It’s a heartless story that doesn’t settle to well, within our sympathetic hearts. We knew it was coming, a decision on the future of Mike Leach. There’s no doubt he was the symbol of rehabilitating a program in default. That is, of course, until his name surfaced of atrocity against a player, egregious nature at a much-thriving program.
The average program, particularly in the athletic department, much is emphasized on the meaning of discipline, not the essence of abuse or mistreatment to players. If Leach hadn’t orchestrated inhumanity and insubordination at Lubbock, where he established a culture of magnitude, he wouldn’t have been fired by a disappointed Texas Tech administration. It’s good to know the Red Raiders reacted to an investigation and player’s complaint, immediately minimizing Leach’s possibility of salving his credibility and coaching job.
Shame on a petulant Leach, for the burdens he has left within a school where parents may take a moment to hesitate and ponder. But in these circumstances, some folks in the heart of Texas might feel better about sending their kids to Lubbock, while others are advocates, angry of Leach’s ugly departure. That usually happens when a coach strengthens ideal during a flourishing decade.
But as long as there are senseless misdeeds, insanity by an enigmatic man could tarnish Texas Tech. It’s very disturbing to hear a redshirt sophomore, Adam James, suffer a concussion during a practice that Leach reportedly denied. Instead he believed James was unhappy of limited playing time, and assumed he was finding a convenient excuse. A day following the severe blow to the head, he was diagnosed with a concussion and an increasing heart rate.
As a coach, Leach didn’t have sense enough to care for his player as if he personally despised him. He wasn’t compassionate of the welfare of his health, nor aware of the dangerous matters a severe hit to the head could cause. Even worst, according to reports, he told a trainer to move James to an isolated room, to a dark spot. To be frank, it’s mind-boggling when a large university trusts a coach to discipline, structure kids to strengthen upon a brighter future.
You’d expect coaches to help a student mature for the real life. But instead, the irritable nonsense and lamentable personality is traumatic, featuring barbaric scenes enough to brainwash kids and scare away a recruiting class. Even more malicious is when the Lubbock Avalanche Journal reported the room was a dark shed, where Leach forced James to stand inside for two hours.
But when the truth surfaced that he was forced inside an electrical closet, tremendous respect was lost, much credibility was sabotaged. How dare he stuff another individual into a closet? How dare he mistreat another individual? And lastly, how dare Leach think he could get away with the biggest malicious and despicable stunt in sports. Hearing the upsetting news makes me sick to my stomach, as reality kicks in that James could’ve possibly been a relative of ours.
For committing such depravity, Leach deserved to be fired, losing out enormously on an $800,000 bonus by the university on New Years Eve. What a jerk, for cowardly forcing a kid to stand in a tight, dark closet. Even if James plotted his concussion or was a rebellious teammate, it doesn’t give Leach the justification to commit such a heinous act.
According to Ted Liggett, Leach’s attorney, James added to what was merely a “mild concussion”. He told the Associated Press, “I believe that James was a disgruntled student-athlete that like many, were not happy with playing time.” His attorney is missing the whole point. Either way, nobody deserves to spend time in a tight closet. James isn’t an animal or a prisoner. He’s a normal citizen as everyone else.
Fine, if Leach felt he had to punish him, he should’ve penalized James in an appropriate manner. Texas Tech saved credibility by dismissing the troubled coach. He was once known as the famous coach in Texas, a symbol within Texas Tech athletic program. But now, he’s known as the infamous coach who may never coach on the collegiate level for refusing to corporate with Kent Hance, Texas Tech’s chancellor.
Many believe his insubordination and rudeness, such as filing a restraining order to coach in the Alamo Bowl, cost Leach his job. Later on the telephone, Hance said in an interview. “I like him and I wanted him to be my coach, but insubordination and this type of activity just cannot be permitted.”
If you can recall, Leach ripped his players following an October loss to Texas A&M. He suspended an offensive lineman for violating team rules. He also ceased Twitters, after Marion Williams Tweeted sarcastic remarks. An outrageous predicament, in fairness, is resolved. They couldn’t allow Leach to get a free ride, if Kansas removed Mark Mangino for allegedly abusing players.
As issues look to get uglier, Liggett is filing a lawsuit no later than this week against the university. Even though matters are ugly, Texas Tech protected its credibility before it crippled. Having a violent, wacko coach isn’t a cure, and makes it worst. Getting rid of the spitefulness is, indeed, the only option to avoid outrage.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Can Vikings Rebound? Yes, Childress, Favre Must Get a Grip
In a way, that is, if you’ve forgotten, Brett Favre ignited a controversy. The timing of all the friction is unnecessary for a team attempting to erase any flukes and illusions. But everybody knows the Minnesota Vikings are mired in self-destruction, if the timeless interruption plays a role in the playoffs. What seems to be a minor issue, can jeopardize the rest of their season season.
Earlier this week, the Vikings were headline news and the epicenter of a nonsensical letdown. Once again, the annoyance of Favre grasped the center of attention, stealing much of the spotlight. For much of the week he acted like an infant, behaving selfishly when coach Brad Childress clumsily tried removing Favre from the game at Carolina, at a moment when the Vikings led by a point. That led to a 19-point loss to the Panthers, followed by Favre’s sound off during a press conference.
Ever since, we’ve wondered and speculated about the relationship between Favre and Childress, a holocaust that blinded triumph. And ever since the news-draining episode surfaced, regarding an unsteady relationship, the Vikings are seemingly nearing the end of a conceivable journey. Unless the Vikings somehow elude the likelihood of becoming one-and-done victims in the postseason, and dismiss a dreadful ruckus, a season of glory can transform into an indelible year.
For now, morale has diminished ambition, constituting what seems to be an incurable waste. Minnesotans should shut their eyes after witnessing painful weeks of inexcusable meltdowns on turf. This week at least, the Vikings pose as harmless crusaders en route of a wreck in the first round of a probable voyage to the Super Bowl.
In late December, we are normally critical of the doomed Dallas Cowboys, but instead we are now ridiculing the Vikes, laughing at the Vikes, and shaking our heads in disbelief at the Vikes. So you felt Tony Romo was a disgrace in Dallas, a celeb bust rather than a football bust, a tabloid magnet who’d never win a playoff game? Well, think again.
There’s a team residing where the land of 10,000 lakes exist, a team residing where the greatest and colossal mall in the world lives. Times, in December, are fragile for the Vikings. Nothing is flawless, when an ultimate menace suddenly collapses. And to relapse late in the year only spells misfortune.
This is a team armed with tremendous weapons in an unblemished receiver core. This is a team, which has healed a spiritless town. This is a team, in which the dauntless Childress coaxed and seized a former villain from Green Bay, where Favre implanted a memorable legacy. This is a team, in which owner Zygi Wilf issued disciplinary actions and dismissed four-star players from the roster for the involvement in the infamous boat scandal. This is the franchise that was embarrassed, when former coach, Mike Tice, scalped tickets.
So with the shameful era long gone, now the Vikings can revoke memories of the age of the sleazes in Minnesota. And now rectify a winning mindset within an organization, where droughts commonly happen in recent memory. This season alone, they’re 0-2 in December since Childress’ mind-blowing decision of benching the future Hall of Famer frustrated Favre. They’re 1-3 since the loss to Arizona in early December.
Instead of a full-blown, sideline confrontation Favre and Childress should’ve resolved a heated dispute behind close doors. Courtesy of NBC cameras, the Sunday Night Football audience discovered the two men in an argument when a stubborn-minded Favre was merely upset with Childress’ intentions of removing him, realizing the emphasis of keeping the 40-year old veteran healthy and rested for the playoffs.
Besides resting the temperamental gunslinger, according to reports, Favre’s boss was furious when he called an audible in a Monday night game earlier in the season against Green Bay. Even though ongoing conflict ignited a mess in Favre’s rebirth, you’d like to believe all the commotion is put behind them. If it wasn’t for Childress’ persuasiveness, Favre might have spent the entire season at home watching from his couch and mowed the loan in the rural area of Mississippi.
There are two reasons to believe why the Vikings accepted such a controlling, egotistic maniac to conduct a much-depleted franchise. Since the arrival, Favre is a superstar who became the team’s primary consumer by filling up seats, increasing ticket sales and revenue. He’s also good friends with Childress, a desperate coach willing to bring aboard a self-centered, egotistic superstar to call plays and showcase customary arm-strength as he ages.
Favre is even good friends with Darrell Bevell, after building an attachable bond at Green Bay. Although he could’ve made the surreal transition for vengeance on the Packers, the Vikings couldn’t be more exhilarated, certain he’s the answer for legitimizing hope. And when it’s still outlandish today to glance at Favre wearing a purple uniform, the Vikings were favorites to advance to the Super Bowl.
After they were in position for the NFC’s No. 1 seed and the postseason home-field advantage and a first-round bye, Minnesota quickly lost possession and watched an opportunity slip away. As it stands now, Childress’ team could fall into the Wild-Card category. The Vikings could have a date with the Packers in the first-round. If expecting to have any luck in the postseason, Minnesota has to retool as a team and find its rhythm and momentum.
The fundamentals of football starts with momentum, just as much as it’s a game where each player must bond as a unit. But most of all, Adrian Peterson must make his round to the nearest pit stop and rotate his tires. Without his wheels, Favre looks as if he’s confused and pressured by a bulldozing defense. In the last five weeks, Peterson has played poorly.
And in Chicago, he had a fumble in a 36-30-overtime loss. For the lack of ball security flaws are still hurting Peterson. By halftime, Favre’s night was silent, and had only 36 yards in passing. His running back bailed him out in previous weeks. But lately, he can’t even hold on to the football.
Childress doesn’t know if he should leave the starters in or sit them. No to mention the constant distractions are affecting the way the team plays.
The Vikings have to turn things around in a hurry. Or else they’ll go home.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Meyer's Gator Stunner Is Riddles, Leaves Us Guessing
It’s kind of hard to tell where he’s coming from, hard to tell his next decision. When the stunning development unmasked, he broke down into tears, helpless and saddened of his sudden departure.
He alarmed us all with his announcement of periodic chest pains. He shocked us all by informing the world of frequent health problems. Lastly, the announcement was a stunning development when he told the Florida football program that he’d resign.
This meant Mr. Meyer would never return to a program he installed, standing as a symbol of greatness. In the meantime, Gators’ faithful aren’t scowling or scorning Urban Meyer of a bizarre story. It leaves us scratching our heads, searching for reasonable answers to why suddenly Mr. Meyer misled us the last three days.
Wasn’t he resigning to spend valuable time with his family and care for health? Wasn’t he ailing and couldn’t measure up to the stress level of coaching? At least a resignation was understandable and his intent, until he arrived to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium for the Gators’ Sugar Bowl practice in Gainesville. The population at the Swamp emotionally had tears draining down their faces, along with immediate speculations on the next in line to coach an endearing program.
But there’s a clear understanding that Meyer hasn’t made up his mind. He pondered before an official resignation was declared. Maybe it’s difficult to aloof from the game he has mustered a tremendous passion for. Or maybe adjusting to a peculiar seen is tough. He’s accustomed to and relish mentoring players willing to mature into prospering men. He’s used to building a contiguous relationship with each of his players. Leaving all behind is burdensome to adapt to.
So suddenly, an emotionally departure of his coaching job was lightened into a leave of absence. Guess there won’t be any reason to search for a coach, or theorize if offensive coordinator, Steve Adazzio, steps into command. That means we don’t have to hear rumors and names of Bob Stoops or Dan Mullen. Of course, it would’ve been a good coaching campaign, but if there’s a sublime coach unsure of his status, looking for another coach is the least priority.
Isn’t Meyer coaxing the program enough, by informing us he plans on staying in Gainesville? Doesn’t his obligations to stay in contact and within the program tells you Meyer is aspiring for partial decision-making? From ailing and withstanding chest pains and an arachnoid cyst on his brain forced him to take a hiatus. At a point spending quality time with his family seemed more valuable, he stressed the importance of family values and faith.
And as a coach he had already accomplished a lifelong adventure, owning the highest coaching percentage in college football. He could leave the game and lift his head proudly, for leading Utah to an unbeaten season in which he built an eye-catching future in college football. Therefore, he grasped our attention and became a much-beloved coach in parts of Florida.
But we can’t ensure he’s leaving the game for good. You should be confused, of course, trying to put together pieces of this missing puzzle. For those in Gainesville, life is a riddle. Yes, Mr. Meyer has baffled us all. And ever since he returned the next day to inform us all that he expects to coach next season, believing Meyer is like believing Pinocchio. What’s difficult to grasp is why draw a huge distraction, by telling us about a resignation when Florida’s huge bowl game against Cincinnati is looming?
If it was the case, it could have waited until a day after the bowl game. Now, the Gators are likely to play with heavy hearts, worried of Meyer’s health status. The last thing a program wants to happen amid a substantial bowl game is questions to circulate, strictly on the health status of Meyer’s. When he spoke of his vital chest pains following the lost to Alabama in the SEC Championship game, he looked worn down, fatigued as if he was ready to call it a career. If so, then was the exact moment to depart. Either way, he would’ve left the game atop coaching at the collegiate level. But when winning is taking into consideration, the Gators are caught in a continuous riddle.
At 45, Meyer feared the mischief of mortality, valuing his life before reconsidering he’d rather salvage the coaching job. And Florida athletic director, Jeremy Foley, discerns the significance of health, but doesn’t feel he has to find a replacement if Meyer is in good condition to recruit a potent class and mentor kids, teaching the fundamentals of winning, so they can leave as a better individual.
That is, of course, before he told his wife, Shelley, and three children he was quitting for health problems and family. Not too sure if he stayed true to his word, when his wife believed he’d spent every second with his lovable family. His wife text a message to the Orlando Sentinel that said: “No chance… This is the best decision for him and us right now.”
Foley has a careless demeanor, insisting on Saturday for Meyer to take a leave of absence. It’s obvious he knows what Meyer brings to the program, diligence and charisma. But also it’s apparent he’s ignoring the health of a man, facing a tremendous amount of uncertainty.
Times next fall may seem a bit stressful without the likes of Tim Tebow, who’s a top name in April’s NFL Draft. Florida’s challenging schedule within a superb conference is when Meyer should absorb pressure, in which we’ll actually find out if he still does well in controlling the program.
But until then, his status remains a crazy riddle.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Pac-10 Stumbles Out of The Gate Going 0-2 vs Mtn West
Oregon State was whacked by BYU 44-20 in the Las Vegas as underdogs on Tuesday and Utah handled California as an underdog 37-27 in the Poinsetta Bowl Wednesday.
The win for Utah was their ninth bowl win in a row tying them for second all-time with USC from the John Wayne-led years and just beneath Florida State’s 11 in a row set from 1985-96.
The win also serves notice to the BCS committee who has shunned non-BCS conferences, dismissing their validity in the overall scheme. The pairing of the undefeated teams of TCU and Boise State -- the only two non-BCS conference teams playing in BCS bowl games, should serve notice of what the committee’s agenda is. Let them knock each other around without giving them their due by beating a BCS conference team.
Utah is the original BCS buster knocking off Pittsburgh in the 2005 Fiesta Bowl and routing Alabama in last years Sugar Bowl.
The Pac-10 has five more teams with a chance to salvage some conference pride starting with the heavily favored USC against Boston College in Saturday’s Emerald Bowl. The Trojans opened as 9-point favorites and have been bet down to 7 with many feeling of the two teams, B.C. is the happier of the two to be playing in the pre-New Years day bowl.
The only Pac-10 underdog of their remaining games is Stanford getting 8.5-points from Oklahoma in the Sun Bowl. This game had bounced around from an opener of nine all the down to 7.5 but the the recent failures of the first two Pac-10 representatives have many feeling less about the strength on the conference.
In other Pac-10 games, Arizona still holds on as a 1-point favorite against Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl. UCLA, the weakest of the Pac-10 teams, has been bumped to a 5.5-point favorite over Temple in the Eagle Bank Bowl in Washington D.C.
Oregon has been seen as high as a 4-point favorite at some books over Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, but is a consensus 3.5-point favorite.
Thus far into the bowl season the underdogs are 4-1 with all four underdogs winning straight up heading into Thursday's Hawaii Bowl with Nevada and SMU. Nevada had been as high as a 16.5-point favorite, but has been seen as low as 11.5 on game day.
The only other real movement involves two of the BCS bowls where Florida has gone to an 11.5-poinit favorite over Cincinnati in the Sugar Bowl. The Bear Cats lost head coach Brian Kelly to Notre Dame following their Big East champiosnhip game win giving the appearance to many that there is no captain on the ship.
After seeing the bulk of the early action come on Alabama laying the number all the way up to 5.5-points over Texas, it’s been all Long Horn money since dropping the line to 3.5 -- a half-point below what the opener negan with. Texas backers have cited Alabama as being too one dimensional on offense to hang with a balanced attack of Texas as reasons for the support.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Favre Must Revoke Timeless Tale for Crying Out Loud
Here we go again.
When it seems the biggest diva in all of sports mellowed into an unselfish legend and future Hall of Famer, willing to guide the Minnesota Vikings to the Super Bowl that fans have implored for years, Brett Favre is returning back to his old psyche.
There’s not a season progressing, without the famous quarterback of all-time crying out loud to the world.
And each season revolves around Favre, hijacked when he has difficulty making up his mind on if he returns or retires. But now the drama isn’t in relations of un-retiring or retiring saga. Instead he’s acting out in the usual self-centered, egotistic mindset, an impolite stunt that is now old news. Describing Favre is the equivalent of identifying an elderly man who’s stubborn-minded.
And trust me he’s utterly stubborn-minded. In what has altered to an annual routine, it’s difficult forecasting the future of a wishy-washy superstar with ego higher than image itself. Notice he was given a privilege to arrive at Minnesota in his casual wardrobe, which included a cap, regular t-shirt and sandals. Remember, he’s the favorable legend and wasn’t forced to attend mini-camp or training camp, skipping out on team preparations and meetings.
Needless to say, he’s a good friend of coach Brad Childress, the guy he apparently had a heated altercation on the sidelines in Sunday night’s game. So if he lobbied for Favre, coaxed that he scorns the well-respected franchise where he formerly laid a foundation, wouldn’t Favre suit well as Childress’ guy? With numbers speaking for themselves, indeed, Favre should be the favorable guy.
The Vikings were desperate enough to grant Favre with a lifetime dream. And this season he was able to prove the Cheesehead faithful wrong, unmasking to the world he still has enough in the tank. Admittedly, he’s playing better football than ever at the age of 40. His game still features customary arm-strength, unbelievable footwork, but flaws clouds a miraculous season when he musters spotlight for his un-retiring or retiring soap operas and holds a franchise hostage.
Until this day, Favre wearing a purple uniform is surreal and seeking vengeance against Ted Thompson and the Green Bay Packers, describes him as a traitor. At least a disgruntled population feels like they’ve been betrayed and stabbed in the back. Even though, Favre made a clear statement each time he faced the Packers, the season may actually backfire if he starts to decline.
The last thing the Vikings need is an engaging season to fizzle. The last thing the Vikings need is a disruption from Favre. The last thing the Vikings need is a crying Favre. The playoffs are quickly looming, meaning teams should have great chemistry and blend in as a team. And if angling to complete a wondrous season in his unthinkable rebirth, Favre is the wise man obligated in solidifying aspiration and stirring the Vikings to Super Bowl glory.
First, he must put aside the controversy. If not, life in the land of 10,000 lakes turns into the land of 10,000 Favre Tales. From a 11-3 record, leading the NFC North, with currently a No. 2 seed in the NFC, a robust franchise like the Vikings haven’t had this much limelight in decades. Meanwhile, throwing a remarkable season away is pitiful.
So escaping minor controversy that suddenly turned into a media frenzy is huge deal the last few days and could cause the Vikings to stumble in the playoffs. It doesn’t take long for mood swings to take a stance, or player-coaching clashes. That’s all the hoopla materializing within Favre and Childress.
During the press conference on Sunday, in a childish mode, Favre acted like the biggest laughingstock and clown when he’s really not. Still, when he could be described as one, it’s no reason to laugh at the man who has changed the unpleasant mood, and silent nights in a miserable town. But we could mock Favre for acting like a laughingstock and clown, just because he felt his presence was significant when Childress wanted to yank him from the game Sunday night in Charlotte.
And no he wasn’t yanked for his dictating attitude, in an emotional game against the Packers when Favre changed a running play at the line of scrimmage and threw down the field for an incomplete pass on a 3rd-and-10 with 3:27 remaining. According to reports, Childress was ticked off and was ready to pull him from the game.
Most of all, Childress is trying to keep Favre healthy for the postseason. He realizes his age is a factor and body can’t take hard, quick blows. He realizes surviving and passing the first round of the playoffs are exigent. So removing him from the game is a way to salvage health, as the intentions are not to punish the veteran quarterback, especially after witnessing relentless and star-studded performance week in and week out.
While the Vikings owned a 7-6 lead, Childress wanted to remove Favre and was aiming towards a different direction. But as a stubborn-minded Favre insisted he’d stay in the game, to keep from further confrontation, he left him in the game. Any coach would fear for their player’s health, if Julius Peppers the monstrous pass rusher, knocked Favre viciously to the turf multiple times.
The Vikings’ offense was discombobulated at times, which is stunning when considering it’s the much-robust, deepest team in the league. Adrian Peterson hasn’t rushed for 100 yards in nearly five games. But let me ensure you, he hasn’t gone anywhere. He’ll be back. Better now, than latter. So can this team win the Super Bowl?
I’ll rank them at the very top. The Vikings can upset the once unbeaten New Orleans Saints, if Favre and Childress cease banging heads on the sideline and the damn-near retired vet finds his bottomless receiving core. He’s fortunate to have loaded weapons in receivers, like Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, Bernard Berrian and Visanthe Shiancoe. But now, the annoying controversy must end to put away all disruptions within a team on a mission to become NFL’s centerpiece in the playoffs and Super Bowl champs.
There’s no need to cry at press conferences. Or admit he wants to play. Believe it or not, Childress knows what is best for his team, and at that point, he felt yanking Favre was the next resort. Thanks to Favre’s personal emotions of insensitive remarks or even a coaching change, endless hoopla is difficult to revoke.
To dismiss a publicity tale, Favre might want to listen to his coach.
When it seems the biggest diva in all of sports mellowed into an unselfish legend and future Hall of Famer, willing to guide the Minnesota Vikings to the Super Bowl that fans have implored for years, Brett Favre is returning back to his old psyche.
There’s not a season progressing, without the famous quarterback of all-time crying out loud to the world.
And each season revolves around Favre, hijacked when he has difficulty making up his mind on if he returns or retires. But now the drama isn’t in relations of un-retiring or retiring saga. Instead he’s acting out in the usual self-centered, egotistic mindset, an impolite stunt that is now old news. Describing Favre is the equivalent of identifying an elderly man who’s stubborn-minded.
And trust me he’s utterly stubborn-minded. In what has altered to an annual routine, it’s difficult forecasting the future of a wishy-washy superstar with ego higher than image itself. Notice he was given a privilege to arrive at Minnesota in his casual wardrobe, which included a cap, regular t-shirt and sandals. Remember, he’s the favorable legend and wasn’t forced to attend mini-camp or training camp, skipping out on team preparations and meetings.
Needless to say, he’s a good friend of coach Brad Childress, the guy he apparently had a heated altercation on the sidelines in Sunday night’s game. So if he lobbied for Favre, coaxed that he scorns the well-respected franchise where he formerly laid a foundation, wouldn’t Favre suit well as Childress’ guy? With numbers speaking for themselves, indeed, Favre should be the favorable guy.
The Vikings were desperate enough to grant Favre with a lifetime dream. And this season he was able to prove the Cheesehead faithful wrong, unmasking to the world he still has enough in the tank. Admittedly, he’s playing better football than ever at the age of 40. His game still features customary arm-strength, unbelievable footwork, but flaws clouds a miraculous season when he musters spotlight for his un-retiring or retiring soap operas and holds a franchise hostage.
Until this day, Favre wearing a purple uniform is surreal and seeking vengeance against Ted Thompson and the Green Bay Packers, describes him as a traitor. At least a disgruntled population feels like they’ve been betrayed and stabbed in the back. Even though, Favre made a clear statement each time he faced the Packers, the season may actually backfire if he starts to decline.
The last thing the Vikings need is an engaging season to fizzle. The last thing the Vikings need is a disruption from Favre. The last thing the Vikings need is a crying Favre. The playoffs are quickly looming, meaning teams should have great chemistry and blend in as a team. And if angling to complete a wondrous season in his unthinkable rebirth, Favre is the wise man obligated in solidifying aspiration and stirring the Vikings to Super Bowl glory.
First, he must put aside the controversy. If not, life in the land of 10,000 lakes turns into the land of 10,000 Favre Tales. From a 11-3 record, leading the NFC North, with currently a No. 2 seed in the NFC, a robust franchise like the Vikings haven’t had this much limelight in decades. Meanwhile, throwing a remarkable season away is pitiful.
So escaping minor controversy that suddenly turned into a media frenzy is huge deal the last few days and could cause the Vikings to stumble in the playoffs. It doesn’t take long for mood swings to take a stance, or player-coaching clashes. That’s all the hoopla materializing within Favre and Childress.
During the press conference on Sunday, in a childish mode, Favre acted like the biggest laughingstock and clown when he’s really not. Still, when he could be described as one, it’s no reason to laugh at the man who has changed the unpleasant mood, and silent nights in a miserable town. But we could mock Favre for acting like a laughingstock and clown, just because he felt his presence was significant when Childress wanted to yank him from the game Sunday night in Charlotte.
And no he wasn’t yanked for his dictating attitude, in an emotional game against the Packers when Favre changed a running play at the line of scrimmage and threw down the field for an incomplete pass on a 3rd-and-10 with 3:27 remaining. According to reports, Childress was ticked off and was ready to pull him from the game.
Most of all, Childress is trying to keep Favre healthy for the postseason. He realizes his age is a factor and body can’t take hard, quick blows. He realizes surviving and passing the first round of the playoffs are exigent. So removing him from the game is a way to salvage health, as the intentions are not to punish the veteran quarterback, especially after witnessing relentless and star-studded performance week in and week out.
While the Vikings owned a 7-6 lead, Childress wanted to remove Favre and was aiming towards a different direction. But as a stubborn-minded Favre insisted he’d stay in the game, to keep from further confrontation, he left him in the game. Any coach would fear for their player’s health, if Julius Peppers the monstrous pass rusher, knocked Favre viciously to the turf multiple times.
The Vikings’ offense was discombobulated at times, which is stunning when considering it’s the much-robust, deepest team in the league. Adrian Peterson hasn’t rushed for 100 yards in nearly five games. But let me ensure you, he hasn’t gone anywhere. He’ll be back. Better now, than latter. So can this team win the Super Bowl?
I’ll rank them at the very top. The Vikings can upset the once unbeaten New Orleans Saints, if Favre and Childress cease banging heads on the sideline and the damn-near retired vet finds his bottomless receiving core. He’s fortunate to have loaded weapons in receivers, like Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, Bernard Berrian and Visanthe Shiancoe. But now, the annoying controversy must end to put away all disruptions within a team on a mission to become NFL’s centerpiece in the playoffs and Super Bowl champs.
There’s no need to cry at press conferences. Or admit he wants to play. Believe it or not, Childress knows what is best for his team, and at that point, he felt yanking Favre was the next resort. Thanks to Favre’s personal emotions of insensitive remarks or even a coaching change, endless hoopla is difficult to revoke.
To dismiss a publicity tale, Favre might want to listen to his coach.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Great Bowl Games To Bet On This Week Led By Pac-10 Teams
The bowl season began last week and we saw two underdogs win outright and one favorite win. The biggest upset was Wyoming, a 12-point dog – the second largest spread of the bowl season – handing Fresno State a 35-28 double-overtime loss.
For the next three days beginning Tuesday with the Las Vegas Bowl, we’ll get to witness some of the better bowl games, at least on paper. The first two pair top end teams from the Pac-10 and Mountain West. BYU matches up with Oregon State and then Utah squares off against Cal.
As exciting as the Mountain West teams have been, look for the Pac-10 to begin their bowl reign similar to the way their teams did last season when they went 5-0. This season they have six teams in bowls with only Stanford being an underdog in a game which the sharps have already bet against Oklahoma, dropping the Sooners from 9-point favorites to the current line of 7½.
Nevada has the largest spread of the bowls but it has been plummeting from a high of 16½-points to a low of 13½ over SMU, due to the academic suspension of the Wolfpack’s leading rusher Vai Taua. The Pack was already without 1,000 yard rusher in Luke Lippencott due to toe surgery.
The two will be missed but they still have another 1,000 yard rusher in quarterback Colin Kaepernick and two eager performers waiting for their chance to shine in Lampford Mark and Mike Ball. Mark had one 100 yard game this season while Ball put up 184 yards against UNLV. The system in place is still good enough to validate the large spread despite the loss of Taua.
I must admit, I did lose the pool I had going which asked what school would have the first starter to drop out due to failing grades as usually happens just prior to the Bowl games. I laid the chalk with Florida State, who seems to win that mythical pool 80% of the time.
On Saturday the MAC gets to try their first attempt in a Bowl game after going 0-5 as a conference in bowl play last season. Ohio has jumped from a 1½-point favorite to 3 over Marshall.
North Carolina and Pittsburgh face off in the Meinke Bowl, which so far hasn’t generated any action. It’s one of the few games that hasn’t moved all bowl season since the line came at Pitt -3.
USC’s line has been dropping against Boston College in the Emerald Bowl from an opener of USC -9 to 7½.
Sunday we get to see the first of a record 10 SEC teams play when Clemson takes on Kentucky. It’s followed by a Monday game with another SEC squad, Georgia, taking on Texas A&M. Kentucky is a 7-point dog while Georgia is a 7-point favorite.
Everyone will have to wait until next week to pick on the Big-10 teams who went a combined 1-6 in bowl games last season. Not much has changed in the perception of the conference since then.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Chris Henry's Death Inspires Chad Ochocinco and Bengals
He wisely dropped to his knees, lifted his head and pointed skyward after sprinting in a well-executed route and catching a 49-yard touchdown pass from Carson Palmer.
In a moment of grief, Chad Ochocinco’s solace was to pay tribute to the late Chris Henry. It was a time the Cincinnati Bengals played with heavy hearts, but there was no one with a heavier heart than Ochocinco. At the time, reality set in, the entire team mourned the loss of Henry.
Earlier in the week, Ochocinco promised to wear the No. 15 jersey to honor his friend, but reevaluated and had class for the league’s wishes. If he wore the No. 15 jersey, the league would have slapped him with a fine, even though the Players Association announced it would reimburse him. But he had tremendous respect and remembered his teammate in a mature fashion.
There was no showboating in the end zone, such as river dancing, camera shooting, or the mustard jacket fitting act. It was done politely at Qualcomm Stadium, where he mourned the death of Henry in a different way than his teammates.
Prior to emerging from the visitors’ tunnel, Ochocinco was discovered teary-eyed trying to soothe and mitigate pain in the aftermath of a freak accident that cut Henry’s life short. Sad thing is, he had turned his life around and mellowed into an inspirational player, symbolizing the Bengals’ organization. Scary thing is, he was only 26-years old and started to elude the criminal lifestyle. But more senseless is, he left behind three children and his fiancée, Loleini Tonga.
Any time there is a death in the workplace, someone will grieve. Much of the week, Ochocinco has been the emotional one, reflecting on the situation more deeply than his teammates. He spent countless minutes in front of Henry’s locker, and he mourned and dripped tears on Thursday. By game time, he couldn’t control his emotions and had a similar mood against the Chargers on Sunday.
It’s obvious if he were able to pay a bigger tribute, he would have, but a lesser expose honoring Henry was handled well. Before using poor judgment, Ochocinco pondered on whether it was appropriate to wear his jersey. Not only was he thinking about his teammates, but Henry as well. Most of all, he wasn’t planning to wear his jersey for attention, but to dedicate the moment to a good friend he’ll truly miss.
Throughout his career, Ochocinco has been involved in a ruckus with the media. Given the history, he’d created a distraction in Sunday’s game. But instead he was selfless to honor the death of a player in a way he could please himself without disrupting the team or putting on a huge act. Even better is, he hung the No. 15 jersey in a locker stall. There was an empty locker, and had a 15 nameplate above the stall to represent the late Henry.
For a while, the Bengals will need time to recover from a devastating tragedy, which ended badly and created raw emotions. In what seems surreal is happening before our very eyes every day. And unfortunately, Henry fell out of a moving pickup truck driven by his fiancée last Wednesday in what police believed the incident was a domestic dispute. But seeing a man turn his life around, without having a chance to redeem a notorious background is unfortunate.
Ochocinco is devastated, agonized of the tragic death. He’s mourning the death of a friend, realizing he’s gone eternally. This is a downcast period for the Bengals, not only losing 27-24 against San Diego, but having to bury a friend and teammate. As a team, the Bengals will travel to New Orleans for the funeral on Tuesday, where teammates can share their final moments and lay Henry to rest.
Heavy burdens existed in a significant game, but the Bengals goal was to win. All that matters is each of them played with a heavy heart, which describes a winner. Winners remember a fallen teammate in any given situation. Winners pay tribute to a teammate who dies.
Ochocinco handled it with grace and character, while managing to produce effectively. During the game, there were somber moments, but he finished with three receptions for 70-yards and a touchdown, and had a 26-yard run.
At 9-5, the Bengals are still the AFC North leaders. By controlling their destiny, they can signify great things within the division, and stun us in the postseason with all the intangibles and unity. Riding off the inspiration of Henry puts the Bengals in contention. There’s nothing wrong in jumping to assumptions of insightful star power and motivation, when a team’s state of mind is affected by the lost of a close friend or teammate.
For those keeping track, Cincinnati hasn’t had much playoff fortune. The team is en route to only its second playoff appearance in 19 years. Maybe the Bengals can persist in their superlative year, with the inspiration of Ochocinco sharing and refreshing teammates of memorable times.
Sure, he may have something missing up stairs, with a last name as a number. But he’s the inspirational face of the franchise.
Thanks to No. 85, spirit is contagious.
In a moment of grief, Chad Ochocinco’s solace was to pay tribute to the late Chris Henry. It was a time the Cincinnati Bengals played with heavy hearts, but there was no one with a heavier heart than Ochocinco. At the time, reality set in, the entire team mourned the loss of Henry.
Earlier in the week, Ochocinco promised to wear the No. 15 jersey to honor his friend, but reevaluated and had class for the league’s wishes. If he wore the No. 15 jersey, the league would have slapped him with a fine, even though the Players Association announced it would reimburse him. But he had tremendous respect and remembered his teammate in a mature fashion.
There was no showboating in the end zone, such as river dancing, camera shooting, or the mustard jacket fitting act. It was done politely at Qualcomm Stadium, where he mourned the death of Henry in a different way than his teammates.
Prior to emerging from the visitors’ tunnel, Ochocinco was discovered teary-eyed trying to soothe and mitigate pain in the aftermath of a freak accident that cut Henry’s life short. Sad thing is, he had turned his life around and mellowed into an inspirational player, symbolizing the Bengals’ organization. Scary thing is, he was only 26-years old and started to elude the criminal lifestyle. But more senseless is, he left behind three children and his fiancée, Loleini Tonga.
Any time there is a death in the workplace, someone will grieve. Much of the week, Ochocinco has been the emotional one, reflecting on the situation more deeply than his teammates. He spent countless minutes in front of Henry’s locker, and he mourned and dripped tears on Thursday. By game time, he couldn’t control his emotions and had a similar mood against the Chargers on Sunday.
It’s obvious if he were able to pay a bigger tribute, he would have, but a lesser expose honoring Henry was handled well. Before using poor judgment, Ochocinco pondered on whether it was appropriate to wear his jersey. Not only was he thinking about his teammates, but Henry as well. Most of all, he wasn’t planning to wear his jersey for attention, but to dedicate the moment to a good friend he’ll truly miss.
Throughout his career, Ochocinco has been involved in a ruckus with the media. Given the history, he’d created a distraction in Sunday’s game. But instead he was selfless to honor the death of a player in a way he could please himself without disrupting the team or putting on a huge act. Even better is, he hung the No. 15 jersey in a locker stall. There was an empty locker, and had a 15 nameplate above the stall to represent the late Henry.
For a while, the Bengals will need time to recover from a devastating tragedy, which ended badly and created raw emotions. In what seems surreal is happening before our very eyes every day. And unfortunately, Henry fell out of a moving pickup truck driven by his fiancée last Wednesday in what police believed the incident was a domestic dispute. But seeing a man turn his life around, without having a chance to redeem a notorious background is unfortunate.
Ochocinco is devastated, agonized of the tragic death. He’s mourning the death of a friend, realizing he’s gone eternally. This is a downcast period for the Bengals, not only losing 27-24 against San Diego, but having to bury a friend and teammate. As a team, the Bengals will travel to New Orleans for the funeral on Tuesday, where teammates can share their final moments and lay Henry to rest.
Heavy burdens existed in a significant game, but the Bengals goal was to win. All that matters is each of them played with a heavy heart, which describes a winner. Winners remember a fallen teammate in any given situation. Winners pay tribute to a teammate who dies.
Ochocinco handled it with grace and character, while managing to produce effectively. During the game, there were somber moments, but he finished with three receptions for 70-yards and a touchdown, and had a 26-yard run.
At 9-5, the Bengals are still the AFC North leaders. By controlling their destiny, they can signify great things within the division, and stun us in the postseason with all the intangibles and unity. Riding off the inspiration of Henry puts the Bengals in contention. There’s nothing wrong in jumping to assumptions of insightful star power and motivation, when a team’s state of mind is affected by the lost of a close friend or teammate.
For those keeping track, Cincinnati hasn’t had much playoff fortune. The team is en route to only its second playoff appearance in 19 years. Maybe the Bengals can persist in their superlative year, with the inspiration of Ochocinco sharing and refreshing teammates of memorable times.
Sure, he may have something missing up stairs, with a last name as a number. But he’s the inspirational face of the franchise.
Thanks to No. 85, spirit is contagious.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Colts Arrival On Miami's Block is More Imperative Than Historic Plateau
Anyone can debate whether now is a good time to rest players, and ignore a historic plateau.
And somewhere today, the arrogance of the ’72 Miami Dolphins has awakened.
By the time the Thursday night game finished, the Indianapolis Colts arrived inches closer of shattering a seemingly unbreakable record.
What seems untouchable is capable of being broken, but should be the least priority for the Colts. It’s obvious they’re focused on perfection, not arriving at Mercury Morris’ block for the Super Bowl.
For all it symbolizes, the Colts are jeopardizing health, putting the franchise at risk.
At 14-0, why is a franchise in pursuit of the improbable, unthinkable finish of the ages, prompting an arrogant Morris to scream and utter sarcastic remarks?
Why is a franchise trying desperately to reach a pinnacle, with historic deeds of all-time in sports history?
The least of their worries is a glorious achievement—particularly if dancing in Miami and winning a Super Bowl title is imperative for illustrating a memorable season.
Being on the brink of self-destruction when it matters the most could deprive an arrival onto the national stage, which distinguishes a heartbreaking moment. And when there’s a rookie coach in the picture having an impressive season, losing late can hurt Tony Dungy’s successor Jim Caldwell.
Good teams are bound to falter, but realistically, it seems the Colts won’t lose this season. They are unbeaten and armed with tremendous weapons to rise to a climax.
Meanwhile, greediness of attaining glory can doom a promising season. Pursuing the unprecedented plateau of all-time isn’t everything.
When a dream suddenly looms and you’ve already clinched home-field advantage, and earned a top-seeded playoff berth, the ultimate trip to Miami is a priority.
It would be nice surpassing an incredible mark in all of sports, but it’s unpleasant if key players suffer vital injuries and are unable to contribute.
But it’s good to know, the Colts are on the verge of winning their second Super Bowl title, knowing its reputation for moving from Baltimore to Indianapolis overnight without informing the fans. Besides, owner Jim Irsay has developed a contiguous bond in Indianapolis as fans appreciate the much-respected franchise.
This is a team with guts. This is a team with enough heart to seek history. But what matters the most is, using Herm Edwards' words, is playing to win the game, not to prosper historically.
As it stands, the Colts are the hottest team in the league, improving its record to a perfect 14-0 with two games remaining.
Allowing Indianapolis to attempt NFL’s unthinkable, can provoke a freak accident in the upcoming weeks as an essential star is vulnerable of a devastating blow.
In a contest that wrote a highly intense and dramatic finish lasting until the final minutes of Thursday night, the Colts held collective breaths, nervous of a near-loss hurting the journey to perfection.
They almost lost their first game of the season, stumbling in a back-and-forth, turn of events fray that had nine lead changes.
What was Caldwell thinking to use the starters, not only in the first-half, but the second-half, too?
The least he could have done was allowed the monstrous defensive ends, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, to play until halftime, and remove them in the second-half.
It is time to rest each superstar, ensuring all the primary weapons on the roster are robust and energized when the playoffs arrive.
From the look of their body languages, the Colts defensively are fatigued and need rest to fully recharge for a successive journey. Judging by the motions, you could say the calendar reads February, not mid-December—a month when the Dallas Cowboys are doomed, you sing Christmas carols, deck the halls with decorations and drink egg nog.
But most gamblers predicted the Colts were favorites to pummel the Jacksonville Jaguars.
It wasn’t a pushover victory, nor were the Jaguars intimidated of the Colts’ solidity to dominate and own spotlight for a 23-game win streak—one of the longest streaks in major sporting history.
Let’s come to an understanding, Peyton Manning has 14 wins, has yet to lose and is favorite to win his fourth MVP award.
You’re accustomed to seeing a vintage Manning shatter some of the greatest records of all-time, solidifying a spot within the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. But surely the least worry is individual marks, when the Super Bowl remains his next desire.
Even though Manning had a flawless outing and threw four touchdowns for 308 yards, he should have sat the second-half to prevent the possibilty of a severe injury. By resting in the late quarters, it could have harmed an impeccable journey of managing to hold on to an undefeated season.
As a result, the Colts would not have salvaged a high-scoring 35-31 win on a tense and threatening night in Jacksonville.
I don’t believe a breathtaking finish was possible, if Manning sat on the bench staring at the second unit.
He connected with top receiver and primary target, Reggie Wayne for a 65-yard touchdown. That pretty much clinched the win, extending the Colts’ stupendous win streak to 23 consecutive regular-season wins, a large achievement, becoming the third-longest streak in American sports.
My favorites to win the Super Bowl are the Colts. There’s a fearful notion someone is vulnerable of getting banged up, but Caldwell is encouraging his players to venture, not even thinking of the negatives.
What about the fans?
Well, I’d speculate it’s normal to have the jitters each week, worried of the welfare of a player’s health. There are only two games left, and now is good timing to sit it out. The more rest, the more a promising goal is probable. And to master a Super Bowl, all eleven strong must have healthy limbs, bones and painless muscles to contend.
Later in the postseason, the Colts may actually need the heroics of tight end, Dallas Clark, who scored twice.
On the bench, they were anything but unflappable. Manning nervously watched, with a towel in his month to calm nerves. Same went for Clark, who stared tensed as an incredible milestone nearly impaired.
Jacob Lacey, the Colts cornerback, happened to be in the right place at the right time taking away the ball from Jacksonville.
Otherwise, the Jaguars shattering the hearts of the Colts was the story of the year, particularly when David Garrard was on target much of the night in the passing category, and Maurice Jones-Drew caused damage on the ground and rushed for an amazing 110 yards.
Thus far, the Colts met their biggest challenge, but somehow had enough adrenaline to pull it off as the ideal pursuit remains intact.
Maybe playing in the first-half is logical to avoid rust, but returning to the field in the second-half brings on troubling aspects. But health is critical for the playoffs, rather than an extraordinary milestone that’s meaningless if the Colts collapse, attempting to win on the biggest stage.
I’m sure the Colts prefer to dance on Mercury’s block, rather than surpassing the ’72Dolphins.
And somewhere today, the arrogance of the ’72 Miami Dolphins has awakened.
By the time the Thursday night game finished, the Indianapolis Colts arrived inches closer of shattering a seemingly unbreakable record.
What seems untouchable is capable of being broken, but should be the least priority for the Colts. It’s obvious they’re focused on perfection, not arriving at Mercury Morris’ block for the Super Bowl.
For all it symbolizes, the Colts are jeopardizing health, putting the franchise at risk.
At 14-0, why is a franchise in pursuit of the improbable, unthinkable finish of the ages, prompting an arrogant Morris to scream and utter sarcastic remarks?
Why is a franchise trying desperately to reach a pinnacle, with historic deeds of all-time in sports history?
The least of their worries is a glorious achievement—particularly if dancing in Miami and winning a Super Bowl title is imperative for illustrating a memorable season.
Being on the brink of self-destruction when it matters the most could deprive an arrival onto the national stage, which distinguishes a heartbreaking moment. And when there’s a rookie coach in the picture having an impressive season, losing late can hurt Tony Dungy’s successor Jim Caldwell.
Good teams are bound to falter, but realistically, it seems the Colts won’t lose this season. They are unbeaten and armed with tremendous weapons to rise to a climax.
Meanwhile, greediness of attaining glory can doom a promising season. Pursuing the unprecedented plateau of all-time isn’t everything.
When a dream suddenly looms and you’ve already clinched home-field advantage, and earned a top-seeded playoff berth, the ultimate trip to Miami is a priority.
It would be nice surpassing an incredible mark in all of sports, but it’s unpleasant if key players suffer vital injuries and are unable to contribute.
But it’s good to know, the Colts are on the verge of winning their second Super Bowl title, knowing its reputation for moving from Baltimore to Indianapolis overnight without informing the fans. Besides, owner Jim Irsay has developed a contiguous bond in Indianapolis as fans appreciate the much-respected franchise.
This is a team with guts. This is a team with enough heart to seek history. But what matters the most is, using Herm Edwards' words, is playing to win the game, not to prosper historically.
As it stands, the Colts are the hottest team in the league, improving its record to a perfect 14-0 with two games remaining.
Allowing Indianapolis to attempt NFL’s unthinkable, can provoke a freak accident in the upcoming weeks as an essential star is vulnerable of a devastating blow.
In a contest that wrote a highly intense and dramatic finish lasting until the final minutes of Thursday night, the Colts held collective breaths, nervous of a near-loss hurting the journey to perfection.
They almost lost their first game of the season, stumbling in a back-and-forth, turn of events fray that had nine lead changes.
What was Caldwell thinking to use the starters, not only in the first-half, but the second-half, too?
The least he could have done was allowed the monstrous defensive ends, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, to play until halftime, and remove them in the second-half.
It is time to rest each superstar, ensuring all the primary weapons on the roster are robust and energized when the playoffs arrive.
From the look of their body languages, the Colts defensively are fatigued and need rest to fully recharge for a successive journey. Judging by the motions, you could say the calendar reads February, not mid-December—a month when the Dallas Cowboys are doomed, you sing Christmas carols, deck the halls with decorations and drink egg nog.
But most gamblers predicted the Colts were favorites to pummel the Jacksonville Jaguars.
It wasn’t a pushover victory, nor were the Jaguars intimidated of the Colts’ solidity to dominate and own spotlight for a 23-game win streak—one of the longest streaks in major sporting history.
Let’s come to an understanding, Peyton Manning has 14 wins, has yet to lose and is favorite to win his fourth MVP award.
You’re accustomed to seeing a vintage Manning shatter some of the greatest records of all-time, solidifying a spot within the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. But surely the least worry is individual marks, when the Super Bowl remains his next desire.
Even though Manning had a flawless outing and threw four touchdowns for 308 yards, he should have sat the second-half to prevent the possibilty of a severe injury. By resting in the late quarters, it could have harmed an impeccable journey of managing to hold on to an undefeated season.
As a result, the Colts would not have salvaged a high-scoring 35-31 win on a tense and threatening night in Jacksonville.
I don’t believe a breathtaking finish was possible, if Manning sat on the bench staring at the second unit.
He connected with top receiver and primary target, Reggie Wayne for a 65-yard touchdown. That pretty much clinched the win, extending the Colts’ stupendous win streak to 23 consecutive regular-season wins, a large achievement, becoming the third-longest streak in American sports.
My favorites to win the Super Bowl are the Colts. There’s a fearful notion someone is vulnerable of getting banged up, but Caldwell is encouraging his players to venture, not even thinking of the negatives.
What about the fans?
Well, I’d speculate it’s normal to have the jitters each week, worried of the welfare of a player’s health. There are only two games left, and now is good timing to sit it out. The more rest, the more a promising goal is probable. And to master a Super Bowl, all eleven strong must have healthy limbs, bones and painless muscles to contend.
Later in the postseason, the Colts may actually need the heroics of tight end, Dallas Clark, who scored twice.
On the bench, they were anything but unflappable. Manning nervously watched, with a towel in his month to calm nerves. Same went for Clark, who stared tensed as an incredible milestone nearly impaired.
Jacob Lacey, the Colts cornerback, happened to be in the right place at the right time taking away the ball from Jacksonville.
Otherwise, the Jaguars shattering the hearts of the Colts was the story of the year, particularly when David Garrard was on target much of the night in the passing category, and Maurice Jones-Drew caused damage on the ground and rushed for an amazing 110 yards.
Thus far, the Colts met their biggest challenge, but somehow had enough adrenaline to pull it off as the ideal pursuit remains intact.
Maybe playing in the first-half is logical to avoid rust, but returning to the field in the second-half brings on troubling aspects. But health is critical for the playoffs, rather than an extraordinary milestone that’s meaningless if the Colts collapse, attempting to win on the biggest stage.
I’m sure the Colts prefer to dance on Mercury’s block, rather than surpassing the ’72Dolphins.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Patriots Can't Just Send Them Home, Belichick Step Up as Leader
The irony, whether if this decade portrays a dynasty or asterisk is, the New England Patriots have shifted directions. Instead of chasing another Lombardi Trophy, the franchise accused of Sypgate, is deteriorating and is unbalanced. For almost a full decade, the Patriots were referred to as a sleaze in professional sports, committing a stupid act. The Pats were classified as disloyal con artist, without trusting in integrity.
They didn’t have enough aplomb to dominate at will in most perspectives. But even if the three-time Super Bowl champs won their titles purely, controversy very seldom reduces when issues affects the Patriots. Most of the drama comes from the unbearable scandal of Spygate, especially for the masses that dislikes a team for its deceptive spying. Whether it’s legit or a fraud, as usual, the Patriots created a ruckus, not regarding to cheating, but leadership woes.
For much of the season a lack of chemistry has created problems as the Patriots try returning to a championship caliber franchise. Years ago, under the craftiness of Bill Belichick, New England emerged into a vital threat and accumulated titles, in which it’s fair acknowledging he’s a genius after becoming an expertise at assembling a franchise. Granted, the clever-minded Belichick established a successful and dimensional franchise with high-minded knowledge of the game, such as selecting wisely in the NFL Draft and finding the pieces to fit within a branch of talented players.
But, unfortunately, their Super Bowl titles are tainted. Problem is now, there’s no structure or leadership after most of the Patriots inspirational leaders either retired or were sent elsewhere in a trade. So now, a typical fan is screaming and crying, witnessing unfamiliarity as rebuilding is currently taking a stance. From precedence to mediocrity, the Patriots are retooling. Because of its youth, they’re not as lethal or intimidating.
However, youth isn’t the only problem or the rebuilding stage. Instead of faulting the lack of leadership among the veterans, fault Belichick for the absence of inspirational structure. The Patriots are in an awkward position, and Belichick hasn’t stepped up to encourage his players.
Still, New England controls its own fate within the AFC East and will come away with the division.
But there’s no margin for error, no time for disruptions. When it seemed nothing could interfere with the Patriots of making a bold statement and aggressive drive to the Super Bowl, a transition and Belichick’s disciplinary actions and fourth-down blunder were signs of innovation.
Just when it seemed the minor problems have come and gone, worse problems hatched for the Patriots. Of late, much confusion has created trouble. And since Belichick’s fourth down miscue, New England hasn’t been the same with its approach, losing confidence and aspiration. And now, that brings us to the criticism of wide receiver Randy Moss, bashed for quitting on the Patriots in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.
Frustrated with all the mediocrity, lack of receptions, and loses, Moss quit on his teammates. Known for insubordination, Moss’ attitude and demeanor can divide and inhibit the Patriots of gelling as a robust team. According to reports, Moss was one of the four players sent home for arriving late to a meeting Wednesday because of snow.
Adalius Thomas had a message sent when Belichick sent home the linebacker, irritable after he was banished from attending the meeting. That’s not all, when he was punished harsher on Sunday as Belichick played the role of a principal and not a coach, benching Thomas in a critical game against the Panthers.
Yes, Belichick knows what it takes to play consistent in a 16-game season, leading the Brady Bunch to an unbeaten season two years ago. But at the time, the Patriots were elite and had the pedigree to symbolize a championship caliber team. Eventually, a team no matter what sport, experiences a rebuilding age when eminence shortens, unknown of capabilities.
What we must come to realize is the Patriots are reconstructing. What we must come to realize it’s a young and inexperience team, and still is maturing into an average contender. What we must come to realize, Belichick needs to be the leader of a disoriented team. Anyone is inspired if there’s motivation and leadership, rather than sending five players home for tardiness as a way of issuing a statement.
Considering the loss of Tedy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Corey Dillon, Mike Vrabel and Asante Samuel, the Patriots are starting at the bottom by replacing a veteran core with a young core. It’s the beginning of a new era, and no one is emerging into an inspirational adviser or difference maker in a substandard defense.
Teams wills are tested on the road, confirming if they’re a legitimate team or not. A team, which preserves victories on the road, inherits credit and is characterized as a contender. The Patriots, unfortunately, has yet followed road values. The inability to win on the road is persuading us to believe there isn’t enough in the tank. The lack of experience and leadership influences us to believe there isn’t enough encouragement.
With a 1-5 record on the road, is an unfamiliar scenario for the Patriots. The last time New England lost five road games in a single season was in 2000, Belichick’s first year when the team finished 5-11 at the bottom. Today, most probably wonder if Belichick regrets trading defensive end Richard Seymour, a monstrous force dealt to Oakland for a 2011 first-round draft pick. Today, most probably wonder if Moss has surrendered on the Patriots, dispirited of explosive receiver and teammate Wes Welker’s productivity.
He has ability to cut across the middle and catch passes to showboat excellent speed. And Welker has missed only one start this season, and has a staggering 105 catches for 1,158 yards. Being a non-factor within the Patriots’ offense is frustrating for Moss, especially when Welker was targeted 36 times in the last three games.
Moss had a catch for 16 yards in Sunday’s 20-10 win, but was criticized for fumbling, dropping a ball on a critical play and committing a false start. However, the folks are more concern with Brady’s interception in the first-half, which cost the Patriots when Moss was drilled of not completing a route that seemed well-executed if he had connected.
Whether he quit or not, Chris Gamble, certainly thinks so when he told the Boston Globe “we knew Moss was going to shut it down. That’s what we wanted him to do. That’s what we did…He’d just give up a lot. Slow down, he’s not going deep, not trying to run a route. You can tell, his body language.”
But, of course, Tom Brady, a prolific quarterback known for his desperation victories and clutch finishes has thrown 11 interceptions, eight of his picked off passes were intended for Moss. Nonetheless, he defended his receiver and also blasted at Carolina defensive back.
“When guys play Randy, they want to show everyone what they can do. I guess they came out of the game pretty confident. Randy is one of the best players in the history of the NFL,” said Brady. “When it doesn’t go perfect out there, everyone wants to jump on Randy. It’s all of us, and we all have to do a better job.”
Well said. And it starts with Belichick’s mental state of inspiriting a young core. The man wearing the blue hoodie is responsible for huddling up his team and demanding a sense of urgency. As many times as Brady has led the Patriots in pivotal situations, there’s no excuse for falling poorly. And as many times as Belichick has utilized artistic tactics, it’s hard dismissing the Patriots from playoff contention.
Still, lack of talent and leadership might hurt at the end, unless Belichick changes the approach.
They didn’t have enough aplomb to dominate at will in most perspectives. But even if the three-time Super Bowl champs won their titles purely, controversy very seldom reduces when issues affects the Patriots. Most of the drama comes from the unbearable scandal of Spygate, especially for the masses that dislikes a team for its deceptive spying. Whether it’s legit or a fraud, as usual, the Patriots created a ruckus, not regarding to cheating, but leadership woes.
For much of the season a lack of chemistry has created problems as the Patriots try returning to a championship caliber franchise. Years ago, under the craftiness of Bill Belichick, New England emerged into a vital threat and accumulated titles, in which it’s fair acknowledging he’s a genius after becoming an expertise at assembling a franchise. Granted, the clever-minded Belichick established a successful and dimensional franchise with high-minded knowledge of the game, such as selecting wisely in the NFL Draft and finding the pieces to fit within a branch of talented players.
But, unfortunately, their Super Bowl titles are tainted. Problem is now, there’s no structure or leadership after most of the Patriots inspirational leaders either retired or were sent elsewhere in a trade. So now, a typical fan is screaming and crying, witnessing unfamiliarity as rebuilding is currently taking a stance. From precedence to mediocrity, the Patriots are retooling. Because of its youth, they’re not as lethal or intimidating.
However, youth isn’t the only problem or the rebuilding stage. Instead of faulting the lack of leadership among the veterans, fault Belichick for the absence of inspirational structure. The Patriots are in an awkward position, and Belichick hasn’t stepped up to encourage his players.
Still, New England controls its own fate within the AFC East and will come away with the division.
But there’s no margin for error, no time for disruptions. When it seemed nothing could interfere with the Patriots of making a bold statement and aggressive drive to the Super Bowl, a transition and Belichick’s disciplinary actions and fourth-down blunder were signs of innovation.
Just when it seemed the minor problems have come and gone, worse problems hatched for the Patriots. Of late, much confusion has created trouble. And since Belichick’s fourth down miscue, New England hasn’t been the same with its approach, losing confidence and aspiration. And now, that brings us to the criticism of wide receiver Randy Moss, bashed for quitting on the Patriots in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.
Frustrated with all the mediocrity, lack of receptions, and loses, Moss quit on his teammates. Known for insubordination, Moss’ attitude and demeanor can divide and inhibit the Patriots of gelling as a robust team. According to reports, Moss was one of the four players sent home for arriving late to a meeting Wednesday because of snow.
Adalius Thomas had a message sent when Belichick sent home the linebacker, irritable after he was banished from attending the meeting. That’s not all, when he was punished harsher on Sunday as Belichick played the role of a principal and not a coach, benching Thomas in a critical game against the Panthers.
Yes, Belichick knows what it takes to play consistent in a 16-game season, leading the Brady Bunch to an unbeaten season two years ago. But at the time, the Patriots were elite and had the pedigree to symbolize a championship caliber team. Eventually, a team no matter what sport, experiences a rebuilding age when eminence shortens, unknown of capabilities.
What we must come to realize is the Patriots are reconstructing. What we must come to realize it’s a young and inexperience team, and still is maturing into an average contender. What we must come to realize, Belichick needs to be the leader of a disoriented team. Anyone is inspired if there’s motivation and leadership, rather than sending five players home for tardiness as a way of issuing a statement.
Considering the loss of Tedy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Corey Dillon, Mike Vrabel and Asante Samuel, the Patriots are starting at the bottom by replacing a veteran core with a young core. It’s the beginning of a new era, and no one is emerging into an inspirational adviser or difference maker in a substandard defense.
Teams wills are tested on the road, confirming if they’re a legitimate team or not. A team, which preserves victories on the road, inherits credit and is characterized as a contender. The Patriots, unfortunately, has yet followed road values. The inability to win on the road is persuading us to believe there isn’t enough in the tank. The lack of experience and leadership influences us to believe there isn’t enough encouragement.
With a 1-5 record on the road, is an unfamiliar scenario for the Patriots. The last time New England lost five road games in a single season was in 2000, Belichick’s first year when the team finished 5-11 at the bottom. Today, most probably wonder if Belichick regrets trading defensive end Richard Seymour, a monstrous force dealt to Oakland for a 2011 first-round draft pick. Today, most probably wonder if Moss has surrendered on the Patriots, dispirited of explosive receiver and teammate Wes Welker’s productivity.
He has ability to cut across the middle and catch passes to showboat excellent speed. And Welker has missed only one start this season, and has a staggering 105 catches for 1,158 yards. Being a non-factor within the Patriots’ offense is frustrating for Moss, especially when Welker was targeted 36 times in the last three games.
Moss had a catch for 16 yards in Sunday’s 20-10 win, but was criticized for fumbling, dropping a ball on a critical play and committing a false start. However, the folks are more concern with Brady’s interception in the first-half, which cost the Patriots when Moss was drilled of not completing a route that seemed well-executed if he had connected.
Whether he quit or not, Chris Gamble, certainly thinks so when he told the Boston Globe “we knew Moss was going to shut it down. That’s what we wanted him to do. That’s what we did…He’d just give up a lot. Slow down, he’s not going deep, not trying to run a route. You can tell, his body language.”
But, of course, Tom Brady, a prolific quarterback known for his desperation victories and clutch finishes has thrown 11 interceptions, eight of his picked off passes were intended for Moss. Nonetheless, he defended his receiver and also blasted at Carolina defensive back.
“When guys play Randy, they want to show everyone what they can do. I guess they came out of the game pretty confident. Randy is one of the best players in the history of the NFL,” said Brady. “When it doesn’t go perfect out there, everyone wants to jump on Randy. It’s all of us, and we all have to do a better job.”
Well said. And it starts with Belichick’s mental state of inspiriting a young core. The man wearing the blue hoodie is responsible for huddling up his team and demanding a sense of urgency. As many times as Brady has led the Patriots in pivotal situations, there’s no excuse for falling poorly. And as many times as Belichick has utilized artistic tactics, it’s hard dismissing the Patriots from playoff contention.
Still, lack of talent and leadership might hurt at the end, unless Belichick changes the approach.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Mike Lowell Trade: What About Dusty Brown?
This week, the Red Sox have been in talks that will send Mike Lowell to the Texas Rangers for minor league catcher Max Ramirez.
This trade has raised many questions. One being, will Max Ramirez now be the third catcher in the Red Sox organization in front of Dusty Brown and Mark Wagner?
If Ramirez is the third catcher, it would upset me, as a Red Sox fan, due to the fact that Dusty Brown will most likely not get playing time.
Brown was originally selected in the 35th round of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Red Sox and has frequently been on the Red Sox's spring training team, but had not played in the majors until the 2009 season. Brown was called up on June 21, but was then sent back down to Triple-A two days after.
During the season, Brown actually pitched for the Red Sox in a blowout against the Blue Jays. Brown became the first catcher to ever pitch for the Red Sox.
In an October 3rd game against the Indians, Brown hit in his first ever major league at bat.
Though Brown only had a small number of at bats, he batted .333 this year.
Which brings me to my point, Dusty Brown looks like he could be a solid replacement for Jason Varitek upon his retirement and the Sox already have Mark Wagner in the minors. Why would Theo Epstein make this deal?
This deal makes no sense to myself and many other Red Sox fans. All I can hope, is that Brown gets a shot to play this year, and that trading Mike Lowell won't hurt the team in 2010.
This trade has raised many questions. One being, will Max Ramirez now be the third catcher in the Red Sox organization in front of Dusty Brown and Mark Wagner?
If Ramirez is the third catcher, it would upset me, as a Red Sox fan, due to the fact that Dusty Brown will most likely not get playing time.
Brown was originally selected in the 35th round of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Red Sox and has frequently been on the Red Sox's spring training team, but had not played in the majors until the 2009 season. Brown was called up on June 21, but was then sent back down to Triple-A two days after.
During the season, Brown actually pitched for the Red Sox in a blowout against the Blue Jays. Brown became the first catcher to ever pitch for the Red Sox.
In an October 3rd game against the Indians, Brown hit in his first ever major league at bat.
Though Brown only had a small number of at bats, he batted .333 this year.
Which brings me to my point, Dusty Brown looks like he could be a solid replacement for Jason Varitek upon his retirement and the Sox already have Mark Wagner in the minors. Why would Theo Epstein make this deal?
This deal makes no sense to myself and many other Red Sox fans. All I can hope, is that Brown gets a shot to play this year, and that trading Mike Lowell won't hurt the team in 2010.
Tiger Woods Must Return to Solidify Legacy, Escape Scandal
Well, he refused to give us an explanation for what has turned into the biggest sporting scandal. Believe it or not, Tiger Woods doesn’t owe the world an explanation, even though he’s the world’s greatest athlete or greatest role model.
Weeks removed from revelations of a befuddling storm, led us to view Woods as a deceitful and infamous sleaze. Before committing transgressions, he was perceived as arguably the spotless paragon and beyond wrongdoing.
But he’s the epitome of human error, making front page headlines for an alleged marital affair. Drastically, we as curious citizens invaded his privacy, pursuing answers for slamming into a fire hydrant and a neighbor’s tree. Assuming the storyline was conclusive when we tried solving the missing pieces, maybe we were right. Maybe we were accurate, speculating he was chased out of his gated community home for pissing off his old lady.
Maybe he wrecked the Cadillac, attempting to escape his wife and backed out of his driveway and suffered lacerations to his lips in the accident he caused. Add the fact his incident labeled him as the biggest tragicomedy in sports in the past weeks.
For all the ongoing scrutiny and embarrassment of his mistress selling a voice message for six figures, urged Woods to announce Friday night on his website, of course, that he’s taking an indefinite leave. It’s the first time in his lifetime, I’m sure.
For once, he has chosen to leave behind his livelihood. This seems like a cowardly ploy, rebuffing to return to the golf course and play a much-strategized sport. After all, now is a bad timing to run away from the insane circus of media outlets and critics.
But now isn’t the time to decamp from a profession, where he has constituted a modest image. Suddenly, his image has turned into an infamous reputation, crippling the way some perceive him.
Of course, critics are ridiculing Woods, uninterested of his dominance and historic deeds on the greenery, while some are still advocates. But to avoid further insanity of a devastating scandal, Woods cannot be reluctant of digesting the long-lasting saga or negative publicity.
If he’s insisting on privacy, he’ll deliberate on hightailing so quickly. If he’s looking for euphoria, he’ll participate in all upcoming events. If he wants to solidify his legacy, he’ll try his pursuit of surpassing Jack Nicklaus’ 18 major championships all-time record.
No miraculous milestone matters, when tantalized by paparazzi that invaded space to snap photo shots, or when 13 TV satellite trucks waited in front of the hospital for information on the world’s famous golfer and driver of the SUV when Tiger’s mother-in-law was rushed to the hospital. Whatever the issues relates to, the media isn’t leaving the scene or putting the story to rest.
So now, Woods is running away from the tabloids, exhausted of the uncommon bedlam and weary of critics. It’s practical to realize his legacy and image is irreparable, if he’s not willing to play.
Even if he owns 14 major titles, his no-show forms defective matters and blemishes his credibility more. If he’s willing to remorse infidelity, he’d man-up and cope with his erroneous blunder, removing a hideous scandal that has lasted for the past two weeks.
Playing a game he truly admires, relieves stress and makes those angry forgive Woods of his transgressions. Rather than showing his face in the public, he’s avoiding the media and fans in the galleries, ashamed his name is involved in a scandal.
Well, he brought it on himself, committing marital affairs against his wife, Elin. She may never accept Tiger back. If so, he isn’t focus on securing a faltering marriage or a damaged reputation. His lame explanation is to escape all the turmoil he has yet adapted to, used to the worshiping of fans and media.
But that’s when he was the cleanest man in sports, known for running a learning center for children, known for luring in consumer’s to purchase his drink, video game, and shaving razor. Woods game might not survive, unless he plays.
Keep in mind, his sponsorships will stay in contact, where much of his salary is produced bringing home $100 million annually. Still, he could be trying to save his marriage and raise his young children to be humbled and bright.
Instead of winning another green jacket at the Masters, he’s ashamed to look at the public after being labeled as a serial cheater. And earlier this week, a tabloid said he was “suicidal.” Could it be he doesn’t want to deal with public humiliation? Or could it be he’s not comfortable of strangers penetrating into his private life?
For Woods, it’s both issues. After behaving in such a mature and polite way, it’s rational to assume he tries earning back respect. Imagine golf without Tiger stroking masterful shots off the fairways. It won’t be long before golf becomes a dull sport. The average citizen looks forward to his return, magnetized to his dominance and matchless effort to play as the greatest.
Had it not been for his alleged affair with a cocktail waitress, Woods absences would be the least worry. What made golf was the presence of Tiger. From his commercial appearances to epic performances, he has just about done everything correct satisfying the average sports fan, until he had alleged affairs that changed his life drastically.
His personality will never be perceived the same, in which a scandal has unveiled a horrific side of Tiger. As it stood, he was sitting above the world. He was the imitable icon we couldn’t help but to love, not only for his impact in golf, but for his chartable work and warmhearted donations to assist those in distress.
Blinded by the devastating allegations, some lost all respect. But common sense tells us Tiger is better off returning to reduce some of the anger and bitterness. Instead, he chose otherwise.
“I’d like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding,” Woods wrote.
“What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing. After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf. I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person.”
He didn’t owe us an explanation, but taking a hiatus ruptures the game of golf. More so, it hurts Tiger’s legacy, refusing to clean up the toxic waste he spilled. We can only hope, Woods will again pump his fist and dominate the game like no other. We can only hope for an epic classic, where he captivates us with a 91-hole sudden death like a few years ago in the U.S. Open, against long-time friend and competitor Rocco Mediate.
But a man of guilt is bound to isolate himself, embarrassed of wrongdoings and pressure of critics. If he wasn’t vague and had press conferences, most heated criticism would’ve receded as media outlets mind their own business finding something else to dwell on.
Although he made it worst on himself for staying mum and providing less detail, from his preference, he had a right to protect his privacy. It wasn’t our business until the alleged mistress gave her side of the story and accused Woods of having sex with her more than 30 times.
As most feel hoodwinked, lied to and cheated, he is avoiding further drama. Understand he wasn’t the only athlete publicly humiliated. This decade has been classified as the biggest era of scandals. Seems the greatest athletes get caught in an unlawful predicament for foolish activity with troubled women or either drug use.
A few years ago, Kobe Bryant was disliked for alleged rape charges, which were suddenly dismissed. What erased a heinous background was the performance level he brought to the hardwood, reshaping popularity as he dominated basketball at an all-time high.
He is, the greatest swimmer of all-time, owning the most gold medals in Olympic history and still is after returning to the swimming pool. That is, Michael Phelps, the swimmer, who months ago was caught on a photo sucking from a water bong. Suddenly the story disappeared from tabloids, highlighted by his shear milestone at the U.S. Championship event.
Trust me, Tiger can rekindle his image, but can’t take the cowardly way out.
Now, is the time Tiger must face the world.
Weeks removed from revelations of a befuddling storm, led us to view Woods as a deceitful and infamous sleaze. Before committing transgressions, he was perceived as arguably the spotless paragon and beyond wrongdoing.
But he’s the epitome of human error, making front page headlines for an alleged marital affair. Drastically, we as curious citizens invaded his privacy, pursuing answers for slamming into a fire hydrant and a neighbor’s tree. Assuming the storyline was conclusive when we tried solving the missing pieces, maybe we were right. Maybe we were accurate, speculating he was chased out of his gated community home for pissing off his old lady.
Maybe he wrecked the Cadillac, attempting to escape his wife and backed out of his driveway and suffered lacerations to his lips in the accident he caused. Add the fact his incident labeled him as the biggest tragicomedy in sports in the past weeks.
For all the ongoing scrutiny and embarrassment of his mistress selling a voice message for six figures, urged Woods to announce Friday night on his website, of course, that he’s taking an indefinite leave. It’s the first time in his lifetime, I’m sure.
For once, he has chosen to leave behind his livelihood. This seems like a cowardly ploy, rebuffing to return to the golf course and play a much-strategized sport. After all, now is a bad timing to run away from the insane circus of media outlets and critics.
But now isn’t the time to decamp from a profession, where he has constituted a modest image. Suddenly, his image has turned into an infamous reputation, crippling the way some perceive him.
Of course, critics are ridiculing Woods, uninterested of his dominance and historic deeds on the greenery, while some are still advocates. But to avoid further insanity of a devastating scandal, Woods cannot be reluctant of digesting the long-lasting saga or negative publicity.
If he’s insisting on privacy, he’ll deliberate on hightailing so quickly. If he’s looking for euphoria, he’ll participate in all upcoming events. If he wants to solidify his legacy, he’ll try his pursuit of surpassing Jack Nicklaus’ 18 major championships all-time record.
No miraculous milestone matters, when tantalized by paparazzi that invaded space to snap photo shots, or when 13 TV satellite trucks waited in front of the hospital for information on the world’s famous golfer and driver of the SUV when Tiger’s mother-in-law was rushed to the hospital. Whatever the issues relates to, the media isn’t leaving the scene or putting the story to rest.
So now, Woods is running away from the tabloids, exhausted of the uncommon bedlam and weary of critics. It’s practical to realize his legacy and image is irreparable, if he’s not willing to play.
Even if he owns 14 major titles, his no-show forms defective matters and blemishes his credibility more. If he’s willing to remorse infidelity, he’d man-up and cope with his erroneous blunder, removing a hideous scandal that has lasted for the past two weeks.
Playing a game he truly admires, relieves stress and makes those angry forgive Woods of his transgressions. Rather than showing his face in the public, he’s avoiding the media and fans in the galleries, ashamed his name is involved in a scandal.
Well, he brought it on himself, committing marital affairs against his wife, Elin. She may never accept Tiger back. If so, he isn’t focus on securing a faltering marriage or a damaged reputation. His lame explanation is to escape all the turmoil he has yet adapted to, used to the worshiping of fans and media.
But that’s when he was the cleanest man in sports, known for running a learning center for children, known for luring in consumer’s to purchase his drink, video game, and shaving razor. Woods game might not survive, unless he plays.
Keep in mind, his sponsorships will stay in contact, where much of his salary is produced bringing home $100 million annually. Still, he could be trying to save his marriage and raise his young children to be humbled and bright.
Instead of winning another green jacket at the Masters, he’s ashamed to look at the public after being labeled as a serial cheater. And earlier this week, a tabloid said he was “suicidal.” Could it be he doesn’t want to deal with public humiliation? Or could it be he’s not comfortable of strangers penetrating into his private life?
For Woods, it’s both issues. After behaving in such a mature and polite way, it’s rational to assume he tries earning back respect. Imagine golf without Tiger stroking masterful shots off the fairways. It won’t be long before golf becomes a dull sport. The average citizen looks forward to his return, magnetized to his dominance and matchless effort to play as the greatest.
Had it not been for his alleged affair with a cocktail waitress, Woods absences would be the least worry. What made golf was the presence of Tiger. From his commercial appearances to epic performances, he has just about done everything correct satisfying the average sports fan, until he had alleged affairs that changed his life drastically.
His personality will never be perceived the same, in which a scandal has unveiled a horrific side of Tiger. As it stood, he was sitting above the world. He was the imitable icon we couldn’t help but to love, not only for his impact in golf, but for his chartable work and warmhearted donations to assist those in distress.
Blinded by the devastating allegations, some lost all respect. But common sense tells us Tiger is better off returning to reduce some of the anger and bitterness. Instead, he chose otherwise.
“I’d like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding,” Woods wrote.
“What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing. After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf. I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person.”
He didn’t owe us an explanation, but taking a hiatus ruptures the game of golf. More so, it hurts Tiger’s legacy, refusing to clean up the toxic waste he spilled. We can only hope, Woods will again pump his fist and dominate the game like no other. We can only hope for an epic classic, where he captivates us with a 91-hole sudden death like a few years ago in the U.S. Open, against long-time friend and competitor Rocco Mediate.
But a man of guilt is bound to isolate himself, embarrassed of wrongdoings and pressure of critics. If he wasn’t vague and had press conferences, most heated criticism would’ve receded as media outlets mind their own business finding something else to dwell on.
Although he made it worst on himself for staying mum and providing less detail, from his preference, he had a right to protect his privacy. It wasn’t our business until the alleged mistress gave her side of the story and accused Woods of having sex with her more than 30 times.
As most feel hoodwinked, lied to and cheated, he is avoiding further drama. Understand he wasn’t the only athlete publicly humiliated. This decade has been classified as the biggest era of scandals. Seems the greatest athletes get caught in an unlawful predicament for foolish activity with troubled women or either drug use.
A few years ago, Kobe Bryant was disliked for alleged rape charges, which were suddenly dismissed. What erased a heinous background was the performance level he brought to the hardwood, reshaping popularity as he dominated basketball at an all-time high.
He is, the greatest swimmer of all-time, owning the most gold medals in Olympic history and still is after returning to the swimming pool. That is, Michael Phelps, the swimmer, who months ago was caught on a photo sucking from a water bong. Suddenly the story disappeared from tabloids, highlighted by his shear milestone at the U.S. Championship event.
Trust me, Tiger can rekindle his image, but can’t take the cowardly way out.
Now, is the time Tiger must face the world.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Heisman Watch: Although the Competition is Fierce, Vote for Ingram
Oh, the most joyous of days is quickly looming, and a moment doesn’t pass without college football lords discussing the next athlete worthy of the stiff-armed statue. The Heisman race is so intense, occupying the average person’s heart with suspense of which candidate is worthy of hoisting the most special prize in all of sports.
In recent memory—since writing on The Watch —no race has been viewed as tight and tense as the one we have this year. But when several players transcend the culture of college football over the course of a 12-game season, the Heisman presentation becomes must-see television.
What we do know is, that someone will accept the Heisman inside the Radio City Music Hall in New York. If most are unsure of the most deserving athlete, allow me to share my vote on which candidate should be hoisting the Heisman come this weekend.
Rarely, the game worships a tailback as explosive and fiery as Alabama's Mark Ingram. He gets my vote. End of discussion. However last year, at this time, we had spoken prematurely.
I myself even spoke too soon, forecasting that Florida’s Tim Tebow would obtain the honors. In two days, someone’s name inside the envelope could stun us all on Saturday evening. But the truth is, the Southern Eastern Conference had the studs of the year, unless you’re delusional or dislike an abysmal conference.
Armed with tremendous speed, Ingram is excluded from the Heisman picture. Let’s not be cynical by refusing to acknowledge Ingram’s consistency, which helped bolster the offense of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Come on, he’s an essential part on why they maintained leverage and were potent in the SEC Championship Game, a game in which Ingram had a usual performance, accounting for 175 yards and three touchdowns in a 32-13 demolition of Florida.
From there, of course, the Tide reformed into a perennial contender, with the star running back contributing throughout the course of the season. He exemplifies greatness and he has improved mightily from last year, when the Tide finished just shy of a national title appearance.
But this year they have reached the National Championship Game, thanks in large part to the contributions of Ingram. With such a menacing ground attack, the Tide prevailed to reach new heights. I wonder how much of a difference it would’ve been for the Tide if Ingram didn’t post career numbers, which included 1,500 plus yards rushing and 15 touchdowns.
But trust me, he wouldn’t be among the nominees.
There is, believe it or not, high regarded stars and future NFL prospects, all eligible to take home the stiff-arm statue. Because most have given the spotlight to Tebow, he’s favorable to pull off the historic win. In a four year span, he has been invited three consecutive times. No other player has ever been invited three times in a row.
Tebow almost came close to winning it twice, and he try again to become the second player in history, in the company of Archie Griffin, to win the illustrious award twice. His religious beliefs, charitable work, and refusal to leave the campus behind in Gainesville was all it took for the Gators to have large crowds and for Tebow to be cherished.
Despite losing his final game as a Gator, he still can account for a myriad of votes. The passion and intensity Tebow brings to the field are traces of etiquette, in which his inspirational leadership defines sportsmanship. As a result, his unselfishness almost led Florida to its third national title in four years.
However, for the first time in a long time, the Gators finally lost a game. They had won 22 straight ever since his emotionally speech when he apologized for the disappointing loss to Ole Miss.
Although Tebow has won it once, he can win it again. Logic is, a tailback is likely to win, unless Texas’ Colt McCoy is called. However, the typical Longhorns fan residing in Austin still misses Vince Young, the explosive quarterback who led the Longhorns to a stunning and electrifying victory over USC in the 2005 title game.
Never losing out much, coach Mack Brown specializes in grooming quarterbacks within an effective shotgun format. Within the last two seasons, McCoy has conducted the Longhorns, who have been one of the top teams in the nation.
Mind you, it’s not his impressive pass on the shore of Lake Whitney, where he connected with roommate and top receiver Jordan Shipley, who sat on the rear of a boat along with Bassmaster Classic champion Alton Jones and caught an accurate throw from McCoy. But McCoy has thrown for 3,512 yards, completed more than 70 percent of his passes, and is the team’s second best rusher.
On the downside, he struggled in the first half of the season. Remember, he barely survived arch-rivals Oklahoma and almost stumbled against Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship Game. When a team suddenly breaks down a bit, automatically you assume McCoy is not worthy of winning the Heisman.
Judging by his last game, the numbers have plunged and even though the senior was only a runner-up a year ago, 12 interceptions may not be innocuous if other talented names had more of a consistent year. I’m sure most have forgotten or plain just doesn’t care.
Either way, being aware of a sleeper is always a good practice. I have Stanford’s prolific tailback Toby Gerhart as a sleeper, though I don’t believe he’ll win. Described as a “warrior” by Stanford’s head coach Jim Harbaugh, Gerhart could be mistaken for a bulldozing linebacker weighing in at 235 pounds. Wow. Has he ever considered wrestling?
But his motions tell us different, ranking second in the nation in rushing and first in scoring touchdowns. In the last four games, he averaged 29 carries and 185.5 yards per game.
On the other hand, defense does win games. So shouldn’t defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh of Nebraska win?
But back to Ingram.
There’s no player in the nation as gifted or who is a better offensive weapon in the game. There’s no player as dominant as Ingram. For the gamblers betting on the outcome, the best advice I could give them is bet on the quickest tailback in the nation. There’s no doubt in my mind. He gets my vote.
Yes, assumptions are the platform of all insightful notions. And indeed, it seemingly is nothing wrong with giving a prediction on your Heisman winner.
America—Vote 4 Ingram!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Dear NCAA, Please Oust the BCS
Of course, much drama creates hysteria at the closure of a 12-game season. Either way, that is, someone is enraged of the final results when the BCS has the last word on which school deserves a right to play for a national title. Everyone despises the BCS, a fraudulent system divulging favoritism for well-known conferences and prestigious schools.
For years now, a myriad of talented schools were disregarded after making a strong case to earn national title notability. For years now, schools finished an engaging season hapless of a phony system, rejecting teams in bottom most conferences where less reverence is earned.
For years now, controversy has illustrated endless tension of the revolting polls, settling to rank what could be a top-ranked or third-ranked team at fifth in the nation. Thing is, it is complex pinpointing a ranked program’s status minus a reliable playoff format.
It’s difficult pleasing all teams, when a treacherous system is a sham and lingers as a brainteaser amid a disputable season. Until the committee institutes a substantial eight-team playoff system, a school will be snubbed and left out of the picture.
This is considerably misfortunate for schools that may have actually deserved a legitimate shot, rather than qualifying for an inferior bowl game the masses refuses to glimpse at.
Somehow we must find a way of discarding the chaotic methodology, which has overwhelmed the ravishing game of college football. When a misunderstood machine regulates certitude, immediate excitement reduces and converts into the Bowl Chaotic System. Nothing here in our domain is confusing as the Bowl Championship Series rankings.
As absurd as the rankings are, you’d assume the committee has had enough of listening to disgruntled populace complains. Indeed, the ridiculous computers could’ve smudged aspiration of TCU or Cincinnati, two sensible programs in the nation that deserves spotlight and made valid statements to qualify for a national title.
The standings have burned us out, jaded of all the bias given to noteworthy programs in the country just for amplifying television ratings. Each year, however superior programs meriting eligibility is a fraud, when third-ranked TCU and fourth-ranked Cincinnati are unbeaten respectively.
So when the final outcome was released on Sunday evening, a night we gathered in front of the television to witness the programs worthy of arriving in Pasadena to compete for a national title, top-ranked Alabama and second-ranked Texas celebrated as a rowdy core when it emerged that they’ll play for the crystal football. But once again, the masses are unsatisfied of the selection and forged debates on whether Texas is invaluable of a BCS invitation.
The only answer for dictating a legitimate champion is destroying the computers or forming a virus for the entire system to crash. Then, dispose it in the nearest waste bin. Once all systems are disposed, to pursue in originating a playoff system is a favorable theory for captivation. The NCAA needs an antidote to save itself of all the absurdity, which has played a large role in recent years.
For once, the BCS has done its best to enthrall fans. Although getting rid of the BCS is a priority in the next few years, all five games are must-see TV. Guess there won’t be a reason to stare at reruns of Seinfeld or Family Guy, when some of the match-ups are attracting, though half of us aren’t pleased with a non-playoff system. Bearing with the circumstances is one thing, but seeing your team snubbed is a different standpoint.
Because the Longhorns haven’t played convincing enough, speculations are heating on whether they deserved to play on the national stage. What we’ve seen from Texas was an outlandish 13-12 win, surviving a potential loss against Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship game Saturday night.
Mind you, earlier in the year, Colt McCoy’s careless lapses almost cost the Longhorns a critical game against archrivals Oklahoma, a lackluster program, while seeking revenge for the demoralizing beat down the previous season. In a sloppy performance, McCoy, a Heisman candidate, struggled minus good-friend and competitor Sam Bradford, who reaggravated his right shoulder.
Had it not been for a useful backup plan in freshman quarterback Landry Jones heaving downfield passes to petrify McCoy’s stampede, maybe there would’ve been different results. Then again, maybe it wasn’t an illusion, particularly after barely avoiding the Cornhuskers.
Is Texas worthy? Now they are, simply for pulling it off by a point. Otherwise, Cincinnati’s or TCU’s impressive season writes a miraculous storybook, both finishing 12-0 for the first time in school history, and right then, it would’ve urged the nation to acknowledge the Horned Frogs. Thanks to a thrilling season, ignoring the Frogs is a notion of the imprudent Mountain West, a conference that never earns recognition.
Just ask Utah. As most of you can recall, they finished the season unbeaten last season. To all the prejudice, we must realize many schools are well-deserving to rise on the national stage as Texas. But of course none of us are willing to insist that Cincinnati, sixth-ranked Boise State or even third-ranked TCU qualifies for a title game. Instead a political debate provokes a chaotic disaster. Instead the BCS hurts us emotionally, while it actually exhilarates spirit for schools with little attention.
Had Texas lost to Nebraska by missing the game-saving field goal, a heartbreaker would’ve left Austin in a state of heartaches and developed a BCS buster. If so, the Longhorns were ready to travel back to Texas with tears dripping down as bad Tim Tebow cried before thousands when Florida’s reign suddenly came to a closure.
Today, we’d debate whether or not Alabama is effective enough to beat Cincinnati or TCU. I’d have forecasted Cincinnati over the unimaginable Horned Frogs.
For two solid seasons, a fiery Brian Kelly has guided the Bearcats to promising scenes. No wonder why Notre Dame is interested, begging for him to ditch the campus life in Cincinnati and rejuvenate a program in much disarray. During a storybook season, Kelly is fittingly the perfect voice at Cincinnati, where he owns a 33-6 record in two seasons.
You can make a case the Bearcats are worthy of a national title. Then again, some will suggest an unbeaten Boise State, a program with the nation’s highest-scoring attack, doesn’t belong in the Fiesta Bowl, where they’ll meet TCU for a dramatic showdown. In retrospect, the Horned Frogs is respectively mustering limelight for relentless defense and has the second-longest current winning streak in the nation at 14.
Considering the system picked Alabama vs. Texas, rather than Alabama vs. TCU, Boise State or Cincinnati, the BCS again pulls off the victory. That being said, we must sacrifice and accept what the system delivers to us. You might dislike it, but what can you do?
Being like President Obama is the only alternative. He appealed for a playoff system, emphasizing he’s burned out of the endless drama of BCS obstacles. What remains to be seen, is if the committee finally listens to all complaints and institutes a playoff system to satisfy us all, exhausted of all the needless chaos.
You could’ve seen a rematch of Alabama vs. Florida. You could’ve seen Cincinnati prove if they’re really legitimate by facing a school in the Southeastern Conference. You could’ve seen TCU elevate hope within the Mountain West. Or you could’ve seen Boise State finally corral a crack at winning the big one they’ve tried winning for the last three seasons.
Dear NCAA, my advice to you is toss the computers and create a bracket sheet.
For years now, a myriad of talented schools were disregarded after making a strong case to earn national title notability. For years now, schools finished an engaging season hapless of a phony system, rejecting teams in bottom most conferences where less reverence is earned.
For years now, controversy has illustrated endless tension of the revolting polls, settling to rank what could be a top-ranked or third-ranked team at fifth in the nation. Thing is, it is complex pinpointing a ranked program’s status minus a reliable playoff format.
It’s difficult pleasing all teams, when a treacherous system is a sham and lingers as a brainteaser amid a disputable season. Until the committee institutes a substantial eight-team playoff system, a school will be snubbed and left out of the picture.
This is considerably misfortunate for schools that may have actually deserved a legitimate shot, rather than qualifying for an inferior bowl game the masses refuses to glimpse at.
Somehow we must find a way of discarding the chaotic methodology, which has overwhelmed the ravishing game of college football. When a misunderstood machine regulates certitude, immediate excitement reduces and converts into the Bowl Chaotic System. Nothing here in our domain is confusing as the Bowl Championship Series rankings.
As absurd as the rankings are, you’d assume the committee has had enough of listening to disgruntled populace complains. Indeed, the ridiculous computers could’ve smudged aspiration of TCU or Cincinnati, two sensible programs in the nation that deserves spotlight and made valid statements to qualify for a national title.
The standings have burned us out, jaded of all the bias given to noteworthy programs in the country just for amplifying television ratings. Each year, however superior programs meriting eligibility is a fraud, when third-ranked TCU and fourth-ranked Cincinnati are unbeaten respectively.
So when the final outcome was released on Sunday evening, a night we gathered in front of the television to witness the programs worthy of arriving in Pasadena to compete for a national title, top-ranked Alabama and second-ranked Texas celebrated as a rowdy core when it emerged that they’ll play for the crystal football. But once again, the masses are unsatisfied of the selection and forged debates on whether Texas is invaluable of a BCS invitation.
The only answer for dictating a legitimate champion is destroying the computers or forming a virus for the entire system to crash. Then, dispose it in the nearest waste bin. Once all systems are disposed, to pursue in originating a playoff system is a favorable theory for captivation. The NCAA needs an antidote to save itself of all the absurdity, which has played a large role in recent years.
For once, the BCS has done its best to enthrall fans. Although getting rid of the BCS is a priority in the next few years, all five games are must-see TV. Guess there won’t be a reason to stare at reruns of Seinfeld or Family Guy, when some of the match-ups are attracting, though half of us aren’t pleased with a non-playoff system. Bearing with the circumstances is one thing, but seeing your team snubbed is a different standpoint.
Because the Longhorns haven’t played convincing enough, speculations are heating on whether they deserved to play on the national stage. What we’ve seen from Texas was an outlandish 13-12 win, surviving a potential loss against Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship game Saturday night.
Mind you, earlier in the year, Colt McCoy’s careless lapses almost cost the Longhorns a critical game against archrivals Oklahoma, a lackluster program, while seeking revenge for the demoralizing beat down the previous season. In a sloppy performance, McCoy, a Heisman candidate, struggled minus good-friend and competitor Sam Bradford, who reaggravated his right shoulder.
Had it not been for a useful backup plan in freshman quarterback Landry Jones heaving downfield passes to petrify McCoy’s stampede, maybe there would’ve been different results. Then again, maybe it wasn’t an illusion, particularly after barely avoiding the Cornhuskers.
Is Texas worthy? Now they are, simply for pulling it off by a point. Otherwise, Cincinnati’s or TCU’s impressive season writes a miraculous storybook, both finishing 12-0 for the first time in school history, and right then, it would’ve urged the nation to acknowledge the Horned Frogs. Thanks to a thrilling season, ignoring the Frogs is a notion of the imprudent Mountain West, a conference that never earns recognition.
Just ask Utah. As most of you can recall, they finished the season unbeaten last season. To all the prejudice, we must realize many schools are well-deserving to rise on the national stage as Texas. But of course none of us are willing to insist that Cincinnati, sixth-ranked Boise State or even third-ranked TCU qualifies for a title game. Instead a political debate provokes a chaotic disaster. Instead the BCS hurts us emotionally, while it actually exhilarates spirit for schools with little attention.
Had Texas lost to Nebraska by missing the game-saving field goal, a heartbreaker would’ve left Austin in a state of heartaches and developed a BCS buster. If so, the Longhorns were ready to travel back to Texas with tears dripping down as bad Tim Tebow cried before thousands when Florida’s reign suddenly came to a closure.
Today, we’d debate whether or not Alabama is effective enough to beat Cincinnati or TCU. I’d have forecasted Cincinnati over the unimaginable Horned Frogs.
For two solid seasons, a fiery Brian Kelly has guided the Bearcats to promising scenes. No wonder why Notre Dame is interested, begging for him to ditch the campus life in Cincinnati and rejuvenate a program in much disarray. During a storybook season, Kelly is fittingly the perfect voice at Cincinnati, where he owns a 33-6 record in two seasons.
You can make a case the Bearcats are worthy of a national title. Then again, some will suggest an unbeaten Boise State, a program with the nation’s highest-scoring attack, doesn’t belong in the Fiesta Bowl, where they’ll meet TCU for a dramatic showdown. In retrospect, the Horned Frogs is respectively mustering limelight for relentless defense and has the second-longest current winning streak in the nation at 14.
Considering the system picked Alabama vs. Texas, rather than Alabama vs. TCU, Boise State or Cincinnati, the BCS again pulls off the victory. That being said, we must sacrifice and accept what the system delivers to us. You might dislike it, but what can you do?
Being like President Obama is the only alternative. He appealed for a playoff system, emphasizing he’s burned out of the endless drama of BCS obstacles. What remains to be seen, is if the committee finally listens to all complaints and institutes a playoff system to satisfy us all, exhausted of all the needless chaos.
You could’ve seen a rematch of Alabama vs. Florida. You could’ve seen Cincinnati prove if they’re really legitimate by facing a school in the Southeastern Conference. You could’ve seen TCU elevate hope within the Mountain West. Or you could’ve seen Boise State finally corral a crack at winning the big one they’ve tried winning for the last three seasons.
Dear NCAA, my advice to you is toss the computers and create a bracket sheet.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Validated: Alabama Is Title Worthy
For the first time ever, at least from what I can remember, Tim Tebow broke down mentally and dripped tears before thousands at the Georgia Dome, where you couldn’t argue it was an electric, national title atmosphere.
The Florida Gators encountered an interesting challenge, a rigid matchup against a superior opponent, and Alabama bombarded the well-balanced villains of the Southern Eastern Conference.
Instantly, it smeared a potential dream of creating a historic finish in NCAA history. It smeared an inconceivable dynasty built on Tebow’s inspirational leadership and unparalleled sprints, stiff-arms and jump passes. Of course, the country such as ESPN’s College Gameday analysts Lee Corso or Kirk Herbstriet, predicted the Gators are victorious crusaders.
This country had forgotten about a potent and dynamic program in the same conference. This country paid less attention to an entire state, which admires football and spends their average Saturday afternoon’s rooting on a systematic program, brilliantly built by Coach Nick Saban.
That would be the Alabama Crimson Tide, a robust program aiming for a national title amid their endeavor. It earned hype as the biggest SEC showdown in conference history, simply for the two powerhouse teams that define college football.
Without Florida-‘Bama in a fray, the game is dull and the BCS system suddenly becomes elusive. If there’s no Florida-‘Bama, there isn’t a point for having a conversation on football.
For a few years now, it has been interesting watching the SEC as the Deep South kept us guessing and produced action-packed, high-powered excitement. Before our very eyes, Florida is no longer as threatening or powerful. Instead, the boys from Sweet Home Alabama have convenient tools to win the national title next month.
After pounding the Gators, not allowing fans to perform the Gator Chomp gestures, emotions flared in an unusual way. Instead, shedding tears indicated agony as a reign many were accustomed to suddenly ceased. Dating back to last season when a distraught Tebow emotionally apologized and promised to fans following a disappointing loss to Mississippi, consecutive losses weren’t much of a concern, until the Gators finally saw triumph perish.
However, the Tide finally avenged their upsetting loss a year ago against the Gators, which cost a national title berth. Getting used to a well-balanced program isn’t as bad as it seems. Yet, Tebow won’t arrive to perform his erratic jump passes or another remarkable finish, Alabama has similarities with a relentless rush attack engaged to confront amid an onslaught all times on turf. Such as playing the Gators, when almost every possession was blown sprints, spins, stiff-arms, and blistering speed of tailback Mark Ingram.
His three touchdown effort set a mental tone in the game, to whereas the Tide dominated until time expired and emerged a celebration. Of course, a delirious Alabama crowd embraced a spirited moment, cheering on the boys from Sweet Home Alabama. In contrast, the Gators were throbbed in a 32-13 loss, and an inspirational tale came to a terminal in a game the religious and well-respected sports figure in the country dripped tears onto his eyeblack.
For the longest time, it took the longest yard for Alabama to reach a pinnacle most are accustomed to. Well, the program finally has a resembling coach of Bear Bryant. When Saban committed to take on a prestigious job in the country, he left behind a complex job at the pro level, signing an enormous deal to coach Alabama. This country criticized him, teased him, expressed anger for a well-known reputation of accepting jobs because of greed and riches.
But now, we can praise Saban for bringing tough-minded, charismatic leadership to this program. Besides dwelling on whether he left behind unfinished business to coach a program willing to throw in huge bucks, dwell on the fact he has revived a program.
Now, we can utter, he prepares kids for big games against huge opponents. If you notice, Alabama plays with tremendous urgency, heart and resiliency. During press conferences Saban emphasizes the point of remaining alert when facing any team.
If someone has grudges with Saban, it doesn’t matter much. Folks, in Alabama appreciate his ability to recruit top high school prospects. If he tries even more so, Saban could possess nearly every top prospect in the South.
Almost everyone knows Saban is experienced and has been around the game long enough to inspire a convincing core. As a result, the Tide are a victory away of renovating championship notability for the first time since winning it all in 1992.
If the Tide smeared a historic picture by manipulating and pummeling the Gators, same goes for the Texas Longhorns. Being denied of a historical finish is painful, especially if you are an upperclassman. And Tebow is a senior, in which it was agonizing missing out on a return to the national title game and trying departing with a bang.
From the bright side, Tebow accomplished something ordinary athletes couldn’t. He was named a Heisman winner, and hoisted the stiff-armed statue. Aside the individual awards, Tebow celebrated and hoisted memorable trophies such as the crystal football, winning three national titles.
Unfortunately, the Gators won’t win its third national title in four years, losing for the first time in 22 games. So now, Alabama will travel to Pasadena, not for roses but a national title game every team dreams to participate in.
With a chaotic BCS system, a team has to be near perfect if expecting to qualify for the final game. And the Tide are near perfect.
Rarely is there a team with complete depth, having its way against defending champs. Ingram ran faster than lighting, McElroy removed the saboteur label and now is an essential piece to Alabama’s championship beliefs.
Julio Jones, arguably the nation’s best wide receiver, was explosive and outran Florida’s defenders, catching an 18-yard touchdown pass on the first play from the line of scrimmage.
Another national title is out of the equation. Had the Gators won, they’d have been off to Pasadena. But instead, the losers earn a privilege to play in the Sugar Bowl, a BCS game with less prestige. As for Alabama, exalted winners will fulfill a dream and play for a national title.
Good luck, Texas. The Tide come in with a complete package, a package full of potential champs.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Greatest Athlete to Greatest Disgrace, But Tiger Is Forgiven
He’s known as the world’s greatest golfer, the world’s greatest athlete, the world’s greatest role model. For almost a week now, we’ve heard image is everything, we’ve heard continuous controversy of Tiger Woods. But he was created man, even though he’s a specimen with gifted abilities to dominate golf like no other golfer on this planet.
I cannot emphasize it enough, Tiger is human. When a megastar is embraced for playing such a huge role in the life of children or considered a noble icon, he is believed to be a spotless individual.
Everyone wanted to believe Tiger Woods was a faultless athlete beyond transgression. Well, he’s not the Woods that masses are familiar with on the greenery in annual PGA Tours, where he has achieved immense accolades and fitted for numerous green jackets at the Masters. More than 12 years, Woods has excelled at a premium, but abnormal revelations are now threatening his legacy and image.
It’s a shame he failed to engage marital vows. It’s a shame he had an affair that lasted over 2 ½ years, with a cocktail waitress, Jaimee Grubbs at a Los Angeles night club. It’s a shame more than 300 text messages between him and his mistress have been sent back and forth. It’s a shame he had an infraction for crashing into a fire hydrant and neighbor’s tree. It’s a shame the Florida Highway Patrol cited the greatest athlete for a $164 fine.
That’s enough to disappoint us all. He’s the biggest disgrace and headline in the media, caught in a love connection. After the accident where he suffered lacerations to his lips and blood in his mouth, Tiger was exposed to an uncommon scene. For once in his lifetime, the public invaded his privacy seeking answers and explanations.
None of his personal issues are our business, but suddenly it has became our business emerging a massive scene as media outlets channeled deeper to uncover the specifics on why his accident happened at 2:25 a.m. Friday morning. Ever since, speculations were assumed as an alleged affair, after wrecking his Cadillac reportedly was non-alcohol-related.
Guess it was practical speculating Tiger pissed off his old lady in a dispute relating to an alleged affair. Guess he was chased out of the house by his wife, Elin, who reportedly had a golf club and shattered the window.
Tiger has to perform and add to a total of 14 major victories. Although he’s known as a candid and credible athlete, Tiger wasn’t compelled to release personal information. Minus his knowledge of bizarre events, he can redeem and heel a misleading image if he appears in major events, where he normally performs well, dominates and wins.
If Woods regret transgressions of a martial affair and intends removing any tension and embarrassment, he shouldn’t had withdrawn at his own invitational tournament and appeared. But it’s clear he’s refusing to encounter media outlets for his own welfare of avoiding endless questions regarding the latest revelations. His privacy is imperative, of which he withdrew as curiosity subsides. Whether Tiger is ashamed to speak publicly or stays confidential with isolated troubles, his legacy and image survives reprehensible havoc.
Most sports figures are exposed to menacing lifestyles. In an age when careless women have a fetish for married men, athletic figures tend to suffer entrapment and later regret turning down sexy women whom strictly manipulates rich superstars into a psycho affair. Over the years, we’ve seen rich athlete’s images plunge as popularity and credibility impaired.
Not long ago, Kobe Bryant, a NBA megastar who reestablished popularity for epic performances, was accused on sexual assault charges in Colorado but eventually rape charges was dismissed. There was Alex Rodriguez, a definite cheater who confessed he used steroids, but he also had a romantic affair with Madonna. To refresh memories, Roger Clemens was more than longtime friends with country singer Mindy McCready, when she confirmed to us about their alleged affair.
This happens every day, of course, it’s a frequent episode in the sporting business. Don’t forget it even materialized inside the White House, shocking our minds when our former president Bill Clinton last century allegedly had an immoral affair.
In this age where infidelity is heard of periodically, Tiger’s name surfacing as a cheater isn’t surprising. He was disloyal in family values and as treacherous as it seems, it has no comparisons within his performance level. In fact, he’s still the icon we’ve grown to love and remains the greatest figure admired.
His endorsements alone are a remedy as he tries eluding scrutiny. His classiness and humbleness highlights his maturity, addressing the matter on his web site and avoided further trouble by not saying much publicly and his historic milestones are engaging. No matter what, spectators idolizes and favors Tiger, intrigued with his gifted abilities to captivate us with his dominance in a complex sport.
It is paramount Tiger strikes again and soon. Although Tiger had an immoral background and disappointed us, hurt us and deceived us, it’s an apparent message that he’s not perfect. Living in a forgiving country, Tiger is dismissed. U.S. Weekly, a well-known tabloid, reporting Grubbs claimed Tiger and her had sex at least 20 times, eventually will perish when he returns to the golf course and excites us.
Money is the root of all evil, if the mistresses sold her story to the U.S. Weekly for an estimate of $100,000. That happens when a famous athlete leaves himself exposed to women, especially Tiger, who earns an estimate of $100 million in endorsements annually. A devastating blow is the fact he has donated $30 million to communities and interacted with children throughout his foundation.
As for the game, it survives base on Tiger’s presence, in which it has for many years. During his eight month intermission when he was rehabilitating from reconstructed knee surgery, golf was very seldom acknowledged. Once he returned, spectators were anxious watching the game as television ratings skyrocketed. Woods transformed the culture of golf entirely, though he failed winning a major to inch closer to Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 PGA major championships.
Besides historic accomplishments, Woods is pressured to tell us his privacy more than surpassing a miraculous milestone. Notice he has acted as a mature man, protecting his image and one’s privacy. Notice he doesn’t owe us an explanation. He never broke the law, but he broke vows, which is more erroneous than tossing his iron stick or swearing whenever frustrated for shooting bogeys.
His business wasn’t the public's business, meaning Woods had every right to handle the situation silently. For nearly a week, he has handled the situation with aplomb and maturity, accepting wrongdoing and apologized. But now, he has apologized enough, and needs to get back on the golf course and dominate at will.
He needs to preserve championships to shatter Nicklaus' all-time record. He needs to prove he’s a noble athlete, and continue to be a positive influence to humankind. Saved also by his sponsorships Gillette, Gatorade, Nike and EA Sports, is an example of forgiveness.
Not spotless as before, he still is the world’s greatest golfer. Now all he must do is have a breathtaking performance and win. Any athlete can protect his reputation, if they perform well. Seems Tiger is next.
Rather than talking to the world, he needs to go for a hole in one.
I cannot emphasize it enough, Tiger is human. When a megastar is embraced for playing such a huge role in the life of children or considered a noble icon, he is believed to be a spotless individual.
Everyone wanted to believe Tiger Woods was a faultless athlete beyond transgression. Well, he’s not the Woods that masses are familiar with on the greenery in annual PGA Tours, where he has achieved immense accolades and fitted for numerous green jackets at the Masters. More than 12 years, Woods has excelled at a premium, but abnormal revelations are now threatening his legacy and image.
It’s a shame he failed to engage marital vows. It’s a shame he had an affair that lasted over 2 ½ years, with a cocktail waitress, Jaimee Grubbs at a Los Angeles night club. It’s a shame more than 300 text messages between him and his mistress have been sent back and forth. It’s a shame he had an infraction for crashing into a fire hydrant and neighbor’s tree. It’s a shame the Florida Highway Patrol cited the greatest athlete for a $164 fine.
That’s enough to disappoint us all. He’s the biggest disgrace and headline in the media, caught in a love connection. After the accident where he suffered lacerations to his lips and blood in his mouth, Tiger was exposed to an uncommon scene. For once in his lifetime, the public invaded his privacy seeking answers and explanations.
None of his personal issues are our business, but suddenly it has became our business emerging a massive scene as media outlets channeled deeper to uncover the specifics on why his accident happened at 2:25 a.m. Friday morning. Ever since, speculations were assumed as an alleged affair, after wrecking his Cadillac reportedly was non-alcohol-related.
Guess it was practical speculating Tiger pissed off his old lady in a dispute relating to an alleged affair. Guess he was chased out of the house by his wife, Elin, who reportedly had a golf club and shattered the window.
Tiger has to perform and add to a total of 14 major victories. Although he’s known as a candid and credible athlete, Tiger wasn’t compelled to release personal information. Minus his knowledge of bizarre events, he can redeem and heel a misleading image if he appears in major events, where he normally performs well, dominates and wins.
If Woods regret transgressions of a martial affair and intends removing any tension and embarrassment, he shouldn’t had withdrawn at his own invitational tournament and appeared. But it’s clear he’s refusing to encounter media outlets for his own welfare of avoiding endless questions regarding the latest revelations. His privacy is imperative, of which he withdrew as curiosity subsides. Whether Tiger is ashamed to speak publicly or stays confidential with isolated troubles, his legacy and image survives reprehensible havoc.
Most sports figures are exposed to menacing lifestyles. In an age when careless women have a fetish for married men, athletic figures tend to suffer entrapment and later regret turning down sexy women whom strictly manipulates rich superstars into a psycho affair. Over the years, we’ve seen rich athlete’s images plunge as popularity and credibility impaired.
Not long ago, Kobe Bryant, a NBA megastar who reestablished popularity for epic performances, was accused on sexual assault charges in Colorado but eventually rape charges was dismissed. There was Alex Rodriguez, a definite cheater who confessed he used steroids, but he also had a romantic affair with Madonna. To refresh memories, Roger Clemens was more than longtime friends with country singer Mindy McCready, when she confirmed to us about their alleged affair.
This happens every day, of course, it’s a frequent episode in the sporting business. Don’t forget it even materialized inside the White House, shocking our minds when our former president Bill Clinton last century allegedly had an immoral affair.
In this age where infidelity is heard of periodically, Tiger’s name surfacing as a cheater isn’t surprising. He was disloyal in family values and as treacherous as it seems, it has no comparisons within his performance level. In fact, he’s still the icon we’ve grown to love and remains the greatest figure admired.
His endorsements alone are a remedy as he tries eluding scrutiny. His classiness and humbleness highlights his maturity, addressing the matter on his web site and avoided further trouble by not saying much publicly and his historic milestones are engaging. No matter what, spectators idolizes and favors Tiger, intrigued with his gifted abilities to captivate us with his dominance in a complex sport.
It is paramount Tiger strikes again and soon. Although Tiger had an immoral background and disappointed us, hurt us and deceived us, it’s an apparent message that he’s not perfect. Living in a forgiving country, Tiger is dismissed. U.S. Weekly, a well-known tabloid, reporting Grubbs claimed Tiger and her had sex at least 20 times, eventually will perish when he returns to the golf course and excites us.
Money is the root of all evil, if the mistresses sold her story to the U.S. Weekly for an estimate of $100,000. That happens when a famous athlete leaves himself exposed to women, especially Tiger, who earns an estimate of $100 million in endorsements annually. A devastating blow is the fact he has donated $30 million to communities and interacted with children throughout his foundation.
As for the game, it survives base on Tiger’s presence, in which it has for many years. During his eight month intermission when he was rehabilitating from reconstructed knee surgery, golf was very seldom acknowledged. Once he returned, spectators were anxious watching the game as television ratings skyrocketed. Woods transformed the culture of golf entirely, though he failed winning a major to inch closer to Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 PGA major championships.
Besides historic accomplishments, Woods is pressured to tell us his privacy more than surpassing a miraculous milestone. Notice he has acted as a mature man, protecting his image and one’s privacy. Notice he doesn’t owe us an explanation. He never broke the law, but he broke vows, which is more erroneous than tossing his iron stick or swearing whenever frustrated for shooting bogeys.
His business wasn’t the public's business, meaning Woods had every right to handle the situation silently. For nearly a week, he has handled the situation with aplomb and maturity, accepting wrongdoing and apologized. But now, he has apologized enough, and needs to get back on the golf course and dominate at will.
He needs to preserve championships to shatter Nicklaus' all-time record. He needs to prove he’s a noble athlete, and continue to be a positive influence to humankind. Saved also by his sponsorships Gillette, Gatorade, Nike and EA Sports, is an example of forgiveness.
Not spotless as before, he still is the world’s greatest golfer. Now all he must do is have a breathtaking performance and win. Any athlete can protect his reputation, if they perform well. Seems Tiger is next.
Rather than talking to the world, he needs to go for a hole in one.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Tiger Woods' Business Isn't Our Business, So Leave It Alone
So what has emerged into everyone's business, Tiger Woods' private life is gone. Yes, the public has finally figured out a way to enter into his privacy.
From what we've learned, we seem to speculate Woods was chased out of his spacious home by a golf club inside his gated community. We seem to guess, his old lady was pissed off over an alleged affair, and the only solution for Tiger to avoid his crazy wife was jumping into his Cadillac.
His plans weren't to back out of his driveway and drive to the nearest golf course avoiding a large crowd, nor taking a joyride. Either way, it's not our damn business. The only issue concerning us is Tiger's health, but not a mystic relationship with his wife, Elin.
Personally, I couldn't care less what happens between him and his wife. This information wouldn't had linked out, if he hadn't suffered lacerations to his lips for striking a fire hydrant and neighbor's tree.
So suddenly, a private incident inside his gated community isn't held a secret. And suddenly, Woods isn't the spotless specimen. I can recall when the media never had much access to his privacy.
What happens behind close doors usually stays within Tiger, but all the hoopla turned into an absurd frenzy. Because he's the world's greatest golfer, if not the world's greatest athletes, the public expects an explanation on what happened.
I don't care, you shouldn't either.
There's no law in existence, enforcing Woods to give us information. As Tiger minds his own business, he expects the same from fans. For more than 12 years, spectators admires Woods strengthening ego and respectability.
Today, he's labeled as the greatest and endearing role model in sports. In endorsements alone, he earns a staggering $100 million a year as the average citizen purchases his brand name Gatorade, golf clubs and Nike apparel.
When the accident happened at 2:25 a.m., it wasn't reported as a serious incident or alcohol-related. As the days progress, no domestic violence charges were filed, meaning there's nothing else to see or discuss.
Four days later, everyone is still dwelling on Woods. Removed from domestic violence presumptions, now average populace believes he had an affair. Even if there's a mistress involved in the picture, I couldn't care less.
It's not surprising when athletes in prior years had affairs. That's life. And as we continue living, bizarre and freaky things will happen within relationships. In other words Tiger isn't the first and won't be the last.
For the first time ever, Tiger is staring at an unfamiliar scene. Instead of earning praise for accomplishments, he's being ridiculed by the media. In fact, he's evoking more spotlight than he normally attracts on the golf course. Because paparazzi is embarrassing athletes or celebs in general, Tiger is a victim of TMZ trauma.
Unlike most athletes Woods hasn't mishandled the situation in an impolite fashion, but managed a lingering predicament in a classy fashion. Even though his vague statements could be untruthful, he speaks with aplomb and tremendous respect.
In the last 24 hours rumors surfaced of infidelity, in which an argument is reasonable amid an overblown discussion. All that's heard is tabloids releasing new information regarding Woods accident. Seems like the entire incident was plotted, for inside access on Tiger's alleged affairs.
Gosh, Tiger is busted.
Why we care? That's his issue, not ours.
Woods is having a difficult week, handling all the scrutiny. He's not used to a curious crowd, pondering to know what happens off the golf course. His personal issues stays within himself, but notice if he dismisses to answer questions, speculations of Thanksgiving weekend could last months.
Although Woods can remain silent, the Florida Highway Patrol is seeking a search warrant for hospital records to confirm what could've provoked Woods' injuries. None of us are concern with the cuts and blood. But populace are anxious to know why he departed his home early on Friday morning.
I know, none of your damn business.
The latest news to strike the Internet and tabloids is TMZ posting an overwhelming 14 accidents, including a photo of an alleged affair with a mistress. Whether it's true or not, Tiger's personal life is trivial and shouldn't be in the news.
Maybe he'll protect credibility and popularity, if he provides specifics. But I don't care.
Please leave it alone. You shouldn't care at all. It's not your business. It's Tiger's personal issue that should stay behind close doors.
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