As I predicted a couple of weeks ago, the Twins traded Denard Span yesterday. The story isn't about who we got rid of though, the story is about who we got in return.
Alex Meyer is a 6-foot-9 hard-throwing first round pick with talents that have impressed baseball insiders.
The Nationals didn't need him as they are stocked with pitching. What they needed was a good outfielder who can hit. Both teams got what they needed.
Meyer throws in the UPPER 90's and has a devastating breaking pitch. But those stats won't mean anything unless he demonstrates control.
In his first year of pro ball he struck out 26.6% of all batters he faced. Liam Hendriks is the only Twins starting pitcher who compares to that and he averaged less than 20% over his last 100 innings.
When they do hit him, he's known as a ground ball pitcher.
All of these things are really good.
Will he help the Twins this coming season?
Maybe.
But we have lots of outfielders to trade and this was a trade that made sense. We don't see many of those types of trades as Twins fans and I sure won't mind seeing Revere in the lineup every day as our regular center fielder. I'll miss Span's power, but I won't miss his ups and downs as a hitter. Rever might hit .300 some day soon. I think Span has already peaked. He'll be solid for the Nationals for years. But Revere still has lots of potential.
Friday, November 30, 2012
NBA
From ESPN:
The NBA's most powerful man and its most respected and iron-willed coach plunged into an unexpected battle of wills Thursday over a basic tenet: A coach can decide what is best for his team.
San Antonio's Gregg Popovich sent stars Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, plus key role player Danny Green, on a commercial flight home instead of playing them in a nationally televised game against the Miami Heat so they could rest ahead of the Spurs' Saturday home game against the league-leading Memphis Grizzlies.
NBA commissioner David Stern issued a statement before the game started apologizing to fans and saying, "This was an unacceptable decision by the San Antonio Spurs and substantial sanctions will be forthcoming."
So the commissioner now decides what's best for each individual TEAM?
I don't think so. The Spurs were playing their fourth game in six nights and their sixth game of the road trip. The coach decided to go with his more rested bench so that the starters could get a rest before the huge game with Memphis on Saturday night. AS A COACH HE HAS TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR HIS TEAM. He did that. The commissioner should have no say in this matter at all.That he's injecting himself into the situation AND threatening some sort of sanctions shows you just how idiotic PRO sports have become.
IF he does something I hope San Antonio takes him to court with all barrels blazing. Teams need to do what is best for themselves looking at the longterm perspective of what THEIR own individual team needs.
Baseball rests stars all the time. It's a long season. The BEST NBA teams have good benches and know when their stars NEED rests. What Popovich did was brilliant and necessary AND as the head coach of that team, Commissioner Stern has NO RIGHT sticking his nose in San Antonio's business.
NONE!
I can't wait to see what happens next. Sports are better than regular television shows.
Sometimes the drama is better, too.
The NBA's most powerful man and its most respected and iron-willed coach plunged into an unexpected battle of wills Thursday over a basic tenet: A coach can decide what is best for his team.
San Antonio's Gregg Popovich sent stars Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, plus key role player Danny Green, on a commercial flight home instead of playing them in a nationally televised game against the Miami Heat so they could rest ahead of the Spurs' Saturday home game against the league-leading Memphis Grizzlies.
NBA commissioner David Stern issued a statement before the game started apologizing to fans and saying, "This was an unacceptable decision by the San Antonio Spurs and substantial sanctions will be forthcoming."
So the commissioner now decides what's best for each individual TEAM?
I don't think so. The Spurs were playing their fourth game in six nights and their sixth game of the road trip. The coach decided to go with his more rested bench so that the starters could get a rest before the huge game with Memphis on Saturday night. AS A COACH HE HAS TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR HIS TEAM. He did that. The commissioner should have no say in this matter at all.That he's injecting himself into the situation AND threatening some sort of sanctions shows you just how idiotic PRO sports have become.
IF he does something I hope San Antonio takes him to court with all barrels blazing. Teams need to do what is best for themselves looking at the longterm perspective of what THEIR own individual team needs.
Baseball rests stars all the time. It's a long season. The BEST NBA teams have good benches and know when their stars NEED rests. What Popovich did was brilliant and necessary AND as the head coach of that team, Commissioner Stern has NO RIGHT sticking his nose in San Antonio's business.
NONE!
I can't wait to see what happens next. Sports are better than regular television shows.
Sometimes the drama is better, too.
Streak Ends
Drew Brees had thrown a TD in 54 consecutive games which is an all-time record. The Falcons intercepted him 5 times last night and put that streak to end. The Saints, now 5-7, most likely have lost any chance they had at a play-off opportunity.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Free Agent Pitching
Francisco Liriano since mid 2010 has an ERA 0f 5.23 (sixth highest in all of baseball of regular starters) and has walked 12.6% of batters faced (second most in baseball.)
Oddly, Twins officials have been talking to Liriano's agents. Even Scott Baker with a BAD ARM needing Tommy John surgery had better stats during that time and the Twins didn't think he was worth a $5 million a year risk now that he has a brand new arm!
Carl Pavano is also a free-agent who has supposedly recovered from his arm problems (many of which were CAUSED by the Twins and their inept training staff) and the Twins have said they will talk to his representatives as well.
Of the three choices the Twins had, Baker would have been the best choice. Pavano with a good arm would be a moderate risk. I hope we're not seriously considering bringing Frankie back. IF we want a wild hard-throwing pitcher, let's give Sam Deduno another chance. He had more good games last season than Frankie's had. WAY more.
Oddly, Twins officials have been talking to Liriano's agents. Even Scott Baker with a BAD ARM needing Tommy John surgery had better stats during that time and the Twins didn't think he was worth a $5 million a year risk now that he has a brand new arm!
Carl Pavano is also a free-agent who has supposedly recovered from his arm problems (many of which were CAUSED by the Twins and their inept training staff) and the Twins have said they will talk to his representatives as well.
Of the three choices the Twins had, Baker would have been the best choice. Pavano with a good arm would be a moderate risk. I hope we're not seriously considering bringing Frankie back. IF we want a wild hard-throwing pitcher, let's give Sam Deduno another chance. He had more good games last season than Frankie's had. WAY more.
Wolves Killed Late
How does a team out-rebound their opponents 52-35 and still LOSE?
On a good note, Ricky Rubio has been cleared for full contact practice. He's returning way earlier than expected.
On a good note, Ricky Rubio has been cleared for full contact practice. He's returning way earlier than expected.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Calos Ruiz
Catcher Carlos Ruiz was suspended 25 games by the Phillies for using a performance enhancing drug.
The cool thing?
It wasn't steroids or HGH. He went old-school. He used amphetamines, the same drugs that stars used in the 50's and 60's to produce all those original homerun records!
Mantle and Maris and Aaron and Mays would be proud! (Though nobody talks about it of course.)
The cool thing?
It wasn't steroids or HGH. He went old-school. He used amphetamines, the same drugs that stars used in the 50's and 60's to produce all those original homerun records!
Mantle and Maris and Aaron and Mays would be proud! (Though nobody talks about it of course.)
Basketball
Kevin Love came back two weeks early from a a broken hand. The worst part was that he wore a glove on that hand for extra protection and as a result he couldn't shoot very well. In fact he shot horribly from three-point range.
I'm not sure why a player known for his shooting bothers playing when he can't shoot.
But that's beside the point. Last night he took off the "kid glove" and had a monster night. His three-point shooting was still horrible, but his touch was back for shorter shots, he also grabbed an NBA-high-for-the-season 24 rebounds.
The result?
The Wolves finally won again after a 5-game losing streak. The best part of that win was that they took the lead late in the first quarter and NEVER trailed after that. The Sacramento Kings are not a good basketball team. But any win is good at this point.
Also nice? Ridnour scored 18. Pekovic had 16 and Kirilenko added 14. There was balance again last night, less standing around and better passing finding the open man. Now if Love's hand can finally heal so that he can shoot successful three-pointers again, we may actually have something.
The Gophers basketball team also won again last night. They've played really well so far this season and are ranked number 21 in the polls. But rankings mean so little in college basketball. The only thing that really matters is that they play well enough and win enough to make the huge play-offs at the end.
Indiana proved how good they were last night clobbering UNC 83-59. They showed why they're currently ranked number ONE. Again, the ranking means little. It's not until the post-season starts that any of these games will really matter, though I am looking forward to how the Gophers play against teams like Indiana and Michigan. It's time to see if they can finally play with the big boys of the Big Ten again. It's been awhile since they've REALLY competed.
I'm not sure why a player known for his shooting bothers playing when he can't shoot.
But that's beside the point. Last night he took off the "kid glove" and had a monster night. His three-point shooting was still horrible, but his touch was back for shorter shots, he also grabbed an NBA-high-for-the-season 24 rebounds.
The result?
The Wolves finally won again after a 5-game losing streak. The best part of that win was that they took the lead late in the first quarter and NEVER trailed after that. The Sacramento Kings are not a good basketball team. But any win is good at this point.
Also nice? Ridnour scored 18. Pekovic had 16 and Kirilenko added 14. There was balance again last night, less standing around and better passing finding the open man. Now if Love's hand can finally heal so that he can shoot successful three-pointers again, we may actually have something.
The Gophers basketball team also won again last night. They've played really well so far this season and are ranked number 21 in the polls. But rankings mean so little in college basketball. The only thing that really matters is that they play well enough and win enough to make the huge play-offs at the end.
Indiana proved how good they were last night clobbering UNC 83-59. They showed why they're currently ranked number ONE. Again, the ranking means little. It's not until the post-season starts that any of these games will really matter, though I am looking forward to how the Gophers play against teams like Indiana and Michigan. It's time to see if they can finally play with the big boys of the Big Ten again. It's been awhile since they've REALLY competed.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Football
Cam Newton was looking like his old self last night, but he did it against the worst and most injured team in the NFC. I tried watching some of the game, but I'm kind of sick of football right now.
The Vikings are worthless. Peterson is back to fumbling a couple of times a game. Harvin has had a sprained ankle for three weeks and Ponder is one of the few QBs in history to throw over 40 passes in a game and still end up with only about 150 yards passing. How is that even possible?
The Packers miss their defense as much as the Vikings miss their offense. The Bears, who I loathe like most Vikings fans hate the Packers, have an average offense but a defense that takes opportunities every chance they get. They look like they WANT to win. If I'm not careful, I might start to like them.
The Vikings, on the other hand, look like they don't even care. Leslie Frazier, as I predicted weeks ago, has destroyed the morale of this team. Your team will start reflecting your QB after a while. For the Vikings, it's pretty obvious that Ponder's inadequacy has made them all worse as players and as a team.
The fat lady started singing a couple of weeks ago. I'm just wondering how long it will take for Ziggy to hear her and do something about it.
The Vikings are worthless. Peterson is back to fumbling a couple of times a game. Harvin has had a sprained ankle for three weeks and Ponder is one of the few QBs in history to throw over 40 passes in a game and still end up with only about 150 yards passing. How is that even possible?
The Packers miss their defense as much as the Vikings miss their offense. The Bears, who I loathe like most Vikings fans hate the Packers, have an average offense but a defense that takes opportunities every chance they get. They look like they WANT to win. If I'm not careful, I might start to like them.
The Vikings, on the other hand, look like they don't even care. Leslie Frazier, as I predicted weeks ago, has destroyed the morale of this team. Your team will start reflecting your QB after a while. For the Vikings, it's pretty obvious that Ponder's inadequacy has made them all worse as players and as a team.
The fat lady started singing a couple of weeks ago. I'm just wondering how long it will take for Ziggy to hear her and do something about it.
Monday, November 26, 2012
NFL
The Vikes and Pack both looked awful yesterday. So awful that I couldn't watch either game.
It looks like I'll have to start watching my Patriots or my Broncos now.
It looks like I'll have to start watching my Patriots or my Broncos now.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Cutler Cleared
I really didn't miss the Vikings the last two weeks. I'm still expecting them to lose at least 5 of the next 6 games. I'm still expecting Ponder to be just awful. I'm still expecting coach Frazier to say, "Ponder is his man."
Anything better than that will be considered a plus.
I'm really sick of people saying' "If Peterson has a another solid performance, the Vikings will have a chance." We shouldn't have to depend on Peterson that way, AND him getting 175 yards rushing doesn't seem to help all that much any more. We need a QB who can throw some short passes and sustain drives without turning it over. Having Peterson is great but he should be the difference in a good game, not the person who merely keeps us close in a bad one.
There was a time when the Vikings won every game in which Peterson got his 100 yards. That's no longer the case.
The Vikes won their last game and Ponder wasn't horrible. Just string together a few non-horrible games in a row and that will give the Vikings a chance.
I think it's kind of humorous that Ponder actually has better stats that Cutler this year. Those stats do not tell the whole story. WHEN you turn the ball over and HOW you turn it over is a bigger deal than looking at interceptions and fumbles. The same thing goes for passing yardage. Ponder has most of his in the fourth quarter when we've already lost and the other team is letting him get short passes knowing the game is already over.
Can the Vikings win today? I suppose it's possible. But, I do not see a team good enough to make the playoffs either way. I'll probably miss most of the first quarter, but am planning on watching most of it as long as it's reasonably close and we have a chance of winning.
It's an outside game in cold Chicago. The odds just aren't that good.
Anything better than that will be considered a plus.
I'm really sick of people saying' "If Peterson has a another solid performance, the Vikings will have a chance." We shouldn't have to depend on Peterson that way, AND him getting 175 yards rushing doesn't seem to help all that much any more. We need a QB who can throw some short passes and sustain drives without turning it over. Having Peterson is great but he should be the difference in a good game, not the person who merely keeps us close in a bad one.
There was a time when the Vikings won every game in which Peterson got his 100 yards. That's no longer the case.
The Vikes won their last game and Ponder wasn't horrible. Just string together a few non-horrible games in a row and that will give the Vikings a chance.
I think it's kind of humorous that Ponder actually has better stats that Cutler this year. Those stats do not tell the whole story. WHEN you turn the ball over and HOW you turn it over is a bigger deal than looking at interceptions and fumbles. The same thing goes for passing yardage. Ponder has most of his in the fourth quarter when we've already lost and the other team is letting him get short passes knowing the game is already over.
Can the Vikings win today? I suppose it's possible. But, I do not see a team good enough to make the playoffs either way. I'll probably miss most of the first quarter, but am planning on watching most of it as long as it's reasonably close and we have a chance of winning.
It's an outside game in cold Chicago. The odds just aren't that good.
Notre Dame/USC
No new chaos from yesterday's college football. USC struggled with a new freshman QB and Notre Dame was just good enough to beat them.
Numbers two and three, Alabama and Georgia will play for the SEC title in early December and the winner of THAT game will have the honor of playing Notre Dame for the championship in January.
No playoff, and yet everything worked out just fine, and every single top-ranked game mattered the entire year.
Numbers two and three, Alabama and Georgia will play for the SEC title in early December and the winner of THAT game will have the honor of playing Notre Dame for the championship in January.
No playoff, and yet everything worked out just fine, and every single top-ranked game mattered the entire year.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Sockers Set Record
Which professional sports team in American history has the streak of most consecutive wins? that would be the San Diego Sockers of the the Professional Arean Soccer League. Going back to December 29th, 2010 they have officially won 41 consecutive indoor soccer games.
No professional team, in any sport has ever won more games in a row.
The Sioux Falls Storm, and indoor football league had the old record at 40. They did that from 2005-2008.
Indoor soccer is way more fun to watch than the outdoor version. If I lived in San Diego, I'd probably go watch a team that wins this much. In Minnesota, we never seem to have that kind of team (in any sport) to support.
No professional team, in any sport has ever won more games in a row.
The Sioux Falls Storm, and indoor football league had the old record at 40. They did that from 2005-2008.
Indoor soccer is way more fun to watch than the outdoor version. If I lived in San Diego, I'd probably go watch a team that wins this much. In Minnesota, we never seem to have that kind of team (in any sport) to support.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Dumbest Rule Ever
I tried watching football yesterday. Actually I watched most of the three games, but was doing stuff all day long while the games were on.
Jim Schwartz "cost" his team the game yesterday, but let's face it, that has got to be the dumbest rule that the NFL has ever put into the books. IF you accidently throw a challenge flag, in the heat of the moment, during a turnover or scoring play, you AUTOMATICALLY void review and are hit with a 15-yard penalty? REALLY? REALLY? REALLY?
I got a better idea. The ref politely picks up the flag. Hands it back to the coach and tells him gently, "No need, the play is going to be challenged by rule." Such a drastic penalty for such an easy mistake makes the NFL look so incredibly foolish. It serves no purpose.
The current RULE cost the Lions the game yesterday, and a player who was tackled was allowed to have an undeserved 80-yard scoring play. This is NFL football at its absolute worst. It's stupid and it's hurts the game. It also left a sour taste in my mouth so I didn't really like watching the other games later.
It's not like I really wanted our division rivals to win the game yesterday, but they deserved that win over the supposedly superior Texans. That ONE idiotic rule made the whole game seem stupid from that point on.
Seeing New England destroy the Jets last night did make me a little happier. But a blowout like that isn't that much fun to watch either.
I guess I'm just too hard to satisfy.
Jim Schwartz "cost" his team the game yesterday, but let's face it, that has got to be the dumbest rule that the NFL has ever put into the books. IF you accidently throw a challenge flag, in the heat of the moment, during a turnover or scoring play, you AUTOMATICALLY void review and are hit with a 15-yard penalty? REALLY? REALLY? REALLY?
I got a better idea. The ref politely picks up the flag. Hands it back to the coach and tells him gently, "No need, the play is going to be challenged by rule." Such a drastic penalty for such an easy mistake makes the NFL look so incredibly foolish. It serves no purpose.
The current RULE cost the Lions the game yesterday, and a player who was tackled was allowed to have an undeserved 80-yard scoring play. This is NFL football at its absolute worst. It's stupid and it's hurts the game. It also left a sour taste in my mouth so I didn't really like watching the other games later.
It's not like I really wanted our division rivals to win the game yesterday, but they deserved that win over the supposedly superior Texans. That ONE idiotic rule made the whole game seem stupid from that point on.
Seeing New England destroy the Jets last night did make me a little happier. But a blowout like that isn't that much fun to watch either.
I guess I'm just too hard to satisfy.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
College Guard Scores 138
Yes, it was a couple of small colleges playing, and the team that lost is really small and has a bad basketball program, but still, a guard being able to score 138 points in 36 minutes of playing time is still pretty impressive, especially since he sank 27 three-pointers while in there.
The kid's name is Jack Taylor and he put up 108 shots, making 52 of them.
Just having the opportunity to throw up a shot every 22 seconds means that the team that lost must have been playing REALLY poorly.
Still 138 points is pretty impressive whatever the circumstances.
The kid's name is Jack Taylor and he put up 108 shots, making 52 of them.
Just having the opportunity to throw up a shot every 22 seconds means that the team that lost must have been playing REALLY poorly.
Still 138 points is pretty impressive whatever the circumstances.
Love Back, Team Watches
Kevin Love made a surprise return to the T-Wolves lineup last night. He was great. Make no mistake about it (34 points and 14 rebounds great.) But the rest of the team forgot how to play around him. The teamwork that was there, suddenly vanished as his team tried to figure out how to work with the early returning superstar.
The Wolves ended up losing at home to Denver by seven. I was afraid this was going to happen. EVERYBODY became hesitant because THE MAN was back. What was a well-oiled machine, now has a huge cog added to it. That's not a bad thing, but it's going to take some readjustments. BIG readjustments.
Here's hoping they can make those adjustments quickly. Those hesitations could kill what was a promising season.
The Wolves ended up losing at home to Denver by seven. I was afraid this was going to happen. EVERYBODY became hesitant because THE MAN was back. What was a well-oiled machine, now has a huge cog added to it. That's not a bad thing, but it's going to take some readjustments. BIG readjustments.
Here's hoping they can make those adjustments quickly. Those hesitations could kill what was a promising season.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Twins Future Bleak for Willingham
When aging Torii Hunter signed a two-year deal worth $26 million with Detroit last week, he most likely sealed Josh Willinghams long-term fate with the Twins.
In other words, Willingham does not have a long-term future with the Twins. Willingham is much younger and had far betters stats last season. According to baseball's sabermetrics guys, he also wasn't as horrible as we all thought at fielding his position. The glaring stat? He makes about HALF of what Torii got in his new deal with the Tigers.
All of this information does not bode well for the Willingham and his fans. It's not so much what he's worth to the Twins, it's all about how much the Twins will have to PAY him to keep him. Twins management already regrets the long-term deals they made with Mauer and Morneau. Those TWO contracts have made it impossible to hold onto popular, productive players like Nathan, Cuddyer, and Kubel.
Willingham is now in the same boat except that most baseball general managers now see Willingham as a much better player and worth a lot more money than any of the other high-priced guys I just mentioned.
The good news? The Twins were smart enough to sign Willingham to a THREE year contract before last season started, so we'll have him all this year and at least part of the next unless of course someone offers us some nice trade along the way.
Bottom line? The Twins will eventually try trading Willingham to anybody who offers them reasonably good, inexpensive players in return. Barring major injury, he's going to be highly sought after as a free agent.
The outlook? He will not be a Twin for two more seasons. He's worth way more than Hunter. Both he and his agent know that. And the Twins aren't currently willing to commit another long-term $20 million a year deal to anyone else on this roster.
Another scenario is possible however. Justin Morneau only has one year left on his deal. IF he has an average or subpar year, he'll be gone before this season is out. The money the Twins save on his contract might be made available to Willingham so that we could keep him a few years longer.
The only thing other that might change is if the Twins and Joe Mauer could find a trade partner both would be interested in. If the Twins continue being cellar dwellers this season and Joe starts hitting a few more homeruns, that scenario wouldn't be out of the question either. Mauer wants to play on a winner despite his no trade clause.
I don't think the Twins mind spending money so much as they hate giving long-term deals. And that's actually a good thing. It's easier to trade players who don't become financial burdens to their next team. And as we found out with Mauer, they don't want those long-term burdens on THEIR team either.
The Twins have many good outfielders. We looked at that in a past blog. None are indispensable. And none of them will ever command what Willingham is worth right now. The Twins aren't cheap, but they are not exactly long-term-big-time spenders either.
In other words, Willingham does not have a long-term future with the Twins. Willingham is much younger and had far betters stats last season. According to baseball's sabermetrics guys, he also wasn't as horrible as we all thought at fielding his position. The glaring stat? He makes about HALF of what Torii got in his new deal with the Tigers.
All of this information does not bode well for the Willingham and his fans. It's not so much what he's worth to the Twins, it's all about how much the Twins will have to PAY him to keep him. Twins management already regrets the long-term deals they made with Mauer and Morneau. Those TWO contracts have made it impossible to hold onto popular, productive players like Nathan, Cuddyer, and Kubel.
Willingham is now in the same boat except that most baseball general managers now see Willingham as a much better player and worth a lot more money than any of the other high-priced guys I just mentioned.
The good news? The Twins were smart enough to sign Willingham to a THREE year contract before last season started, so we'll have him all this year and at least part of the next unless of course someone offers us some nice trade along the way.
Bottom line? The Twins will eventually try trading Willingham to anybody who offers them reasonably good, inexpensive players in return. Barring major injury, he's going to be highly sought after as a free agent.
The outlook? He will not be a Twin for two more seasons. He's worth way more than Hunter. Both he and his agent know that. And the Twins aren't currently willing to commit another long-term $20 million a year deal to anyone else on this roster.
Another scenario is possible however. Justin Morneau only has one year left on his deal. IF he has an average or subpar year, he'll be gone before this season is out. The money the Twins save on his contract might be made available to Willingham so that we could keep him a few years longer.
The only thing other that might change is if the Twins and Joe Mauer could find a trade partner both would be interested in. If the Twins continue being cellar dwellers this season and Joe starts hitting a few more homeruns, that scenario wouldn't be out of the question either. Mauer wants to play on a winner despite his no trade clause.
I don't think the Twins mind spending money so much as they hate giving long-term deals. And that's actually a good thing. It's easier to trade players who don't become financial burdens to their next team. And as we found out with Mauer, they don't want those long-term burdens on THEIR team either.
The Twins have many good outfielders. We looked at that in a past blog. None are indispensable. And none of them will ever command what Willingham is worth right now. The Twins aren't cheap, but they are not exactly long-term-big-time spenders either.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Big Ten Getting Bigger
Maryland and Rutgers will both be joining the Big Ten Conference within a couple of seasons.
My college math may not be what it once was, but that now makes 14 teams in a conference that calls itself the Big TEN. A lot of money must be at stake for college math to become this bad.
My college math may not be what it once was, but that now makes 14 teams in a conference that calls itself the Big TEN. A lot of money must be at stake for college math to become this bad.
Backups
I remember watching Colin Kaepernick in a preseason game against the Vikings. He was great. And THEN he faked us out an ran for a 70 yard TD untouched. I couldn't believe this guy was the Niner's BACKUP QB.
Well, I saw him again last night and guess what? The whole COUNTRY saw what I saw in preseason. This guy IS great, so great that 49er coach Jim Harbaugh has to be thinking about making this guy his regular starter immediately.
The Bears, on the other hand, had to resort to their backup QB last night, too, and he was SOOOO bad that I won't even bother mentioning his name.
THIS is how seasons turn around for teams. The Bears could very well have Cutler back as their starter next Sunday against the Vikings and become very good again quickly. Last night's loss won't even be a blip that shows up on their radar.
But if Colin Kaepernick continues to play like this for the Niners they might become favorites for the Super Bowl. It can happen that quickly.
Now for the real point of all of this. Head coach Jim Harbaugh thought he was using his best quarterback, Alex Smith, all season and he didn't even know what kind of talent his own team had sitting on the bench.
Sometimes a head coach isn't even aware what he should be doing because he's too focused on what he's currently doing. Coach Frazier should watch last night's 49er's game. Maybe he'll get a really good idea.
Well, I saw him again last night and guess what? The whole COUNTRY saw what I saw in preseason. This guy IS great, so great that 49er coach Jim Harbaugh has to be thinking about making this guy his regular starter immediately.
The Bears, on the other hand, had to resort to their backup QB last night, too, and he was SOOOO bad that I won't even bother mentioning his name.
THIS is how seasons turn around for teams. The Bears could very well have Cutler back as their starter next Sunday against the Vikings and become very good again quickly. Last night's loss won't even be a blip that shows up on their radar.
But if Colin Kaepernick continues to play like this for the Niners they might become favorites for the Super Bowl. It can happen that quickly.
Now for the real point of all of this. Head coach Jim Harbaugh thought he was using his best quarterback, Alex Smith, all season and he didn't even know what kind of talent his own team had sitting on the bench.
Sometimes a head coach isn't even aware what he should be doing because he's too focused on what he's currently doing. Coach Frazier should watch last night's 49er's game. Maybe he'll get a really good idea.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Blue Jays Still Spending
The Blue Jays have agree to give Melky Cabrera a $16 million contract for next season. Cabrera technically led the NL in batting average last season but was suspended 50 games for steroid use. The Blue Jays are either going to have a great season next year or be horribly disappointed after spending all of that money in the last week.
There is no in-between for them now. If they don't at least make the World Series, there are going to tons of angry Toronto fans.
I'm guessing there will just be a ton of angry Toronto fans. These big spending sprees rarely work the first season.
There is no in-between for them now. If they don't at least make the World Series, there are going to tons of angry Toronto fans.
I'm guessing there will just be a ton of angry Toronto fans. These big spending sprees rarely work the first season.
Football
I found myself rooting for the Lions yesterday afternoon. I like the Packers, but a Green Bay loss yesterday would have led to a much more interesting end of the season.
As it is, the Vikings must win two of their next three games against Chicago and Green Bay to have any chance of making the playoffs. A Green bay loss yesterday would have made life easier.
I would have been squirming in my seat yesterday if I were a real Packer fan. Two missed field goals early forced a major game-ending comeback. With the Vikings still a viable threat to do something in the division I found myself rooting against the Packers. I am the dictionary definition of the "Bandwagon Fan." Go Vikings! (And if you stall, Go Packers!)
The Steelers missed Big Ben last night, but they didn't play all that poorly. The Ravens won by a field goal. Ben and his rib are going to make life hard for Steelers fans.
New England scored 59 points yesterday. I guess Andrew Luck found out what a good quarterback really looks like. It's hard to believe that Brady and the Patriot system can keep putting up points like this.
Anybody else thinking that Denver is glad they went with Peyton this year instead of Tebow? Manning is now 7-3 with his new team.
Phillip Rivers is no longer the QB he once was for San Diego. He's had 40 turnovers in last last 25 games. He leads the league in that category. He's still throwing for huge yards, but San Diegio is suffering from all those turnovers. Rivers is on a pace for more than 20 INTS for 2 years in a row now. And he's fumbling quite a bit as well. There's a reason that the Chargers are only 4-6 this year.
As it is, the Vikings must win two of their next three games against Chicago and Green Bay to have any chance of making the playoffs. A Green bay loss yesterday would have made life easier.
I would have been squirming in my seat yesterday if I were a real Packer fan. Two missed field goals early forced a major game-ending comeback. With the Vikings still a viable threat to do something in the division I found myself rooting against the Packers. I am the dictionary definition of the "Bandwagon Fan." Go Vikings! (And if you stall, Go Packers!)
The Steelers missed Big Ben last night, but they didn't play all that poorly. The Ravens won by a field goal. Ben and his rib are going to make life hard for Steelers fans.
New England scored 59 points yesterday. I guess Andrew Luck found out what a good quarterback really looks like. It's hard to believe that Brady and the Patriot system can keep putting up points like this.
Anybody else thinking that Denver is glad they went with Peyton this year instead of Tebow? Manning is now 7-3 with his new team.
Phillip Rivers is no longer the QB he once was for San Diego. He's had 40 turnovers in last last 25 games. He leads the league in that category. He's still throwing for huge yards, but San Diegio is suffering from all those turnovers. Rivers is on a pace for more than 20 INTS for 2 years in a row now. And he's fumbling quite a bit as well. There's a reason that the Chargers are only 4-6 this year.
Barker Quits Gophers
A.J. Barker is the Gophers best receiver. He said he's quitting the team because of the abuse that Coach Kill has shown him since he got a high ankle sprain in late October.
He doesn't say exactly what's been happening, but he says that Kill and the training staff are making life tough for him since he says he can't currently play. He also alleges other abuses as well.
Not sure what will come of all of this, but it's interesting to note that the primary reason Minnesota hired Kill was because of his great reputation with the students he coaches.
It could be just one disgruntled player or a pattern of abuse. The University will be required to take a much closer look either way.
He doesn't say exactly what's been happening, but he says that Kill and the training staff are making life tough for him since he says he can't currently play. He also alleges other abuses as well.
Not sure what will come of all of this, but it's interesting to note that the primary reason Minnesota hired Kill was because of his great reputation with the students he coaches.
It could be just one disgruntled player or a pattern of abuse. The University will be required to take a much closer look either way.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Another Number One Bites the Dust
And another one's gone. And another one's gone...
People who say college football NEEDS a playoff just haven't been paying attention this season. WEEK after WEEK of unbelievable upsets make every Saturday night must-watch TV for anyone who says they love college football.
Last night the big DOUBLE-WHAMMY occurred. Unranked Baylor CRUSHED number one Kansas State AND number TWO Oregon got surprised in OT by Stanford.
TWO great games, that would have been rendered MEANINGLESS by a playoff system, now help set the stage for what could be the greatest college season of all-time.
Number three Notre Dame won BIG yesterday. They have just become the only undefeated team left in the top ten rankings. They'll almost certainly move to number ONE in the polls this week. Number FOUR Alabama, who got dumped from number one last week, thinking it's season was lost, MAY now get the number TWO ranking passing both K State and Oregon.
The BCS system and rankings DO make sense. And because that system exists, we get national-championship caliber games every single Saturday night for literally months. WHEN EVERY SINGLE MAJOR GAME MATTERS, EVERY SINGLE GAME BY TOP RANKED TEAMS becomes a television treat.
The teams that play great late in the season are going to have an advantage when the rankings come out, but that's no different than a playoff system. The teams that WIN are the teams that should move on. IF Alabama finishes strong, their loss from a week ago IS better than than Oregon's and K-State's more recent losses.
I remember Kirk Herbstreit on ESPN three weeks ago saying how important a playoff is for college football if you you truly love the game. He said there was a good chance that FOUR teams would go undefeated this year, and it wasn't fair that 2 of those teams couldn't decide the National Championship on the field.
Guess what Kirk? Really stupid analysts say that same stupid thing every single season, and every single season they are proven wrong. I've never said their shouldn't be a PLUS-ONE Bowl (One more game if there are at least 3 "undefeateds" at the end, but that scenario just never happens.) Instead of imaging how great a playoff system COULD be, they ignore the fact that what they have now is unmatched in any sport.
Last night was living proof that college football is better without a playoff. What happened last night sent shudders through the college football world.
Number 5 Georgia has to be excited, too. WHY? Because Number four Alabama and number five Georgia play each other on December 1st. The winner of that game was going to win the SEC championship. NOW the winner of that game will probably play in the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME as well. Just one day ago, that game didn't matter at all. NOW it becomes the biggest game of the season so far.
Instead of THREE playoff games at the end of the season, we've had dozens already. And there's way more too look forward to before that championship game comes in mid-January.
Enjoy this season while you can. it will all come crashing down in two seasons when their "real playoffs" start, rendering the entire regular season completely meaningless.
Just like college basketball is now.
People who say college football NEEDS a playoff just haven't been paying attention this season. WEEK after WEEK of unbelievable upsets make every Saturday night must-watch TV for anyone who says they love college football.
Last night the big DOUBLE-WHAMMY occurred. Unranked Baylor CRUSHED number one Kansas State AND number TWO Oregon got surprised in OT by Stanford.
TWO great games, that would have been rendered MEANINGLESS by a playoff system, now help set the stage for what could be the greatest college season of all-time.
Number three Notre Dame won BIG yesterday. They have just become the only undefeated team left in the top ten rankings. They'll almost certainly move to number ONE in the polls this week. Number FOUR Alabama, who got dumped from number one last week, thinking it's season was lost, MAY now get the number TWO ranking passing both K State and Oregon.
The BCS system and rankings DO make sense. And because that system exists, we get national-championship caliber games every single Saturday night for literally months. WHEN EVERY SINGLE MAJOR GAME MATTERS, EVERY SINGLE GAME BY TOP RANKED TEAMS becomes a television treat.
The teams that play great late in the season are going to have an advantage when the rankings come out, but that's no different than a playoff system. The teams that WIN are the teams that should move on. IF Alabama finishes strong, their loss from a week ago IS better than than Oregon's and K-State's more recent losses.
I remember Kirk Herbstreit on ESPN three weeks ago saying how important a playoff is for college football if you you truly love the game. He said there was a good chance that FOUR teams would go undefeated this year, and it wasn't fair that 2 of those teams couldn't decide the National Championship on the field.
Guess what Kirk? Really stupid analysts say that same stupid thing every single season, and every single season they are proven wrong. I've never said their shouldn't be a PLUS-ONE Bowl (One more game if there are at least 3 "undefeateds" at the end, but that scenario just never happens.) Instead of imaging how great a playoff system COULD be, they ignore the fact that what they have now is unmatched in any sport.
Last night was living proof that college football is better without a playoff. What happened last night sent shudders through the college football world.
Number 5 Georgia has to be excited, too. WHY? Because Number four Alabama and number five Georgia play each other on December 1st. The winner of that game was going to win the SEC championship. NOW the winner of that game will probably play in the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME as well. Just one day ago, that game didn't matter at all. NOW it becomes the biggest game of the season so far.
Instead of THREE playoff games at the end of the season, we've had dozens already. And there's way more too look forward to before that championship game comes in mid-January.
Enjoy this season while you can. it will all come crashing down in two seasons when their "real playoffs" start, rendering the entire regular season completely meaningless.
Just like college basketball is now.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
MVP Vs Mauer
Here are the stats from last season. Buster Posey deserved the NL MVP, but I can't help thinking that THOSE stats really should be an AVERAGE year for Joe Mauer.
NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING is more disappointing than seeing that Mauer now appears to be healthy, and yet he still only hit TEN home runs last season. Mauer is a BIG GUY with a sweet swing. Posey is small in comparison. Why can't Mauer easily hit 25 home runs every season as a matter of course?
If he did, he'd be a perrenial MVP candidate and worth all the money the Twins pay him. He hit 500-foot home runs in HIGH SCHOOL! It's time that Mauer rediscovers his power.
Anyway. Here are the stats:
NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING is more disappointing than seeing that Mauer now appears to be healthy, and yet he still only hit TEN home runs last season. Mauer is a BIG GUY with a sweet swing. Posey is small in comparison. Why can't Mauer easily hit 25 home runs every season as a matter of course?
If he did, he'd be a perrenial MVP candidate and worth all the money the Twins pay him. He hit 500-foot home runs in HIGH SCHOOL! It's time that Mauer rediscovers his power.
Anyway. Here are the stats:
Notes
Remember when I mentioned awhile back that Shabazz Muhammad, the best high school basketball player in the country last year was ineligible to play for UCLA THIS season because he accepted airfair and lodging from a family friend to visit extra division one schools? It's all been fixed.
He missed the first three games of UCLA's season and that will be his official punishment as long as his parents pay back the $1600 in expenses to their family friend. I'm glad everybody was reasonable. The kid and his family broke the rules, but his life shouldn't be over because of it. Here's hoping he has a very long basketball career.
I watched part of the Wolves game last night, but it just wasn't the same. Injuries have caught up to the squad. Nine players can't play well enough, game after game, without wearing out. The Wolves have four days off before their next game. They're hoping that Barea and Pekovic and their foot/ankle problems will be healed by the next time they play. The whole team needs some rest.
He missed the first three games of UCLA's season and that will be his official punishment as long as his parents pay back the $1600 in expenses to their family friend. I'm glad everybody was reasonable. The kid and his family broke the rules, but his life shouldn't be over because of it. Here's hoping he has a very long basketball career.
I watched part of the Wolves game last night, but it just wasn't the same. Injuries have caught up to the squad. Nine players can't play well enough, game after game, without wearing out. The Wolves have four days off before their next game. They're hoping that Barea and Pekovic and their foot/ankle problems will be healed by the next time they play. The whole team needs some rest.
Friday, November 16, 2012
!8-Year Old Phenom
Meet the Twins number one draft pick from last June.
His name is Jose Orlando Berrios and at 6 feet 180 pounds he's on the fast track to the majors. In rookie league this past season he averaged 14.4 strikeouts per nine innings.
He has a 95 mph fastball that he hides so well (and mixes up so well) with his change-up, and mind-boggling slurve, that most observers think he's ready for the Twins to give him a chance as early as THIS season.
The last time the Twins had someone 19 start for them? That would have been Bert Blyleven way back in 1970.
Scouts love his maturity and his control. I'm looking forward to seeing if he's invited to training camp this spring.
His name is Jose Orlando Berrios and at 6 feet 180 pounds he's on the fast track to the majors. In rookie league this past season he averaged 14.4 strikeouts per nine innings.
He has a 95 mph fastball that he hides so well (and mixes up so well) with his change-up, and mind-boggling slurve, that most observers think he's ready for the Twins to give him a chance as early as THIS season.
The last time the Twins had someone 19 start for them? That would have been Bert Blyleven way back in 1970.
Scouts love his maturity and his control. I'm looking forward to seeing if he's invited to training camp this spring.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
RANT
I have no idea when this started, but it's starting to be the worst thing that so-called "journalists" can do.
WHY are professional athletes allowed to give ANONYMOUS OPINIONS to sports writers, and WHO allows these writers to REPORT and PRINT these anonymous quotes, and why do OTHER news organizations then repeat these quotes as if they are legit news?
The latest? An unnamed Jets player has been quoted as saying Tim Tebow is awful.
IF a player can't put his name to his opinion, he shouldn't say it, at the very least, it shouldn't be reported. If a reporter uses this quote he should be fired from whatever rag he works for, and any editors involved, who allowed the anonymous quote to be used as a story, should be suspended without pay for at least a month.
This whole illicit process is made up of weasels and cowards. Tim Tebow may very well be awful, but if you truly believe that, at least say it like a man and put YOUR name on the quote.
Coach Ryan, who I don't like and never have liked, is now forced into the impossible situation of fixing this ridiculously stupid situation.
AND "reporters" who report this carp (yes, I spelled that word wrong) should be standing in the unemployment line. Rumors are not facts. ONE player is not a source, and these people aren't "whistleblowers" who are trying to fix major conspiracies that are threatening the safety and lives of workers. It could very well be coming from a player who merely holds a grudge against the organization, or the entire quote may actually be fabricated. IF others can't verify the quote by going to the source, it is not in any way legit and it should not be used as part of a story.
These people are jerks who are hiding behind first amendment privilege to get hits on their websites.
EDITORS are the only ones who can stop this type of nonsense. IF I were the Jets, I would not let any reporters from the "news" organization that reported this story to have official contact with any of their players until both the writer and editor of the story are FIRED. And other pro sports organizations should follow suit. Stop the idiots dead in their tracks.
It's time to set a precedent. It's past time.
In America, you have the right to free speech, but you also have the responsibility to let people know it was YOU who said it. Freedom is a two-way street.
WHY are professional athletes allowed to give ANONYMOUS OPINIONS to sports writers, and WHO allows these writers to REPORT and PRINT these anonymous quotes, and why do OTHER news organizations then repeat these quotes as if they are legit news?
The latest? An unnamed Jets player has been quoted as saying Tim Tebow is awful.
IF a player can't put his name to his opinion, he shouldn't say it, at the very least, it shouldn't be reported. If a reporter uses this quote he should be fired from whatever rag he works for, and any editors involved, who allowed the anonymous quote to be used as a story, should be suspended without pay for at least a month.
This whole illicit process is made up of weasels and cowards. Tim Tebow may very well be awful, but if you truly believe that, at least say it like a man and put YOUR name on the quote.
Coach Ryan, who I don't like and never have liked, is now forced into the impossible situation of fixing this ridiculously stupid situation.
AND "reporters" who report this carp (yes, I spelled that word wrong) should be standing in the unemployment line. Rumors are not facts. ONE player is not a source, and these people aren't "whistleblowers" who are trying to fix major conspiracies that are threatening the safety and lives of workers. It could very well be coming from a player who merely holds a grudge against the organization, or the entire quote may actually be fabricated. IF others can't verify the quote by going to the source, it is not in any way legit and it should not be used as part of a story.
These people are jerks who are hiding behind first amendment privilege to get hits on their websites.
EDITORS are the only ones who can stop this type of nonsense. IF I were the Jets, I would not let any reporters from the "news" organization that reported this story to have official contact with any of their players until both the writer and editor of the story are FIRED. And other pro sports organizations should follow suit. Stop the idiots dead in their tracks.
It's time to set a precedent. It's past time.
In America, you have the right to free speech, but you also have the responsibility to let people know it was YOU who said it. Freedom is a two-way street.
Former Twin Wins Cy Young Award
R.A. Dickey became the first knuckleballer to ever receive the honor.
The Wolves lost by TWO last night as the Bocats sank the winning shot at the buzzer. That's basketball...
Torii (anybody else think that's a really first weird name for a guy) Hunter is back in the A.L. central as Detroit figures he's STILL worth $13 million a year. Expect to see him a lot over the next two seasons.
Texas A&M freshman receiver, Thomas Johnson, has not been seen since he was in his dorm at 6 p.m. Monday night. The college, his team, family, and friends, are understandably concerned. He's considered a good kid, so this type of disappearance is really odd...
The Wolves lost by TWO last night as the Bocats sank the winning shot at the buzzer. That's basketball...
Torii (anybody else think that's a really first weird name for a guy) Hunter is back in the A.L. central as Detroit figures he's STILL worth $13 million a year. Expect to see him a lot over the next two seasons.
Texas A&M freshman receiver, Thomas Johnson, has not been seen since he was in his dorm at 6 p.m. Monday night. The college, his team, family, and friends, are understandably concerned. He's considered a good kid, so this type of disappearance is really odd...
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Marlins Dump Stars and Payroll
A blockbuster baseball deal occurred yesterday.
Toronto got the two best pitchers that the Marlins had, including Mark Buehrle. They also got their highest paid player in Jose Reyes.
The Marlins saved around $250 million in salary and received some of Toronto's best prospects.
I would be excited if I were a Toronto fan, and really bummed to be a Marlins follower. Even Marlins players are publicly disgusted with the deal. It's like giving up and willingly becoming a triple-a ball club.
HOWEVER...
The Marlins do have lots of extra money to spend in free agency now, and that may have their plan all along. IF any of the prospects they got from Toronto become starters this season, the deal really won't look that bad.
Toronto, on the other hand, just about doubled their roster value. I guess when you play in the Yankees division, you feel like you have to spend like the Yankees. The pressure is now on them to perform like the Yankees. If they don't that payroll is going to kill them.
Interesting deal.
Toronto got the two best pitchers that the Marlins had, including Mark Buehrle. They also got their highest paid player in Jose Reyes.
The Marlins saved around $250 million in salary and received some of Toronto's best prospects.
I would be excited if I were a Toronto fan, and really bummed to be a Marlins follower. Even Marlins players are publicly disgusted with the deal. It's like giving up and willingly becoming a triple-a ball club.
HOWEVER...
The Marlins do have lots of extra money to spend in free agency now, and that may have their plan all along. IF any of the prospects they got from Toronto become starters this season, the deal really won't look that bad.
Toronto, on the other hand, just about doubled their roster value. I guess when you play in the Yankees division, you feel like you have to spend like the Yankees. The pressure is now on them to perform like the Yankees. If they don't that payroll is going to kill them.
Interesting deal.
Great Scott! Baker Now a Cub!
The Twins must not have wanted Scott Baker afterall.
The Cubs signed him to just a one-year deal worth only $5.5 million. The Twins didn't want to pay him the $9.5 million option he was due this year, so he became a free agent. Yes, he's had Tommy John surgery, but is that even a risk anymore?
Baker is a quality starter and at 31, he's got plenty of good years left. I'm really surprised the Twins didn't offer him a multi-year contract for around the same amount the Cubs gave him.
Where else are you going to pick up a pitcher this good for only 5 mil? Another mistake in a long line of mistakes by Twins management.
The Cubs signed him to just a one-year deal worth only $5.5 million. The Twins didn't want to pay him the $9.5 million option he was due this year, so he became a free agent. Yes, he's had Tommy John surgery, but is that even a risk anymore?
Baker is a quality starter and at 31, he's got plenty of good years left. I'm really surprised the Twins didn't offer him a multi-year contract for around the same amount the Cubs gave him.
Where else are you going to pick up a pitcher this good for only 5 mil? Another mistake in a long line of mistakes by Twins management.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Lakers Slap Phil Jackson In Face
The Lakers spent the weekend convincing Phil Jacskon to return, and just as he's ready to commit and come back, BANG, the Lakers announced they hired Coach D'Antoni instead.
Jackson was hurt, angry, and embarrassed. So what happened? Insiders think that at least one member of the Buss family does not like Jackson, and especially did not like that Jackson would not have to bow to his GM authority with the contract deal that was being worked out.
When is a done deal NOT a done deal? When personalities get in the way of common sense. Or when pride makes it impossible for you to do the right thing.
I'm not sure why the Lakers picked D'Antoni as "the guy" since he only plays run and gun offense while playing no defense whatsoever. That is not the type of scheme that a bunch of aging veterans can play. They aren't young enough to run like that.
So, what do they do when D'Antoni doesn't work out? My guess is they will not contact Phil Jackson again. That bridge has been officially nuked.
Jackson was hurt, angry, and embarrassed. So what happened? Insiders think that at least one member of the Buss family does not like Jackson, and especially did not like that Jackson would not have to bow to his GM authority with the contract deal that was being worked out.
When is a done deal NOT a done deal? When personalities get in the way of common sense. Or when pride makes it impossible for you to do the right thing.
I'm not sure why the Lakers picked D'Antoni as "the guy" since he only plays run and gun offense while playing no defense whatsoever. That is not the type of scheme that a bunch of aging veterans can play. They aren't young enough to run like that.
So, what do they do when D'Antoni doesn't work out? My guess is they will not contact Phil Jackson again. That bridge has been officially nuked.
Wolves Win
How are they doing this? The Wolves seem to have a new star in their lineup, 6 foot 11 inch Nicola Pekovic has been their leading scorer lately, but even HE went down with yet another Wolves injury in the third quarter but the Wolves didn't miss a beat as Minnesota went on to down the Mavs AT Dallas in their way to another road win.
Every single game the Wolves lose more players to injury. Last night, they only dressed TEN, and with Pekovic going down early, they finished the fourth quarter with just NINE. No one does this sort of thing.
If a couple of players had gotten into foul trouble it was actually conceivable that the Wolves may have not had enough players to actually finish the game.
The short answer to "HOW" they are doing this seems to be "defense. " But the longer answer appears to be how good a coach Rick Adelman is. The guy knows how to put together a really smart, really scrappy, really talented bunch of basketball players that know how to play as a team.
On Sunday the Wolves lost Chase Budiger to a knee injury that will require surgery. They are playing without guard J.J. Barea who is out with a sprained ankle, and Brandon Roy is remembering WHY he quit basketball in the first place now that his knees are bothering him again.
It's fun watching this team, but the injuries most likely will start taking their toll. So while it's fun to watch them now, I can't believe this streak can continue. But as long as they keep playing this well together, I'll keep tuning in a while longer.
Every single game the Wolves lose more players to injury. Last night, they only dressed TEN, and with Pekovic going down early, they finished the fourth quarter with just NINE. No one does this sort of thing.
If a couple of players had gotten into foul trouble it was actually conceivable that the Wolves may have not had enough players to actually finish the game.
The short answer to "HOW" they are doing this seems to be "defense. " But the longer answer appears to be how good a coach Rick Adelman is. The guy knows how to put together a really smart, really scrappy, really talented bunch of basketball players that know how to play as a team.
On Sunday the Wolves lost Chase Budiger to a knee injury that will require surgery. They are playing without guard J.J. Barea who is out with a sprained ankle, and Brandon Roy is remembering WHY he quit basketball in the first place now that his knees are bothering him again.
It's fun watching this team, but the injuries most likely will start taking their toll. So while it's fun to watch them now, I can't believe this streak can continue. But as long as they keep playing this well together, I'll keep tuning in a while longer.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Vikes Win
Ponder started with a couple of completions, one a really long pass to rookie Jarious Wright. That set the tone. Peterson had another monster day, especially the second half, and the Vikings offense had long sustained drives so the defense, especially the run defense, looked GREAT again.
Add in a couple of turnovers by Detroit and Ponder only getting sacked ONCE, because he STEPPED UP IN THE POCKET when pressured, and you actually had a very good football game with little complaints.
Was that so hard guys?
Vikes now have a couple weeks off to let various injuries heal including Harvin's ankle. My interest is piqued once more. It's game 10 and I still care. Surprise. Surprise.
Also good? The mediocre Falcons finally lost a game. They've actually played poorly enough to be a .500 ball club but somehow always managed to pull out games in the end. They had a first down on the two yard line again yesterday with time running out but this time they BLEW IT. The Saints picked up the win.
Better? The Bears played horribly at home last night on a rain-soaked field and they lost to the Texans.
The Vikes have the Bears in two weeks. Then the Packers and then the Bears again. This is not an easy schedule and this is not an easy division. Still interested, however, and still trying to figure out Ponder.
Add in a couple of turnovers by Detroit and Ponder only getting sacked ONCE, because he STEPPED UP IN THE POCKET when pressured, and you actually had a very good football game with little complaints.
Was that so hard guys?
Vikes now have a couple weeks off to let various injuries heal including Harvin's ankle. My interest is piqued once more. It's game 10 and I still care. Surprise. Surprise.
Also good? The mediocre Falcons finally lost a game. They've actually played poorly enough to be a .500 ball club but somehow always managed to pull out games in the end. They had a first down on the two yard line again yesterday with time running out but this time they BLEW IT. The Saints picked up the win.
Better? The Bears played horribly at home last night on a rain-soaked field and they lost to the Texans.
The Vikes have the Bears in two weeks. Then the Packers and then the Bears again. This is not an easy schedule and this is not an easy division. Still interested, however, and still trying to figure out Ponder.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Number One Alabama Goes Down
Alabama had its National Championship dreams shattered last night. College football came through again. THIS game mattered. There are now only 3 undefeated teams left. I'm hoping they play some tough games the next two weeks. It's been an unbelievably great season so far.
The Gophers also won their first Big Ten road game under coach Kill yesterday, and are now bowl eligible. Illinois didn't offer much resistance.
The Wolves lost at Chicago last night, but they did keep it close. They aren't going to win them all. That's asking too much. All I ask is that they keep the games close and gives themselves a chance late.
The Twins have only ONE starter, Scott Diamond, planned for next season. Some of last year's starters will probably be given another shot. Scott Baker, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is a free agent so we will have to see if the Twins offer him a much smaller deal this time around. I'm sure they'll give him another opportunity if the price is right.
Vikes play Detroit today. I'm definitely skipping this one but still hoping that Ponder somehow starts to look like a pro QB before it's too late. I can always watch highlights if they win, but I cannot watch another miserable loss.
The Gophers also won their first Big Ten road game under coach Kill yesterday, and are now bowl eligible. Illinois didn't offer much resistance.
The Wolves lost at Chicago last night, but they did keep it close. They aren't going to win them all. That's asking too much. All I ask is that they keep the games close and gives themselves a chance late.
The Twins have only ONE starter, Scott Diamond, planned for next season. Some of last year's starters will probably be given another shot. Scott Baker, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is a free agent so we will have to see if the Twins offer him a much smaller deal this time around. I'm sure they'll give him another opportunity if the price is right.
Vikes play Detroit today. I'm definitely skipping this one but still hoping that Ponder somehow starts to look like a pro QB before it's too late. I can always watch highlights if they win, but I cannot watch another miserable loss.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
UCLA Recriut Suspended
Last year's number one high school player in the country, Shabazz Muhammad, was declared ineligible for UCLA's home basketball opener.
Why? Because a family friend helped with his travel and lodgings bill when he visited two NCAA member schools last season. That breaks the rules of amateurism that the NCCA has set up.
The funny thing? If he was a CLOSER family friend (as defined by NCAA rules) it would have been allowed. A local community member wanted to make sure this kid had the opportunity to play at the best school possible, and as a result the kid currently can't play college basketball.
I understand why the NCAA ruled the way they did. The sponsor is a financial advisor by profession and they thought that he had something to gain by helping the kid. IF this advisor had been closer to the family before he made the offer, nothing would have been said.
As it stands, the kid will most likely, somehow, have to repay the money and get suspended for a while before he is eligible to return.
No ranting this time. Just a look at how the NCAA tries to keep everything above board. I can see that it's not an easy task, and I can understand why people might be upset on both sides of this delicate issue.
I have a nephew who was recruited by some pretty good division one schools this year and he and his family were VERY careful about following every rule the NCCA has set up to make sure he didn't violate any eligibility rules. THEY KNEW and FOLLOWED those rules. Shabazz and his family also knew the rules, and they decided to bend one of the few gray areas. You live with those types of decisions.
Why? Because a family friend helped with his travel and lodgings bill when he visited two NCAA member schools last season. That breaks the rules of amateurism that the NCCA has set up.
The funny thing? If he was a CLOSER family friend (as defined by NCAA rules) it would have been allowed. A local community member wanted to make sure this kid had the opportunity to play at the best school possible, and as a result the kid currently can't play college basketball.
I understand why the NCAA ruled the way they did. The sponsor is a financial advisor by profession and they thought that he had something to gain by helping the kid. IF this advisor had been closer to the family before he made the offer, nothing would have been said.
As it stands, the kid will most likely, somehow, have to repay the money and get suspended for a while before he is eligible to return.
No ranting this time. Just a look at how the NCAA tries to keep everything above board. I can see that it's not an easy task, and I can understand why people might be upset on both sides of this delicate issue.
I have a nephew who was recruited by some pretty good division one schools this year and he and his family were VERY careful about following every rule the NCCA has set up to make sure he didn't violate any eligibility rules. THEY KNEW and FOLLOWED those rules. Shabazz and his family also knew the rules, and they decided to bend one of the few gray areas. You live with those types of decisions.
Wolves!
What a difference between the LA Lakers and the T-Wolves.
The Lakers start 1-4 and they fire their head coach. Poof! He's gone. And the first thing they do is win big on Friday night with an interim head coach.
The T-Wolves on the other hand, lose their two biggest stars to injury before the season starts and then lose a couple of MORE starters (three actually) to injuries before and during the game and they STILL play a great game and pull it out at the very end to go 4-1.
This is the TIMBERWOLVES we're talking about, the perennial cellar dwellers who can't win even when they HAVE known stars perfectly healthy.
This season they have a great head coach who teaches defense and finding the open man, while having players who are smart enough to execute basic, sound, WINNING basketball.
I watched the last eight minutes again last night (as is my habit, I'll say it again, the rest of the game simply doesn't matter) and I was absolutely AMAZED how good these players play as a team down the stretch in the clutch. They even missed an open layup with ten seconds left that would have put the game away, but made up for it as time ran out with yet ANOTHER great pass that led to any easy layup for the win.
I have NEVER really enjoyed a Timberwolves game until last night. Yes, I've seen them win in the past, but I've never ENJOYED the game itself. They worked for that win last night, and even though most of those players are total unknowns to the rest of the league, they played the best TEAM basketball I have ever seen in the NBA.
I don't say that lightly. Most great teams have 2 or three superstars and an adequate support staff that is able to give the stars some rest during the game. But last night, I saw no stars, I just saw a lot of of very good basketball players who know what basketball IS.
It's a team sport and this is one solid team.
I have no idea how they'll match up with great superstar teams when the fluffy part of their schedule comes to a close shortly, but I am super psyched to continue following this team at least for a while longer. I KNOW it could all come crashing down tomorrow, since this is still the T-Wolves team that always somehow manages to ultimately disappoint, but until they crash and burn, they will have at least one more fairly regular viewer.
On a side note: I LIKE the way Lakers management fired their head coach. This is a team that EXPECTS success and they realized that if they didn't take immediate charge of what was happening that their playoff hopes were already in jeopardy.
FIVE games into a 70 plus game season they made an IMMEDIATE course correction to save their season. The Vikings management, on the other hand, sees how bad their situation is and they are content to THROW away the season week after week as an inadequate coach destroys this season one week at a time, while killing the morale of this team.
Sports fans you have the example. A team that desires to win at all costs, and a franchise that is content to merely have a better record than the previous season. In pro sports you DON'T settle. In Minnesota, except for the current Wolves, we settle all the time. I'm sick of settling.
The Lakers start 1-4 and they fire their head coach. Poof! He's gone. And the first thing they do is win big on Friday night with an interim head coach.
The T-Wolves on the other hand, lose their two biggest stars to injury before the season starts and then lose a couple of MORE starters (three actually) to injuries before and during the game and they STILL play a great game and pull it out at the very end to go 4-1.
This is the TIMBERWOLVES we're talking about, the perennial cellar dwellers who can't win even when they HAVE known stars perfectly healthy.
This season they have a great head coach who teaches defense and finding the open man, while having players who are smart enough to execute basic, sound, WINNING basketball.
I watched the last eight minutes again last night (as is my habit, I'll say it again, the rest of the game simply doesn't matter) and I was absolutely AMAZED how good these players play as a team down the stretch in the clutch. They even missed an open layup with ten seconds left that would have put the game away, but made up for it as time ran out with yet ANOTHER great pass that led to any easy layup for the win.
I have NEVER really enjoyed a Timberwolves game until last night. Yes, I've seen them win in the past, but I've never ENJOYED the game itself. They worked for that win last night, and even though most of those players are total unknowns to the rest of the league, they played the best TEAM basketball I have ever seen in the NBA.
I don't say that lightly. Most great teams have 2 or three superstars and an adequate support staff that is able to give the stars some rest during the game. But last night, I saw no stars, I just saw a lot of of very good basketball players who know what basketball IS.
It's a team sport and this is one solid team.
I have no idea how they'll match up with great superstar teams when the fluffy part of their schedule comes to a close shortly, but I am super psyched to continue following this team at least for a while longer. I KNOW it could all come crashing down tomorrow, since this is still the T-Wolves team that always somehow manages to ultimately disappoint, but until they crash and burn, they will have at least one more fairly regular viewer.
On a side note: I LIKE the way Lakers management fired their head coach. This is a team that EXPECTS success and they realized that if they didn't take immediate charge of what was happening that their playoff hopes were already in jeopardy.
FIVE games into a 70 plus game season they made an IMMEDIATE course correction to save their season. The Vikings management, on the other hand, sees how bad their situation is and they are content to THROW away the season week after week as an inadequate coach destroys this season one week at a time, while killing the morale of this team.
Sports fans you have the example. A team that desires to win at all costs, and a franchise that is content to merely have a better record than the previous season. In pro sports you DON'T settle. In Minnesota, except for the current Wolves, we settle all the time. I'm sick of settling.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Skipping This Week's Vikings Game
If I ever needed a break from the Vikings, this is the week. Since they have a bye week NEXT week, I affectively can take a 20 day vacation from watching the Vikings while only missing one game.
I won't mind missing this one even if they do win. I have no hopes that will happen, however. The Vikings are one messed up team right now, and if Ponder stays healthy, they'll just get worse.
I just wish Frazier would change his mind about not benching Ponder. There's a whole team ready to revolt with him at the helm. We'll see and hear open revolt within a few weeks if Frazier doesn't make a change at the break. Percy Harvin is already upset. Look for others to join him.
Frazier should be job hunting by season's end, so at least there is light at the end of the tunnel.
I won't mind missing this one even if they do win. I have no hopes that will happen, however. The Vikings are one messed up team right now, and if Ponder stays healthy, they'll just get worse.
I just wish Frazier would change his mind about not benching Ponder. There's a whole team ready to revolt with him at the helm. We'll see and hear open revolt within a few weeks if Frazier doesn't make a change at the break. Percy Harvin is already upset. Look for others to join him.
Frazier should be job hunting by season's end, so at least there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Casilla Now an Oriole
The Twins acquired infielder Tommy Filed off waivers from Colorado a couple days ago. To make room for him they put Alexi Casilla on waivers. In a surprise move, the Orioles claimed him.
No more Alexi. It's about time. The Twins will be a better team this year with just that one move.
No more Alexi. It's about time. The Twins will be a better team this year with just that one move.
Braves Want Willingham
And Seattle wants Revere. And the Braves also want Span, but they are said to also be interested in Hicks as well.
As I said yesterday, the Twins have lots of outfielders. It looks like other teams have taken notice. I wouldn't be surprised if the Twins traded anybody to get great starting pitching and a good middle infielder who can hit.
We may not recognize next year's squad, again.
As I said yesterday, the Twins have lots of outfielders. It looks like other teams have taken notice. I wouldn't be surprised if the Twins traded anybody to get great starting pitching and a good middle infielder who can hit.
We may not recognize next year's squad, again.
Colts Win
Andrew Luck is having a pretty good rookie season for the Colts. Of course, they beat the Jaguars last night, a team that would never appear in prime time if it weren't for the Thursday Night game.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
T-Wolves Rout Magic
The Wolves are now 3-1. I hesitate to say ANYTHING about them, because just when I think they MAY actually be good, they will go on a five game tailspin and destroy all hopes for a good season.
All I'm going to say at this point is that the Wolves don't normally rout anybody, ever. So I'll just enjoy last night's game and continue watching and paying attention until they quite obviously are worse.
Maybe, just maybe, I'll be able to pay attention the whole season.
maybe...
All I'm going to say at this point is that the Wolves don't normally rout anybody, ever. So I'll just enjoy last night's game and continue watching and paying attention until they quite obviously are worse.
Maybe, just maybe, I'll be able to pay attention the whole season.
maybe...
Rumor Mill
I was sent an e-mail yesterday mentioning that Terry Ryan, when talking about Chris Parmalee, said, "we're going to try to fit him in there, without tipping our hand too far."
The obvious assumption ("without tipping our hand too far") is that the Twins are thinking of making Parmalee a starter, while trading a current starter.
That's where all the speculation begins. Parmalee plays first base and right field.
That means the Twins are either thinking of trading Justin Morneau and his huge contract NOW while he actually is starting to look really good again and has some real value OR they are thinking of trading one of our current outfielders.
Now IF a Twins fan were to list our current outfield they'd probably say it's Willigham, Revere, and Span. Mastoinni and Benson are the backups. So WHO are theTwins getting rid of?
It can't be Revere. His contract is still low, the fans love him, and he's improved by leaps and bounds.
It can't be Willingham because, despite his average defense, he's the ONLY player on the team that can really hit homeruns. Remember he's the first Twin to hit at least 35 homers since Harmon Killebrew.
That leaves us with Span or Morneau. Span's contract is increasing yearly and he has some real trade value.
Center fielders that can get on base, have a little power, occasionally steal and play above average center field don't grow on trees. There is a reason that Span's name has been bandied about by the Nationals and Red at the trade deadline the last two years: he's a commodity. In fact, for those attached to the more advanced sabrmetric stats, WAR (Wins Above Replacement) pegged Span as the most valuable Minnesota Twin last year - above Joe Mauer and Josh Willingham.
The Twins find themselves desperately short of pitching and middle infielders from the majors down through the minors. But this organization can sure develop center fielders. Twins fans know that Revere could step into center field for Span right now and probably improve the defense. And one-level below him is toolsy first round pick Aaron Hicks, who is going to be better defensively than either of them, and probably better offensively, too. And Twins fans have also already been introduced to Joe Benson, who can also hold down the position.
Span will make over $10M over the next two years of his contract. The Twins have limited funds after two straight years of declining attendance. That is $10M that could (and probably should) be used on pitching.
However, Justin Morneau is scheduled to make $14 million next season, the LAST year of his contract. And the now free-spending Dogers have already made inquiries of his availability. I don't see the Twins re-signing Morneau at this point. He hasn't played a full season since 2008 and there's no guarantee he will ever have another really good season.
If the Dodgers are serious about wanting him, the Twins could save an awful lot of money (and the headache and heartache of trying to re-sign him or trade him by late next season) if they trade him THIS offseason.
Of course, the Twins WHO NEED a GOOD veteran established pitcher and help up the middle may decide to trade BOTH Span and Morneau, lowering their current payroll by nearly $20 million dollars in the process. We'll be strong in the outfield either way, and it's possible that Parmalee could hit 20 or more homeruns this coming season at first base.
Prediction: Either Span or Morneau is history. I'm thinking both. And the Twins will sign a good starter and an established middle infielder who is better than what we have now.
At this point, I no longer have an attachment to either. We had them both last season. They had very good years and we still had a horrible season. We need more than what they bring to the table.
And I really like the idea that the Twins IF they want to spend money again, they will have the funds available. My basic small and medium market philosophy remains the same. Play the young guys until they become stars and trade them for established proven vets to plug your weaknesses. Right now we have some weaknesses that need plugging and lots of outfielders. Let the trades begin.
The obvious assumption ("without tipping our hand too far") is that the Twins are thinking of making Parmalee a starter, while trading a current starter.
That's where all the speculation begins. Parmalee plays first base and right field.
That means the Twins are either thinking of trading Justin Morneau and his huge contract NOW while he actually is starting to look really good again and has some real value OR they are thinking of trading one of our current outfielders.
Now IF a Twins fan were to list our current outfield they'd probably say it's Willigham, Revere, and Span. Mastoinni and Benson are the backups. So WHO are theTwins getting rid of?
It can't be Revere. His contract is still low, the fans love him, and he's improved by leaps and bounds.
It can't be Willingham because, despite his average defense, he's the ONLY player on the team that can really hit homeruns. Remember he's the first Twin to hit at least 35 homers since Harmon Killebrew.
That leaves us with Span or Morneau. Span's contract is increasing yearly and he has some real trade value.
Center fielders that can get on base, have a little power, occasionally steal and play above average center field don't grow on trees. There is a reason that Span's name has been bandied about by the Nationals and Red at the trade deadline the last two years: he's a commodity. In fact, for those attached to the more advanced sabrmetric stats, WAR (Wins Above Replacement) pegged Span as the most valuable Minnesota Twin last year - above Joe Mauer and Josh Willingham.
The Twins find themselves desperately short of pitching and middle infielders from the majors down through the minors. But this organization can sure develop center fielders. Twins fans know that Revere could step into center field for Span right now and probably improve the defense. And one-level below him is toolsy first round pick Aaron Hicks, who is going to be better defensively than either of them, and probably better offensively, too. And Twins fans have also already been introduced to Joe Benson, who can also hold down the position.
Span will make over $10M over the next two years of his contract. The Twins have limited funds after two straight years of declining attendance. That is $10M that could (and probably should) be used on pitching.
However, Justin Morneau is scheduled to make $14 million next season, the LAST year of his contract. And the now free-spending Dogers have already made inquiries of his availability. I don't see the Twins re-signing Morneau at this point. He hasn't played a full season since 2008 and there's no guarantee he will ever have another really good season.
If the Dodgers are serious about wanting him, the Twins could save an awful lot of money (and the headache and heartache of trying to re-sign him or trade him by late next season) if they trade him THIS offseason.
Of course, the Twins WHO NEED a GOOD veteran established pitcher and help up the middle may decide to trade BOTH Span and Morneau, lowering their current payroll by nearly $20 million dollars in the process. We'll be strong in the outfield either way, and it's possible that Parmalee could hit 20 or more homeruns this coming season at first base.
Prediction: Either Span or Morneau is history. I'm thinking both. And the Twins will sign a good starter and an established middle infielder who is better than what we have now.
At this point, I no longer have an attachment to either. We had them both last season. They had very good years and we still had a horrible season. We need more than what they bring to the table.
And I really like the idea that the Twins IF they want to spend money again, they will have the funds available. My basic small and medium market philosophy remains the same. Play the young guys until they become stars and trade them for established proven vets to plug your weaknesses. Right now we have some weaknesses that need plugging and lots of outfielders. Let the trades begin.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Woman Falls Off Cliff While Texting
This headline caught my attention today.
http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/woman-falls-off-cliff-while-texting/?src=Outbrain
I'm thinking there's an analogy there for America.
http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/woman-falls-off-cliff-while-texting/?src=Outbrain
I'm thinking there's an analogy there for America.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Politics
I'm not going to talk about the day's elections.
I'm going to talk about the NFL's solution to the arbitration scheduled between Commisioner Roger Goodell and the New Orlean's Saints players who are suspected of carrying out bounties on other teams.
I kind of chuckled when I heard that FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER Paul Tagliabue was named as the arbiter. Besides being the FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER, he's also Roger Goodell's attorney. (Okay, he WORKS at the law offices that represent Goodell.) I'm thinking that the Saints players may think he's not the most qualified, unbiased arbiter available.
Did it mention that he's a FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER and Roger Goodell's friend and lawyer?
Yeah. I guess I did. I'm also guessing this story is far, far from over.
I'm going to talk about the NFL's solution to the arbitration scheduled between Commisioner Roger Goodell and the New Orlean's Saints players who are suspected of carrying out bounties on other teams.
I kind of chuckled when I heard that FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER Paul Tagliabue was named as the arbiter. Besides being the FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER, he's also Roger Goodell's attorney. (Okay, he WORKS at the law offices that represent Goodell.) I'm thinking that the Saints players may think he's not the most qualified, unbiased arbiter available.
Did it mention that he's a FORMER NFL COMMISSIONER and Roger Goodell's friend and lawyer?
Yeah. I guess I did. I'm also guessing this story is far, far from over.
More To Ponder
Head Coach Leslie Frazier had lots to say about the Vikings offense during Monday's press conference . He also had lots to say about the Vikings offensive line. But he completely missed the main problem that the Vikings have. Here's a summary:
There are some issues with scheme, Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said; the team has to come up with better ways to deal with defenses that are playing press coverage outside and a single safety up top.
Some routes could be better, Frazier added. And pass protection has to improve.
But Frazier’s Monday press conference focused mainly on the play of quarterback Christian Ponder.
Let’s get this out of the way: Frazier said he has not thought about benching Ponder, not even for a series.
“We do some things preparation-wise during the course of the week to prepare him for just about every situation that he sees,” Frazier said. “Then it just comes back to our being able to execute in certain situations.”
Frazier said Ponder seemed confident. Now it’s a matter of doing it on the field.
“I think the last couple of weeks there have been some things that have come up that we need to keep working on,” Frazier said. “Not only with him, but our entire offense, to get better production out of the pass game. He knows there are some things he needs to improve on, but there are also some things throughout our passing game that we have to get corrected in order to help him be successful.”
That said, Frazier fielded a number of questions that focused squarely on Ponder, including:
--On Ponder’s accuracy issues, particularly a miss to Devin Aromashodu and a high pass on a bubble screen. “He’s completed that with accuracy thoughout the season,” Frazier said of the screen. “For whatever reason, the ball sailed on him. He’s got to get his feet set and got to make that throw.”
--On whether his sore knee was an issue in Ponder’s accuracy: “He hasn’t complained about his knee,” Frazier said. “I don’t think that’s an issue.”
--On Ponder appearing uncomfortable in the pocket: “If you get a lot of pressure usually that will create that,” Frazier said.
On Ponder’s confidence: “Part of being a quarterback at our level is throwing into tight windows,” Frazier said. “He’s capable of doing that. We’ve all seen him do it and (we’ve) just got to consistently do it because if we get those opportunities on Sunday in this ballgame we’ll have to take advantage of it.”
Bottom line is defenses are going to continue to load up the box until Ponder and the Vikings figure out a way to take advantage of that situation. “It’s not just what Christian is doing or not doing,” Frazier said. “But some of the things we’re doing as a whole.”
My Take: IF we are at game NINE and it's the team's fault we have to look at COACHING as the problem. IF Frazier has not thought about benching Ponder at all the man is not qualified to be here any more. IF he hasn't seen Ponder's screen passes sailing week after week, he hasn't been watching game film. The man is DEVOTED to Ponder like he's married to him. IF they think they need to try "something different" here's a radical idea. Use Joe Webb. Have him roll out.
IF Peterson getting nearly 200 yards rushing hasn't loosened up the pass rush defense of teams, what will? GET YOUR QB OUT OF THE POCKET!!!
Every OTHER team would put in some quick slants or screens. WE either can't do them or won't use them, so our only other option is to roll out.
The simplest solution?
Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier!
The man simply does not know football.
There are some issues with scheme, Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said; the team has to come up with better ways to deal with defenses that are playing press coverage outside and a single safety up top.
Some routes could be better, Frazier added. And pass protection has to improve.
But Frazier’s Monday press conference focused mainly on the play of quarterback Christian Ponder.
Let’s get this out of the way: Frazier said he has not thought about benching Ponder, not even for a series.
“We do some things preparation-wise during the course of the week to prepare him for just about every situation that he sees,” Frazier said. “Then it just comes back to our being able to execute in certain situations.”
Frazier said Ponder seemed confident. Now it’s a matter of doing it on the field.
“I think the last couple of weeks there have been some things that have come up that we need to keep working on,” Frazier said. “Not only with him, but our entire offense, to get better production out of the pass game. He knows there are some things he needs to improve on, but there are also some things throughout our passing game that we have to get corrected in order to help him be successful.”
That said, Frazier fielded a number of questions that focused squarely on Ponder, including:
--On Ponder’s accuracy issues, particularly a miss to Devin Aromashodu and a high pass on a bubble screen. “He’s completed that with accuracy thoughout the season,” Frazier said of the screen. “For whatever reason, the ball sailed on him. He’s got to get his feet set and got to make that throw.”
--On whether his sore knee was an issue in Ponder’s accuracy: “He hasn’t complained about his knee,” Frazier said. “I don’t think that’s an issue.”
--On Ponder appearing uncomfortable in the pocket: “If you get a lot of pressure usually that will create that,” Frazier said.
On Ponder’s confidence: “Part of being a quarterback at our level is throwing into tight windows,” Frazier said. “He’s capable of doing that. We’ve all seen him do it and (we’ve) just got to consistently do it because if we get those opportunities on Sunday in this ballgame we’ll have to take advantage of it.”
Bottom line is defenses are going to continue to load up the box until Ponder and the Vikings figure out a way to take advantage of that situation. “It’s not just what Christian is doing or not doing,” Frazier said. “But some of the things we’re doing as a whole.”
My Take: IF we are at game NINE and it's the team's fault we have to look at COACHING as the problem. IF Frazier has not thought about benching Ponder at all the man is not qualified to be here any more. IF he hasn't seen Ponder's screen passes sailing week after week, he hasn't been watching game film. The man is DEVOTED to Ponder like he's married to him. IF they think they need to try "something different" here's a radical idea. Use Joe Webb. Have him roll out.
IF Peterson getting nearly 200 yards rushing hasn't loosened up the pass rush defense of teams, what will? GET YOUR QB OUT OF THE POCKET!!!
Every OTHER team would put in some quick slants or screens. WE either can't do them or won't use them, so our only other option is to roll out.
The simplest solution?
Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier!
The man simply does not know football.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Howlingly Awful
Yes, the Timberwolves were as bad as I expected last night, so bad that they made Friday's win look like the fluke that it probably was, but this blog is about Christian Ponder.
Have the Vikings EVER had a starting QB this awful? Adrian Peterson had one of his best days ever as a Viking and we still got killed yesterday. Super Steve summed it up pretty well in his comments after yesterday's game, but I'd like a crack at berating him too.
So here it goes.
Does Ponder bring ANYTHING to the table as the Viking's quarterback? He's not agile enough to move out of the pocket when pressured. He's not fast enough to run up the middle to get a first down. He can't throw accurate short passes to wide open receivers when there's no pressure, and all of his long passes look like random tosses, most of which drift 10-15 yards out of bounds. I can't compare him to any other QB I've ever seen, because no one else is this bad at every single aspect of the game.
BUT there is SOMETHING worse.
A head coach who let's all of this continue when HE is the only person watching the game who can do something about it. Ponder, in two of his last three games has thrown for 70 or less yards. There is a pattern of incompetence here that is unprecedented in the history of the NFL. Ponder isn't a backup QB who doesn't know the offense and who has suddenly been called into duty because the starter is hurt. No, he is the STARTER. In fact, yesterday was his 19th start for the team. And it's not like he's suddenly having bad games. He's historically bad and as difficult as it may be to believe, he's actually getting worse with every game.
The Vikings defense was ran ragged again yesterday. Yes, Seattle has a very good QB, and their running back is second in the league to Peterson for rushing yardage, but so much of the problem with the defense right now is that Ponder can't sustain a drive long enough to give the defense some rest. You also can't pressure a QB who knows all he has to do is hand the ball off when he has a nice lead. The Vikings defense is being put into a horrible hole every week because Christian Ponder is not a pro caliber quarterback. I've said it before but it bears repeating. He's not even close.
Is there anyone out there watching these games that thinks the Vikes would be WORSE with Joe Webb as their starter? I'd take any mistakes that Webb may make at this point in his career over any of the ongoing incompetence that Ponder continues to show. I'd settle for our third string starter in a second just to get Ponder permanently off the playing field.
It's time for Frazier to pull the plug on the Ponder experiment. Actually, it's PAST TIME. This move should have been made three weeks ago, and I said the same thing three weeks ago. IF FRAZIER lets Ponder have even one more start, he should be fired immediately and never be allowed to coach anywhere ever again. I wouldn't trust him to coach his son's junior high games.
Ziggy are you listening? You couldn't pick a good head coach for this franchise if your life depended on it, but just because you've made TWO HORRIBLE choices doesn't mean you should quit trying. YOU watch the same games we watch. You hear the fans that are ready to revolt. YOU SEE how incompetent these guys are. YOU are the only one who can do something about it. So DO something.
Fire Frazier. Release Ponder from his contract and get somebody who can actually recognize talent to be your head coach. Make Webb your starter until you acquire somebody else. Give us SOMETHING to cheer about! Anything. Just get Ponder and Frazier out of here before this season is completely destroyed.
We'd rather have you rebuild than keep either.
Who is with me?
Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier!
On a brighter note, MY Pack looked pretty good yesterday, though Rodgers is starting to miss a few more times than I'm comfortable with.
Have the Vikings EVER had a starting QB this awful? Adrian Peterson had one of his best days ever as a Viking and we still got killed yesterday. Super Steve summed it up pretty well in his comments after yesterday's game, but I'd like a crack at berating him too.
So here it goes.
Does Ponder bring ANYTHING to the table as the Viking's quarterback? He's not agile enough to move out of the pocket when pressured. He's not fast enough to run up the middle to get a first down. He can't throw accurate short passes to wide open receivers when there's no pressure, and all of his long passes look like random tosses, most of which drift 10-15 yards out of bounds. I can't compare him to any other QB I've ever seen, because no one else is this bad at every single aspect of the game.
BUT there is SOMETHING worse.
A head coach who let's all of this continue when HE is the only person watching the game who can do something about it. Ponder, in two of his last three games has thrown for 70 or less yards. There is a pattern of incompetence here that is unprecedented in the history of the NFL. Ponder isn't a backup QB who doesn't know the offense and who has suddenly been called into duty because the starter is hurt. No, he is the STARTER. In fact, yesterday was his 19th start for the team. And it's not like he's suddenly having bad games. He's historically bad and as difficult as it may be to believe, he's actually getting worse with every game.
The Vikings defense was ran ragged again yesterday. Yes, Seattle has a very good QB, and their running back is second in the league to Peterson for rushing yardage, but so much of the problem with the defense right now is that Ponder can't sustain a drive long enough to give the defense some rest. You also can't pressure a QB who knows all he has to do is hand the ball off when he has a nice lead. The Vikings defense is being put into a horrible hole every week because Christian Ponder is not a pro caliber quarterback. I've said it before but it bears repeating. He's not even close.
Is there anyone out there watching these games that thinks the Vikes would be WORSE with Joe Webb as their starter? I'd take any mistakes that Webb may make at this point in his career over any of the ongoing incompetence that Ponder continues to show. I'd settle for our third string starter in a second just to get Ponder permanently off the playing field.
It's time for Frazier to pull the plug on the Ponder experiment. Actually, it's PAST TIME. This move should have been made three weeks ago, and I said the same thing three weeks ago. IF FRAZIER lets Ponder have even one more start, he should be fired immediately and never be allowed to coach anywhere ever again. I wouldn't trust him to coach his son's junior high games.
Ziggy are you listening? You couldn't pick a good head coach for this franchise if your life depended on it, but just because you've made TWO HORRIBLE choices doesn't mean you should quit trying. YOU watch the same games we watch. You hear the fans that are ready to revolt. YOU SEE how incompetent these guys are. YOU are the only one who can do something about it. So DO something.
Fire Frazier. Release Ponder from his contract and get somebody who can actually recognize talent to be your head coach. Make Webb your starter until you acquire somebody else. Give us SOMETHING to cheer about! Anything. Just get Ponder and Frazier out of here before this season is completely destroyed.
We'd rather have you rebuild than keep either.
Who is with me?
Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier! Fire Frazier!
On a brighter note, MY Pack looked pretty good yesterday, though Rodgers is starting to miss a few more times than I'm comfortable with.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
NFL
Green Bay at noon. Vikes at 3:05.
The Packers and Vikes seem to be heading in opposite directions. What happens today may determine what the rest of the season looks like. I plan on watching most of both games.
The Bears play at noon as well, but until they start looking vulnerable, they have the inside track to the division title. The Pack and the Vikes have to keep winning just to stay in the hunt.
The Packers and Vikes seem to be heading in opposite directions. What happens today may determine what the rest of the season looks like. I plan on watching most of both games.
The Bears play at noon as well, but until they start looking vulnerable, they have the inside track to the division title. The Pack and the Vikes have to keep winning just to stay in the hunt.
College Football
There were NO big upsets yesterday is college football, but all top four teams were in nail-biters that left fans on the edges of their collective seats.
Number 4 Oregon NEEDED 61 points to hold off number 17 USC who scored 51.
Notre Dame needed 3 OTS to rally from behind late to beat UNRANKED Pittsburgh.
Number 24 OKST gave number two K State a scare...
,,. and best, Alabama at number one BARELY pulled out a late comeback win against number 5 LSU.
Notre Dame was the featured afternoon game, but all the others were prime time on FOX, CBS, and ABC going head to head with each other.
The best part were the announcers. EVERY single play late in every single game, the common theme was made evident. THE ENTIRE season of this team may be on the line with THIS play. And these critcal plays in every single one of thes games might be determining the National Championship.
It was always something like this, "Their hope of a National Championship consideration hinges on this drive." or "Any hope of a National Championship may have just died on that play."
These types of things were said so many times last night that you could feel the tension. And the announcers were right every single time they said that. There was no hype. The play mattered. The GAME mattered. EACH PLAY, EACH GAME mattered. What was about to happen or what JUST happened may have determined the National Championship.
IF there was a playoff system after the season, most of these great games last night would have meant virtually nothing. INSTEAD they WERE the playoff, and all 4 teams survived, only to be challenged again NEXT week in equally important high tension, high profile match-ups that could determine the National Championship.
It was a great night of college football, NONE of the bowl games (except the final one that has the top two teams playing in it) will be or could be as good as any of the games that were played last night. The nature of college football puts an absolute premium on regular season match-ups. And it shined in that showcase last night.
Number 4 Oregon NEEDED 61 points to hold off number 17 USC who scored 51.
Notre Dame needed 3 OTS to rally from behind late to beat UNRANKED Pittsburgh.
Number 24 OKST gave number two K State a scare...
,,. and best, Alabama at number one BARELY pulled out a late comeback win against number 5 LSU.
Notre Dame was the featured afternoon game, but all the others were prime time on FOX, CBS, and ABC going head to head with each other.
The best part were the announcers. EVERY single play late in every single game, the common theme was made evident. THE ENTIRE season of this team may be on the line with THIS play. And these critcal plays in every single one of thes games might be determining the National Championship.
It was always something like this, "Their hope of a National Championship consideration hinges on this drive." or "Any hope of a National Championship may have just died on that play."
These types of things were said so many times last night that you could feel the tension. And the announcers were right every single time they said that. There was no hype. The play mattered. The GAME mattered. EACH PLAY, EACH GAME mattered. What was about to happen or what JUST happened may have determined the National Championship.
IF there was a playoff system after the season, most of these great games last night would have meant virtually nothing. INSTEAD they WERE the playoff, and all 4 teams survived, only to be challenged again NEXT week in equally important high tension, high profile match-ups that could determine the National Championship.
It was a great night of college football, NONE of the bowl games (except the final one that has the top two teams playing in it) will be or could be as good as any of the games that were played last night. The nature of college football puts an absolute premium on regular season match-ups. And it shined in that showcase last night.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Howlingly Good
I got home last night in time to see the last eight minutes of the Wolves game. (Even when I really LIKE basketball I only watch the last eight minutes. Anything that happens before that time doesn't matter much.)
Now I know the Wolves were good in preseason, surprisingly good , at times killing their opponents, but what happened last night truly surprised me. It was the regular season and with eight minutes to go the Wolves had a lead and gradually BUILT on it. Remember when I said I usually just watch the last eight minutes? What I meant to say is that I'll START watching with eight minutes to go and then I'll usually turn it off in disgust when the T-Wolves do something stupid and end up getting clobbered in what seemed like a close game at that point.
That didn't happen last night. They've got two good big men. Their point guard was outstanding and they shot accurately when the game was on the line, even from really long range. In short, I did not recognize this team. Literally, I had no idea who most of these players were.
We've all heard the rumors and rumblings that the Wolves are "too white" or "too European" to win in this league. What I saw last night was a well-balanced, efficient basketball team.
And this was without their TWO acknowledged superstars and leaders Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love. At this point, I'm not saying the Wolves have one of the best teams in the league. It's way too early to say anything like that, but I'm way more optimistic about watching NBA basketball this season if this really IS the Wolves team I'll be watching.
For all I know, in a month's time they'll end up trading both Rubio and Love because they simply won't need them. Imagine how much money they'll save and they won't have to destroy the chemistry of the current team.
I say that last line in jest, but Minnesota sports franchises are known for having cheapskate owners and the Wolves always have one of the lowest payrolls in the league. At this point nothing would surprise me. That is, nothing except how good the Wolves played last night.
Now I know the Wolves were good in preseason, surprisingly good , at times killing their opponents, but what happened last night truly surprised me. It was the regular season and with eight minutes to go the Wolves had a lead and gradually BUILT on it. Remember when I said I usually just watch the last eight minutes? What I meant to say is that I'll START watching with eight minutes to go and then I'll usually turn it off in disgust when the T-Wolves do something stupid and end up getting clobbered in what seemed like a close game at that point.
That didn't happen last night. They've got two good big men. Their point guard was outstanding and they shot accurately when the game was on the line, even from really long range. In short, I did not recognize this team. Literally, I had no idea who most of these players were.
We've all heard the rumors and rumblings that the Wolves are "too white" or "too European" to win in this league. What I saw last night was a well-balanced, efficient basketball team.
And this was without their TWO acknowledged superstars and leaders Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love. At this point, I'm not saying the Wolves have one of the best teams in the league. It's way too early to say anything like that, but I'm way more optimistic about watching NBA basketball this season if this really IS the Wolves team I'll be watching.
For all I know, in a month's time they'll end up trading both Rubio and Love because they simply won't need them. Imagine how much money they'll save and they won't have to destroy the chemistry of the current team.
I say that last line in jest, but Minnesota sports franchises are known for having cheapskate owners and the Wolves always have one of the lowest payrolls in the league. At this point nothing would surprise me. That is, nothing except how good the Wolves played last night.
Friday, November 2, 2012
The NFL Game That Never Matters
I'm still not sure why the NFL figured they needed to start an entire NETWORK to show fans one extra game a week.
Imagine having to pay your cable system an extra $5-$7 dollars a month ALL YEAR LONG just to see that extra ONE game a week during the season.
Well, so far most fans don't do that. And as a result most fans don't get to see that extra one game a week. Not that it matters. Last night's San Diego vs. KC matchup would have been a total time waster to watch even if you did pay extra for the privilege of seeing it.
What I find funny is that SMALLER cable systems across the country often get the NFL Network because the league gives them a deal on programming. It's the larger audience in larger markets that loses out. If you can call missing last night's game "losing out."
IF the rights to the Thursday night NFL game were simply sold to another regularly watched established network like Monday Night Football or Sunday Night Football already are, they could make BILLIONS more in marketing fees over the next decade. As it stands, watching an entire Network devoted to a single NFL game a week makes no sense at all. Even the most devout fans have more to do than just watching football highlights and news.
The NFL is betting that they can eventually make billions more by having their own Network. I'm thinking that viewing habits in America are changing rapidly. Millions of people have cut their ties to cable television and now watch all their shows and movies online. Even the NFL has a service that let's you watch ALL NFL games online. THAT is the trend. More and more traditional networks are going to fail as people simply search out individual SHOWS to watch, not caring which network they came from.
The only thing that will keep real networks relevant longer will be live sports and live events coverage. IF those things go to on-demand and subscription services online, networks will die a quick death. I HAVE cable and I think I watch more shows online than I do traditionally. The convenience of watching a show when you wish to watch it blows away having to take the time to watch it (or even record it) at an inconvenient time.
I have cable primarily for sports. Someday, most likely soon, that will not be the case. ESPECIALLY if the NFL makes it impossible for me to see some of their live games because they have their own unavailable and/or costly network that makes it impossible. Jumping to online viewing will become the next step for many more millions of viewers. The speed of this transition will catch most networks by surprise. And TV, as we now know it, will vanish.
Imagine having to pay your cable system an extra $5-$7 dollars a month ALL YEAR LONG just to see that extra ONE game a week during the season.
Well, so far most fans don't do that. And as a result most fans don't get to see that extra one game a week. Not that it matters. Last night's San Diego vs. KC matchup would have been a total time waster to watch even if you did pay extra for the privilege of seeing it.
What I find funny is that SMALLER cable systems across the country often get the NFL Network because the league gives them a deal on programming. It's the larger audience in larger markets that loses out. If you can call missing last night's game "losing out."
IF the rights to the Thursday night NFL game were simply sold to another regularly watched established network like Monday Night Football or Sunday Night Football already are, they could make BILLIONS more in marketing fees over the next decade. As it stands, watching an entire Network devoted to a single NFL game a week makes no sense at all. Even the most devout fans have more to do than just watching football highlights and news.
The NFL is betting that they can eventually make billions more by having their own Network. I'm thinking that viewing habits in America are changing rapidly. Millions of people have cut their ties to cable television and now watch all their shows and movies online. Even the NFL has a service that let's you watch ALL NFL games online. THAT is the trend. More and more traditional networks are going to fail as people simply search out individual SHOWS to watch, not caring which network they came from.
The only thing that will keep real networks relevant longer will be live sports and live events coverage. IF those things go to on-demand and subscription services online, networks will die a quick death. I HAVE cable and I think I watch more shows online than I do traditionally. The convenience of watching a show when you wish to watch it blows away having to take the time to watch it (or even record it) at an inconvenient time.
I have cable primarily for sports. Someday, most likely soon, that will not be the case. ESPECIALLY if the NFL makes it impossible for me to see some of their live games because they have their own unavailable and/or costly network that makes it impossible. Jumping to online viewing will become the next step for many more millions of viewers. The speed of this transition will catch most networks by surprise. And TV, as we now know it, will vanish.
Penn State
A couple of months back, I went on a long rant saying what Jerry Sandusky did was obviously, hideously wrong, BUT the greater crime was committed by university officials who covered it up and LET HIM CONTINUE doing it.
Over the last couple of days, I've noticed the bigger story developing at Penn State . Prosecutors are now involved and so are some of the university's leaders including former Penn State President, Graham Spanier. Charges were filed against him and two of his underlings yesterday.
This is my favorite quote so far from the hearings, "This was not a mistake by these men. This was not an oversight. It was not misjudgment on their part," said state Attorney General Linda Kelly. "This was a conspiracy of silence by top officials to actively conceal the truth."
Linda Kelly must have read my blog two months ago because I said nearly the same thing. I'm usually appalled by the time and money wasted on so many of our "criminal" trials in America. (Things like proving that guys like Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds KNEW they were using steroids.) In the grand scheme of things, finding either guilty or innocent wouldn't do much either way. But what's happening at Penn State, what HAPPENED at Penn State was truly CRIMINAL and it effected many more people than just individuals who may or may not have been hurting themselves.
What was allowed to happen at Penn State shows you how far people actually go to protect their hundred million dollar programs. I honestly don't know how anyone could do what these people did. They could have stopped the abuse at any stage and they chose not to. AND they let it continue.
I have no idea what the penalty will be for these men when the dust settles, but being actively involved as a accomplices in the continuing crimes of Jerry Sandusky should produce something severe. Sandusky is going to spend the rest of his life in jail. Those who covered it up SHOULD see something similar. I have serious doubts that will happen. But I will be watching when sentences are announced.
Over the last couple of days, I've noticed the bigger story developing at Penn State . Prosecutors are now involved and so are some of the university's leaders including former Penn State President, Graham Spanier. Charges were filed against him and two of his underlings yesterday.
This is my favorite quote so far from the hearings, "This was not a mistake by these men. This was not an oversight. It was not misjudgment on their part," said state Attorney General Linda Kelly. "This was a conspiracy of silence by top officials to actively conceal the truth."
Linda Kelly must have read my blog two months ago because I said nearly the same thing. I'm usually appalled by the time and money wasted on so many of our "criminal" trials in America. (Things like proving that guys like Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds KNEW they were using steroids.) In the grand scheme of things, finding either guilty or innocent wouldn't do much either way. But what's happening at Penn State, what HAPPENED at Penn State was truly CRIMINAL and it effected many more people than just individuals who may or may not have been hurting themselves.
What was allowed to happen at Penn State shows you how far people actually go to protect their hundred million dollar programs. I honestly don't know how anyone could do what these people did. They could have stopped the abuse at any stage and they chose not to. AND they let it continue.
I have no idea what the penalty will be for these men when the dust settles, but being actively involved as a accomplices in the continuing crimes of Jerry Sandusky should produce something severe. Sandusky is going to spend the rest of his life in jail. Those who covered it up SHOULD see something similar. I have serious doubts that will happen. But I will be watching when sentences are announced.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
NBA
Kobe had 30, Dwight Howard and 33. Steve Nash went down in the second half with some kind of injury.
Result?
The Lakers are 0-2 to start the season with their hand-picked all-star team.
It makes me smile. Here's hoping that the New York Yankees of basketball and their obscene payroll continue to falter and stumble. I used to like the Lakers. Kobe changed my opinion of them.
The only team I want to see them beat is the Heat. Now that's a team I can't stand.
I'm still trying to figure out how the T-Wolves don't play their first game until tomorrow night. You''d think ALL of the teams would open up within a day of each other.
Result?
The Lakers are 0-2 to start the season with their hand-picked all-star team.
It makes me smile. Here's hoping that the New York Yankees of basketball and their obscene payroll continue to falter and stumble. I used to like the Lakers. Kobe changed my opinion of them.
The only team I want to see them beat is the Heat. Now that's a team I can't stand.
I'm still trying to figure out how the T-Wolves don't play their first game until tomorrow night. You''d think ALL of the teams would open up within a day of each other.
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