Amanda on Sports

Flacco = Franchise

2010-07-28T17:50:00.001-07:00

I was skimming through the Baltimore Sun online, and saw an excerpt in which Flacco was talking about being uncomfortable the first time he moved into a hotel room for training camp. And how, two years later, he's used to it.

Then I skimmed across another sportsblog, the name of which I'll withhold because it's pretty embarassing. The author of this blog said that Flacco has not proved to him that he's a franchise quarterback yet.

I beg to differ. The Baltimore Sun has already put together a short paragraph of his accomplishments:

Few young quarterbacks have had as much success as Flacco. He has thrown for 6,584 yards, the fifth most in NFL history in a quarterback's first two seasons. He is the fourth starting passer since the 1970 NFL-AFL merger to reach the playoffs in his first two seasons.

Statistics aside, because they're really not my thing, Flacco has finally grown into his role as a franchise quarterback. This can be seen in his demeanor.

It's July, he's ready, he's excited - he just doesn't show it. After all, he laughed at the kid who ran up and down hills telling everybody. More importantly, he's tasted two playoff seasons, and wants more.

Holy hiatus!

2010-07-26T21:21:00.000-07:00

As football season approaches, I'll be writing more. Or, at least I hope to write more. I've been updating, if you can't tell.

Cry the Raven, "Never[beentherebef]ore!"

2009-11-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

The clock just ticked over to the two-minute warning, better known as "time for Peyton to run the score up in Baltimore as they've burned all of their time outs, missed two opportunities for the lead, and have little-to-no hope in this game."

Think about it:

If the new kicker Billy Cundiff doesn't pull a Steve Hauschka on his FIFTH field goal attempt in the game, the score right now would be 18-17, Ravens.

If the offense could get into the redzone and then penetrate the goal line, the score would be 35-17, Ravens.

If Joe Flacco didn't force the ball to leading rushing-receiver Ray Rice... the score could possibly be 22-17, RAVENS.

This isn't about Cam Cameron coming up with more creative plays or the defense stepping it up. The defense did its job; the offense needs to seal the deal on their end of the field.

This isn't about Cundiff or Haushcka, because there should be no reason a team should rely on their kicker.

And there should be no reason big-time Ravens, such as Ed Reed, should be ruining opportunities to win. Champions know how to win championships because they've been there before: The veteran Ravens aren't playing like they've been there before.

The Bengals are Legit

2009-11-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

I'm not surprised the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday afternoon. Instead, I'm appalled by the lack of intensity the Ravens played with until the last quarter.

When the 3-3 Ravens defeated an undefeated Bronco's team at home, there was hope. The NFL-fined hit by Ray Lewis on Chad Ochocinco initiated discussions about a brutal beating a second opportunity could offer. Ochocinco's sweat-free message to Raven's linebackers Lewis and Terrell Suggs furthered those discussions. Analysts reminisced Ochocinco's last messaged delivered to the Cleveland Browns' defense, and how Ochocinco had a mere three catches in that game.

Ochocinco had more positive yards in the first half of this game than the entire Baltimore offense. Of course, it's easy to do that when the Ravens' offense has the ball for one-third of the game - and the majority of that time was gained during the fourth quarter.

This game cannot be blamed on referees.

This game cannot be attributed to Haloti Ngata's absence.

This game cannot be blamed on Steve Hauschka's missed field goal.

This game cannot be blamed on Frank Washington and Dominique Foxworth's inability to control Ochocinco.

This game was not caused by Joe Flacco's two interceptions.

This game is not a result of penalties.

This game was not a game, but a mockery... because the Bengals are finally legit.

The Bengals, who had four wins last year, have an offensive line, a defensive line, a quarterback who can hit receivers who can actually catch.

The Bengals are making it a point to terrorize teams that once made a mockery of them, and they are good at it (at least for the time being).

Ocho don't like Stinko

2009-11-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

Bengal's wide receiver Chad Ochocinco mailed carepackages to Baltimore linebacker's Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs. Inside, he included deodorant so that they "wouldn't sweat."

As everyone gears up for the game on Sunday, major couch potatoes are thriving on the "tension" Ochocinco has just created between him and Lewis, who was fined for a hard hit in their last meet.

What these drama fiends are forgetting, however, is that Ochocinco is an avid admirer and friend to Mr. Lewis.

And that's my two cents...worthless in today's economy.

Not to fear, the Ravens were 2 and 3 last year!

2009-10-12T16:34:00.000-07:00

It happens in every sport. On paper, one team is supposed to dominate another. Because of the week before, one team will go on a rampage and leave the other team for dead. One team is supposed to have the physical edge, the didactic experience, and the guidance to bounce back.

The Baltimore Ravens were supposed to be that team on Sunday.

Instead, they oversimplified the situation.

Cincinnati marched 80 miles down M&T Bank turf to reap 7 points and trash the paper, erase the week before, and initiated that overwhelmingly didactic experience.

Suddenly slurs were passed around that screamed “Overrated,” “Underthrow Joe,” “Low-ball Harbaugh,” and that imitated the cooing sounds of the baby-faced defenders shunned by the city. Baltimore had turned.

Its purple wave of enthusiasm blackened, swallowed in the blame of referees, players, coaches.

When Baltimore lost in New England, they were angry. The referees were the culprits. The Patriots had assistance, the advantage, the victory. And Baltimore should have set out on a vengeance as claims of an AFC title preview were calculated into a grand scheme.

The ship sank well before Cincinnati’s bus pulled into Baltimore. Like a good crew, the coaches must have went down with it.

A normally animated, overly aggressive football team, the Baltimore Ravens franchise has become passive. The offense was out of sync without Derrick Mason’s contributions. Long balls were dropped (pun intended) in favor for short, quick screen passes to Ray Rice. Touchdown generating Willis McGahee was absent as was Choo Choo Train LeRon McClain.

In the past, when the offense was down, the defense could always pick it up. This isn’t the case anymore – and it’s not because of the loss of Rex Ryan, Bart Scott, Jim Leohnard…

Baltimore asked for a balanced team, and they received. It’ll breed strong defensive players, assuming the mentality stays the same, and with a couple of deep threats, the offense will be more powerful. Superbowl contention isn’t decided in week five, unless you’re the Redskins.

The Ravens will be strong – not explosive offense strong or top-of-the-line-defense strong; but if the coaches play their cards right, the Ravens will remain a contender.

Long-time, no love...

2009-09-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

I realize it's been awhile since I last wrote...ranted...whatever you want to call it.

As a Raven's fan, I'm happy with the first two weeks of the NFL season. McGahee ran through the invisible screen that was the Charger's defense, and Flacco looked pinpoint perfect in the opening drives of week one.

And of course, Ray Lewis has shown that 14 years hasn't worn him down just yet (ask Mr. Sproles).

My original intention was to write a quick blip on the Charger's-Raven's match up, but after seeing facebook updates on Sunday and Monday nights...I've decided to rant instead.

It's week three of the NFL season. The undefeated Titans of last season cannot pull together a win. Cutler threw four interceptions in an opener, and responded with a faultless game the next week. The Jets, under Rex Ryan, have yet to give up an offensive touchdown. And to no surprise, tons of Redskin's fans are already predicting the unemployment of head coach, Jim Zorn.

This is where I, as any other true fan should, get upset at other fans. The Redskins are 1 and 1. That is one win, one loss. A victory at home, a loss on the road against division rival: The Giants.

And here are some of the facebook updates that follow:

bauer that was the most unsatisfying win ever. Why did I have to be born a 'Skins and Terps fan? I essentially watch the same game twice every weekend. Can't wait to lose to the Lions next week.

bauer It's time for Jason Campbell to go....NOW.

berry a wins a win...but come on....9 freakin points and kneeling it with less than 2 min left on the Rams' 2 yd line ...gimme a break

Kinna

We did win but not by skill, we SUCK!

I can see frustration. I understand frustration. When Kyle Boller was starting in purple, I remember Ravens' fans acting this exact same way...just not this early in the season.

But if you're going to be miserable for an entire season, why put yourself through it?

I'll laugh at these jerks when the Skins' offense solidifies and they're contenders for the NFC title.

Effort VS Ego

2009-07-27T23:18:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to write...but with all the Mason retiring-not retiring drama, the Orioles (especially the veterans on the Orioles' staff) not powering their potential, and Big Ben's "pay-off," I just haven't mustered up the ability. Sorry for the lack of specifics.

The other day, Anita Marks, and her more pleasurable foil Scott Garceau, began arguing about players hustling all the time. Anita - who let me reiterate: I am not - argues that EVERY player doesn't always play 100 percent. Scott says, "show me the play Ray Lewis doesn't give 100 percent on."

Though I know Anita is right in that some players coughbrianrobertscough don't give 100 percent all of the time. Adam Jones has had his moments of blunder; Nick Markakis could have caught some of those balls between him and Roberts; Roberts - well, he'll be in here later, too.

But I agree with Scott. Has Ray Lewis ever been in a game and not hit someone as hard as he could have? Or has Nolan Reimold - though he has something to prove - never stretched his legs down that first base line as quick as he can when the ball is in play.

This is a good transition for my next point.

Reimold is a wonderful offensive surprise, and in my opinion, a necessity to this team. For more on his stats, check out Krem's latest post "Appreciating Nolan Reimold." I'm more impressed by how hard the kid (if I can call him that) tries - the effort, after all, is what makes baseball a timeless and exciting past-time (otherwise, it would be golf).

The switch-hitting Jesus, better known as prospected sensation Matt Wieters, doesn't seem to hustle every play. Don't get me wrong - I think Wieters will be a GREAT player...one day...but could the prophecies of his MLB-ability have encouraged a pompass veteran attitude on the field?

I know his swing isn't going to look as though it's the hardest swing ever taken. First off, great hitters don't swing to their full potential - it causes more harm than it does good. And I'm aware he's not Speedy McSpeedster that the outfield trio is. And I know his pop-times are still getting used to the McSpeedsters on other teams as well as the speed of delivery from his new mound-mates.

When he first came up, I was worried that Wieters might have too much pressure on him. Now I'm concerned that being told he's the messiah of the Baltimore ball club is viewed as a free pass on his part. And I'm not impatient - I'm not asking for four hits every ten at-bats. Or perfect throws to second base - yet. I'm not one of the Baltimore fans who expected a kid to come up from the minors and turn the dismal second half of a typical Orioles' season into a suddenly optimistic playoff run.

Since I said Roberts would return in this rant...here he is:
I once argued that Roberts wasn't trying hard...that I was frustrated with him. I'm still frustrated with him...but more because I can't figure out what is going on...if it's a health-issue, I hope he finds out about it soon. If it's because he plays lefties too far up the middle, I hope he moves a little towards the first-base line. And for the sake of not using another ellipsis, I'm calling this rant quits.

Big Ben Better Watch Baltimore

2009-07-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

The rivalry between Baltimore and Pittsburgh breached boiling point after the Titans left the divisions and both defenses flourished with hard-hitting reputations; but that's no secret. Kind words are rarely shared between the fans of these two teams. Insults range from the city landscapes to city residents to city representatives wearing numbered jerseys - and that's no secret either.

Even the L.A. Times acknowledges the rivalry:
No NFL rivalry is drenched in more bad blood than Steelers-Ravens, which also happens to pit the league's two top defenses. (2008)

On the Steeler's behalf, Hines Ward has said:
"They're all hated. Anybody in purple, they're hated. It's a respect, but there's no love for them. They're not inviting me to come out and eat crab cakes with them."

This vibe extends into the stadium seats as fans tormet each other with hisses of disrepect. Ever worn black and gold in a field of purple at M&T? Or vice versa. My advice: just wear black. Rumor has it fans are beat just for wearing the rivals colors. But I'm getting off topic now (and losing my journalistic integrity)...

Anyway, my original intention is to discuss how bad Big Ben is going to have it when he returns to Baltimore this season. In wake of his sexual assault case, Steeler's fans may look forward to a new breed of harrassment at M&T this fall.

After all the Ray Lewis murdered someone insults, after all the Jermaine Lewis sold crack insults, after all the our team takes after our city insults... Ravens fans will want to jump on this opportunity to fight back.

I doubt that players will say anything. Despite their mutual hatred, the players maintain enough professionalism to avoid those comments. The fans, however, may not have any couth - and I am a Baltimore fan willing to admit that.

And as a Baltimore fan, I hope Big Ben's situation clears up only so that there's no excuse for him when the Ravens pound the Steeler's three times this year.

Mason flees the Nest (and returns to his?)

2009-07-13T20:11:00.000-07:00

Derrick Mason announced his retirement after 12 years of NFL experience today. With the news coming out so abruptedly, many are wondering: Did friend/teammate Steve McNair's death have something to do with it? Was it because the Ravens refused to comply with his contractual wants? Was it the surgery?

Mason told Jocklife.com, "After 12 years, I have seen it all and done it all. Right now, I am content with the decision I am making. All good things come to an end and I am ready to see what else life has to offer."

That response sure seems like something someone would say after a close friend dies. Rumor has it that Mason is close to McNair's sons - perhaps close enough to catalyze this move. Or maybe Mason recognized the disservice McNair had done to his children by not spending as much time as he could with them (and don't get mad at me for saying that. Jason Whitlock did it first).

Mason's oldest is ten years old. Her entire life has been spent cheering Daddy on while he makes amazing one-armed catches.

I would not say the lack of a contract on the Ravens behalf had nothing to do with it either. But the Ravens have not exactly made it a point to pay for a deep threat to support sophomore quarterback, Joe Flacco. Money really does, after all, make the world go 'round.

And I'm sure Mason doesn't want to get so banged up that he can't participate in the father-daughter dance at her wedding in years to come. Mason, in the past season alone, suffered much pain in his attempts (and often successful attempts) to make something happen on the field. Or play catch with his son, who should be starting his own career in the next few years.

Maybe Mason is that family man that we hope every sports hero is; and maybe, in light of recent events, he's decided to change what kind of hero he wants to be. If that be the case, more props to him.

Is it Sunday yet?

2009-07-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

As the Orioles are on another off-spurt, I can't help but begin a countdown until NFL Sunday returns.

That's when I came across this, an article written by Alex Marvez who knows just how to fix the Baltimore Ravens.

He says:

"Brandon Marshall. The Ravens have internally discussed making a trade offer to
Denver for the disgruntled wideout. Marshall is one of the league's top young
players but also among its most troubled with a long history of police incidents
related to domestic violence. A change of scenery and off-field tutelage from
Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis may do Marshall a world of good."

Though I don't entirely disagree with Marvez, I don't think Marshall is exactly what the Ravens need - especially if he might not be in every game.

The Ravens need a deep threat. This is old news. Their best bet at finding one would have been to secure a trade with the Arizona Cardinals - not to say that any of the Cards' deep threats are better than Marshall, they're just not into the legal troubles that Marshall has found himself in lately.

I do think, that having had legal issues of his own, Ray Lewis will make a good mentor for Marshall. But "a world of good" can only be done by someone who wants to change, and at this rate, Marshall's troubles are so consistent it doesn't appear as though he doesn't want to change (especially for the improving his own career).

Just saying.

Table

2009-07-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

I told you I can do tables.

Dave Trembley on the edge of his seat?

2009-06-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Being eight games under five-hundred, Dave Trembley has got a lot on his plate. With rookie sensations coming in to play and taking the spotlight (most notably, rookie-of-the-year potentials Nolan Reimold and Brad Bergesen), Trembley's got a lot of rearranging to do and needs the success of these young ballplayers to ensure that his spot on the bench stays there.

Lately, Trembley's been receiving heat from his recent no-named call out of left-fielder Felix Pie. Fans, who -if it weren't for there day jobs- would manage the Orioles, call into radio stations by the second asking why Trembley has the audacity to call out Pie, but not Wigginton, Roberts, etc.

The occasional caller will phone in his or her two pennies about the youth, about Adam Jones or Nick Markakis (and their ever-painful June slump - blame that defining moment guy who chose to discuss Jones's defining month), or Mora. If only Trembley would listen.

Seeing as how Trembley's trying to save his job (and with this tough economic situation, who could blame him), he NEEDED to call out Pie. "Then why not call out the others?" - yea, I know what you're saying. But first... let me tell my anecdote (you can skip ahead if you want).

My high school coach was there the same four years that I played varsity softball. In our career together, we won two state championships, three county championships and had two nearly-undefeated softball seasons (only broken up by a state champion of a lower division). My senior year, while playing a county rival, our pitcher decided that she was all the team needed and started fielding balls the short-stop and third baseman were trying to field. She did damage offensively as well by attempting to bunt for a hit in a clearly sacrificial situation (if you don't know softball inside and out, than you probably don't know why that's such a big deal).

Anyway, when we returned home from our loss, our coach came over to the seniors, hugged us, and said, "all because of the selfishness of one player."

He wasn't a jerk coach - in fact, I was shocked. For the first time in four years, we didn't lose as a team and our coach didn't tell us that we lost as a team. This wasn't a team thing.

And now, back to the Orioles. With Trembley's job on the line, the Orioles approaching the five-hundred mark before retreating as if it's diseased, and the veterans collectively under-performing, something had to be done.

Calling out any veteran player is not the worst thing in the world for this team. In fact, it might be a motivational tool for every player on the team. Trembley can't call out Markakis, Scott, or Jones without some gigantic fanbase getting on his case. They're the reason fans are coming(aside from Matt Wieters, as suggested by the highly anticipated Matt Wieters Fact Day at the Yard).

Trembley can't call out Wigginton either. Picture it: Camden Yards, June 26th, against the Nationals. Trembley recently called out Wigginton for running to second base on his single to right field -getting thrown out and killing the Orioles momentum to a victory. Now fans are at the game, poking fun at their new punching bag, Ty "I-pop-up-too-much-unless-my-bat-is-really-hot-then-I-run-too-much" Wigginton.

Let that image sit in your head for a minute.

Pie is a much-less noticeable figure in the public eye of Camden Yards. Fans appreciate his speed and his ability to play the outfield, but recognize he's not a player meant to start in this line up. Trembley recognizes this as well.

As long as Trembley's nameless call-outs don't continue or create such a disturbance on the team that they go 0-fer for the rest of the season, I'm perfectly fine with this heated call-out.

Mustard, and Ketchup, and Relish, Oh My!

2009-06-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

I'm sure Matt Wieters' homerun is being written about by more people than I can imagine, and I will write about Nolan Reimold's hustle one day (because he is moving up on my list of favorites).

Today, I thought I'd write about something serious.

The hot-dog race at Camden Yards needs a new character. Seriously. It's a little boring watching the same three red-yellow-or-green-covered franks running around missing every bag before one easily slides into home.

Imagine it...

Mustard takes off with the quick lead. Ketchup moves around as they round first. Relish appears inbetween the two. Suddenly, an unknown contender enters the picture... Chili-dog slides across home plate...victorious.

And this is why Chili-dog should be in the race.

Think about it.. Chili is a perfectly good candidate for the new character in the hot dog race. Granted, I don't really see many people eating Chili-dogs at Camden Yards... it would offer more growth to the community connection (such as Anne's Dairy Creme, which has "famous chili-footlongs").

Unfortunately, I didn't come up with this epiphany by myself. While rooting for mustard in tonight's hot dog race, my brother - who got stuck with relish - decided that his relish was really just moldy chili. Such a wonderful idea.

Bring in the Chili-dog!

Let's Reiterate: I am No Anita Marks

2009-06-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

As you can see in the top left corner of this blog, I am no Anita Marks. Make of that what you will.
And as promised in the blog below, I'm updating.

When the Orioles announced their line up for tonight, my dad mumbled "Why don't they give Markakis a night off, he's been sucking lately."

I couldn't help but wonder: What's it like to live life so perfectly? Like many of the O's "fans" I hear or read, they have the perfect idea of how the team should be run and what should happen to each player. If they have some sort of pre-game premonitions, I'm sure Mr. Trembley would like to know AHEAD of time as well.

Anyway, I'm rambling..

I figured that if some of those "I-know-what-I'm-talking-about-all-of-time" fans were allowed to share their incompetent two-cents, then I could throw mine out as well.

Here it is: My line-up. Trembley, if you feel it, use it.

1. Brian Roberts - 2nd Base
2. Nick Markakis - Right
3. Adam Jones - Center
4. Aubrey Huff - 1st Base
5. Nolan Reimold - Left
6. Luke Scott - DH
7. Matt Wieters - Catcher
8. Melvin Mora - 3rd Base
9. Izturis/Andino - Short (Andino, until Izturis comes back, of course).

I know. Drastic changes, right? *

Now let me explain.

Brian Roberts: I have to admit, if I were his coach, I might have taken some frustrated shots at Brian Roberts - and not because of his offensive performance. Defensively, Roberts hasn't been as ... inspirational?...impressive?...both? He looks worn. Battered. Tired. As if he needs a big play to bring his level of play up. Offensively, I just wish he'd take a few more pitches. That would help him get on base a little more than he already does.

Nick Markakis in the two-spot: I'll agree with my dad, Markakis looks like he needs a break; unfortunately, I think he's pressuring himself. But defensively, he's solid. And with Jones and Reimold, there's no real outfield of the same caliber. To take some pressure off of Markakis, move him up a spot.

Adam Jones: He's a .300 hitter, but he drives in runs - and if you ask me, is the most "clutch" hitter in the line up. Unfortunately, I'm too lazy to search for supporting detail for this honor. Does it not seem like Jones gets on when we need him to? I mean, come on...

Aubrey Huff: Can hit the long ball. End.

Nolan Reimold: Ok, I might be a little too Reimold-happy, but the kid has proven he can handle Major League pitching. Fact: He has more Runs Batted In than Melvin Mora! So ideally, Roberts gets on, Markakis bunts or gets a base hit, Jones base hit, Roberts scores, Markakis on third, Jones on first, Huff sac fly, Reimold - BAM, RBI TIME! I just like that flow.

Luke Scott:Now imagine the flow up until Reimold; he gets his RBI, then Scott gets up... hellooooooooooooooo damage.

Matt Wieters: will move up in the line up, possibly to take Huff's spot. For now, I'd leave him here to get things started again. Maybe some of Scott's homerun power will rub off.

Melvin Mora: is getting old. But he can still hit. Plus, the bottom of the line up needs a little spark.

Izturis/Andino: I like Izturis in the second leadoff spot. He can place a bunt fantastically, but with super-slow-because-of-my-age Mora on base, I don't know how that will work out (especially since he's in denial when it comes to his baserunning ability). Anyway, if Mora did get thrown out on a stupid baserunning mistake, Izturis isn't the worst person to have on base when Roberts comes up.

So there you have it. Expect Trembley to use it. Kidding.

WHYYY

2009-06-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

is Nolan Reimold NOT in tonight's line up? Bigger blog to follow.. it's been stewing anyway.

A Little Magic At Birdland

2009-05-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

A 3-2 count, and rookie Nolan Reimold was waiting for the next pitch in the bottom of the ninth. Aubrey Huff was on second, Luke Scott on first, and a score of 8 to 8 was on the board, which also reflected one out. Then a fastball came in below the knee, Reimold began to walk as the crowd began to cheer. But then the umpire was frozen behind the plate, holding up his signal for strike three. The cheering turned to booing, and Reimold, looking rather angry, walked back to dugout in defeat.

It wasn't until the top of the eleventh inning, when the Blue Jays would score two on a homerun, that Orioles fans might have sensed a little magic. It was there. And finally the magic came. Nick Markakis scores on a Scott single to right center, which allows Melvin Mora to make his way to third base. Then, Reimold has his revenge. A low fastball is thrown -- exactly the pitch he struck out on in his last outing to the plate. He swings, misses, but no fan watching that swing could deny one thing: Reimold meant business.

Sure enough, Reimold takes another swing. This time the ball is sent screaming over the left-center fence. Three runs score, and the Orioles, with a little magic from the bat of Reimold, sweep their first three-game series since mid-June 2008.

(To be a jerk, this is my defining moment.)

MID-JUNE 2008!!!!!!!!!

Originally this post was going to be about the Orioles impotence when it came to sweeping a series; but I can't bring myself to do it. With Adam Jones being hot, Markakis and Huff doing well, Scott back off the DL, Mora being consistent, Reimold's magic, and now, fresh-faced catcher Matt Wieters coming up, the Orioles are bound to have the most exciting season since the early 90s.

And to say, the Orioles have won FIVE of their last SIX. Magical.

Overhype Much?

2009-05-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

I really hope people don't get too upset when Matt Wieters comes up and doesn't live up to the hype.

I'm not saying he won't; but Tom Davis comparing Wieter's coming to Baltimore to that of the Pope's visit is a bit insane.

He's a ball player, who -- hopefully -- will help Baltimore prevail in an otherwise potentially disappointing season.

How you know that you are THAT guy.

2009-05-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

If you have never encountered that guy, it is probably because you ARE that guy. You know.... that guy...at the game... or at the bar... or somewhere. That annoying-in-more-ways-than-seem-humanly-possible person who just has to sit behind you, in front of you, or worse: makes you the middle man between him and his just-as-annoying friends.

Yea... this is about that guy.

Don't be confused. They tell us in writing classes that "guy" refers to one brainless gender (Sorry, guys); but, in this case "that guy" can refer to men, women, possibly some children, old people, younger people, parents with children that behave inappropriately modifying that guy into that parent, and many more types of people.

Anyway, how to know that you are THAT guy (with some credit to MK for the assist):

1. Your stuff is everywhere.
You've checked the weather reports. And there is a 0.05 percent of rain. You pack your poncho - with your team's name plastered all over it - and include a few extras in case someone sitting near you needs them.
So ponchos, check.
Peanuts.
Money for beer.
Beer for before the game.
Water for hydration.
Cell phone with internet access in case you get bored.
Camera loaded with pictures of your family.
And finally, your team bag -- and insulated cooler, which holds all of the above (because a fanny-pack just isn't sufficient).

You pack your things into your bag, take them to the stadium, and needlessly unpack it because you just couldn't put your peanuts on top. Then, as your peanut shells flutter into the fans in front of you, you leave your ponchos blowing in the wind, ignoring how they make contact with those in the direct vicinity because you're too busy showing off your pictures or talking to somebody on the phone.

Thanks, jerk.

2. You didn't check who was playing.
Or you don't care. Going to see Team A play Team B? Sounds like a formula to wear a jersey of Team C. And though you may be the only jerk out there in an odd color, you're sure to be unique.

3. You use the jumbo-tron as an opportunity to become a bigger ass.
I probably should have found a way to edit that expletive; however, there's no better word to describe the heavily intoxicated "super-fan" who is able to transform his cotton shirt into a bustier as he does the macarena -- even though the song is The Twist.

4. You're explaining basic understandings of the game to an older jerk with you - often times, inbetween obnoxiously loud chats on the cell phone.
So the 40-year-old single woman doesn't understand how the guy got to second base, when during the other times guys made contact with the ball they only got to first.....don't explain the hitting cycle to the dumb broad. Let her watch and learn...like little kids do.

5. You take credit for reporting that didn't happen.
Except in Imaginationland. Don't report things you aren't sure of, they have things for that... it's called a Rumor mill and there's a water-cooler with your name on it.

6. The rain has stopped, and the poncho is still on.
That 0.05 percent chance of rain must still be in effect -- and you're not going to get caught in the rain. No sir. You've got your handy-dandy poncho...and you haven't offered one to the lady in the white shirt sitting near you. Sly.

7. You play Manager, and you think you're good at it.
But you're not. Pitching to him was a good idea until BAM (and I would have done this). Fairweather. Not as fair as that rain that hasn't come yet, still making you look like the ass.

8. You're with that group of people who sit on the end of the stadium and try to start the wave.
Or worse, you start it in the middle, or at the top. The wave is fun, when you're twelve. The wave is also fun once or twice a game. Not once or twice an inning.

9. You bring a glove, and you're over 12.
Afraid of the big bad ball? You know what else makes you that guy, stealing a ball from the 12-year-old who brought his/her glove and was right under the pop up. Yea...you just stole that kid's dream, jerk.

10. And finally, you're wearing something from both teams.
You're from this home-town, but you like this team. You're worse than the guy who is rocking Team C. Chances are you don't enjoy friendly competition, so why are you at the game to begin with? If you want to play equal sides, join politics.

Stadium Evaluations: Pittsburgh and Washington

2009-05-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've been told I'm a "homer," and as a result, have this natural admiration of Baltimore's Camden Yards (as well as M&T Bank Stadium). So in an effort to decide which stadium is the best, I've decided to venture into the wonderful world of MLB stadiums, and I'm taking my homer-accusing pal with me.

Stop 1: Cincinatti Reds VS Pittsburgh Pirates @ PNC Park: May 2, 2009.

After planning to see a UPitt-student/friend of mine, she purchased tickets in the bleacher seats. The view was nothing more than decent; however, seeing the sun glare off the windows of the press box made for an almost green-light effect behind home plate.

My homer-accusing pal informed me that the view over right-field is what makes the park spectacular. We went to the top of the blue-lit promenade in left-field, and sure enough, the view of the river over right-center and the city skyline draping behind it made for a rather serene display.

Unlike Camden Yards, the park is open, so even as we walked the concourse we were able to see the game being played. The green-trimmings around the outfield also added to that serene display.

Overall, the first stop on Amanda's MLB Stadium Tour was very impressive, even if the company was...well, just company.

Stop 2: Baltimore Orioles VS Washington Nationals @ Nationals Park: May 24, 2009.

"Rossevelt" might have been root-root-rooting for the home team, but I was hoping Nick Markakis would jack a few into the Red Porch Loft.

As much as Washington, D.C. has to offer, the stadium does a poor job of complimenting it. In the distance, the Washington Monument is visible...beyond a few cranes (there is always construction in D.C.). If you stretch out over the rail, as my homer-accusing pal showed me, you can see the Capitol Building. And if you're sitting on the third-base line, you can see a small part of the contaminated Anacostia River.

Did I mention it feels as thought people are on you from all sides? Just saying...

I would have liked to have seen the right-field gallery moved more towards center so that the Anacostia River could be showcased. Not only would this create a more open view of the stadium, it would bring more positive attention to the river -- and there is much concern over its well-being, as the Nationals displayed on the jumbo-HD-tron.

The one thing I do love about this park is how kid-friendly it is for, well, kids. Children, and some old men who just haven't given up their dream of playing in the pros, are able to hit off of an MLB pitcher of their choice in the batting cage (which is strategically placed next to a child-portioned concession stand). Kids also get to try the latest (and coolest) video games.

However, if I were a parent, I'd imagine my kid would want to spend more time playing Rockband than watch the game. I'd also probably have to get the kid a Rockband, and yea, thanks...but...no thanks.

Nationals Park is not a must-see MLB stadium. Then again, neither is their team.

HEAP has it...

2009-04-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

I get really tired of Baltimore "fans."

Apparently, Raven's Tight End Todd Heap is on the trade block. And alllllllll the bah hum bugs come out and start throwing their pennies.

Here's my rant:

I'm not Heap's biggest fan, but I like him a lot. Do I think he should be traded for Boldin? No. And here's why...

Like Ray Lewis, Todd Heap is a major part of the Raven's facade. Now I'm all for change, and getting better, but Heap is good WHEN he is healthy. Since the Ravens have acquired a quarterback who can actually get the ball downfield, Heap should be healthy more frequently and more dangerous on the field. Last season, Heap had to protect Flacco, this season, expect more Flacco-to-Heap conversions.

Heap's one of those "gotta respect" players, and I say that because he doesn't talk smack about his own teammates or coaches. Whereas, some players on the trade block (a.k.a. McGahee) have no qualms about saying anything. Heap rarely complains, though there appears to be tension between him and Coach Harbaugh (again, most of this is speculation).

L.J. Smith is not an adequate replacement for Heap...and that's another reason not to trade Heap.

Just wait for the draft -- a deep threat with an easier-to-spell first name is waiting.

Quick Word: Os

2009-04-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

I may be a little too excited for the Orioles' great start; but I can't help to criticize some of the silly things they do...

For example, the hit and run. It's a wonderful tool in the process of manufacturing runs...when it's used effectively. However, the two times I've seen it used this season haven't been all that effective.

Incident No. 1:

Brian Roberts and Adam Jones. April 8 vs The Yankees. Jones swings at a pitch incredibly high, and Roberts is caught in a rundown between first and second. Two things: Jones needs to make contact (throw the bat if you must) and Roberts shouldn't stop running...not with the speed he's packing, at least.

But Roberts gets tagged out by the first baseman.

Incident No. 2:

Cesar Izturis and Felix Pie. April 14 vs Texas. Izturis hits a fly ball to center...but Pie can't find it and is thrown out at first base. Better job by Izturis by getting the ball in play... but poor job by Pie by recognizing the play (he could have made it back to first -- just saying).

I think the Orioles should lay off the hit and run until they can get a lefty who can do a drag-bunt type of thing (you know, keep the ball on the ground and put pressure on the infield to get the throw to one of the bags).

Then again, what do I know about baseball?

Campbell+Chicken Soup = Possibilities

2009-04-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Lame title, get it? good.

So I was listening to Elliot in the Morning again, it's a daily routine, and of course, they were talking about the Snyder-Cutler-Campbell-Zorn scenario. People are calling in with their two cents: "Cutler's a great QB, I just feel bad for Jason." "They shot themselves in the foot with Campbell, I hope they don't get Cutler." "Chris Cooley will be gone, too."

Then, the doofus of all doofuses gets his fifteen seconds, and says, "Cutler hasn't even proven himself in the NFL, he's not good, we shouldn't be going after him," blazzay, blazzay.

WHOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. Halt. Granted, I might like, scratch that, adore Cutler because, like me, his pancreas just stopped working one day; and yet, we both still participate in athletics. But to say that Cutler hasn't proven himself an NFL-worthy quarterback is the most despicable thing any avid football fan could say (this guy might have lived under a rock, so I shouldn't judge).

I could go into the statistics, explain how Cutler has powerhouse wide receivers and a hell of an O-line to get him through the game, but the only thing that discredits Cutler's validity as a legit quarterback is that horrendous Bronco defense.

Anyway, I don't think Cutler, assuming he will be a Redskin, will make a huge impact in DC. I will be excited to see him, get his autograph, and maybe trade some needle-taking tips. But Washington's problem is not in their ability to buy the best players in the league: there's no continuity among the entire program. That's an entirely different rant, however.

Cutler needs to go somewhere like Minnesota or Carolina -- somewhere with a silently powerful offense and a defense that does more than just stand on the field so that he can excel.

And Campbell: just go. Go somewhere far, far-far away.

Athletics Should Not Share

2009-04-01T18:10:00.000-07:00

Have you read this? You should, because it's the catalyst to this blog.

Well, actually, Governor Martin O'Malley's comment about it is the real catalyst. You see, I was watching WJZ as I was getting ready for work when I first heard the story, and heard O'Malley say something along the lines of "the athletic department should be giving that money to the University."

And now we've hit the issue at hand: When athletic departments are a self-sufficient organization of their own, should they give back to the University?

The answer is: they already do.

When someone hears "the University of Maryland," they're more inclined to think about the men's (probably pitiful) basketball performance, the dynamic duo of Tolliver and Coleman, the Nation's top Field Hockey team, and the wild nights spent burning down soccer goal posts.

The Duke-UNC rivalry has made their basketball programs so prominent, the university is almost forgotten, not to mention young basketball players dream of breaking into those programs.

UCLA, Arizona, and Alabama all have prestigious softball programs, which encourages girls to travel three-quarters of the country just to be seen by their coaches.

Those are three measely examples; but if I were to go on, this would be the blog that never ends.
My point is these departments are highly successful because of the attention they bring to the university -- so why should they share the wealth?

Aside from sponsors, the Terps bring in money from the Terrapin Club (which allows them to give scholoarships to athletes), the Great Expectations Campaign, the M club, and seating admissions. The UMD Web Site lists a 250 dollar activities fee, but doesn't specify an athletic's fee.

This money goes to the facilities, the players, and the coaches - all the while, promoting the university's name. Money given by the school is used to support intramural sports, in which any paying student is allowed to participate.

By having great programs, these sports are advertising the university in the most attractive way possible: Young children/adults who have not specified what they want to be when they grow up are not attracted to possible majors, but rather, they are interested in the extracurricular activities in which they already participate. They should not have to share the money they use to create such a positive program with a university that does not entirely support them in the way they need to be supported -- especially when they're required to cut programs when they cannot fund themselves.

People Should Be Embarrassed

2009-03-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

I was listening to Elliot in the Morning when I first heard about Ryan Moats' run-in with a Dallas police officer last night. When that went to commercial, I turned to 98 Rock and heard some audio clips of how everything went down.

Somebody should be embarrassed.

Moats was taking his wife to visit her mother during her last moments of life when he ran a red light and was followed by 25 year-old Officer Robert "Power-Trippin'" Powell (that nickname is dubbed by me, fyi).

Moats' wife ran into the hospital, but Moats was unable to escape the officer who eventually pulled his gun, but - thankfully - did not use it.

The worst part is that this officer was told by his partner that a nurse confirmed Moats' story AND asked that Moats be allowed in to say goodbye. The officer's response, "I'm almost done."

If you want to catch up on it, check here .

Powell is taking a leave from the force, but in my opinion, has shown poor judgement in the use of his power. And as I write this, PFT one ups me again. He shouldn't just apologize, as he's done, he should find a new career; perhaps, he should look into something that doesn't ask him to have a heart and use it sporadically.

Now, because of this officer's actions, Moats' mother-in-law's death is anything but peaceful. During a time when a family should be granted all privacy to be greiving, the Moats family has to relive the horrible event until the papers, news channels, and blogs like this give them their time.

I hope the Moats family can get through this time with the least possible amount of drama.

I Love My Last Class

2009-03-19T18:13:00.000-07:00

I asked them to bring in news articles: they brought me in an article about Kevin Barnes looking for an NFL team, and discussed the infamous insane hit.

:0)

Phelps' Tons of Fun Feeds Shelter

2009-03-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

Kellogs has dropped two tons of cereal boxes with Michael Phelps' face on them at a needy shelter.

GOOD for them!

Remember the Titan-Raven-Future Titan

2009-03-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

Baltimore fans are the most two-faced, unsupportive, fair-weather fans I have met; then again, when most of this generation didn't grow up with a football team, how can you expect them to truly care for one?

Exhibit A: Raven's Wide Receiver Derrick Mason.

Mason, who has been the team's best receiver for the past few seasons, is looking to extend his contract for another two or three seasons. In his chat on NFL.com, he cites that he'd like to stay with the Ravens because he loves the organization and where it's going. He also says that he would like to stay on the east coast to be around his family and his wife's family - even if he got a chance to play with his favorite childhood football team, the Chargers.

So PFT's Florio posts one little speculation about Mason looking for BIG bucks, and all the haters in Baltimore suddenly know how to operate a computer. Mason gets blasted for wanting money, for wanting an extension, for wanting... anything.

Where were the haters when Mason was making Kyle Boller look like a potentially great franchise quarterback? Where were the haters when Mason was playing, battered, and catching rockets with one arm from rookie quarterback Joe Flacco?

And where will these haters be when the now- sophomore still doesn't have a deep threat in 2010?

They will be talking about how great he was, how great he is ending his career somewhere else, and how he should have been doing it here, wearing purple and black.

The same thing happened to Boller not too long ago. What started as "that kid has a cannon" suddenly changed to "that kid has no career in the NFL."

Side note: In that NFL chat with Mason, even Mason says that Boller needed a change of scenery and will be a starting quarterback somewhere else. BOO YAH. I told you so.

Anyway, the Ravens would be stupid not to extend Mason's contract. They have brought back their veteran linebacker that knows the defensive game extremely well; the Ravens need to do the same on offense. Mason not only knows the Ravens offense, he works well with Flacco and knows the NFL. The Ravens won't get an offensive veteran like that without losing some of the other positive qualities Mason brings to the team, and the game.

Matt Stover is a Good Guy

2009-03-06T02:54:00.001-08:00

Not quite sure how I feel about this, but unlike Jason Brown, Stover's a good guy.

More to come....promise.

Taking a Break From My Busy Teaching Schedule To Say:

2009-03-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

Jim Leonhard is a bum.

Rex Ryan is a genius.

I hope they find those other guys in the boat before 6:30 p.m.

Please

2009-02-28T04:42:00.000-08:00

Please don't go to the Jets, Leonhard. Just don't.

Love it

2009-02-24T16:34:00.001-08:00

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/blog/2009/02/what_scotts_potential_signing_means_for_lewis.html

God's Linebacker Wants a Star

2009-02-23T16:49:00.000-08:00

Stars are given to elementary-aged children for doing work well and behaving appropriately; not to aging linebackers whose Hall-of-Fame caliber seasons are dwindling, though there are exceptions.

A Baltimore native, I have always been a fan of Ray Lewis...now I'm just tired of him.

A few days ago, it was released that Lewis allegedly told Cowboy's linebacker, DeMarcus Ware, that he wanted a Star on his helmet. Before that, Lewis made a stink about getting a long-term deal.

Lewis has been an impeccable leader of the Ravens, but in no way is this man the defense, the team, or "God's linebacker."

When Lewis went through his booty-calling-knife-slashing-he-said-she-said incident, the city of Baltimore, who looked up to him as one of the few positive things going for the city, backed him. When accusations still fly about the incident, true Baltimore fans delineate the conversations back to his playing ability. From his tarnished public image, Baltimore fans attempted to keep Lewis' on-the-field image as clean as he claimed it to be godly.

When Lewis sat out for almost an entire season, it was with sheer excitement that the city welcomed and yearned for his return. And when the team came to perform an unexpectedly excellent season (13-6 in a season I had predicted will have no more than 4-5 wins), fans looked to Lewis' performance as the return of the former Lewis (possibly, the Messiah of his career - cheesy, I'm aware, but I had to extend the "god" metaphor).

Now, allegedly, Lewis wants to leave.
Lewis wants to leave behind:
- An impeccable defense
- A franchise quarterback (finally)
- The Ray Lewish 52 Foundation
- Ray's Summer Days
- Full Moon Barbeque (Oh, too late)
- Under Armour endorsement (unless Keon becomes something big)
- And other endorsements

Doesn't really seem like a lot; however, with his departure goes Ray's legacy.

But in the end, perhaps Lewis is just a kid who needs a star for his hard work after all. Maybe Baltimore just isn't enough.

Thank You, A-Roid

2009-02-08T11:38:00.001-08:00

Thanks to A-Roid for taking away some of Phelps' infamous bong hit attention.

Now I have something new to read about for three or four days.

Can you say BUM?

2009-02-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

Tabloids have gotten their hands on this photo of the man-fish known as Michael Phelps - if you haven't clicked yet, he's smoking out of a bong.

Looks like winning 8 more golds wasn't on his priority list.

I would just like to say: Thanks, Man-fish. Yet another degrading element to add Baltimore's athletic heroics. First, drunk-diving. Now, pot. What's next?

My Pitiful Superbowl Breakdown

2009-01-31T06:33:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest: If I tune in Sunday, it's for the commercials and hoping the Steelers eat turf. Nice warm Tampa turf.

Yet, in the spirit of the dwindling season, I felt it appropriate to do a final game breakdown, as best I could.

Let's start with the Running Game: Edgerrin James VS Willie Parker

James has looked very good in the post-season, considering the Cardinals rely on the arm of Kurt Warner for practically all of their offensive power. He's run hard, and made some rather large breaks. Granted, James ran an average of a yard better a carry for the Colts, he's got some decent numbers this season - and he's returning to his home state. If the Steelers tempt the Cardinals with the run the way they did with the Ravens for the first few quarters, then the Cardinals should take advantage of James (and he'll give them big runs).

Not saying that the Cardinal's have a comparable defense to the Ravens or the Titans, but where was Willie Parker in those games? In fact, since 2004 Parker's numbers have been in a steady decline. This bodes well for the Cardinal's defense as they are forced to focus on deep threats (and by deep, I mean those receivers that magically find the ball 10 yards from the line of scrimmage when Roethlisberger is chased 25 yards behind it).

Which leads us into Quarterbacks, Roethlisberger VS Warner.

If ever there was such an overrated quarterback in the NFL, then his name is Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger completes a five yard pass and it's treated as if just threw a Hail Mary in the last second of the Superbowl. More work is done on the part of Roethlisberger's receivers than Roethlisberger himself. This would actually be a good place for me to youtube some clips to explicate my point, but let's be honest: I'm lazy, and I avoid seeing his hideous mug whenever possible.

Warner has a great soon-to-be-a-movie story, but that doesn't make him the better quarterback in this case. This past season, Warner's thrown an interception for nearly every completion - and all Ravens fans remember Troy "Still Not Ed Reed" Polomalu's game-securing snatch. However, in each playoff game so far, Warner's thrown a deep, touchdown getting pass to Fitzgerald. I doubt Fitzgerald will be as open this game, but if Warner can connect early and put points on the board, then Roethlisberger might feel some of that extra pressure (and I'm all for that).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

dog18 (9:58:44 AM): i say steelers 24-13

And I'd say he's wrong.

In their last superbowl appearance, Seattle had the numbers to win, but not the means. Pittsburgh, as it's been this year as well, won on a few big plays, typically near the end of the game. If Warner and the Cardinals get major points the scoreboard, they could lock this game away.

The game is going to be closer, but the Steelers will still pull out a win. 24-21.

Rex Ryan...a Jet?

2009-01-16T10:09:00.000-08:00

Has Rex Ryan already accepted a head coaching position for the Jets?

Hmm...

Organized Chaos...

2009-01-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

It's finally here; possibly the weekend of the best match-ups in football (you see, sometimes the Superbowl is just boring).

It's also time to make some picks.

The Eagles travel to Arizona to take on a very solid Kurt Warner. Though it's almost certain the Eagles defense will be rushing to get to Warner before he connects with Fitzgerald or Boldin, their success depends on Warner's protective line. And let's face it, they've been playing to pass all year long. The Cardinals are hot. HOT. HOTHOTHOT.

There's something about McNabb that leads me to believe he can't handle a trip to the Superbowl this season. Finally, he's started to scramble again, but he's one man leading a team that couldn't hold it together when he wasn't on his A-game. A less-than-perfect performance from McNabb and the Eagles offense is shot.

Pick: Cardinals, 21-14

Here's where things get tough: Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh

A total defensive quandry; Baltimore's key is Terrell Suggs. If he doesn't play, then Baltimore's defense is hardly as effective. Not to say that Leohnard, Ngata, Lewis, and Reed aren't top-notch players - it's simply that Suggs completes the cohesiveness of such a vicious defense.

The idea is mirrored on Pittsburgh's side as well: Without Troy Polomalu, the Steeler's defense loses a vital, and possibly game-killing, element.

As a result, the offense becomes extremely important. Flacco cannot play timid, but rather, must maintain his near flawless performances. Expect Clayton to have a big game, hopefully.

On ESPN's Rome is Burning, Texan's Ephraim Salaam discussed having played against the Ravens and claimed that they will, without a doubt, beat Pittsburgh. He cited Lewis has having the best year of his career, Reed as the best player on the defense, and the entire unit as one "punch-you-in-the-face-and-then-tell-you-about-it" group of players - all of which will contribute to Pittsburgh's defeat.

I only disagree with Salaam in that the Raven's offense has to contribute more to ensure a win. In the past two encounters with the Steeler's, the defense has proven capable of holding them to a low score - but the offense has lacked in putting up the points. Give the defense support with a touchdown (or two, three, etc), and blamo! The Ravens come out on top.

Pick: Ravens, 14-10.

Let's hope I don't end up watching the Superbowl merely for the commercials.

Weekend Picks (For Real)

2009-01-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

So, unlike last time I did this, I decided to actually wait until I was sure to make my picks for the weekend. Let's see how this fans out....

Ravens VS. Titans
The Titans have had nearly two weeks off. The Pro: Haynesworth will be back. The Con: That's two weeks of not experiencing things game speed.

The Ravens have a growing snowball of a 15 game momentum behind them. As long as Flacco remains flawless, the running game is strong, and Clayton helps out Mason in the field, the Ravens can take this game.

Winner: Ravens, if by 3.

Falcons VS. Panthers
Kurt Warner on the road.

VS a silent Carolina team.

I'm predicting Carolina goes to the superbowl.

Winner: Duh, see above.

Steelers VS. Chargers
As much as I'd like the Chargers to win and recreate Baltimore's 2000 Superbowl run, I think the Steelers will pull this out. A defensive win, though. Darren Sproles doesn't do much in this game (Sorry, MK).

Winner: Steelers in a wintery blast of true football weather.

Giants VS. Eagles

I'm not getting on the Eagles bandwagon. Giants win, barely.

Winner: Giants, but only because I don't care and neither of these teams are going to beat Carolina - and no, there will be no "road to Tampa rematch" for the Giants and Ravens.

Vocabulary Lesson

2009-01-05T17:27:00.000-08:00

Clutch: 1) to snatch or seize 2) grasp, grip

Tell me Ed Reed is not a "clutch" player by either of those definitions.

Feeling Kind of Sunday

2009-01-04T16:46:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I changed all but one of my picks last week and verbally went four for four. I have no idea why I changed them - but I'm glad I did. Only if I had written them down...

Look for a new post soon...

Hmm.. Liked This Article

2009-01-01T19:07:00.000-08:00

http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80dc8b58&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

Check out my boys: Ngata, Leonhard, and McClain.

HOLLA. Feelin' kind of Sunday....

Pre-Playoff Rant

2008-12-29T19:14:00.000-08:00

Thanks, McGahee, for opening your mouth at the wrong time.

So we're less than a week away from the wildcard round of the NFL playoffs, and I still have yet to pick a team to make it to the superbowl. It's been such a short, wacked-out season, that I don't know which team is showing up in what colors this weekend.

Colts @ San Diego
The Colts struggle at San Diego, and according to the announcers, "San Diego showed up to play the Colts on Sunday." Only, I don't think San Diego has enough power to pull off a win on the (and I hate saying this) getting-better-game-by-game Colts.

And just to set the record straight, I would much rather have Cutler than Rivers as my quarterback (for all you haters).

Baltimore @ Miami
Chad Pennington scares me - but not enough to make me think the Ravens won't be heading to Tennessee the week after. Flacco's better than Pennington - and as long as the receivers play the way they did against Jacksonville, there should be no problem marching down the field on Miami's D. Having gone 15 games without a break, Baltimore's got great momentum going into the playoffs (let's just hope they stay healthy).

Philadelphia @ Minnesota
Peterson runs and scores. The Vikings win. Philly is weak.

Atlanta @ Arizona
I don't really know much about either team. I just remember Arizona getting blown off by Philadelphia when they were supposed to dominated, and because I claimed that Philly is weak, I'm picking Atlanta to win this one.

Top Five teams in the playoffs:
1. Tennessee Titans
2. New York Giants
3. Baltimore Ravens
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Carolina Panthers

Way to be, Flacco

2008-12-25T05:46:00.000-08:00

http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/12/25/flacco-finagles-3-million/

Check out that. I'm so proud of Rookie Joe Flacco.

Steelers: NFL FAVORITE?

2008-12-14T16:21:00.001-08:00

You know that wasn't a reviewed play; the head of the NFL called the people upstairs and said "Hey, Steelers have to win."

I know the Ravens need to score touchdowns to win, and the defense shouldn't let the army of little yellow men march down the field in the last two minutes, but seriously?

NOT A TOUCHDOWN. BIG BEN DOES NOT HAVE SOME SPECIAL TOUCHDOWN GIFT. The NFL should get off of his nuts.

End of story. How's that for journalistic integrity?

Yea Flacco!

2008-12-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

Longest rookie touchdown streak since Big Ben...

Heck yeaaaaaaa!

Dear Brandon Marshall,

2008-12-01T02:44:00.001-08:00

Please don't have a ninth game under 100 yards.

Thanks,

Amanda

No Housh Please..

2008-11-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

I've been informed that there's potential for Cincinnati Wide Receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh to become part of the Baltimore Ravens.

An argument sparked between the original informer of this information, and made it's way between my father and I; both of whom believe Houshmanzadeh is the number one receiver on the Bengals.

I don't. I think Chad Johnson is a bigger threat despite having an off year (which only makes Housmanzadeh's numbers look better anyway).

They tried to prove their point: Original Informer (9:10:59 AM): Johnson: 383 yards, 4 TDs; Housh: 746 yards, 4 TDs

So this year, Housh's numbers look better. With 41 receptions for 383, Johnson averages 9.34 yards a catch. And with the exception of 2001, Johnson has tallied over 1,000 yards every season.

This year Housh only averages 0.4 more yards per a reception. His 746 yards is divided among 77 receptions. Unlike Johnson, only two of his seasons have produced 1,000+ yards (two are just under and three are under 500 yards).

Sure Houshmandzadeh doesn't come have the same attitude Johnson has...but he's not a good fit for the Ravens. He is a possession receiver - and the Ravens need someone to run the long route and actually catch the ball (given Joe Flacco's arm, this is becoming a much greater necessity).

If the Ravens want to get what they need, perhaps they should look at some of the receivers on Arizona...

For further elaboration....

2008-11-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

Shouldn't Thanksgiving games be more exciting?

Little Depressed....

2008-11-24T19:33:00.000-08:00

...because the Titans lost. It's a good time to lose though.

Totally happy that Ed Reed broke his own record though.
106-->108. Heck yea.

MK asked for a new top 5:

Top 5 most interesting rebounds for week 13:
- Titans, will the run game start?
- Lions, could they show up to play an entire game?
- Broncos, they're killing me... will they stop?
- Eagles, 1) really, start McNabb? 2) What's next?
- Miami, I kind of wanted them to beat the Patriots...

such an up and down year....

Where Have All the Good Sports Writers Gone?

2008-10-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know how I survived college: Three years of the cheap seats' view of how his inexperienced beliefs about how things should be done. Even at a new school, the "die-so-hard-for-sports-fan-I-need-to-write-about-it" dude has taken over something he is obviously unprepared to do.

Take exhibit A: "Why I Should Never Be a Teacher."

And here's my breakdown of why this is a stupid piece of writing by a guy who was able to convince an editor he was the biggest fan for the job:

(if you didn't click the link, he's grading the NFL)

This kid gives New England a B for "totallying cheat[ing] the Rams." If New England did have the help of the referees in that game, how do they deserve a B? Last time I checked, academic dishonesty, or in this case, athletic dishonesty, is automatic failure.

To give the team a real, legitimate grade:
New England has too many weapons not to be competitive; however, they're not exactly winning games big at all. I'd give them a C- for barely making things happen.

Buffalo receives an A. Agreeable, yet, they're not going to be such a big thing in the second half of the season.

The Jets get an F for Favre. Apparently, and just like with the Patriots, one man makes a team. This kid says that Favre was expected to get this team to the division championship and that everyone shared this expectation. Thanks for the sweeping generalization there buddy, but one man can't lead a team going nowhere. Grade: C.

Miami Dolphins......A? For improvement, yes, the Dolphins get an A. This kids gives them an A because they win "tough" games... The team is 3-4. Looks like a losing record to me..In fact, they've lost to the Jets, Arizona, Houston, and Baltimore. They beat Buffalo - an always cold weather team, New England - a team with too much talent to do itself good, and San Diego - who doesn't deserve a comment. Grade for Miami - C because they are average.

Homeboy gives the Steelers an F- because he hates their fans. Every team this far in the article has been defined by their fans...and no other team has fans that can be jerks. Does overrated Big Ben need real grade? How about a C? for an average team in a below average division right now.

Surprisingly the Ravens get a B+ because "the fans are a bit much" and "Flacco's catch." The Ravens aren't playing the best football right now, if anything, they're just as average as the Steelers. If Camereon keeps up the offensive shenanigans, McClain runs the ball more than McGahee, and the defense learns to prevail in the fourth quarter, then maybe the Ravens will improve their grade.

The Browns are tough - if you've read my last post, there isn't a weak team in the NFL. However, the Browns are not playoff material and their grade of a C+ is entirely too generous.

The Bengals are given a D... what have they done right this season? Sure they've experienced big injuries, but they weren't good prior to these injuries. Face it, Ocho Cinco is your play-maker and he's not doing anything.

The Titans are tough, but it's not because of Collins at Qb. Anyone who has seen the Titans play know that the running backs are the base for this offense - and it's their defense which wins games.

Since when in the 2008 season have the Colts played like an A team? I'll say what I've said for the past few years: "overrated."

The Jaguars aren't playing bad because of injuries, Garrard just isn't living up. Oh wait, but the Chargers are playing bad because of injuries too. Right.

This guy doesn't even recognize the Giants as one of the better teams in the league. He says, "the only thing that made my Sunday tolerable" was their win over the Steelers. This year Eli is playing much better than his brother, and he's doing it with Burress, who is there part-time (or so it seems).

The Skins are a superbowl contender? Negative. As great of a fourth quarter team as the Skins are, they are still extremely vulnerable. They have the talent to take them to the superbowl, but they won't outlast the Giants...

As for the Cowboys, they are no longer a playoff/superbowl contender. With all the T.O. drama, Romo's precious fingers and an owner who overrides his own staff, this team is going nowhere.

I'm actually giving up; I wanted to make a comment about every one of this editor's comments. It's not happening.

I'll end with my top 5 to watch this weekend:
- Titans, can GB pull off the upset? (it's either them or Denver)
- Browns and Ravens - Both teams are bouncing back....this should make for an interesting game. Plus, will McGahee bleed again? Dun Dun Dun
- Skins and Steelers: Good team in a Great league VS the number one team in a mediocre league....
- Detriot and Chicago, helloooooooo victory (for Detriot)
- Pats and Indy, both have something to prove this week...though it's kind of like fighting for second best.

New Top 5?

2008-10-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

In class today, one of my students said "Ms. B, there is not a bad team in the NFL." This, of course, was after he decided to insult my Ravens jersey and rip off his hoodie to show off his authentic Clinton Portis.

He continued, "Like the Rams... they're on fire...and it's not that they never had the talent, because they would still suck if they didn't."

Not that this student made me conjure some sort of epiphany, but he had a point:
There is not a bad team in the NFL this year, not even Cincinatti.

Since the top 5 best teams is too challenging, I'll do a top 5 most dangerous teams.

1. Titans - how can they not be? Even if they start playing soft, they're going to remain competitive.
2. Bills - I was practically scolded for having them in my top 5 last week, perhaps I'm not watching the same games everyone else is.
3. Packers - haha Indy, haha.
4. Redskins - Though I'd hate to admit it, the team is legit. Even with a loss to the Rams and a close call with the Browns (who have been playing better anyway), the Skins are not a team I'd want to face near playoff time.
5. Rams - Like the student said, they have talent and they've finally redeemed themselves. Not to mention, Steven Jackson.

Again, subject to change.

Piss-Poor Play Calling

2008-10-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

The Baltimore Ravens: known solely for defense and poor quarterbacks. Let them be known from now on as the team that plays to lose.

Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco is in no way at fault for today's loss against the (impressive before today) Tennessee Titans. Fans who do not understand the game, however, are blaming he and Golden-boy Matt Stover for a loss when really the coaching is to blame.

The coaching? Really? Yes, really, teams can be....dun dun dun, outcoached. (I don't think any of the females in section 141 knew that, seeing as how they were cheering because a Titan was dragged down after the first down marker, had holding penalties confused with horsecollar and (I still can't believe this one) thought Kyle Boller was starting today's game).

But onto my rant:

Baltimore's coaching staff (and I said this last week, but was afraid to post it) is doing to Flacco what they have done to Boller. Their gameplan is "hand off McGahee. hand off McClain. Punt. Oh wait, now we need you to throw Flacco - now you're good enough." And for those who were sitting in the Ravens endzone today, we saw an extremely timid and pressured Joe Flacco attempt to make something happen on his own.

Sometime during the first half (I'm not sure because I didn't write it down), the Ravens had 4th down and something just shy of 2 yards somewhere around the fifty. What did our ultra-conservative coaching staff decide to do? Punt. That early in the game, Flacco could have led a successful conversion; and in a worst case scenario, Baltimore turns the ball over on downs - at this point in the game, the Titans were struggling to get 50 yards down the field on offense.

Then the Ravens try for a field goal on 1st and 15. Key word: try. As Stover shanked way right, Ravens fans were starting to feel a loss of hope.

Before I go on:
- Yes I understand there was 14 seconds left and that the Ravens had "no other choice."
- My problem is with the actual getting to that point.

-- I'm changing my stance, be forewarned --

What the loss against Tennessee proves is that our hideous offense of the past was not entirely Brian Billick's fault. Granted, Flacco is by far more talented than Boller, he's not given the opportunity to do what he can do best. Much like Boller, he's pressured to do something great at the most inopportune times.

For those pleading for Troy Smith's return: Smith has one thing on Flacco, and that is the ability to run. Smith runs better - and Flacco, well he needs to learn how to throw on the run.

Flacco also needs more weapons, but because our coaches are worried about his "exposure" to the opposing defense, Flacco has no one to really throw to (except Mason). Heap needs to stop blocking and run routes. McClain should take more hand-offs than McGahee (for now at least) Mark Clayton should have joined this season four games ago (but welcome anyway). It wouldn't hurt if Flacco saw holes and was capable of running through them.

All in all, I think Baltimore is a 5-11 team this year; possibly 3-13 if the coaching doesn't "man up."

Top Five teams (in my opinion):
1. New York Giants
2. Washington Redskins
3. Buffalo Bills
4. Dallas Cowboys
5. Tennessee Titans
- subject to change of course.

Baltimore Tops Washington

2008-05-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I have a personal bias towards Baltimore, but when it comes to baseball stadiums, the Baltimore Orioles' stadium tops the Washington Nationals' hands down.

Even during a National holiday, the National's stadium wasn't impressive.

Let's start with the good:

The stadium is geared towards the children. It's great to get children excited about the game of baseball, but it makes the stadium's atmosphere feel more like a minor league stadium. The children wanted to spend more time in "The Strike Zone" than they did at the actual game. And with the awesome batting cages, video games and Build-a-Screech, one could see why.

Here's the problem: baseball is one of the few sports that any child can get out and play. So to promote Playstation 3's Guitar Hero and Singstar are just demeaning to the sport.

Problem: Right-field seating

Don't plan on seeing the right fielder if you sit in the nosebleed section of right field. He just disappears. I've never sat somewhere in Camden Yards and missed a fielder making a play. Also, at the National's stadium, those sitting in right field have a hard time seeing the big screen - so good luck catching the replay.

Problem: Where is this stadium again?

When I think of DC, I think Capitol, Monument, Mall, White House, Smithsonian, Mirror Pool, etc.

Not the Anacostia River. The only thing this stadium takes in from its homeland is the overbearing crowdedness. Even in an empty stadium it feels crowded, clustered and busy.

The Monument (the large phallick symbol) can be seen in the distance, but is in no way connected to the stadium. Perhaps when the city is lit up, the other district symbols are better represented.

The Metro - another city representative - is hidden, whereas Baltimore's Light Rail runs directly infront of the Warehouse. At the end of the game, the Metro's entrance is extremely crowded and slow, given the limited space on escalators and all.

Cutler Gets Off on New High

2008-05-07T20:54:00.001-07:00

Mile-High Bronco's Quarterback Jay Cutler was totally high during the 2007 NFL season. So high, in fact, he lost 35 pounds and complained about having no energy. What was Cutler high from last season? Bloodsugar. After finding out in the off-season that he is a Type 1 diabetic, Cutler has come out with it. Type 1 diabetes, sometimes known as juvenile diabetes, is the insulin-dependent form of the chronic illness. The body's pancreas stops the production of insulin - which means no islet cells are counteracting a person's sugar intake. Cutler complained of having no energy last season, unexplained weight loss, constant thirst and frequent urination. However, Cutler has no hereditary link to diabetes, so he didn't think it was possible that diabetes was the culprit. Diabetics who remain undiagnosed experience constant high glucose levels. In athletes, they often find themselves extremely exhausted, sleeping more often and for longer times, though often waking up to feeling completely un-rejuvenated. With high glucose levels, it is harder for the athlete to remain focused on a specific task and when asked to perform, they often find that their bodies do not have the ability to perform as they previously did. When left alone, escalated glucose levels can become fatal. Ketones, or proteins, eventually spill into the urine at large amounts and glucose levels become extremely difficult to repair. Often times, those with prolonged raised levels lose consciousness and end up in "diabetic coma." Athletic activity, however, helps athletes stay away from "diabetic coma." As the body exercises, it needs to burn something and as it works, it keeps glucose levels from rapidly rising. Though adrenaline rushes, commonly associated with athletic activity, can cause glucose levels to go either way: high or low. So how will Cutler, and the other diabetic athletes, help their cause? Though there is no cure for Type 1 Diabetes, there are many ways to control it. Most diabetics take shots of fast acting and long acting insulin. The fast acting insulin, also known as the "bolus" shot, is taken fifteen minutes before or directly after meals. This shot counteracts sugar intake from the meal for approximate three to four hours after digestion. If taken without eating, the diabetic can suffer from hypoglycemia - or low glucose levels.
The "basal" shot uses long acting insulin which works over a longer period of time. This is a type of background insulin that keeps glucose levels "in check." If an athlete goes a long period of time without eating, then the basal insulin will begin to work and cause a lower glucose level. Because of their busy schedules, many athletes are looking into insulin pumps. With an insulin pump, a plastic catheter is inserted into the skin (and changed every three days) and basal insulin is given automatically. The pump allows the user to "dial up" for bolus shots and when the pump is not being worn, the user is not receiving background insulin. The pump is practically an electronic pancreas. Diabetes is a very serious chronic illness and all coaches should be aware of its symptoms as they are very similar to other common disorders. Rapid weight loss and pale complexity are often confused with eating disorders (elevated glucose levels also induce the urge to vomit). Exhaustion and constant thirst are symptoms which are strikingly similar to mono. However, diabetes is not something that any athlete or coach should be afraid of. If taken care of properly, the athlete will be able to perform at an optimum level. The illness is not contagious and fairly simple to handle in the grand scheme of chronic illnesses.

Ref: Sneaky Snyder

2008-01-23T21:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Just another confused Redskins fan,

Firstly, I would like to thank you for your loyalty and concern for the Washington Redskins. However, I feel that your condescending nature in questioning my ability to make a "smart" decision is over-worked.

Let's go in accordance to your letter, shall we?

Marty Schottenheimer may not have made sense, but, other than Gibbs, wasn't he the only coach to even reach .500?

Every team needs a coach to "build off of a physically and mentally draining stretch of games." Gregg Williams just might not be that man. If his defense is so good, then tell me why the Redskins have not gotten past the divisional round of the playoffs? After the all, the quote goes "... defense wins championships," right?

Seriously, Jim Fassel? Dude, why not?

Fassel has a way with quarterbacks that will make Jason Campbell a better quarterback. Sure his reputation might have been tainted during his time with Brian Billick,but it is saved by his work with John Elway and his resurrection of Kerry Collins' career (in which he became a serviceable quarterback). Ask Tiki Barber, he knows what I'm talking about.

If I remember correctly, Fassel's offense led the New York Giants to the 2000 superbowl. Williams has yet to ever go, so it seems to me that Fassel may have the upperhand in experience (and the kind that both you and I want).

And if the rumors of Rex Ryan's following were true, his defense was ranked above the Redskins during the 2007 season. If hiring someone for the overall improvement of the team is not in its best interest, then I don't know what is.

Just remember, I could have hired Brian Billick. And I didn't offer Bill Cowher more money, I offered him the Johnny Rockets food chain.

Sincerly,
D. Snyder

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh haha

Francis the Cat

2007-12-28T07:46:00.000-08:00

In case you've miss it, here is Francis the Cat: http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/video?id=3169818

And it's bowls of tuna.... no licking, only bites count.

In the Sacks (Andrew Sacks that is)

2007-12-11T21:00:00.000-08:00

There is a misconception that student-athletes play hard and party harder. What people may not realize is that once the season starts, the social life of an athlete is consumed by late-night studying and day-long practices.

“Traveling and keeping up with classes is by far the hardest part,” senior catcher Andrew Sacks said.

“I just get up, go to class, eat lunch, go to my practice or my game, and then I’m up late doing homework. It’s impossible to study in the bus or in the hotel.”

To avoid missing classes, teams normally schedule the bus to leave in the evening hours the night before a game, unless the game is relatively close to Frostburg.

“On the bus there is always a movie playing and your teammates are always [playing] around and playing jokes on people. It gets pretty hard to focus,” Sacks said.

“Once you get to the hotel, it’s usually pretty late and I don’t get any studying done because I’m tired from the long bus ride.”

A trip to Penn-State Behrend is just over four hours; it’s nearly a six hour trip to Buffalo, New York, home to Medialle and Hilbert College.

“After the games, I’m so exhausted. I just want to relax and not do any homework on the bus ride back.”

“I try to get all my work done before road trips because some teacher’s are pretty threatening when it comes to turning in work late,” Sacks said.

With the restricted schedule, it is imperative for student-athletes to attend every class they can. Missed assignments and instruction combined with frequently missed classes can have an effect on the student’s grade. Most coaches have their athlete’s teachers sign forms acknowledging the tentative schedule for the season; however, absences affect the quality of work and that is out of the teacher’s control.

“It destroys my sleep schedule. I have to do my homework during dinner and at night because of practice.”

"As you saw, the offensive coordinator doesn't trust Kyle Boller"

2007-12-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

And yet, I'm the jerk, or the stupid one, because I am Pro-Boller (no pun intended).

SO tonight, the Ravens hold the Pats to their lowest score of the season and put up more offensive touchdowns than per usual.

Boller actually did something. In fact, Boller was near perfection - with the exception of the interception followed by some poor play calls in the second half.

So what do we blame the game on, or who?

Again, Billick. First off, he needs discipline. Bart Scott, in Billick's own words, should not "act like a dumb football player." I understand the intensity of the game, but he's a professional and that starts with Billick - who was making kissy faces at whoever it was that caught the interception.

Secondly, he needs to trust his coordinator and Boller more. The game was over had he not called that time out (and yes, it was him, he clarified it after the game) and apparently, he doesn't trust Boller with the ball unless it's third and long.

Bye Bye Billick.

Tell me what you think, I'm a little unsure.

2007-11-26T22:42:00.000-08:00

Boundaries. White Chalked lines. Adrenaline. Strategy. Balls. Objectives. Fans. Scores. Sweat.
Tears.
Glory.

It’s the same on a little league baseball field, a high school tennis court, a collegiate track and any stadium in the National Football League. Athletes in any league share the same desire: to play (at least, that’s what it comes down to). There is no difference between the athletes that receive a full scholarship to perform on a Division I field and the athletes that pull student loans to compete at Division III School, except for the financial assistance DI and DII schools are able to provide.

So who deserves more respect? The athlete that pulls student loans does not have the fans that “bust out the grill” [and] “get [their] beer, wine, [and] liquor” out for the game, but apparently, the DI athlete does.

Student attendance at Frostburg State University athletic events is horrible. And school spirit is also a tragic story. Yet, everyone has an opinion: “Frostburg sports suck,” “the only good team is baseball,” “we have an athletic department?” Still, the most outspoken students refuse to actually do something about it.

DIII athletes are required to actually maintain that student title in student-athlete. With the community-college admission-like standards that Frostburg is working with (or so it appears to be working with), discovering talented athletes that can maintain a decent grade point average is going to be harder for the athletic department to do.

Perhaps it’s not the athletic department though. Perhaps Frostburg Students who “spit game,” don’t have the capability to follow through and there lies the problem in support and overall performance.

Or it could be very possible that the majority of Frostburg Students think they know more than they actually do and would rather regurgitate false facts about West Virginia State, Ohio State, Barry Bonds, or random cities, as if they are actually in the environment, experiencing it firsthand.

Troy Dell is doing a wonderful job of trying to make the athletic department more desirable to students. Under his leadership, the athletic department has worked to improve facilities, raise money for funding, and get students, particularly those who are not already student-athlete’s, involved.

The student body, however, is slacking. Rather than being known as a school where outdoor sports, especially those major to this area, are appreciated, Frostburg is being more commonly portrayed as a school whose athletic capability is limited to a cup, a table and a ping pong ball. Is that all you got?

If you’re not going to participate, then at least show respect to those who do: attend the football games (there were two home games this year, seriously), cheer on women’s lacrosse, and try out if you think you can perform – and still root for your favorite DI teams. No one’s going to take away your favorites, but you chose Frostburg for a reason…why not make the most of what you got?

I just love being a girl.

2007-10-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

Aside from the menstrual issues, being a girl really isn't that bad... that is, until you enter the wonderful realm of men: Sports. Anything too, writing, playing, watching, just by participating I've become one of the guys. Yet, I'm the only one that gets called out for being a girl.

Take, for example, what I have to say when it comes to football. Now, when I'm actually at a Ravens game (4th row - endzone) Patrick, the bar-owner next to me, actually listens and often agrees with what I have to say. He knows that when I yell pass interference, I've seen and I can see holding often before the refs throw the flag. There, I really do fit in (except I support Boller, while everyone else bashes him).

However, as a Sports Editor, I get no respect. I work hard to get the best writers, to edit the ones that cannot write, and attempt to turn around a section once owned by athletic department resources. Yet, because I'm a girl, I should stick to those resources or I should look into other things, like the Lifestyles section.

And it's a shame. I know every call possible in baseball, football, basketball ,and soccer....I know the rules of field hockey (most men couldn't even identify the game), I can list the major differences from softball and baseball as well as teach a person how to swing for both sports.

I never thought being a female sports editor would be easy, but I always assumed that because I was such a sport fanatic that I might get some respect.

Most girls think it's fascinating that I can hang tough, but that's not good enough. What's a girl got to do?

Thank Goodness its over.

2007-08-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yay, Bonds hit 756. And against the Nats. In a way, I'm happy it is over and I'm happy it was against the Nationals. At the same time, however, booo.

Just so everyone knows, I've been put on a topical steriod. It's for a skin condition - not homeruns. I promise.

Grab Bag!

2007-08-04T07:11:00.000-07:00

I guess I really like this whole website/expressing my ideas outside of The Bottom Line thing.

Yay Padres. I totally commend Maddux for what he did last night. As much as I do not want to see Bonds hit number 755, it's bound to happen - and seeing him strike out two times in four at-bats was AMAZING! It's not that I hate Bonds - I just want someone more authentic to reach such a milestone.

So Mr. Ray Lewis, the past few seasons you were not able to play a full season on the field - yet you want to go into wrestling? Lewis was supposed to take on two contenders at the TNA Slammiversary but refused because of it's location. Lewis states, "I can't wrestle there, Tennessee hates me." Really Ray?

A 9 year old from America just moved to England to start playing for the Manchester United Youth soccer (or football, as they call it) team. Manchester United says that they always start recruiting players at that age. And I had to wait until after my junior year of high school to talk to a college coach....why?

Oh yea - Ditka not going to Hall of Fame inductions until the league offers better care to retired/injured players is a good thing. If we're not going to allow steriods and such to help them get through the season, then the league should offer something to help them after the season. It's only fair.

Finally, End Zone celebrations. I love them. Other than the 10 seconds of action every other 30 seconds, End Zone celebrations are a form of comic relief. As long as it's not dirty,derogatory, etc, then it should be allowed. Chad Johnson giving the ball CPR - FUNNY STUFF! Put limitations to it or whatever, but don't ban it altogether. If that happens, then we should ban throwing your arms up cause you hit a walk off homer - or the entire team coming out to meet the hitter at home plate. Or the swarm of players when someone scores a goal.

Over and out dudes, I'm sure I'll update again soon.

Better off with Rape?

2007-08-03T11:47:00.000-07:00

So Krem is one of my favorite people to discuss sports with (nice name drop if you don't know who I am talking about). And I sent this to him to ask him how he felt about the comment:

"It's really a sad day in this country when somehow ... Michael Vick would have been better off raping a woman if you look at the outcry of what happened," Zeise said. "Had he done that, he probably would have been suspended for four games and he'd be back on the field. But because this has become a political issue, all of a sudden the commissioner has lost his stomach for it."

My view: I don't think Vick should be better off in either situation. Both are horribly disturbing and as a very established athlete, he should conduct himself in a very appropriate manner.

If Vick owned the property, then he is responsible for what goes on there. And if he didn't know what was happening, then maybe he should have taken a better interest into his own investments.

And I'm extremely appalled by the statement "he would have been better off with rape." Nothing should condone forced sexual activity and I feel as though Zeise may have sent the message to future athletes that if you're going to do something illegal, make it rape.

We've seen athletes in trouble before. And it's hard to go through any newspaper without reading about Lohan's drinking and driving, Britney's crazy antics, a baseball player on steriods, Bonds deserving the honor that comes with number 755, etc etc.

So the question is: Where is all the focus on the good, well behaved role models? Especially those in sports?

I vote for Jake Brown. I saw him fall 50 feet last night and he still was able to walk away and wave to the crowd. He's a trooper. And he wore all the necessary safety equipment, proving to young skateboarders all over the world that pads really do come in handy.