point and be accessed instantly. It's very important that everybody in this business - from ESPN on down to a 5,000-circulation weekly paper - adhere to adhere to proper journalistic standards when crediting other news outlets for information.
Kudos to San Antonio Express-News sports editor Douglas Pils for taking a stand on this issue.
I know I've harped on ESPN and larger papers a lot recently, but it is pretty distressing when radio host Colin Cowherd can do something like this and get away with it, when I would be fired for being that irresponsible.
With so many different forms of information in today's world - newspapers, blogs, radio, television, Web sites - breaking information or a juicy scoop can appear on one medium at a certain point and be accessed instantly. It's very important that everybody in this business - from ESPN on down to a 5,000-circulation weekly paper - adhere to adhere to proper journalistic standards when crediting other news outlets for information.
Kudos to San Antonio Express-News sports editor Douglas Pils for taking a stand on this issue.
I know I've harped on ESPN and larger papers a lot recently, but it is pretty distressing when radio host Colin Cowherd can do something like this and get away with it, when I would be fired for being that irresponsible.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Monday's musings
A couple of quick-hit links and thoughts from the sports world.
Brevin Knight says he wasn't released from the Bobcats for monetary reasons. The release of Knight came as a mild surprise to me. He was a great true point guard, capable of spelling Raymond Felton or allowing Felton to play the two-guard for brief periods of time on the floor. His release was a strong message to Felton that the Bobcats brass wants him to be the point guard of the future - and expect more out of him this season.
In more Bobcats news, Matt Carroll says he's getting interest from three teams - including Cleveland and San Antonio. While most Bobcats fans are focused on the Gerald Wallace situation, and rightfully so, Carroll was an important player to the 'Cats last year. This situation bears watching very, very closely. The Spurs will contend for another title next year, and Cleveland has a big selling point in playing with LeBron James.
I haven't written anything about the three deaths in the Benoit family - mainly because I don't know what to say - but I thought this feature on former professional wrestler Lex Luger was very intriguing.
Here's an interesting take on Mike Hargrove's sudden resignation.
Other random thoughts: If the Chicago Cubs are really about to turn the corner, they'll win the next two series against Washington and Pittsburgh and head into the All-Star weekend (hopefully) four or five games back of Milwaukee. ... Who did the best in the NBA Draft? Hard to argue against Portland, but here's something to think about. The Blazers had six draft picks this year and had nearly the same amount last year. They can stash a few players overseas, but that's too many young players for a 12-man roster. ... My way-too-early preseason Top 10 for college football? So glad you asked ...
1. USC
2. Michigan
3. LSU
4. Texas
5. Florida
6. West Virginia
7. Virginia Tech
8. Wisconsin
9. Oklahoma
10. Ohio State
and just for fun ....
1. Appalachian State
2. Montana
3. North Dakota State
4. Northern Iowa
5. Youngstown State
6. New Hampshire
7. Massachusetts
8. James Madison
9. Cal Poly
10. Furman
Brevin Knight says he wasn't released from the Bobcats for monetary reasons. The release of Knight came as a mild surprise to me. He was a great true point guard, capable of spelling Raymond Felton or allowing Felton to play the two-guard for brief periods of time on the floor. His release was a strong message to Felton that the Bobcats brass wants him to be the point guard of the future - and expect more out of him this season.
In more Bobcats news, Matt Carroll says he's getting interest from three teams - including Cleveland and San Antonio. While most Bobcats fans are focused on the Gerald Wallace situation, and rightfully so, Carroll was an important player to the 'Cats last year. This situation bears watching very, very closely. The Spurs will contend for another title next year, and Cleveland has a big selling point in playing with LeBron James.
I haven't written anything about the three deaths in the Benoit family - mainly because I don't know what to say - but I thought this feature on former professional wrestler Lex Luger was very intriguing.
Here's an interesting take on Mike Hargrove's sudden resignation.
Other random thoughts: If the Chicago Cubs are really about to turn the corner, they'll win the next two series against Washington and Pittsburgh and head into the All-Star weekend (hopefully) four or five games back of Milwaukee. ... Who did the best in the NBA Draft? Hard to argue against Portland, but here's something to think about. The Blazers had six draft picks this year and had nearly the same amount last year. They can stash a few players overseas, but that's too many young players for a 12-man roster. ... My way-too-early preseason Top 10 for college football? So glad you asked ...
1. USC
2. Michigan
3. LSU
4. Texas
5. Florida
6. West Virginia
7. Virginia Tech
8. Wisconsin
9. Oklahoma
10. Ohio State
and just for fun ....
1. Appalachian State
2. Montana
3. North Dakota State
4. Northern Iowa
5. Youngstown State
6. New Hampshire
7. Massachusetts
8. James Madison
9. Cal Poly
10. Furman
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
What will the Bobcats do?
It's down to crunch time for the Charlotte Bobcats.
We know the team is in talks with Phoenix about moving the No. 8 pick and Charlotte's best player, Gerald Wallace, is officially an unrestricted free agent.
Charlotte has the cap room to make him an offer somewhere in the neighborhood of $10 million a year, and very few teams can match that. I think it will come down to whether or nor Wallace feels the team can contend for titles in the next few years.
The Bobcats ought to have a gut feeling as to whether or not Wallace will re-sign. If they don't think he will, trading the No. 8 pick just doesn't make any sense when they can draft his replacement.
As far as the trade with Phoenix, the Suns have been involved in nearly every draft trade rumor, with Shawn Marion always being mentioned. Thing is, Marion can opt out of his contract at the end of next year, which means any team trading for him would probably want to do a sign-and-trade.
The interesting thing, though, is that Marion's name hasn't been mentioned in the Charlotte trade. So what exactly would the Bobcats get? Leandro Barbosa and maybe a future pick? I don't like it.
Lots of options going on.
Obviously, Greg Oden and Kevin Durant won't be available at No. 8, and it also appears Mike Conley and Al Hortford will be taken very high. I think someone (maybe Golden State) will make a play for Yi Jianlian. So Charlotte, if it stays put, will have either Jeff Green, Corey Brewer, Joakim Noah, Brandan Wright and Al Thornton. Wright's stock has been slipping, but will Charlotte draft someone that didn't even workout for the team (Wright and Green)?
Another thing to think about, the Bobcats also hold the No. 22 pick. In this deep draft, that's like an 11-15 pick most other years.
I'd love to see Arron Afflalo come across the coast. Other names that could be available: Vandy's Derrick Byars, Wisconsin's Alando Tucker, Boston College's Jared Dudley and Duke's Josh McRoberts. Let's hope for ABJ - Anybody But Josh.
We know the team is in talks with Phoenix about moving the No. 8 pick and Charlotte's best player, Gerald Wallace, is officially an unrestricted free agent.
Charlotte has the cap room to make him an offer somewhere in the neighborhood of $10 million a year, and very few teams can match that. I think it will come down to whether or nor Wallace feels the team can contend for titles in the next few years.
The Bobcats ought to have a gut feeling as to whether or not Wallace will re-sign. If they don't think he will, trading the No. 8 pick just doesn't make any sense when they can draft his replacement.
As far as the trade with Phoenix, the Suns have been involved in nearly every draft trade rumor, with Shawn Marion always being mentioned. Thing is, Marion can opt out of his contract at the end of next year, which means any team trading for him would probably want to do a sign-and-trade.
The interesting thing, though, is that Marion's name hasn't been mentioned in the Charlotte trade. So what exactly would the Bobcats get? Leandro Barbosa and maybe a future pick? I don't like it.
Lots of options going on.
Obviously, Greg Oden and Kevin Durant won't be available at No. 8, and it also appears Mike Conley and Al Hortford will be taken very high. I think someone (maybe Golden State) will make a play for Yi Jianlian. So Charlotte, if it stays put, will have either Jeff Green, Corey Brewer, Joakim Noah, Brandan Wright and Al Thornton. Wright's stock has been slipping, but will Charlotte draft someone that didn't even workout for the team (Wright and Green)?
Another thing to think about, the Bobcats also hold the No. 22 pick. In this deep draft, that's like an 11-15 pick most other years.
I'd love to see Arron Afflalo come across the coast. Other names that could be available: Vandy's Derrick Byars, Wisconsin's Alando Tucker, Boston College's Jared Dudley and Duke's Josh McRoberts. Let's hope for ABJ - Anybody But Josh.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Sunday's thoughts and links
I hope everybody had a great weekend and is looking forward to the last week in June (I can't believe it either). Postings may be a little sporadic this week as my wife and I make the big move from an apartment in Hickory to a house in Statesville.
That's right, I am officially a home owner. Scary. My first order of business? Make sure the TV gets moved in and the cable hooked up in time for Thursday's NBA Draft.
Speaking of the draft ...
Rick Bonnell, the Bobcats beat writer at the Charlotte Observer, broke down who might be available at the No. 8 slot in Sunday's Observer.
Meanwhile, the folks over at nbadraft.net - an awesome and accurate mock draft Web site - have Charlotte tabbing Joakim Noah with the No. 8 pick.
So who should the Bobcats pick? Let's make a fairly safe assumption and say Greg Oden, Kevin Durant, Brandon Wright and Al Horford won't be available at the No. 8 slot. If one of those four are available, they will certainly be the pick.
That leaves the Bobcats with a potential pool of Mike Conley, Jeff Green, Noah, Corey Brewer and maybe Yi Jianlian or Julian Wright. And hopefully not Spencer Hawes.
In terms of the best value and the most likely to still out there, I'd say Noah. While a lot of analysts and scouts feel Noah got exposed last year - and he did at times - I think he would fit in really well with Charlotte. He's the hardest working in the draft, something big for Sam Vincent, and he would have been a top-three pick in last year's draft.
Jianlian is interesting - he may go as high as No. 4. Ultimately, with Charlotte badly needing a playoff push, I think the team would go for an instant impact type of player.
Brewer would be my ideal pick - he's a great, rangy defender and would fit in wonderfully with Charlotte's style - but may not be available at No. 8. I also like Green, but he's not nearly the defender Brewer is.
In a bit of sad news, former Chicago Cubs reliever Rod Beck died on Sunday. Beck was notorious for his goofy mullet and cheesy moustache, as well as rocking his right pitching arm to intimidate opponents. I saw Beck live once in 1998 against the Colorado Rockies, which was the year he led the National League in saves. In typical Beck fashion, he struck out the first two batters of the ninth inning, then promptly gave up a single and a double before buckling down and striking out the next guy to preserve the one-run win. Beck always made it interesting, but when he had to get the final out, he always came through.
That's right, I am officially a home owner. Scary. My first order of business? Make sure the TV gets moved in and the cable hooked up in time for Thursday's NBA Draft.
Speaking of the draft ...
Rick Bonnell, the Bobcats beat writer at the Charlotte Observer, broke down who might be available at the No. 8 slot in Sunday's Observer.
Meanwhile, the folks over at nbadraft.net - an awesome and accurate mock draft Web site - have Charlotte tabbing Joakim Noah with the No. 8 pick.
So who should the Bobcats pick? Let's make a fairly safe assumption and say Greg Oden, Kevin Durant, Brandon Wright and Al Horford won't be available at the No. 8 slot. If one of those four are available, they will certainly be the pick.
That leaves the Bobcats with a potential pool of Mike Conley, Jeff Green, Noah, Corey Brewer and maybe Yi Jianlian or Julian Wright. And hopefully not Spencer Hawes.
In terms of the best value and the most likely to still out there, I'd say Noah. While a lot of analysts and scouts feel Noah got exposed last year - and he did at times - I think he would fit in really well with Charlotte. He's the hardest working in the draft, something big for Sam Vincent, and he would have been a top-three pick in last year's draft.
Jianlian is interesting - he may go as high as No. 4. Ultimately, with Charlotte badly needing a playoff push, I think the team would go for an instant impact type of player.
Brewer would be my ideal pick - he's a great, rangy defender and would fit in wonderfully with Charlotte's style - but may not be available at No. 8. I also like Green, but he's not nearly the defender Brewer is.
In a bit of sad news, former Chicago Cubs reliever Rod Beck died on Sunday. Beck was notorious for his goofy mullet and cheesy moustache, as well as rocking his right pitching arm to intimidate opponents. I saw Beck live once in 1998 against the Colorado Rockies, which was the year he led the National League in saves. In typical Beck fashion, he struck out the first two batters of the ninth inning, then promptly gave up a single and a double before buckling down and striking out the next guy to preserve the one-run win. Beck always made it interesting, but when he had to get the final out, he always came through.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Chin coming to Carolina?
Although not quite as reputable or respected as one of the large media networks, ProFootballTalk.com is reporting that former Steelers coach Bill Cowher has already been in contact with three teams about returning to coach football next season - and the Carolina Panthers are one of them.
The report is about halfway down the page, and was posted at 4:47 p.m. two days ago.
The Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins are the other two teams who have reportedly spoken with Cowher.
A couple of quick thoughts:
It's not surprising to hear that Cowher is potentially interested in coming to Carolina. There was rampant speculation he would be the next N.C. State coach after Chuck Amato was fired, and he lives in the Raleigh area. He'd be closer to his family while still working with an organization known for operating at a high level.
However, current coach John Fox is not on the hot seat. At all. He rescued a moribund franchise and took it to two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. The only way I could foresee Fox with any job security issues is if Carolina goes 6-10 this season, or worse. Even then, I still don't think he'd be fired.
I've always thought Cowher could end up in Washington, and that's incredibly dangerous for the rest of the NFC. Working the thrifty Rooney's in Pittsburgh, Cowher still routinely pumped out double-digit win teams. With the deep pockets of Dan Snyder, and a refusal to trade draft picks, he could definitely right the Redskins ship.
The report is about halfway down the page, and was posted at 4:47 p.m. two days ago.
The Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins are the other two teams who have reportedly spoken with Cowher.
A couple of quick thoughts:
It's not surprising to hear that Cowher is potentially interested in coming to Carolina. There was rampant speculation he would be the next N.C. State coach after Chuck Amato was fired, and he lives in the Raleigh area. He'd be closer to his family while still working with an organization known for operating at a high level.
However, current coach John Fox is not on the hot seat. At all. He rescued a moribund franchise and took it to two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. The only way I could foresee Fox with any job security issues is if Carolina goes 6-10 this season, or worse. Even then, I still don't think he'd be fired.
I've always thought Cowher could end up in Washington, and that's incredibly dangerous for the rest of the NFC. Working the thrifty Rooney's in Pittsburgh, Cowher still routinely pumped out double-digit win teams. With the deep pockets of Dan Snyder, and a refusal to trade draft picks, he could definitely right the Redskins ship.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Father's Day
Happy early Father's Day to all the daddies reading this.
I'll be out of town the next few days, but wanted to make sure you guys read this story before this weekend.
Wright Thompson's piece on the death of his father is a raw, gut-wrenching tale that he delivers fiercely and passionately.
I'll be out of town the next few days, but wanted to make sure you guys read this story before this weekend.
Wright Thompson's piece on the death of his father is a raw, gut-wrenching tale that he delivers fiercely and passionately.
I agree with O.J. Simpson
That's right, give the title of this post a second glance - you'll never see me say that again.
I obviously have my own feelings and opinions on his wife's murder and his attempt to write the book "If I Did It," but Simpson nails it with his thoughts on select coverage and celebrity journalism issues.
Too much is made of Paris Hilton going to jail, of "reality TV" stars and which strip clubs - and types of girls - Alex Rodriguez likes.
But I don't know what's worse - that the media gives such events so much coverage, or that those stories ALWAYS get the most readers on well-respected news Web sites.
I obviously have my own feelings and opinions on his wife's murder and his attempt to write the book "If I Did It," but Simpson nails it with his thoughts on select coverage and celebrity journalism issues.
Too much is made of Paris Hilton going to jail, of "reality TV" stars and which strip clubs - and types of girls - Alex Rodriguez likes.
But I don't know what's worse - that the media gives such events so much coverage, or that those stories ALWAYS get the most readers on well-respected news Web sites.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
"Fixing" the NBA playoffs
ESPN hoops writer John Hollinger makes an interesting argument for changing the NBA playoffs.
The folks at ESPN now make all stories "Insider" after a few days, so to summarize, Hollinger's main suggestions are to eliminate the East-West brackets and shorten all series.
He proposes to either seed the teams 1-16 based on record, or match up the No. 1 seed from the West against the No. 8 seed from the East, and set it up so that if the top seeds win, it would always be an East vs. West matchup the next round.
Instead of having best-of-seven, he proposes the first round should be a best-of-three while the remaining are all best-of-five.
He makes a valid point with shortening the series. There's just way too many days between games, the playoffs last forever and it loses the casual fan. I'm not sure how I feel about completely changing the format just because the East is a bit weaker, but for argument's sake, here is what the 2007 NBA playoffs would have looked like with this theory. Just pretend like it's one big bracket.
(1W) Dallas
(8E) Orlando
(4E) Miami
(5W) Houston
(3W) San Antonio
(6E) New Jersey
(2E) Cleveland
(7W) LA. Lakers
(1E) Detroit
(8W) Golden State
(4W) Utah
(5E) Chicago
(3E) Toronto
(6W) Denver
(2W) Phoenix
(7E) Washington
That would probably lead to the following second-round matchups: Dallas-Houston, San Antonio-Cleveland, Detroit-Utah and Denver-Phoenix.
The "semifinals" would then likely consist of: Dallas-San Antonio, and Phoenix vs. either Detroit or Utah (which would have been a great series).
These matchups look wonderfully intriguing on paper, but I wouldn't expect it to happen in the NBA any time soon.
Any Finals or playoff thoughts in general from you guys?
The folks at ESPN now make all stories "Insider" after a few days, so to summarize, Hollinger's main suggestions are to eliminate the East-West brackets and shorten all series.
He proposes to either seed the teams 1-16 based on record, or match up the No. 1 seed from the West against the No. 8 seed from the East, and set it up so that if the top seeds win, it would always be an East vs. West matchup the next round.
Instead of having best-of-seven, he proposes the first round should be a best-of-three while the remaining are all best-of-five.
He makes a valid point with shortening the series. There's just way too many days between games, the playoffs last forever and it loses the casual fan. I'm not sure how I feel about completely changing the format just because the East is a bit weaker, but for argument's sake, here is what the 2007 NBA playoffs would have looked like with this theory. Just pretend like it's one big bracket.
(1W) Dallas
(8E) Orlando
(4E) Miami
(5W) Houston
(3W) San Antonio
(6E) New Jersey
(2E) Cleveland
(7W) LA. Lakers
(1E) Detroit
(8W) Golden State
(4W) Utah
(5E) Chicago
(3E) Toronto
(6W) Denver
(2W) Phoenix
(7E) Washington
That would probably lead to the following second-round matchups: Dallas-Houston, San Antonio-Cleveland, Detroit-Utah and Denver-Phoenix.
The "semifinals" would then likely consist of: Dallas-San Antonio, and Phoenix vs. either Detroit or Utah (which would have been a great series).
These matchups look wonderfully intriguing on paper, but I wouldn't expect it to happen in the NBA any time soon.
Any Finals or playoff thoughts in general from you guys?
Monday, June 11, 2007
NCAA abuses its "power"
Here's an interesting - and potentially dangerous - story.
A sports writer from the Louisville Courier-Journal was removed from the pressbox for blogging during Louisville's Super Regional game against Oklahoma State.
Brian Bennett blogged from the game, providing instant analysis, opinion and facts while there with an official credential as a working member of the media.
Everybody knows that newspapers have struggled to compete with the Internet and other various forms of 24/7 news. Blogging from games is just one avenue reporters must do to maintain readers and compete in this new technological age.
Who is the NCAA to ban a blogger - from an accredited newspaper - from a pressbox?
This isn't about copyrights or broadcasting rights, it's about the NCAA attempting to rule with an iron fist over an area where it does not have authority.
I hope the Courier-Journal's attorney does follow up on this and take the matter to the courts, if need be.
The NCAA has far greater power in its minds than in reality.
A sports writer from the Louisville Courier-Journal was removed from the pressbox for blogging during Louisville's Super Regional game against Oklahoma State.
Brian Bennett blogged from the game, providing instant analysis, opinion and facts while there with an official credential as a working member of the media.
Everybody knows that newspapers have struggled to compete with the Internet and other various forms of 24/7 news. Blogging from games is just one avenue reporters must do to maintain readers and compete in this new technological age.
Who is the NCAA to ban a blogger - from an accredited newspaper - from a pressbox?
This isn't about copyrights or broadcasting rights, it's about the NCAA attempting to rule with an iron fist over an area where it does not have authority.
I hope the Courier-Journal's attorney does follow up on this and take the matter to the courts, if need be.
The NCAA has far greater power in its minds than in reality.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Much ado about nothing
Perhaps it's a bit hypocritical for me to criticize the national media. After all, I do work for a newspaper myself.
But I don't have nearly the platform some of these guys do to promote their own beliefs, and even if I did, I wouldn't turn into one of those shouting heads that dot the ESPN landscape.
There are too many figures in the national media who jump to conclusions, or feel the incessant need to provide instant, historical analysis. And I think it's hurting the average sports fan, and it's hurting the media's own image as a whole.
A few examples:
LeBron James' performance against Detroit in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals was magnificent. Really, it was.
So why can't that be enough? Why does there have to be a round table of alleged experts, who rank how great LeBron's performance was in NBA playoff history? It's 12 hours later! Performances are ultimately ranked by how they hold up over time.
So still using this example, let's say LeBron's Game 5 outburst leads the way to the 2007 NBA title, and three titles in Cleveland in the next five years. Obviously, the historical impact is great.
But if Cleveland fails to make the playoffs the next three years and LeBron bolts for a bigger market, in a purely analytical sense, all this talk may be much ado about nothing.
Another example: Indy driver Danica Patrick had a little run in with a fellow driver. That link to YouTube was the best video I could find that really got into exactly what happened.
What happened between Patrick and Dan Wheldon is just not a big deal. It's not. But again, it's the hot topic on debate-type programming where, if you disagree with a screaming reporter, your opinion is obviously inferior and wrong.
I guess it just really sort of bugs me that so much time is spent on stuff that doesn't really matter. We - the media collectively - ought to put our resources to better use.
But I don't have nearly the platform some of these guys do to promote their own beliefs, and even if I did, I wouldn't turn into one of those shouting heads that dot the ESPN landscape.
There are too many figures in the national media who jump to conclusions, or feel the incessant need to provide instant, historical analysis. And I think it's hurting the average sports fan, and it's hurting the media's own image as a whole.
A few examples:
LeBron James' performance against Detroit in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals was magnificent. Really, it was.
So why can't that be enough? Why does there have to be a round table of alleged experts, who rank how great LeBron's performance was in NBA playoff history? It's 12 hours later! Performances are ultimately ranked by how they hold up over time.
So still using this example, let's say LeBron's Game 5 outburst leads the way to the 2007 NBA title, and three titles in Cleveland in the next five years. Obviously, the historical impact is great.
But if Cleveland fails to make the playoffs the next three years and LeBron bolts for a bigger market, in a purely analytical sense, all this talk may be much ado about nothing.
Another example: Indy driver Danica Patrick had a little run in with a fellow driver. That link to YouTube was the best video I could find that really got into exactly what happened.
What happened between Patrick and Dan Wheldon is just not a big deal. It's not. But again, it's the hot topic on debate-type programming where, if you disagree with a screaming reporter, your opinion is obviously inferior and wrong.
I guess it just really sort of bugs me that so much time is spent on stuff that doesn't really matter. We - the media collectively - ought to put our resources to better use.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Make up your mind
Billy Donovan is just the latest head coach to agree to a new coaching gig, then suddenly change his mind.
I'm sick of it.
Donovan, who coached Florida to two consecutive national titles, is trying to get out of a five-year, $27.5 million contract he officially signed with the Orlando Magic.
Same as Dana Altman did to Arkansas, same as Gregg Marshall did to College of Charleston, although those two never officially signed any documentation.
It's ironic that these guys all coach collegiate athletes, kids really, and teach them about decision making and accountability.
Andy Katz reported that Donovan didn't meet with his team and coaches until after his press conference in Orlando, and that's when he realized he made a mistake.
He should have taken that into account in the first place. And why the rush?
Sure, Orlando probably put pressure on Donovan to make up his mind as quickly as possible so the team could have a big, splashy press conference. But there's nothing wrong with taking your time and figuring out, with 100 percent certainty, what you want to do.
If Orlando - or any other organization making a big hire - wanted you that badly, they'd wait.
I'm sick of it.
Donovan, who coached Florida to two consecutive national titles, is trying to get out of a five-year, $27.5 million contract he officially signed with the Orlando Magic.
Same as Dana Altman did to Arkansas, same as Gregg Marshall did to College of Charleston, although those two never officially signed any documentation.
It's ironic that these guys all coach collegiate athletes, kids really, and teach them about decision making and accountability.
Andy Katz reported that Donovan didn't meet with his team and coaches until after his press conference in Orlando, and that's when he realized he made a mistake.
He should have taken that into account in the first place. And why the rush?
Sure, Orlando probably put pressure on Donovan to make up his mind as quickly as possible so the team could have a big, splashy press conference. But there's nothing wrong with taking your time and figuring out, with 100 percent certainty, what you want to do.
If Orlando - or any other organization making a big hire - wanted you that badly, they'd wait.
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