It's been a while... I've been a little under the weather and was in Europe for a couple of weeks.
Last night was the greatest comeback that I have ever witnessed in MLB playoff history. The crazy thing is that I continued to watch the game even though Boston was down by 7 runs in the 7th inning. Normally I might change the channel but I was just waiting for the Sox to make their run. Everything just came together all at once for Boston. All of the sudden every ab was a good one, they were patient and they took advantage of the weak bullpen of the Rays. I didn't disagree with taking Kazmir out of the game, however, I did disagree with bringing in Wheeler. Wheeler doesn't have dominant stuff and is not a major threat to strike people out. I'm a little curious why they wouldn't have brought in their left hander that they had ready to go for Ortiz and Drew. I think had they brought their left hander in they would probably be on their way to the WS. Nonetheless Boston played spectacular for the last 3 innings and shifted the momentum. It was a great game that I will never forget.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Ducks/Beavers debate again!
OK, I know that I have visited this topic once already but it's time to go back to it again.
On Friday 10/3/08 (the morning after the Beavers lost at Utah 31-28) I was Switching to 95.5 the game because 1080 the Fan was on commercial and Whats the first thing I hear that tool Gavin Dawson say when I change the station? How Oregon State looked good and that they statistically won the game. But oh! They just came up short. "And Gavin, How great did they play?" They lost! It doesn't matter. They were up 8 points with under 2minutes to go. They let Utah march down the field in less then a minute score a TD and the game tying 2pt conversion, then went three and out, and then with one second left on the game clock Utah's stud kicker hit the game winning field goal from about 37 yds away. Then Freak show Gavin Dawson went on about how Oregon State played great and Said "The Beavers are the best 2-3 team there is."
As a Duck fan I have a problem with this. Belotti catches heat because he lost to a good Boise State team at home, while Mike Riley gets praise for having one upset victory at home on national TV against USC. I am not taking anything away from the win. They deserved it and they were by far the better team that night. However They lost to Stanford to start the season, they looked like a high school team against Penn State who had them beat by the end of the first quarter, they then go home and beat Hawaii (big one there), have the huge upset of USC the following week, and then play #15 Utah at Utah on a Thursday Night and collapse at the end of the game losing that one as well. Now here's my problem: After the win against USC people were asking who is the better team right now Oregon or Oregon State? Are you serious? That one win gets the program that much respect? After Beating USC the beavers would have to validate it the next week against Utah, but they didn't. The win against USC was meaningless because they showed their true overrated, over hyped, inconsistent play that they demonstrate year in and year out.
It's simple Greatness is expected out of Belotti and U of O. Mediocrity is not accepted at U of O, where at OSU it's not only accepted but encouraged. Belotti takes all the heat when they do bad and gets not credit when they win. When the Ducks Win the critics say "Well look at the money Phil Knight donates, or look at the facilities, or look at the Athletes." but when they lose it's because he didn't have them ready to play, or he is a bad coach. Belotti built this existence of greatness at U of O and his record with the University proves it as he is the winningest coach in Oregon history. The critics were getting on him last year when Dixon, and Brady Leaf went down and they couldn't get it done against UCLA or OSU in the Civil War. Then looked what happened when he had the time to prepare Roper to beat down UCF last year in the Sun Bowl (Who at one point was ranked second in the nation last year). There is no way anyone could have prepared to use the 4th and 5th string starters the rest of the year. Do all programs even have 4 or 5 people that they would even be able to plug into the starting role? This year he was a prepared and learned from his mistake and has done a great job. Using everyone he has at his disposal. Granted, I will admit that he flat out got out coached against Boise State, he and the whole coaching staff are responsible for that because the play calling sucked.
All in all OSU will be judged on one win this season against USC and 2-3 is acceptable for everyone that is involved with the OSU program, Boosters, Coaches, Players, the AD, Fans, and students. It is just amazingly pathetic. Where as Belotti has created a monster at U of O due to being highly successful. His success is the reason why the Ducks set them selves at such a higher standard then OSU. 2-3 is not acceptable in Eugene, no matter who they have played, beaten, or lost to. I just think Belotti doesn't get a fair shake with the fans at U of O a lot of the time. They want to use Belotti as the scapegoat for the losses and not give him credit for the wins. At times, not all of the time. I wish they could be a little more appreciative. I think some day they will when he decides to either coach a different college or NFL team and were stuck with some to replace him. If his replacement isn't 1 of the top 2 or 3 coaches available don't expect Oregon to be as great as they have been in the past.
Great Job Belotti- I wouldn't trade him for any other college coach out there!!!
PS. Utah out gained OSU on the ground, had less penalties, and less fumbles. the only categories they lost in were pass yds, and time of possesstion.
Smitty
On Friday 10/3/08 (the morning after the Beavers lost at Utah 31-28) I was Switching to 95.5 the game because 1080 the Fan was on commercial and Whats the first thing I hear that tool Gavin Dawson say when I change the station? How Oregon State looked good and that they statistically won the game. But oh! They just came up short. "And Gavin, How great did they play?" They lost! It doesn't matter. They were up 8 points with under 2minutes to go. They let Utah march down the field in less then a minute score a TD and the game tying 2pt conversion, then went three and out, and then with one second left on the game clock Utah's stud kicker hit the game winning field goal from about 37 yds away. Then Freak show Gavin Dawson went on about how Oregon State played great and Said "The Beavers are the best 2-3 team there is."
As a Duck fan I have a problem with this. Belotti catches heat because he lost to a good Boise State team at home, while Mike Riley gets praise for having one upset victory at home on national TV against USC. I am not taking anything away from the win. They deserved it and they were by far the better team that night. However They lost to Stanford to start the season, they looked like a high school team against Penn State who had them beat by the end of the first quarter, they then go home and beat Hawaii (big one there), have the huge upset of USC the following week, and then play #15 Utah at Utah on a Thursday Night and collapse at the end of the game losing that one as well. Now here's my problem: After the win against USC people were asking who is the better team right now Oregon or Oregon State? Are you serious? That one win gets the program that much respect? After Beating USC the beavers would have to validate it the next week against Utah, but they didn't. The win against USC was meaningless because they showed their true overrated, over hyped, inconsistent play that they demonstrate year in and year out.
It's simple Greatness is expected out of Belotti and U of O. Mediocrity is not accepted at U of O, where at OSU it's not only accepted but encouraged. Belotti takes all the heat when they do bad and gets not credit when they win. When the Ducks Win the critics say "Well look at the money Phil Knight donates, or look at the facilities, or look at the Athletes." but when they lose it's because he didn't have them ready to play, or he is a bad coach. Belotti built this existence of greatness at U of O and his record with the University proves it as he is the winningest coach in Oregon history. The critics were getting on him last year when Dixon, and Brady Leaf went down and they couldn't get it done against UCLA or OSU in the Civil War. Then looked what happened when he had the time to prepare Roper to beat down UCF last year in the Sun Bowl (Who at one point was ranked second in the nation last year). There is no way anyone could have prepared to use the 4th and 5th string starters the rest of the year. Do all programs even have 4 or 5 people that they would even be able to plug into the starting role? This year he was a prepared and learned from his mistake and has done a great job. Using everyone he has at his disposal. Granted, I will admit that he flat out got out coached against Boise State, he and the whole coaching staff are responsible for that because the play calling sucked.
All in all OSU will be judged on one win this season against USC and 2-3 is acceptable for everyone that is involved with the OSU program, Boosters, Coaches, Players, the AD, Fans, and students. It is just amazingly pathetic. Where as Belotti has created a monster at U of O due to being highly successful. His success is the reason why the Ducks set them selves at such a higher standard then OSU. 2-3 is not acceptable in Eugene, no matter who they have played, beaten, or lost to. I just think Belotti doesn't get a fair shake with the fans at U of O a lot of the time. They want to use Belotti as the scapegoat for the losses and not give him credit for the wins. At times, not all of the time. I wish they could be a little more appreciative. I think some day they will when he decides to either coach a different college or NFL team and were stuck with some to replace him. If his replacement isn't 1 of the top 2 or 3 coaches available don't expect Oregon to be as great as they have been in the past.
Great Job Belotti- I wouldn't trade him for any other college coach out there!!!
PS. Utah out gained OSU on the ground, had less penalties, and less fumbles. the only categories they lost in were pass yds, and time of possesstion.
Smitty
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Week 3 NFL Pics
Here we are already at week 3. Last week I went 10-5 and my lock of the week was correct. Here we go week 3 version... hopefully a little better than 67% this week. Here we go.
K.C. @ Atlanta- Again some growing pains for the young Falcons. Larry Johnson will push a struggling K.C. team to a victory and avoid going 0-3.
Oakland @ Buffalo- Buffalo is the real deal and they will beat the young Raiders with the home field advantage. Raiders will continue to gain confidence, but not quite good enough to win in Buffalo.
Tampa Bay @ Chicago- This could be a very low scoring game with two good defenses and not very potent offenses. I have Chicago winning because they are at home and I think the Bear Defense will be too much for the Buccs.
Carolina @ Minnesota- Two teams going in opposite directions. Carolina cruising and getting Steve Smith back... while Minnesota is benching Jackson and AP is a little banged up. I have Carolina going 3-0 and J Stew continuing his run at ROY.
Miami @ New England- I think I might be able to QB New England to a victory over the Dolphins. New England in this one.
Cincinnati @ NY Giants- Cincy will have a decent showing (or better than the last two weeks) however, it will not be enough to win. Cincy will lose a close one.
Houston @ Tennessee- Two words. Kerry Collins. Houston will win this one. Two weeks to prepare and Kerry Collins is still a back up. Played well last week but he will show why he is second string. Houston will win this one.
Arizona @ Washington- Kurt Warner is playing like the 2 time MVP that he is and the Cards will win this one and may solidify that Leinart will be riding the pine for a while.
New Orleans @ Denver- Denver will win because their defense is playing with a swagger that they haven't had for a couple of years... and Invesco is a great home field advantage.
Detroit @ San Francisco- Again the Lions are horrible and their Defense will be why they lose a close one on the road. The only way this one gets out of hand is if Martz decides to run up the score on his former team, which would not surprise me one bit.
St.Louis @ Seattle- We have the Seahawks trying to do everything in their power just to have enough receivers to suite up. Koren Robinson will catch some balls and the lowly Rams will struggle with the 12th man in Seattle.
Cleveland @ Baltimore- Cleveland will win this because they will actually put points on the board. Flacco was less than impressive in week 1 and the Baltimore offense will struggle.
Jacksonville @ Indianapolis- The only thing that is making this one a tough decision is the fact that Bob Sanders is out. However, with the return of Jeff Saturday the running game will open up, which will open up the passing game for Manning. Indy in a close one.
Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia- A short week for Philly coupled with the tough loss on Monday night will have them slightly mentally drained and not quite ready to go against Pittsburgh. The Steel Curtain will win this one.
Dallas @ Green Bay- Everyone seems to want to take Dallas in this one. But I don't see it. Green Bay's Defense is better than everyone realizes as is Aaron Rodgers. Dallas is the popular pick because everyone loves Romo, but this is just another game that Rodgers will show why the Packers decided to part ways with Favre.
NY Jets @ San Diego- I have the Chargers winning a close one. They will be bitter about their loss at Denver but Favre will keep the Jets in the game but they just wont have enough to overcome and aggressive Charger team.
And My lock of the week is....New England over Miami. Miami is no good. New England could probably win with out scoring an offensive touchdown.
K.C. @ Atlanta- Again some growing pains for the young Falcons. Larry Johnson will push a struggling K.C. team to a victory and avoid going 0-3.
Oakland @ Buffalo- Buffalo is the real deal and they will beat the young Raiders with the home field advantage. Raiders will continue to gain confidence, but not quite good enough to win in Buffalo.
Tampa Bay @ Chicago- This could be a very low scoring game with two good defenses and not very potent offenses. I have Chicago winning because they are at home and I think the Bear Defense will be too much for the Buccs.
Carolina @ Minnesota- Two teams going in opposite directions. Carolina cruising and getting Steve Smith back... while Minnesota is benching Jackson and AP is a little banged up. I have Carolina going 3-0 and J Stew continuing his run at ROY.
Miami @ New England- I think I might be able to QB New England to a victory over the Dolphins. New England in this one.
Cincinnati @ NY Giants- Cincy will have a decent showing (or better than the last two weeks) however, it will not be enough to win. Cincy will lose a close one.
Houston @ Tennessee- Two words. Kerry Collins. Houston will win this one. Two weeks to prepare and Kerry Collins is still a back up. Played well last week but he will show why he is second string. Houston will win this one.
Arizona @ Washington- Kurt Warner is playing like the 2 time MVP that he is and the Cards will win this one and may solidify that Leinart will be riding the pine for a while.
New Orleans @ Denver- Denver will win because their defense is playing with a swagger that they haven't had for a couple of years... and Invesco is a great home field advantage.
Detroit @ San Francisco- Again the Lions are horrible and their Defense will be why they lose a close one on the road. The only way this one gets out of hand is if Martz decides to run up the score on his former team, which would not surprise me one bit.
St.Louis @ Seattle- We have the Seahawks trying to do everything in their power just to have enough receivers to suite up. Koren Robinson will catch some balls and the lowly Rams will struggle with the 12th man in Seattle.
Cleveland @ Baltimore- Cleveland will win this because they will actually put points on the board. Flacco was less than impressive in week 1 and the Baltimore offense will struggle.
Jacksonville @ Indianapolis- The only thing that is making this one a tough decision is the fact that Bob Sanders is out. However, with the return of Jeff Saturday the running game will open up, which will open up the passing game for Manning. Indy in a close one.
Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia- A short week for Philly coupled with the tough loss on Monday night will have them slightly mentally drained and not quite ready to go against Pittsburgh. The Steel Curtain will win this one.
Dallas @ Green Bay- Everyone seems to want to take Dallas in this one. But I don't see it. Green Bay's Defense is better than everyone realizes as is Aaron Rodgers. Dallas is the popular pick because everyone loves Romo, but this is just another game that Rodgers will show why the Packers decided to part ways with Favre.
NY Jets @ San Diego- I have the Chargers winning a close one. They will be bitter about their loss at Denver but Favre will keep the Jets in the game but they just wont have enough to overcome and aggressive Charger team.
And My lock of the week is....New England over Miami. Miami is no good. New England could probably win with out scoring an offensive touchdown.
Friday, September 12, 2008
NFL Picks Week 2
N.O. @ Washington- There are just too many weapons in N.O. for the Washington Redskins to compete with. This will be a victory for N.O.
Chicago @ Carolina- I have the Panthers winning this one. I liked Chicago's game plan against Indy last week however, they will not have the luxury of an out of rhythm QB. Another thing to look out for is the deadly running attack that is Williams/Stewart that will keep the Bears defense on their heels all game long.
Green Bay @ Detroit- I have Green Bay winning this simply because it seems as though the Lions still haven't figured out how to play defense. The offensive side of the ball will be much tougher than it was against Atlanta. The Lions need to make some serious adjustments or they will lose big!
Buffalo @ Jacksonville- I think that Buffalo could be the real deal this year and I expect them to go take a hard fought game from Jacksonville. 0-2 Jacksonville?? We'll see. I think so.
Oakland @ K.C.- K.C. will win this for two reasons. Oakland has some serious issues' they need to deal with. It doesn't just seem like lack of execution with them, but possibly lack of passion and that in the NFL is a recipe for disaster. Number 2 their playing in one of the toughest venues to play in, at Arrow Head. The atmosphere will be too much for the Raiders youth to handle.
N.Y. Giants @ St.Louis- I have the Giants in this. It will be a much more spirited effort from the Rams than it was last week but, I think it could be another long season for the Rams. Not because of their offense though, mainly because of their defense.
Indianapolis @ Minnesota- You will find that Manning will be more relaxed with his personnel. You might see a close game though because of the legs of AP. I'll say Indy avoids going 0-2 and wins in Minnesota.
Tennessee @ Cincinnati- Call me crazy but I have Cincinnati winning this one. Vince Young has just been too much of a distraction for the team to be fully ready. I know Kerry Collins is back up and that is why. It'll be a win for Cincinnati and maybe a confidence builder for Ocho Cinco and his talented QB, Carson Palmer
San Francisco @ Seattle- No Receivers. No Problem... the 49ers are coming to town. Senaca Wallace will be used at receiver as well as underrated recent sign Sammi Parker. They will be fine and JT O'Sullivan will have his trouble with the crowd noise...
Atlanta @ Tampa Bay- The Buccs will win this one. The youth will be evident against a defense like the Buccs. Matt Ryan will have his struggles. Should an easy one.
San Diego @ Denver- With the short week for Denver I would expect San Diego to win this game. I know Denver looked good last week, but it was against Oakland. I think this will be a close game but I would expect that the big 3 for San Diego will be too much for Denver.
New England @ N.Y. Jets- I will not pick against the Patriots until they lose one. They haven't lost one in 20 straight regular season games. No Brady... Yes but this same situation seemed to work out for them pretty well for them last time they had a starting QB go down. Pats in a close one.
Miami @ Arizona- Arizona! that's all I have for this one. Miami on the road. They couldn't even win at home last year.
Pittsburgh @ Cleveland- Cleveland should be a frenzied crowd... however, I am not sold on Derek Anderson as a starting QB in this league. The crowd will help the Browns keep the game close in the first half. I think the Steelers pull away in the second half.
Philadelphia @ Dallas- The T.O.-McNabb saga continues, some story lines here, and a big NFC East match-up. I look for Dallas to be too good and win on their home turf. Get em' T.O.
And my Lock of the week is...I hate to do this but Green Bay over Detroit. I just have not seen the improvement on the defensive side of the ball and until they do something about that I can't see them being a very successful team. I hope I am wrong. Go Lions.
Chicago @ Carolina- I have the Panthers winning this one. I liked Chicago's game plan against Indy last week however, they will not have the luxury of an out of rhythm QB. Another thing to look out for is the deadly running attack that is Williams/Stewart that will keep the Bears defense on their heels all game long.
Green Bay @ Detroit- I have Green Bay winning this simply because it seems as though the Lions still haven't figured out how to play defense. The offensive side of the ball will be much tougher than it was against Atlanta. The Lions need to make some serious adjustments or they will lose big!
Buffalo @ Jacksonville- I think that Buffalo could be the real deal this year and I expect them to go take a hard fought game from Jacksonville. 0-2 Jacksonville?? We'll see. I think so.
Oakland @ K.C.- K.C. will win this for two reasons. Oakland has some serious issues' they need to deal with. It doesn't just seem like lack of execution with them, but possibly lack of passion and that in the NFL is a recipe for disaster. Number 2 their playing in one of the toughest venues to play in, at Arrow Head. The atmosphere will be too much for the Raiders youth to handle.
N.Y. Giants @ St.Louis- I have the Giants in this. It will be a much more spirited effort from the Rams than it was last week but, I think it could be another long season for the Rams. Not because of their offense though, mainly because of their defense.
Indianapolis @ Minnesota- You will find that Manning will be more relaxed with his personnel. You might see a close game though because of the legs of AP. I'll say Indy avoids going 0-2 and wins in Minnesota.
Tennessee @ Cincinnati- Call me crazy but I have Cincinnati winning this one. Vince Young has just been too much of a distraction for the team to be fully ready. I know Kerry Collins is back up and that is why. It'll be a win for Cincinnati and maybe a confidence builder for Ocho Cinco and his talented QB, Carson Palmer
San Francisco @ Seattle- No Receivers. No Problem... the 49ers are coming to town. Senaca Wallace will be used at receiver as well as underrated recent sign Sammi Parker. They will be fine and JT O'Sullivan will have his trouble with the crowd noise...
Atlanta @ Tampa Bay- The Buccs will win this one. The youth will be evident against a defense like the Buccs. Matt Ryan will have his struggles. Should an easy one.
San Diego @ Denver- With the short week for Denver I would expect San Diego to win this game. I know Denver looked good last week, but it was against Oakland. I think this will be a close game but I would expect that the big 3 for San Diego will be too much for Denver.
New England @ N.Y. Jets- I will not pick against the Patriots until they lose one. They haven't lost one in 20 straight regular season games. No Brady... Yes but this same situation seemed to work out for them pretty well for them last time they had a starting QB go down. Pats in a close one.
Miami @ Arizona- Arizona! that's all I have for this one. Miami on the road. They couldn't even win at home last year.
Pittsburgh @ Cleveland- Cleveland should be a frenzied crowd... however, I am not sold on Derek Anderson as a starting QB in this league. The crowd will help the Browns keep the game close in the first half. I think the Steelers pull away in the second half.
Philadelphia @ Dallas- The T.O.-McNabb saga continues, some story lines here, and a big NFC East match-up. I look for Dallas to be too good and win on their home turf. Get em' T.O.
And my Lock of the week is...I hate to do this but Green Bay over Detroit. I just have not seen the improvement on the defensive side of the ball and until they do something about that I can't see them being a very successful team. I hope I am wrong. Go Lions.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
NL All Hustle Team
Catcher--Russell Martin--This position was one of the toughest to pick. Russell is a five tool player and you don't see a catcher too often with his physical talent at the catcher position matched by his toughness.
1B--Jeff Francour-- He is normally an outfielder but does play first base as well, and i had to find a spot for him. He will go down swinging quite often but I love his effort and he too is a five tool payer. If you watch his swing you can tell that he never leaves anything back, and he runs the bases like he swings a bat, as hard as he knows how.
2B--Chase Utley-- You know about his great offensive talent, but I have seen this guy give his body up so many times diving for balls and making great plays. I also saw him give up his body to take a dive at a catcher twice his size. he may not be a big guy but is just as strong and tough as anyone.
3B--David Wright--Is a pro and the perfect player for the Mets because the young and old veterans can watch Wright play the game and see that that's the kind of effort you need to win. One thing that really caught my eye was when the Mets blew it last season and let the Phillies win the division, Wright was in an interview and I think that he was the most affected in the locker room. Young and old guys on the Mets can learn so much from this pro.
SS--David Eckstein--Probably my All Hustle Team MVP. He looks like he is working out, and Hustling when he is warming up in the on deck circle. This guy takes so much pride on his hustle. I can guarantee you will never see him not run out a ground ball of fly ball. There was a stat I aw late towards the end of the season last year and Eckstein had only swung and whiffed a pitch 17 times. He is another player you would want you kids to watch and play like.
LF--Erick Byrnes--This guy is on of my favorites. If he is not MVP then he is a very close second. This guy will give you everything he has. I don't think he cares if there's a HR fence or not, he will run through it if he has to. He runs around the outfield like a chicken with his head cut off trying to make sure nothing drops as a base hit.
CF--Shane Victorino (The Flyin Hawaiian)--The nick name fits his abilities because this guy might be the fastest on this list. He, like everyone else on this list will get to anything in the outfield. The thing I like most about this guy though is that just by watching him you can tell he never thinks that his team is out of a game, and he will do all that he can to make sure that they still have a chance.
RF--Hunter Pence--Now this comes full circle and back to where we began. This guy is pedal to the medal all of the time. I hate that he plays for the Astros, but I wish the Cubs could get him and didn't have to play him so often. He is a great talent and the effort and intensity he put into his game makes him the great player that he is going to be. He plays that game at such a level that he may see some injuries in his career.
That's it. That's the list!
Smitty
1B--Jeff Francour-- He is normally an outfielder but does play first base as well, and i had to find a spot for him. He will go down swinging quite often but I love his effort and he too is a five tool payer. If you watch his swing you can tell that he never leaves anything back, and he runs the bases like he swings a bat, as hard as he knows how.
2B--Chase Utley-- You know about his great offensive talent, but I have seen this guy give his body up so many times diving for balls and making great plays. I also saw him give up his body to take a dive at a catcher twice his size. he may not be a big guy but is just as strong and tough as anyone.
3B--David Wright--Is a pro and the perfect player for the Mets because the young and old veterans can watch Wright play the game and see that that's the kind of effort you need to win. One thing that really caught my eye was when the Mets blew it last season and let the Phillies win the division, Wright was in an interview and I think that he was the most affected in the locker room. Young and old guys on the Mets can learn so much from this pro.
SS--David Eckstein--Probably my All Hustle Team MVP. He looks like he is working out, and Hustling when he is warming up in the on deck circle. This guy takes so much pride on his hustle. I can guarantee you will never see him not run out a ground ball of fly ball. There was a stat I aw late towards the end of the season last year and Eckstein had only swung and whiffed a pitch 17 times. He is another player you would want you kids to watch and play like.
LF--Erick Byrnes--This guy is on of my favorites. If he is not MVP then he is a very close second. This guy will give you everything he has. I don't think he cares if there's a HR fence or not, he will run through it if he has to. He runs around the outfield like a chicken with his head cut off trying to make sure nothing drops as a base hit.
CF--Shane Victorino (The Flyin Hawaiian)--The nick name fits his abilities because this guy might be the fastest on this list. He, like everyone else on this list will get to anything in the outfield. The thing I like most about this guy though is that just by watching him you can tell he never thinks that his team is out of a game, and he will do all that he can to make sure that they still have a chance.
RF--Hunter Pence--Now this comes full circle and back to where we began. This guy is pedal to the medal all of the time. I hate that he plays for the Astros, but I wish the Cubs could get him and didn't have to play him so often. He is a great talent and the effort and intensity he put into his game makes him the great player that he is going to be. He plays that game at such a level that he may see some injuries in his career.
That's it. That's the list!
Smitty
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
AL All Hustle Teams
A couple of nights ago I was watching the Astros beat my Cubbies. I wasn't able to catch the game until late in the 7th inning. Hunter Pence came up and was a triple away from the cycle. I then watched the cubs blow their lead in regulation and later blow the game in extra innings. However just after watching Hunter Pences last AB in extras I was paying attention to his approach to his at bat, and thinking about the times I have seen him in the past. He plays and prepares for games, at bats, and just goes full board every second of every game and leaves it all out on the field. This prompted me to think of all the players that have that same intensity and desire to play the great game of baseball. There are not many like that but it made me want to come up with my own AL and NL All Hustle Teams. These are players that may not be the best hitters or defensive players at their position or even their team but players that play the game day in and day out like it's their last one.
I won't be opening a spot for the pitcher or DH. A hustle player has to do it all. You also will not be seeing the likes of Robinson Cano, Manny Ramirez, or BJ Upton for obvious (Lazy) reasons that I should have to explain.
My American League 2008 All Hustle Team
Catcher--Ivan Pudge Rodriquez. I'm not the biggest fan of Pudge but I have to give it up to him. He has been a solid catcher his whole career, a great hitting catcher and will swipe a bag whenever possible. Not one of your classic big guys at that particular position, but what he lacks in size he makes up with competitive drive and the will to succeed.
1B-- Justin Morneau doesn't necessarily do it with overall power but power to the gaps and beating out Doubles. Plus Ron Gardenhire will hold all of his players accountable for their Hustle. Also is looking for his second MVP award this year.
2B--Brian Roberts. Similar to Hunter Pence in my mind. Just a class act Hustling Pro who I would want my kids to watch and to tell them, "That's how your supposed to play the game, right there"
3rd--Scott Rolen. When he came up with Philly I didn't pay too much attention to Rolen. Then he got traded to the Cardinals and I watched him a lot more then I used to and saw the way he played the game. He gives his body up at 3rd base and throws his body into any ball and then shoots the ball out of his cannon arm. I then would watch him beat out doubles and steal bases and he would make me think what would happen if there was a collision? It might be like a semi running over a second baseman or a catcher. He is an intense beast.
SS--Derek Jeter. Is the greatest leader since Michael Jordan. In a great Leader like that you need him to set a good example for his teammates. Which he has done year in and year out with his clutch hitting in the playoffs. That is one of the few players that I could guarantee you that you would never ever see him dog it.
LF--Jacoby Ellsbury. Is one of the up and coming stars for years to come. He is always busting out infield singles, doubles that would be singles for most, and is making virtually a nightly appearance Web Gems.
CF--Tori Hunter. It doesn't matter what team or what ballpark Hunter is at there is no for sure HR. Sometimes I wonder, "Could he rob an HR on the Green Monster?" He is always trying to make the play on defense and he carries that same intensity to the plate, and on the bases.
RF--Josh Hamilton. Hamilton will chase down fly balls in the outfield with wreckless abandonment in Texas, he puts Hustle and effort not only into making plays but having complete control of the outfield. It was clear to me that after his poor choices earlier in his career that he wasn't going to let this opportunity slip away. He plays like it night in and Night out.
I won't be opening a spot for the pitcher or DH. A hustle player has to do it all. You also will not be seeing the likes of Robinson Cano, Manny Ramirez, or BJ Upton for obvious (Lazy) reasons that I should have to explain.
My American League 2008 All Hustle Team
Catcher--Ivan Pudge Rodriquez. I'm not the biggest fan of Pudge but I have to give it up to him. He has been a solid catcher his whole career, a great hitting catcher and will swipe a bag whenever possible. Not one of your classic big guys at that particular position, but what he lacks in size he makes up with competitive drive and the will to succeed.
1B-- Justin Morneau doesn't necessarily do it with overall power but power to the gaps and beating out Doubles. Plus Ron Gardenhire will hold all of his players accountable for their Hustle. Also is looking for his second MVP award this year.
2B--Brian Roberts. Similar to Hunter Pence in my mind. Just a class act Hustling Pro who I would want my kids to watch and to tell them, "That's how your supposed to play the game, right there"
3rd--Scott Rolen. When he came up with Philly I didn't pay too much attention to Rolen. Then he got traded to the Cardinals and I watched him a lot more then I used to and saw the way he played the game. He gives his body up at 3rd base and throws his body into any ball and then shoots the ball out of his cannon arm. I then would watch him beat out doubles and steal bases and he would make me think what would happen if there was a collision? It might be like a semi running over a second baseman or a catcher. He is an intense beast.
SS--Derek Jeter. Is the greatest leader since Michael Jordan. In a great Leader like that you need him to set a good example for his teammates. Which he has done year in and year out with his clutch hitting in the playoffs. That is one of the few players that I could guarantee you that you would never ever see him dog it.
LF--Jacoby Ellsbury. Is one of the up and coming stars for years to come. He is always busting out infield singles, doubles that would be singles for most, and is making virtually a nightly appearance Web Gems.
CF--Tori Hunter. It doesn't matter what team or what ballpark Hunter is at there is no for sure HR. Sometimes I wonder, "Could he rob an HR on the Green Monster?" He is always trying to make the play on defense and he carries that same intensity to the plate, and on the bases.
RF--Josh Hamilton. Hamilton will chase down fly balls in the outfield with wreckless abandonment in Texas, he puts Hustle and effort not only into making plays but having complete control of the outfield. It was clear to me that after his poor choices earlier in his career that he wasn't going to let this opportunity slip away. He plays like it night in and Night out.
Monday, September 8, 2008
The Pirates are the REAL DEAL
Yes the Pirates are for real... not Pittsburgh but yes the Juggernaut that is East Carolina. Now some people might say they are just a fad or that they are the popular bandwagon to be on right now. That just is not the case. First off if anyone remembers who they played on their very first game of last season... Yes the same Virginia Tech that they beat this year. Last year they had to go to Blacksburg in an emotional game for everyone at Virginia Tech. It was a very big game for Va Tech and they were ready to play. If anyone remembers East Carolina almost won that game. It took a turnover late in the game to solidify the victory for Tech. East Carolina then went on to a 6-2 conference record last year and gutted out a tough win in the Hawaii bowl against an always good Boise State team. They are led with many juniors and seniors and their experience is starting to show.
This year the Pirates were on the other end of the close outcome vs Tech and added a little icing on the cake by beating Tech with a little Beamer ball... blocking the punt and returning it to the house late in the 4th. Then the Pirates just flat out dominated the team that could win the Big East this year. Pat White and the Mountaineers looked confused all game long, they couldn't find a rhythm, and ended talk of a Heisman for Pat White.
Now their remaining 2 non conference games are at Virginia (very winnable) and at N.C. State ( another winnable game). Then you have the rest of the conference schedule which should be a cake walk compared to beating Va Tech and West Virginia on back-to-back weeks. I can definitely see them going undefeated and if they do that... There is no question that they deserve to play for a national championship. They play in a weaker conference however, they scheduled 4 BCS teams for their non conference opponents. Beat a top 20 team and a top 10 team. They would deserve a shot.
This program has been built to win the last couple of years and Skip Holtz deserves a ton of credit. With that I would not expect to see him coaching at East Carolina next season. Sorry Pirates fans, but he will be the hottest prospect to coach a big program that needs to be revived. If you ask me Michigan would really benefit with a guy like Holtz, and I'm not sure that Rodriguez is going to be the guy to lead Michigan. I hope I am wrong because I would like to see him build that program and be the face of that program for many years but the money and the legitimate shot at winning a national championship every year will probably be too much to turn down. That being said he has built the program to be successful for many years and if he leaves he will leave East Carolina with the attitude that they can beat anyone and that is what will keep the program going.
Good luck to the Pirates this year I will be rooting for you.
Trash
This year the Pirates were on the other end of the close outcome vs Tech and added a little icing on the cake by beating Tech with a little Beamer ball... blocking the punt and returning it to the house late in the 4th. Then the Pirates just flat out dominated the team that could win the Big East this year. Pat White and the Mountaineers looked confused all game long, they couldn't find a rhythm, and ended talk of a Heisman for Pat White.
Now their remaining 2 non conference games are at Virginia (very winnable) and at N.C. State ( another winnable game). Then you have the rest of the conference schedule which should be a cake walk compared to beating Va Tech and West Virginia on back-to-back weeks. I can definitely see them going undefeated and if they do that... There is no question that they deserve to play for a national championship. They play in a weaker conference however, they scheduled 4 BCS teams for their non conference opponents. Beat a top 20 team and a top 10 team. They would deserve a shot.
This program has been built to win the last couple of years and Skip Holtz deserves a ton of credit. With that I would not expect to see him coaching at East Carolina next season. Sorry Pirates fans, but he will be the hottest prospect to coach a big program that needs to be revived. If you ask me Michigan would really benefit with a guy like Holtz, and I'm not sure that Rodriguez is going to be the guy to lead Michigan. I hope I am wrong because I would like to see him build that program and be the face of that program for many years but the money and the legitimate shot at winning a national championship every year will probably be too much to turn down. That being said he has built the program to be successful for many years and if he leaves he will leave East Carolina with the attitude that they can beat anyone and that is what will keep the program going.
Good luck to the Pirates this year I will be rooting for you.
Trash
Sunday, September 7, 2008
AFC Predictions
AFC--EAST-- New England will win the division no question. The Dolphins and Bills will be at the bottom again. Not strong enough QB play from Buffalo and too young and inexpereince for the Dolphins. I do like the Jets and feel that they can compete but not for a playoff spot. I love the moves that the Jets made in the offseason addressing the O-Line and of course aquiring Favre, but they are unfortuanately overpowered in the AFC. If they played in the NFC I think they would make it.
AFC--NORTH-- Pittsburgh I fully expect to win this division. Great tools and weapons on both sides of the ball and a tough solid QB that knows how to win, with a solid underrated back up in Dennis Dixon. Baltimore will have the same issues they have every year no one at QB to direct their offense to the playoffs. Defese is typically stout but not enough to overcome a horrifying offense. Cleveland will finish second in the divison and just miss the playoffs for the second straight year. I beleive that the Browns poored to much into Derek Anderson after one good season and will regret giving him all of that money. (20 mil over 3 years). They do have great WR's and pose a very intimidating offensive threat, but there are questions on the Defense. Then there's the Bengals that have to many off the field issues to keep their minds focused on winning. Whether it's Chad Johnson's/Ocho Cinco's shanninigans or anther idiot getting arested.
AFC--SOUTH-- Indianpolis and Jacksonville will battle it out for the Division and the first wild card spot. Indianopolis is getting old and may not have too many years on top. Jacksonville is however up and coming and will win the wild card with great play down the stretch from David Garrard who is very underrrated. This may be top to bottom the toughest division in the AFC. Tennesee will just miss the palyoffs as they too have a good team with a good chance, and Houston seems to be improving every year through the draft, and a key trade here and there.
AFC--WEST-- San Diego is too strong offensively and defensively not to win this division. I am still not sold on Norv Turner being the coach to take this team all the way though. He's a decent but not great coach. I beleive that Shottenheimer got screwed and was the right guy. One word the LT. Denver will linger around like they always do but instead of just missing the playoffs this year they will just get in as the last wild card. Cutler may not have a great year but he will show vast improvement from last year to this year and will gain over the respect of the organization, his teammates, and the tough fans of Denver. Oakland is improving greatly. I still don't know about Jamarcus Russell, but Darren Mcffadden is going to be a stud for a long time assuming he stays out of trouble in Oakland. Oakland has a Solid defense, with some weapons offesnively. I look for this team to do some damage in the next couple of years. KC will win nothing with Brody Croyle as their starter, or Damon Hured for that fact.
AFC--NORTH-- Pittsburgh I fully expect to win this division. Great tools and weapons on both sides of the ball and a tough solid QB that knows how to win, with a solid underrated back up in Dennis Dixon. Baltimore will have the same issues they have every year no one at QB to direct their offense to the playoffs. Defese is typically stout but not enough to overcome a horrifying offense. Cleveland will finish second in the divison and just miss the playoffs for the second straight year. I beleive that the Browns poored to much into Derek Anderson after one good season and will regret giving him all of that money. (20 mil over 3 years). They do have great WR's and pose a very intimidating offensive threat, but there are questions on the Defense. Then there's the Bengals that have to many off the field issues to keep their minds focused on winning. Whether it's Chad Johnson's/Ocho Cinco's shanninigans or anther idiot getting arested.
AFC--SOUTH-- Indianpolis and Jacksonville will battle it out for the Division and the first wild card spot. Indianopolis is getting old and may not have too many years on top. Jacksonville is however up and coming and will win the wild card with great play down the stretch from David Garrard who is very underrrated. This may be top to bottom the toughest division in the AFC. Tennesee will just miss the palyoffs as they too have a good team with a good chance, and Houston seems to be improving every year through the draft, and a key trade here and there.
AFC--WEST-- San Diego is too strong offensively and defensively not to win this division. I am still not sold on Norv Turner being the coach to take this team all the way though. He's a decent but not great coach. I beleive that Shottenheimer got screwed and was the right guy. One word the LT. Denver will linger around like they always do but instead of just missing the playoffs this year they will just get in as the last wild card. Cutler may not have a great year but he will show vast improvement from last year to this year and will gain over the respect of the organization, his teammates, and the tough fans of Denver. Oakland is improving greatly. I still don't know about Jamarcus Russell, but Darren Mcffadden is going to be a stud for a long time assuming he stays out of trouble in Oakland. Oakland has a Solid defense, with some weapons offesnively. I look for this team to do some damage in the next couple of years. KC will win nothing with Brody Croyle as their starter, or Damon Hured for that fact.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Witnessing history... Almost
WOW. I came so close to watching history unfold before my own eyes. I was lucky enough to go to the Mariners/Yankess game at SAFECO on Friday 9/5/08. Brenden Morrow the young flame thrower for the Mariners took the bump for the first time in his career to start a game. He was successful as a reliever at the big league level, however, long term plans were for him to be a starter. He was able to save 10 games while JJ Putz was on the DL and did very well. Once Putz came back they decided to send Morrow to triple A so he could develop his arm to last for more than just 1 or 2 innings. After 5 starts in triple A he was 1-2 with a 5 plus era. Not great stats, nonetheless they knew he had the stuff to compete at the major league level. Might as well throw him to sharks and have him open against one of the best offensive line ups in the league... The Yankees.
And Morrow had absolutely filthy stuff. He was consistantly in the 95-97mph range with his fastball and mixed in a 84-86mph offspeed breaking pitch. Morrow confused hitters all night long mixing up his pitches, hitting corners and throwing some serious cheese. NO HIT the Yankees through 7 2/3, also including strikeouts of A-rod, Jeter, Giambi, and Damon. I don't care who you are if you can strike out those 4 guys in one start you are doing something right. Giambi struck out in the second inning and he just looked completly clueless up there... just pure dominance. 4 outs away from history, but still the best pitching performance i've ever seen live.
With a performance like that it looks like the pitching staff for the Mariners might not be that bad next year... No.1 Felix Hernandez, No.2 Eric Bedard, No.3 Brenden Morrow??? Putz in the pen. Now offensivly they need to get rid of everyone except for Ibanez, and Ichiro. Pitching will be fine, but without some serious retooling on the offensive side the Mariners will continue to be between mediocre and poor. Keep Rigleman around, he is a no nonsence kind of manager and was really the only one with the stones to actually get rid of Ricky Sexon. Not to mention the Mariners are only about 5 games under 500 since he has started managing the team... Which is not good but with the team they have he has definately earned time to see what he can do with this team with a fresh start at the beginning of a season.
It's been a very tough year for the Mariners, but last night gave every person affiliated with the Mariners a performance they could be very proud of.
Trash
And Morrow had absolutely filthy stuff. He was consistantly in the 95-97mph range with his fastball and mixed in a 84-86mph offspeed breaking pitch. Morrow confused hitters all night long mixing up his pitches, hitting corners and throwing some serious cheese. NO HIT the Yankees through 7 2/3, also including strikeouts of A-rod, Jeter, Giambi, and Damon. I don't care who you are if you can strike out those 4 guys in one start you are doing something right. Giambi struck out in the second inning and he just looked completly clueless up there... just pure dominance. 4 outs away from history, but still the best pitching performance i've ever seen live.
With a performance like that it looks like the pitching staff for the Mariners might not be that bad next year... No.1 Felix Hernandez, No.2 Eric Bedard, No.3 Brenden Morrow??? Putz in the pen. Now offensivly they need to get rid of everyone except for Ibanez, and Ichiro. Pitching will be fine, but without some serious retooling on the offensive side the Mariners will continue to be between mediocre and poor. Keep Rigleman around, he is a no nonsence kind of manager and was really the only one with the stones to actually get rid of Ricky Sexon. Not to mention the Mariners are only about 5 games under 500 since he has started managing the team... Which is not good but with the team they have he has definately earned time to see what he can do with this team with a fresh start at the beginning of a season.
It's been a very tough year for the Mariners, but last night gave every person affiliated with the Mariners a performance they could be very proud of.
Trash
NFC predictions and lock of the week
Ok... Here we go.
NFC--SOUTH--No brainer New Orleans Saints. By default really though. Atlanta too young and inexperienced. Carolina has too many questions at QB and the suspension to Steve Smith hurts. And Tampa Bay to me is in my opinion one of the most overrated teams in the league.
NFC--NORTH--Minnesota seems like the most complete team in that division. A good O-Line, Solid Defense and one of the best running games in the league will propel them to the North championship. With one of the Wild Cards going to Detroit, who will turn the bad years of losing into the success of a berth in the playoffs. Chicago and GB will both just miss the playoffs as this will be the most cmpetitive division with all teams having decent records, and all potentially having a chance at the playoffs going into the last couple weeks of the season.
NFC--WEST-- No brainer like the south is SEATTLE. By default they win this division. Look who else is in their division. SF unfortuanately is still a couple years away from being a playoff team. Arizona has QB contraversy's and an unhappy WR in Anquan Boldin will kill their season, and the RAMS have to much to do to improve. But don't get me wrong SEATTLE gets no respect outside of the Pacific NW and they are a good consistant football team with Holmgren as Coach and Hasselback at QB. He really knows how to manage a game and will give Seattle a chance every single week.
NFC--EAST-- DALLAS will runnaway with the division, with the Eagles getting the wild card. The giants have too many injuries on the defensive side of the ball, and the Redskins will never win with Campbell as their starter. I'm sorry but I thought it was a mistake to make him a starter to begin with. He should be at best a backup, if not third string. they need a QB to distribute and he is not the guy. Just not for the Skins but for any team.
Dallas will win the NFC and Play in the Big game.
Offensive Player of the year will be Tony Romo
Devensive Player fo the year will be Justin Tuck
Coach of the Year will be Rod Marinelli
My lock of the week. Seattle to cover against Buffalo is favored by 1.5 pts. Give me a break. East Coast Bias big time. I like Buffalo, but what have they done to be favored over Seattle?
NFC--SOUTH--No brainer New Orleans Saints. By default really though. Atlanta too young and inexperienced. Carolina has too many questions at QB and the suspension to Steve Smith hurts. And Tampa Bay to me is in my opinion one of the most overrated teams in the league.
NFC--NORTH--Minnesota seems like the most complete team in that division. A good O-Line, Solid Defense and one of the best running games in the league will propel them to the North championship. With one of the Wild Cards going to Detroit, who will turn the bad years of losing into the success of a berth in the playoffs. Chicago and GB will both just miss the playoffs as this will be the most cmpetitive division with all teams having decent records, and all potentially having a chance at the playoffs going into the last couple weeks of the season.
NFC--WEST-- No brainer like the south is SEATTLE. By default they win this division. Look who else is in their division. SF unfortuanately is still a couple years away from being a playoff team. Arizona has QB contraversy's and an unhappy WR in Anquan Boldin will kill their season, and the RAMS have to much to do to improve. But don't get me wrong SEATTLE gets no respect outside of the Pacific NW and they are a good consistant football team with Holmgren as Coach and Hasselback at QB. He really knows how to manage a game and will give Seattle a chance every single week.
NFC--EAST-- DALLAS will runnaway with the division, with the Eagles getting the wild card. The giants have too many injuries on the defensive side of the ball, and the Redskins will never win with Campbell as their starter. I'm sorry but I thought it was a mistake to make him a starter to begin with. He should be at best a backup, if not third string. they need a QB to distribute and he is not the guy. Just not for the Skins but for any team.
Dallas will win the NFC and Play in the Big game.
Offensive Player of the year will be Tony Romo
Devensive Player fo the year will be Justin Tuck
Coach of the Year will be Rod Marinelli
My lock of the week. Seattle to cover against Buffalo is favored by 1.5 pts. Give me a break. East Coast Bias big time. I like Buffalo, but what have they done to be favored over Seattle?
Friday, September 5, 2008
MLB MVP and Cy young
I've been rolling around these ideas in my head and questions about who should be elligible for the MVP and Cy Young award winners for the AL and the NL.
Should a releife pitcher be elligible for the CyYoung Award?
Should a Starting or releife pitcher be elligible for the MVP award?
My opinion is that a pitcher can be an MVP but it has to be clear cut that the pitcher or reliefe pitcher was more valuable then the position player in that given league (AL/NL).
People are talking about K-Rod possibly winning the Cy Young or MVP.
1st) K-Rod has 54 saves which is a ton at this point in the season. However he doesn't deserve the Cy Young because he has blown 5 save opportunities this year which is maybe average making him 54 of 59 on save opportunities. Not great in my opinion. He is 2-2 with a 2.63 ERA, also not Cy Young numbers for a releifer.
2nd)Look at how dominant that team has been all season long. Angels have dominated the AL West from the beginning of the season to now. As for the MVP award, that means to me that If you were to replace K-Rod with someone who maybe wasn't as good but had the same amount of save opportunities that the Angels would be a lot worse off and not in contention for the playoffs. However that is not the case because they have had a strangle hold on the division all year long. They would be in the playoffs with or with out him. K-Rod derserves the award for Releivers assuming he has the most saves at the end of the season and nothing else.
3rd) How can K-Rodeven be mentioned for CyYoung in the AL with Cliff Lee having the type of year that he is. Playing on one of the most underachieving teams in the league and already having 20 wins. The team is terrible but he has been solid all season long. He should run away with the Cy Young. They have the Rolaids Reliefe award for a reason: For the person with the most saves. If they wanted the MVP or Cy young they should have been a Starting Pitcher or a position player. Dennis Echersly won the Cy Young back whe he and the A's were dominant, and to his credit he only blew one save that season. I thik that may qualify him for the Cy Young, but not after 5 blown saves.
Trash, Whats you take?
Smitty
Should a releife pitcher be elligible for the CyYoung Award?
Should a Starting or releife pitcher be elligible for the MVP award?
My opinion is that a pitcher can be an MVP but it has to be clear cut that the pitcher or reliefe pitcher was more valuable then the position player in that given league (AL/NL).
People are talking about K-Rod possibly winning the Cy Young or MVP.
1st) K-Rod has 54 saves which is a ton at this point in the season. However he doesn't deserve the Cy Young because he has blown 5 save opportunities this year which is maybe average making him 54 of 59 on save opportunities. Not great in my opinion. He is 2-2 with a 2.63 ERA, also not Cy Young numbers for a releifer.
2nd)Look at how dominant that team has been all season long. Angels have dominated the AL West from the beginning of the season to now. As for the MVP award, that means to me that If you were to replace K-Rod with someone who maybe wasn't as good but had the same amount of save opportunities that the Angels would be a lot worse off and not in contention for the playoffs. However that is not the case because they have had a strangle hold on the division all year long. They would be in the playoffs with or with out him. K-Rod derserves the award for Releivers assuming he has the most saves at the end of the season and nothing else.
3rd) How can K-Rodeven be mentioned for CyYoung in the AL with Cliff Lee having the type of year that he is. Playing on one of the most underachieving teams in the league and already having 20 wins. The team is terrible but he has been solid all season long. He should run away with the Cy Young. They have the Rolaids Reliefe award for a reason: For the person with the most saves. If they wanted the MVP or Cy young they should have been a Starting Pitcher or a position player. Dennis Echersly won the Cy Young back whe he and the A's were dominant, and to his credit he only blew one save that season. I thik that may qualify him for the Cy Young, but not after 5 blown saves.
Trash, Whats you take?
Smitty
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Predictions NFL edition
First I should put an end to my College Football predictions... I told everything except for my national championship prediction. I have USC defeating Florida in the National Championship game. If this happens I could see Pete Carrol seriously considering the NFL again. I hope he stays, he is definatly a college guy but if he goes it is because he is competitive and I would understand that. I hope I'm wrong but only time will tell.
Now to the NFL. I will start with the AFC since I think that one will be a little bit more clear cut than the NFC.
AFC: East- New England, North-Pittsburgh, South-Indianapolis, West-San Diego
AFC: Wild cards- N.Y. Jets, Jacksonville
AFC Champion- New England
NFC: East-Dallas, North-Detroit, South-New Orleans, West-Seattle
NFC: Wild cards- Minnesota, Carolina
NFC Champion- Dallas
Coach of the year- Rod Marinelli
MVP- LaDainian Tomlinson
Offensive player of the year- Ladainian Tomlinson
Defensive player of the year- Champ Bailey
Offensive rookie of the year- Jonathan Stewart
Defensive rookie of the year- Glenn Dorsey
Super Bowl Champ- New England
That's it, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Trash
Now to the NFL. I will start with the AFC since I think that one will be a little bit more clear cut than the NFC.
AFC: East- New England, North-Pittsburgh, South-Indianapolis, West-San Diego
AFC: Wild cards- N.Y. Jets, Jacksonville
AFC Champion- New England
NFC: East-Dallas, North-Detroit, South-New Orleans, West-Seattle
NFC: Wild cards- Minnesota, Carolina
NFC Champion- Dallas
Coach of the year- Rod Marinelli
MVP- LaDainian Tomlinson
Offensive player of the year- Ladainian Tomlinson
Defensive player of the year- Champ Bailey
Offensive rookie of the year- Jonathan Stewart
Defensive rookie of the year- Glenn Dorsey
Super Bowl Champ- New England
That's it, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Trash
Monday, September 1, 2008
Could they possibly do it again?
I think it's time to start talking some baseball about this time a year as well as college football. Don't look now but could it be that the Colorado Rockies are going to do again this year what they accomplished last year? Or even more? Just like last year the Rockies were not even mentioned in playoff talk. Then after the All-Star break they finally looked like their potential and hit an unbeliveable hot streak that almost propelled them to World Series Champs. Now are they about to hum that same tune again? Like last year they have started to catch fire and find themselves only 6 games out of the division lead and another late last second push for the playoffs. Their offense has caught fire and it seems as though that they are putting it all together for long stretches at a time. They were able to take 9 of their first 10 games after the All-Star break and went 15-11 in the month of August. The pitching has been doing better as of late and, everyone seems to be hitting the ball.
Just like last year though their one downfall is starting pitching. I don't beleive that they have a true ace on their staff, and that their starters are a little overrated.
I will say that it was a pitching performance that lit a fire in the Rockies and that was the late inning performance from Arron Cook. Clint Hurdle put Cook in late in the game and at one point had to deal in the 9th inning with nobody out and the bases loaded. Cook made some great pitches, with some defensive help to get him out of the inning. But it was Uggla's Ugla defense that put the National league in the perdicament in the first place. Arron Cook then battled for 2 innings making big pitch after big pitch to keep the National league with in reach. However they did lose in the 15th inning. I think that the Rockies kind of rallied around that performance and it spread like a wild fire through out the team.
I can not say enough about the managerial job that Clint Hurdle does with his squad in Colorado. The job he did in the All-Star game was a masterpiece of managing and coaching if I have ever seen one. He went with his guy Aaron Cook on the Rockies with the game on the line, with Home field advantage in the World Series on the line and showed the type of confidence in his pitcher that this Rockie team has been playing with ever since. I beleive that he is at the very least a top five manager in MLB. The only thing that doesn't make him the best or a top 3 manager is the fact that his boys can't play like this year round. Why does it take a half season for them to make their push? None the less the push is impressive and I know I will be pushing and rooting for the Rockies to take the NL West.
However if they do make the playoffs they better hope they don't run into my Cubs because that push towards the World Series may end ealier then the previous year.
GOOD LUCK ROCKS!!!
Smitty
Just like last year though their one downfall is starting pitching. I don't beleive that they have a true ace on their staff, and that their starters are a little overrated.
I will say that it was a pitching performance that lit a fire in the Rockies and that was the late inning performance from Arron Cook. Clint Hurdle put Cook in late in the game and at one point had to deal in the 9th inning with nobody out and the bases loaded. Cook made some great pitches, with some defensive help to get him out of the inning. But it was Uggla's Ugla defense that put the National league in the perdicament in the first place. Arron Cook then battled for 2 innings making big pitch after big pitch to keep the National league with in reach. However they did lose in the 15th inning. I think that the Rockies kind of rallied around that performance and it spread like a wild fire through out the team.
I can not say enough about the managerial job that Clint Hurdle does with his squad in Colorado. The job he did in the All-Star game was a masterpiece of managing and coaching if I have ever seen one. He went with his guy Aaron Cook on the Rockies with the game on the line, with Home field advantage in the World Series on the line and showed the type of confidence in his pitcher that this Rockie team has been playing with ever since. I beleive that he is at the very least a top five manager in MLB. The only thing that doesn't make him the best or a top 3 manager is the fact that his boys can't play like this year round. Why does it take a half season for them to make their push? None the less the push is impressive and I know I will be pushing and rooting for the Rockies to take the NL West.
However if they do make the playoffs they better hope they don't run into my Cubs because that push towards the World Series may end ealier then the previous year.
GOOD LUCK ROCKS!!!
Smitty
Sunday, August 31, 2008
My report Oregon 44 UW 10!
I am going to start out talking about Ducks special teams. I was a little disappointed with the field goal kicking. First missing a little chip shot that could have put us up 7pts at half and then the missed extra point. It didn't turn out to cost us but I just hope our field goal kicking doesn't become an issue as the year goes on. The Ducks punting and kickoffs looked significantely better then they have in the past. They were pinning the Huskies back inside the 20 yard line punting and booting 40 to 50 yard punts which ducks fans are not used to, and the kickoffs were either going out of the endzone or at the very least Washington was recieving the ball so far deep in the endzone that they would not return it. Ducks fans have not been used to that either. Overall our kicking game was pretty solid. I would give our filed goal kicking a C-, our punting a B+, and our kickoffs an A. On returning the ball the Ducks didn't get many chances but Jarius Byrd had a very nice punt return where he was breaking tackle after tackle, and I thought he was going to bring it to the house. It was very impressive. I would give the returners a B grade.
Next is the U of O offense. The QB situation is scary. they will now be using a 2 headed monster now that Roper has a concussion. I didn't see him take any big hits, is he just a softy or was there a legitiment hit there? Masoli was the primary QB used with spotted showings of Harper. They both played OK. Duck fans, How crazy is it to know that we will be going into ther next couple of games using our 3rd and 4th string QB's? Of course depending on how long Roper will be out. I loved seeing Masoli tryng to make plays while being flushed out of the pocket, he looked very good doing that. However it seemed as though when he was going out of the pocket he wasnt looking for something down field. He looked like he would take off from the pocket with no idea or intentions of what he wanted to do. Still looked great though. Just my opinon from what I saw, maybe i'm wrong. Harper also saw some time. However he didn't get a chance to throw the ball. No suprise there. UW coaching staff should have known that Harper has been having semi serious shoulder issues and that he most likely wasnt going to throw it especially as good as his running ability is. If I was UW I would have brought the house and made him throw it to see what he's got. They didn't do that and I thought Harper looked very impressive running the ball. I give the QB's a B-.
The Receivers and O-ling played pretty good. J- Will is still a freak athletically. I knew that as soon as he cought that ball for the TD he was gone and no one would get him. I am very excited about Terrance Scott who looked like the best reciever out on the field all night long. WOW! receivers. B+. The RB's JJ and Blount both looked really good running behind a solid O-Line. JJ made some very nice jukes and spins, while blount was running through people. blount was better then advirtised and I wish he would have got more carries. Not only is he a load to bring down, he is very fast with some jukes. I was expecting a Lendale White type back, but not only is he big, he is fast and quick. RBs/Oline B.
Defense was very tough. I thought that the Corners could have played a little better on man coverage but really not enough to complain about. The Front line was very dominant. They completely shut down the run and were able to contain locker pretty well. Our line played better than people think they should have in the experts opinions. however, I beleive our line backers are very good and they are a lot better then people think. Spencer Paysinger was a beast flying all over the field making play after play. Only a Sophamore, and I think that he was our best backer last night. WOW! LB get a B+, D-line B+, and secondary B.
Next is the U of O offense. The QB situation is scary. they will now be using a 2 headed monster now that Roper has a concussion. I didn't see him take any big hits, is he just a softy or was there a legitiment hit there? Masoli was the primary QB used with spotted showings of Harper. They both played OK. Duck fans, How crazy is it to know that we will be going into ther next couple of games using our 3rd and 4th string QB's? Of course depending on how long Roper will be out. I loved seeing Masoli tryng to make plays while being flushed out of the pocket, he looked very good doing that. However it seemed as though when he was going out of the pocket he wasnt looking for something down field. He looked like he would take off from the pocket with no idea or intentions of what he wanted to do. Still looked great though. Just my opinon from what I saw, maybe i'm wrong. Harper also saw some time. However he didn't get a chance to throw the ball. No suprise there. UW coaching staff should have known that Harper has been having semi serious shoulder issues and that he most likely wasnt going to throw it especially as good as his running ability is. If I was UW I would have brought the house and made him throw it to see what he's got. They didn't do that and I thought Harper looked very impressive running the ball. I give the QB's a B-.
The Receivers and O-ling played pretty good. J- Will is still a freak athletically. I knew that as soon as he cought that ball for the TD he was gone and no one would get him. I am very excited about Terrance Scott who looked like the best reciever out on the field all night long. WOW! receivers. B+. The RB's JJ and Blount both looked really good running behind a solid O-Line. JJ made some very nice jukes and spins, while blount was running through people. blount was better then advirtised and I wish he would have got more carries. Not only is he a load to bring down, he is very fast with some jukes. I was expecting a Lendale White type back, but not only is he big, he is fast and quick. RBs/Oline B.
Defense was very tough. I thought that the Corners could have played a little better on man coverage but really not enough to complain about. The Front line was very dominant. They completely shut down the run and were able to contain locker pretty well. Our line played better than people think they should have in the experts opinions. however, I beleive our line backers are very good and they are a lot better then people think. Spencer Paysinger was a beast flying all over the field making play after play. Only a Sophamore, and I think that he was our best backer last night. WOW! LB get a B+, D-line B+, and secondary B.
Friday, August 29, 2008
The toughest shedules in college football
There is no question that the Pac-10 is the conference with the toughest schedules. As a fan of any conference you have to respect what the Pac 10 does. They are the only ones that added an extra conference game when the NCAA added a 12th game. It gets a little nasiating seeing these SEC teams get so much credit because of how tough the teams are in that conference. I'm not saying it isn't the toughest conference top to bottom... Don't get me wrong I think they are one of the best conferences. For example LSU non-conference schedule- Appalachian State, Troy, North Texas, and Tulane (All at home) there is 4 guarenteed wins. All they need is 2 more wins and they are bowl eligable. They beat Ole Miss and Miss St. both home as well and they will be bowl eligible. That is pretty pathetic for a program with the prestige of an LSU. I'm not saying that all SEC teams follow the LSU schedule of cream puffs, but every team not Pac 10 in the country chose to schedule one more non-conference because the coaches and athletic directors of other universities would rather schedule another North Texas, Alabama A&M, or Youngstown State. Scheduling another conference game might possibly mean another loss. And we wouldn't want teams to actually earn their bowl games. That being said... IT IS TIME THE REST OF THE COUNTRY FOLLOW SUIT AND MAN UP... EARN YOUR BOWL... QUIT DODGING OPPONENTS... IT PROVES NOTHING.
Now back to the Ducks game. Living in Seattle, I have had the opportunity to listen to quite a bit of local Huskies radio and make no mistake about it... they have nothing to lose. It is tough to start a season out with this rivalry and I fully expect the Huskies to be prepared. They have lost 4 in a row to the Ducks. Their coach who all of the players seem to have a great amount of respect for is on the hottest seat in college football. If the Huskies lose this it could be the beginning of the for Tyrone Willingham. Their schedule is absolutely brutal. One of the writers in the Seattle Times reported that "this is the most important opening game in ever for Husky football." No one is putting more pressure on the Huskies than themselves... and that is what scares me. I might feel better about it if we played Utah State or Boise State before we started a conference game. At least I would know something about the team before playing Pac 10 games. Either team could be out of a shot of a conference title before they even know what they really have, and that is the scary thing about starting off with a conference game, and a rival at that. With that said, I fully predict that the Ducks Defense will be too much for the Huskies to handle. I could see the Ducks defense forcing 3 plus turnovers and if that happens I don't really see the Huskies able to overcome that. The noise and craziness that is Autzen Stadium will also be a big factor. If the crowd noise causes false starts or delay of games, or if it even causes Washington to use timeouts prematurely than that will also be very tough to overcome. As tough as it is to know this is our opening game, it brings excitement that you usually don't get until mid to late season. I know I'm excited...
GO DUCKS!!
Trash
Now back to the Ducks game. Living in Seattle, I have had the opportunity to listen to quite a bit of local Huskies radio and make no mistake about it... they have nothing to lose. It is tough to start a season out with this rivalry and I fully expect the Huskies to be prepared. They have lost 4 in a row to the Ducks. Their coach who all of the players seem to have a great amount of respect for is on the hottest seat in college football. If the Huskies lose this it could be the beginning of the for Tyrone Willingham. Their schedule is absolutely brutal. One of the writers in the Seattle Times reported that "this is the most important opening game in ever for Husky football." No one is putting more pressure on the Huskies than themselves... and that is what scares me. I might feel better about it if we played Utah State or Boise State before we started a conference game. At least I would know something about the team before playing Pac 10 games. Either team could be out of a shot of a conference title before they even know what they really have, and that is the scary thing about starting off with a conference game, and a rival at that. With that said, I fully predict that the Ducks Defense will be too much for the Huskies to handle. I could see the Ducks defense forcing 3 plus turnovers and if that happens I don't really see the Huskies able to overcome that. The noise and craziness that is Autzen Stadium will also be a big factor. If the crowd noise causes false starts or delay of games, or if it even causes Washington to use timeouts prematurely than that will also be very tough to overcome. As tough as it is to know this is our opening game, it brings excitement that you usually don't get until mid to late season. I know I'm excited...
GO DUCKS!!
Trash
Real quick
this is not a full post but more of an update. I won't be posting tonight but am getting a good night sleep for the home/pac 10 opener for the DUCKS tomorrow at the Mecca of college football Autzen Stadium in Euegen, OR. It's going to be a tough game to open up the season. Trash what's your take on opening the season with a conference game? And its a rivalry game which makes it even tougher. the atmosphere inside and outside of Autzen cannot be matched on a regular day game let alone a season home opener night game against a rival. this will be an amazing experience, and you can expect a full report on Sunday or Monday. I will be critiquing everything and giving my own grades from my grading scale. EVERYONE HAVE A GREAT LABOR DAY WEEKEND. GO DUCKS
Smitty
Smitty
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Was that a good showing for the Beavers?
I cant stand all of the biased talk that goes on about OSU. "That they do more with less", or "if Riley had what belotti had they would have won a national championship", or "that Riley is a better coach then Belotti". Give me a break. 95% of the people that talk trash abut the ducks A) are jealous of what they have (Money, phil Knight, Facilities, and better recruiting) or B) our success. Granted OSU has been over achieving for the last couple of years, but that's only because they have low expectations. Belotti has built the program to such power that nothing but success is expected no matter what happens. Mediocrity is accepted at OSU an that is why they . "over achieve" so often" The Ducks and Beavers have very similar records over the last deccade with OSU having theadge in bowl wins (due to playing weaker teams in less revenued Bowl games). What I'm getting at is that it was some what poetic justice to see an overhyped overrated Beavers team go into Palo Alto and start the conference season off 0-1 all while losing to one of the weaker teams in the PAC-10. I fully predict OSU will not make a bowl game this year which will be acceptable by the so called "Beaver Nation" because medocrity is expected and acceptable.
You look at what U of O endured last year with with Paysinger going down after week 2, Colvin going down against Cal, John Bacon starting Middle linebacker out for season, Jerimiah Johnon out for season, and then of course Dennis dixon heisman canidate out for season. Then you look at Clemens going down after all the success they had, and now Costa going down for season. I know that they have already used Costas red shirt, but I sure hope they can get him a mediccal redshirt and he can have 3 years of elligibility left over. I don't see why not because Oregon State WR Sammie Stroughter received a medical red shirt after playing 4 games and then getting injured. Fair is fair right?
You look at what U of O endured last year with with Paysinger going down after week 2, Colvin going down against Cal, John Bacon starting Middle linebacker out for season, Jerimiah Johnon out for season, and then of course Dennis dixon heisman canidate out for season. Then you look at Clemens going down after all the success they had, and now Costa going down for season. I know that they have already used Costas red shirt, but I sure hope they can get him a mediccal redshirt and he can have 3 years of elligibility left over. I don't see why not because Oregon State WR Sammie Stroughter received a medical red shirt after playing 4 games and then getting injured. Fair is fair right?
Anticipation and Predictions
So college football is here and I havn't officially made any predictions yet... so here I go. I will start with the Pac-10. I have USC winning the Pac-10 again with my Ducks taking number 2 followed by ASU. Cal will finish fourth and Arizona fifth. Oregon State, Washington, Stanford, and Wazzu will finish the Pac-10 in that order. My pick for the Big 12 is Missouri and for the Big-10 I have Ohio State. I have Florida as the SEC champ, South Florida as the Big East champ, and Clemson as the ACC champ. My Heisman pick is Chase Daniels. He has all the tools, great players around him and have only gotten better from the last year with their experience. Other Finalists at the end of the year will be Tim Tebow, Beanie Wells, and Sam Bradford. MY upset of the year is going to be Utah over Michigan. Sorry Michigan but you just might have another tough season and another large upset... but that remains to be seen. My suprise team of the year will be South Florida. I predict that South Florida will be a top 12 team at the end of the year. Matt Grothe is a good quarterback and has a winning attitude. And they may have the defensive player of the year with Selvie. They will be a tough team. One team that I think might struggle this year other than Michigan is LSU they do have great athletes but their question mark at qb might hurt their season. They lost some other players so I think this is the year where Les Miles can prove what kind of a coach he is and we will see if Gary Crowten is the offensive genius that everyone in Baton Rouge thinks he is. I don't think so and I think their offense will struggle.
I'm so pumped for another season of college football. The atmosphere is what does it for me. The rivals, the crowd noise, the craziness, the tailgaiting, and just the special bond that I have with my school that I can't quite seem to find with professional sports. It is amazing gives me chills just thinking about it.
News out of Eugene say Costa out for season. That is actually a good thing though. I don't think that he would have been ready for game speed even if he did come back in week 8 or 9. Now the team knows what quarterback is going to be leading the team from game 1 and there is no question about it. He can get a medical redshirt and still have 3 years of eligability left. I think the only question now is will he ever play for the Ducks. That is a lot of time to miss and now they need to work on developing other quarterbacks. One of these guys might improve over time and become a clear cut starter and have a long tenure. Who knows but I see this as a good thing going into the season. Obviously I would want Costa to start but with the injury this will be better for the team in the long run.
Trash
I'm so pumped for another season of college football. The atmosphere is what does it for me. The rivals, the crowd noise, the craziness, the tailgaiting, and just the special bond that I have with my school that I can't quite seem to find with professional sports. It is amazing gives me chills just thinking about it.
News out of Eugene say Costa out for season. That is actually a good thing though. I don't think that he would have been ready for game speed even if he did come back in week 8 or 9. Now the team knows what quarterback is going to be leading the team from game 1 and there is no question about it. He can get a medical redshirt and still have 3 years of eligability left. I think the only question now is will he ever play for the Ducks. That is a lot of time to miss and now they need to work on developing other quarterbacks. One of these guys might improve over time and become a clear cut starter and have a long tenure. Who knows but I see this as a good thing going into the season. Obviously I would want Costa to start but with the injury this will be better for the team in the long run.
Trash
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Nice to meet ya.
My name is smitty and just the same as trash this is my first blogging experience. I just cant get enough of sports and this is a great way for me to stay current and interactive on whats going on in sports locally and globally. I am aslo a graduate of the "MECCA" that they call the one, the ony, the University of Oregon. I love all sports and competition and anything is fair game for dicussion. You will find me talking about hot topics and maybe some things that you have not even heard of. I welcome any one to have an opionion about the topics I post about or the posts I leave. Any kind of thoughts, opinons, or critisizims are welcome. Too many times when I talk sports I get interupted and cannot finish my thoughts. This allows me to say what I want, when I want, uniterupted. The more eyes that see this and read the better.
Come one
Come all
See what its all about and share you thoughts.
Smitty
Come one
Come all
See what its all about and share you thoughts.
Smitty
Welcome to The NW Sports Report.
My name is Trash and this is my first blogging expierence. I am only one of the author's of this blog. I am a graduate from the great University of Oregon. I am very passionate about the Ducks as I am sure you will find out as time goes on. I enjoy sports more than anything and I am very excited to have this opportunity to express my feelings about sports. I couldn't have started this blog at a better time. College football is one of my favorite times of the year. I am doing this because it is fun for me to do. I would like to see other people take interest and provide feedback on my posts. Negative feedback and criticism is just as welcome as positive feedback. If I only have 1 reader I will be happy but obviously I would prefer a high number of viewers. I will discuss a wide range of topics from the four major sports to whatever might be a big story at the time i.e. Tennis, U.S. Open, Michael Phelps. I will ring in on many different topics even some local stories such as: Winterhawks hockey, Pac-10 athletics, and possibly other amatuer sports in the area. I look forward to posting daily ( or almost daily) and getting more involved in reading and reacting to other blogs and sports forums. Time for me to catch some z's so I can wake up early put in my 8 hours and be ready for college football to start tommorrow. Most important game for me is the Stanford vs. Oregon State game. I would look for Oregon State to win that one but always a tough start to the season with a conference game first... should be interesting... I can't wait.
Happy opening weekend of College Football to everyone.
Trash
Happy opening weekend of College Football to everyone.
Trash
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