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"I hate Florida"

2007-04-03T08:03:00.000-04:00

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"I hate Florida" ...who is this guy? Go Bucks???

LeBron James and his castle

2007-03-27T23:23:00.000-04:00

LeBron James is referred to as King James amongst his fans. Now he can live like one in his new palace in a suburb outside of his hometown of Akron, Ohio.

The size you might ask? A modest 35,440 square feet! If you can't imagine how big that is, it's not much smaller than a Best Buy. It's going to have a barber shop and a two story closet in the first floor master bedroom.

Apparently it's attracting attention as well. You don't say? People are driving by taking photos and blocking the streets of the neighborhood to it's current residents.

People who come to photograph it are disrespectful," said Tom Bader, one of nine immediate next-door neighbors. "They park their car in the middle of the street -- with their doors open! And you're sitting behind them! All I wanna do is go home after a hard day's work."

Considering LeBron bought the property for $2.1 million in 2003 with a house on it. If you aren't from Ohio $2.1 million is a lot of house, like 11 bedrooms worth, which was what the previous house that LeBron had torn down to build this one. The house will be among homes that range from 3,20o and 13,000 square feet. Nice, so pretty much three of the largest houses on the block combined will equal the size of LBJ's crib which will be done in '08.

LeBron's New Palace - Akron Beacon Journal

Final Four is set, finalized with North Carolina choke job

2007-03-25T22:20:00.000-04:00

Georgetown coach John Thompson III should send each North Carolina player a thank you card tonight for handing his team a trip to the Final Four for the first time since 1985. The Tarheels finished the game shooting a dismal 1 for 23 from the field in the last 15 minutes of the game.

We're pretty convinced that North Carolina A & T could have shot better than the Tarheels during that span. Hell, a few North Carolina high schools could have probably done better.

The officiating certainly didn't help the Tarheels in the overtime period either. Georgetown's monster center Roy Hibbert, who had four fouls going into the extra period, fouled out at least two times. Somehow the plays were seen as a jumpball and a clean block.

It didn't matter though, once the game went to OT, North Carolina had zero confidence or momentum. North Carolina can chalk themselves up on the list of chokers from this weekend which includes Texas A&M, Tennessee, and USC, all of which had their games all but won.

Georgetown 96, North Carolina 84

It's Friday, what else do you have to do?

2007-03-23T17:00:00.000-04:00

It's Friday Night, time to bust out the booze and watch some basketball after a long week on the job, or not. Three of the four games last night were extremely entertaining to say the least.

Tonight here's how we feel it will end up:

Butler (#5) vs. Florida (#1) - 7:10pm - We're all about upsets, but this one just isn't happening. There is total respect for Butler and the season they had. Who wouldn't love to see them win, minus Gator Fans of course. Florida is way to strong for the Bulldogs, if they can keep it close will be the question. - Florida.

Georgetown (#2) vs. Vanderbilt (#6) 7:27pm - Vanderbilt's run goes down the toilet tonight. We're going to have to say that Georgetown is well due for their program to get back to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995-1996. - Georgetown

Oregon (#3) vs. UNLV #7 - 9:40pm - There's no doubt that the Pac-10 has been stellar in the tournament this year for the most part. However, Oregon has yet to face an opponent that is of the caliber of UNLV in the tournament. Who doesn't like the way UNLV is playing, especially against Wisconsin last weekend. The Rebels' are on a roll and if they can control the game similar to what they did vs. the Badgers, they will advance. - UNLV

North Carolina (#1) vs. USC (#5) - 9:57pm - Everyone's screaming North Carolina in this one. Both teams are young. USC whos is coming off their trouncing of Texas has momentum, but just how much? They are a year a way from O.J. Mayo and he would be a nice addition to have to go against the 'heels. Unfortunately, going to have to go with the majority on this one, but not by much - North Carolina.

Meltdown for Tennessee

2007-03-23T00:19:00.000-04:00

One word about the Ohio State-Tennessee game: Meltdown.

What a crazy game. Tennessee up by 20 in the first half looking like they were going to blow the Buckeyes out of the gym. Ohio State going on a 35-15 run in the second half.

You have to give Thad Matta credit for his management of the big men, shuffling them in and out. It paid off in the end having Oden on the floor for the last second rejection swatting Bruce Pearl's dreams of knocking off a #1 seed and going to the Elite Eight into the 15th row.

The Vols came firing out of the box, looking unstoppable, quick and full of energy. They did hit 16 three pointers in the game. Ohio State from the start looking like they just got out of bed.

If anything Bruce Pearl and the Vols should honestly get the meltdown of the year. This was catastrophic, one that he may never recover from. Many may not think so, but that type of loss will get a coach questioning himself constantly.

Ohio State 85, Tennessee 84

Are you kidding Texas A & M?

2007-03-22T21:42:00.000-04:00

If you're Texas A&M tonight, they have nothing to cry about after losing to Memphis in the Sweet 16. They did get the old screw job at the end when the clock read 3.1, with the errorant pass that the zebras somehow thought took 1.1 seconds off the clock.

What the Aggies should be thinking is: why can't we get a defensive rebound?

How many times can you let the opposing team get an offensive rebound with less than 30 seconds left? There had to be at least four putbacks by Memphis at the end until the foul, which shouldn't have even happened. It was as if they were intentionally trying to make it closer or even lose the game, which they obviously succeeded at.

Nothing but sloppy play at the end from Texas A&M is to blame for that big fat L. Memphis steals their 25th straight victory and goes on to play the Ohio State-Tennessee winner.

Memphis 65, Texas A&M 64

Steve Alford and Tubby Smith take steps back

2007-03-22T19:31:00.000-04:00

Tubby Smith and Steve Alford have both decided take their careers in another direction. Smith resigns from Kentucky to go to Minnesota. Alford resigns from Iowa to go to New Mexico. Hmm....No idea.

Who knew Minnesota and New Mexico were better opportunities than Kentucky and Iowa?

At least Kentucky fans will finally get their wish today. How many UK fans out there raged over Tubby Smith for the past 5 season, or since he was hired for that matter?

It doesn't appear that Alford will be missed much in Iowa either. Many fans and even the administration couldn't have been happy with him. He only took Iowa to the NCAA Tourney 3 out of 8 seasons.

"He wanted to get his family out of this negative environment," center Seth Gorney said.

We're guessing we won't see either Smith or Alford sniffing another big time job after these moves, but they got their wishes if they were looking for less pressure to win. Smith is even getting a cool $2.5 mil/year at Minnesota.

Smith leaves Kentucky, takes job at Minnesota - USA Today
Alford tells hawkeyes he's leaving - SI.com

LaRussa suspected of DUI

2007-03-22T19:11:00.000-04:00

It's Probably not a good idea to tell your team to avoid distractions before the MLB season begins and then get busted for boozin' and cruisin' yourself. That's what happened to St. Louis Cardinals Skipper Tony LaRussa early this morning.

La Russa was found asleep and slumped over inside his stalled dark blue Ford SUV at Frederick Small Blvd. and Military Trail, the release from Jupiter police said. La Russa’s foot was on the vehicle’s brake pedal.

This was his first offense, and he will probably not be fired, nor should he be. The Cards organization has pretty much told him to should proceed with the legal process. He could do jail time, but will probably just be paying some fines and be done with it.

La Russa apologizes to Cardinals and fans - St. Louis Post Dispatch

The Madness Continues

2007-03-22T18:27:00.000-04:00

Tonight it all begins again, get out the chips, beers and party hats to watch the NCAA Tourney on the tele. Here's what we think the outcomes will be:

Kansas (1) vs. Southern-Illinois (4) (7:10 pm) - Many say SIU doesn't get much respect, well they are going to earn any tonight. Kansas flat-out has better athleticism and comes from a lot tougher league where they only lost 2 Big 12 games. Anything can happen yes, but not tonight for the Salukis. Got to go with Kansas.

Pittsburgh (3)vs. UCLA (2) (9:40 pm) - Battle of Ben Howland vs. Jamie Dixon. As we both know Howland used to coach the Panthers and they still run the same system that was employed by Howland during his tenure at Pitt. Plus the game is in San Jose, a hell of a lot closer to L.A. than Pittsburgh. It will be pretty much a home game for the Bruins in that regard. UCLA prevails.

Texas A&M (3) vs. Memphis (2) (7:27 pm) Winning 24 straight games is nothing to turn your nose to for Memphis. However, like UCLA, Texas A&M will be in front of a favorable crowd in San Antonio a two and a half hour ride from the Aggie campus. Memphis ran the table in a week C-USA. Four of A&M's six losses this season came from teams that made the NCAA Tournament (Texas Tech (2), UCLA, and Texas), Memphis has won 10 straight games in the state of Texas and Calipari has the Tigers on all cylinders. On the other hand, Texas A&M just came off a victory over Louisville who was playing as good of ball as anyone in the country. This is the toughest call of the four games. The choice....A&M.

Tennessee (5) vs. Ohio State (1)(9:57 pm) If Oden gets in foul trouble again it's gonna be a long night for the Matta and Bucks. They met earlier in the season in Columbus with Ohio State winning by 2. This one is going to be close, but unless the Ohio State feeds the beast in middle, Oden, rather than relying on the three, Tennessee will walk away with it. We think Ohio State after and emotional victory on St. Patty's Day over Xavier will advance.

Ron Artest adds to his image

2007-03-21T14:58:00.000-04:00

Ron Artest just added another item to his already impressive resume, which
Just ask the man with the "squeaky clean" image, he will be facing four misdemeanor charges stemming from an altercation with his wife back on March 5th. If he is convicted and we stress the word IF, he could get up to four years in the pen.

Artest allegedly grabbed a woman whom he later identified at a news conference as his wife, and pushed her down, then slapped her face during an argument, according to a Placer County sheriff's deputy's report.

ESPN.com put together a laundry list of what they call the Ron Artest Timeline, detailing his entire downfall, it's quite lengthy, so we hope you've got a minute.

Thoughts were that this was all going to blow over. Looks like many experts thoughts were dead wrong. Our guess is that this will be plead down and he will face some hefty fines because he's a star. He may have to go through some marriage counseling of some sort just as "standard" procedure" We just hope he can still produce albums, who cares if he ever steps foot on the court again.

Artest charged with 4 misdemeanors - Houston Chronicle

O.J. Mayo already owns USC

2007-03-21T09:28:00.000-04:00

There has been a ton of talk about O.J. Mayo and the final dunk of his high school career, in which he grabbed the ball and threw it 20 rows up into the seats and was ejected, all while the crowd ate right out of his hand like a lost, starving puppy.

Remember Mayo has been ejected from three games this season, and the dude is a gypsy, he played his high school ball in West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, and then West Virginia again.

There is also the altercation with the police a week back, where one of the guys riding in the car with him takes the rap for possession of marijuana, after cops found grass on the driver and in a pair of shoes in the car they were riding in. Oh and don't forget the referee bumping incident early in the season.

By the looks of all of this Mayo is the sheriff in town. His actions and words seems to be golden because he's just THAT good. The second coming, or the next man to walk on water! The article in the N.Y. Times this morning gives a brief overview on why O.J. Mayo wanted to play at USC:

Mayo: “I want to be different, I want to leave a mark.”

Mayo: “How many scholarships do we have for next year?” he asked.

Floyd:. “After this,” he said, “I guess we have three.”

Mayo: “Don’t worry about recruiting, I’ll take care of it.”

Before Floyd hung up, he asked one more time for Mayo’s cellphone number. “No,” Mayo said. “I’ll call you.”

Mayo and his circus are going to take their show on the road to Los Angeles, until the 2008 NBA draft, where unless he's in a wheelchair, everyone knows he will make himself eligible.

High School Star O.J. Mayo Boosts U.S.C. Before He Arrives - N.Y. Times

Long Beach State knows how to reward success

2007-03-20T22:53:00.000-04:00

You would think as a D-I basketball coach if you take your team to a 24-2 record (12-2) in the conference, win the conference tournament and gain a birth to the NCAA Tournament, you'd say you had a good year. Also, most coaches would be rewarded with a new contract, not if your Larry Reynolds at Long Beach State he was shown the door today.

Apparently the university "didn't see a foundation to ensure long term success." And what might that be at Long Beach? Unbeaten record and a get the the Sweet 16 every year? It's Long Beach State! Its not Duke, UCLA, Kansas, North Carolina, Indiana or Kentucky. Schools that have long traditions of success and are expected to compete for a title every year.

They play in the Big West Conference, which doesn't exactly have the NCAA committee beating down their door to get more than the conference tournament winner in the big dance. On the other hand this years' team did have a lineup full of seniors which is probably why they felt there was "no future". But seriously, what are the expectations for winning at this institution? Can someone tell us, cause apparently 24-8 just don't cut it.

Long Beach State will allow coach's contract to expire despite tournament trip - Yahoo Sports

Diabetic David Wells

2007-03-19T22:22:00.000-04:00

Today Padres' pitcher David Wells told the San Diego Tribune that he was diagnosed with Type-2 Diabetes two weeks ago.

Boomer said he's made lifestyle changes in the past few weeks the day he found out his diagnosis:

“From the time I found out, I made changes. No more starches and sugar. No more rice, pasta, potatoes and white bread. No more fast food. I've cut out alcohol.”

The funny thing is, should we really be all that surprised by this, he hasn't exactly a model of health. Wells, has obviously been overweight most, if not his entire career and has battled "The Rich Man's Disease" - Gout like ten times during his lengthy career.

It could only been a matter of time, with the amount of beers, pasta and pizzas that it appeared Wells was packin' in his midsection, you had to wonder if it was going catch up with him. If you look at most people (not all) who develop type-2 diabetes they eat poorly, are fat and don't exercise.

Now we will probably see David do a few disease awareness commercials or one of the many pharmaceutical drug commercials that treat his condition.

Wells has new ailment: diabetes - San Diego Tribune

If Greg Oden wants to turn pro his agent is waiting.

2007-03-19T19:02:00.000-04:00

With all the talk today about Texas star Kevin Durant and whether he will enter the NBA draft after the NCAA Tournament is concluded, there has been an interesting development on the Greg Oden front.

No not the hard foul Oden committed that the entire media is all over like flies on shit. If the "no call" were called, it would have surely sealed a long bus trip from Lexington back to Columbus ending their season. But we all know what happened instead, a missed Xavier free throw, a clutch three pointer, The Mike Conley, Jr show in OT, and an Ohio State win.

This news comes from Indianapolis, Oden's hometown, where Mike Conley, Sr. has decided to start his own firm Mac Management Group, and by the sounds of it is planning on representing Oden and his son Mike Conley, Jr. if and when they enter themselves in the NBA Draft. He's known Oden since he was in sixth grade and coached him in AAU basketball in Indy.

“I just need to start putting things in place, not knowing what any of the guys are going to do,” Conley Sr. said today. “They’re definitely going to do something this year or next, so if I’m going to do it, I need to put myself in the position to be ready when the time comes.”

Regardless if Ohio State advances any further in the NCAA Tournament, it appears that Conley, Sr. is making sure that he's the guy to represent both the OSU stars, when that day comes. However it should be noted that apparently he didn't start this firm to suggest that Oden is going pro. What on earth would make us think that?

Greg Oden's ex-coach could be his future agent - Indianapolis Star
Oden got away with one

UNLV could be the only surprise in the NCAA Tourney

2007-03-18T22:01:00.000-04:00

The first weekend of the NCAA Tournament is now in the books, this year hasn't had quite the upsets, in fact the lowest seed this year to make the Sweet 16 is #7 UNLV.

No one could have expected the Rebels to still be alive, including us who had Georgia Tech beating them in the first round, except UNLV. Even if you had them advancing past day one, the chances that your bracket had UNLV getting past the Badgers were slim to none, if so we want to see it. They hadn't won an NCAA tournament game before Friday since 1991 and hadn't been to the Big Dance since 2000.

It might not be surprising if they get to the Elite Eight either. They play Oregon next, who has faced #14 Miami (OH), and #11 Winthrop, neither of which games were close. So far this would be Oregon's toughest game in this years' tourney and if UNLV can keep it close towards the end it ought to be interesting to see if the untested Ducks' will fold.

UNLV ousts Wisconsin - Yahoo Sports
Updated Bracket

Double Whammy for Durant

2007-03-18T21:22:00.000-04:00

It wasn't a good day for Texas forward Kevin Durant. First off, his Texas Longhorns get owned by USC 87-68, despite him scoring 30 and ripping down 9 boards. In another sick performance this season, most likely his final one as a Longhorn.

It's been well publicized that the Boston Celtics' have had a horrible season, at one point losing 18 straight games last month. Well now, they get busted for excessively contacting Durant's family before he declares himself for the draft, nice. GM Danny Ainge decided it might be a good idea to sit next to Durant's mom during the Big 12 tournament, which overstepped the bounds of "minimal contact".

The punishment for Ainge and the Celts' is a $30,000 fine. No one knows what was said between the two parties, however, we're pretty sure that Ainge had to have mentioned the fact that he would love him to be a Celtic next year.

We wonder if it's a violation if Danny talks to his son, Austin Ainge, who plays for Brigham Young, would anyone care, he's not going to make the league anyway.

Ainge Fined for Contact with Durant's Mother - NBA.com

March Madness

2007-03-18T13:39:00.000-04:00

Well there are another full slate of games today for all of the people out there neglecting their spouse, significant other or even the family dog during the past three days.

What a great day to nurse the hangover accumulated from too many Irish Car Bombs and green beers.

Hopefully there are some games that can equal the action we saw yesterday, three games that went to the extra period, Ohio State/Xavier, Pittsburgh/VCU, Vanderbilt/Washington State. Also, Butler with a close win over Maryland.

It ought to be interesting to see if there will be as much excitement today as there was yesterday. At least it's safe to say that Tennessee will not put up 100 on Virginia, at least at this point, but it could be a distinct possibility that Florida could do so against Purdue.

Live Scoreboard - ESPN.com

March Madness Office Pools

2007-03-13T21:16:00.000-04:00

Well it's that time again, when the office pools come out of the woodwork and we all decide to throw down $20 for that $5 per bracket pool run by the gambler in the office. Knowing all along that the woman who fills out only one bracket will rake in about $300. She will make her picks based on the prettiest uniforms, mascot, or the sheer fact that she thinks that a player or coach is attractive.

Why do year in and year out throw do we throw our money down the crapper on this tournament knowing that it's just that unpredictable. It's not because a #16 seed will knock off a #1, there's like a 1% chance that will ever happen. Unless you think Central Connecticut State has a fighting chance?

So double think your picks this year and don't make your picks on what you saw during the regular season, that's out the window as of tomorrow night. Make sure you use the furthest thing from logic to make, pick a few upsets, and keep your eyes glued like you do every year hoping to get your payday.

Calculating Tournament Odds - What are the chances a 16 seed will win it all?

Do you hear the shotgun wedding bells?

2007-02-21T14:35:00.000-05:00

It may seem that Tom Brady is taking from lessons from the rookie Matt Leinhart, fatherhood. It's too bad that he probably didn't know about junior until after breaking it off with girlfriend Bridget Moynahan last December, given his Catholic ties.

"Better late than never, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has finally publicly acknowledged his impending fatherhood. Don Yee, agent for the three-time Super Bowl champ, said yesterday "Tom and his family are excited about the pregnancy, and want to thank everyone who has shown support, and particularly for their consideration of Tom's privacy." Yee's single-sentence statement to the Globe was the Brady camp's first public comment since the football star's ex, 36-year-old actress Bridget Moynahan, revealed over the weekend that she's carrying the QB's baby. According to her publicist, Moynahan, who dated Brady for nearly three years before they broke up in December, is more than three months pregnant. Notwithstanding Yee's statement yesterday, a baby born out of wedlock is probably not what the Brady bunch, all big Catholics, had in mind. Tom Brady Sr. studied for seven years to be a Maryknoll priest, and during a visit to Rome in 2004, No. 12 actually met Pope John Paul II. Still unclear is whether Brady learned of the pregnancy before or after his relationship with Moynahan was over."

Don't tell Tim Hardaway your gay

2007-02-15T07:31:00.000-05:00

Former NBA star Tim Hardaway expressed his opinions on gay people that may have brushed some people the wrong way:

"You know, I hate gay people, so I let it be known. I don't like gay people and I don't like to be around gay people,'' he said while a guest on Sports Talk 790 The Ticket. "I'm homophobic. I don't like it. It shouldn't be in the world or in the United States.''

Hardaway had also went on in saying that if Amaechi would have come out when he was a player, that he wouldn't want him on this team and if he were on his team he would distance himself from him in the locker room.

Hardaway, apologized in another interview later in the day. We're guessing that the damage is already done.

Tim Hardaway says he hates 'gay people' - SI.com

For everyone that has or will be enjoying this snowstorm

2007-02-14T07:27:00.000-05:00

Anyone who doesn't ski and isn't sure what a Snowcat is. It's the vehicle used in The Shining. The old man used one to get up the mountain, to the hotel in an attempt to save 'Olive Oil' and son Danny from a ragging Jack Nicholson.

Anyway, we have a friend who works the local ski patrol and brought to light an interesting story late last night.

A worker at the local ski slopes apparently was fired yesterday during the day. In the style of Gary Busey, he decided that it was a good idea to go to the lodge and get a few or ten drinks in him and let everyone know they could stick his job where the sun doesn't shine.

After the ex-employee walked out of the bar area, he sprinted over to the Snowcat/Groomer, and decided to fire-it-up! Then, it seemingly occurred to him that going on a belligerent rampage with this enormous vehicle might be fun. He raced up the slope, spinning out while doing 'donuts' and continued head-on towards the skiers and patrons.

Picture this: the ski patrol, employees, and skiers all dodging, dipping, and diving trying to get out of this guy's way. Finally, after about 10 minutes, the head of maintenance (buddy of 'genius') negotiates with the man and gets him out of the vehicle, before he does some real damage. This idiot avoided confrontation with the local authorities thanks to the cafeteria lady who threw him in her car, and drove him home....Apparently she was pissed and trying to save face for her husband who is in charge of that equipment....That had to be a great ride home.

We're guessing this guy won't be getting a reference from this ski resort anytime soon when he goes to find another job today. Nothing says f-you to the boss more than drinking heavily at the place you were just fired, stealing an extremely large and expensive piece of machinery and putting peoples lives at risk.

p.s. The General Manager told Ski Patrol that formal charges will be brought against 'Busey'! "All work an no play makes Jack a dull boy"!

Looks like Notre Dame Football just lost a few fans

2007-02-13T21:16:00.000-05:00

Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis is going through a battle in court for an unspecified amount of money relating back to complications from gastric bypass surgery back in 2002, when he was an assistant with the New England Patriots.

Weis alleges in the lawsuit that Massachusetts General Hospital physicians Charles Ferguson and Richard Hodin acted negligently and left Weis so close to death that he received the Roman Catholic sacrament of last rites. He was in a coma for two weeks.

He is suing the two Massachusetts physicians for neglegence and was reportedly bleeding internally for about 30 hours as well as in a coma for two weeks. At the time, Weis weighed close to 350 pounds.

A nurse that took care of Weis in the hospital is going to testify and the prosecution is going to throw Patriots' QB Tom Brady in the mix as well.

It's pretty safe to say that Drs. Ferguson and Hodin will not be supporters of Notre Dame Football at this point. Who knows if they ever were, but this pretty much will seal the deal.

Lawyer: Weis bled for 30 hours after gastric bypass - The Boston Globe
Weis claims malpractice in surgery - SI.com

Tiki Barber's New Gig

2007-02-13T16:43:00.000-05:00

One day after filing papers for his NFL retirement, former Giants' running back Tiki Barber has landed himself a new gig. He has been named a correspondent for TODAY and an analyst for “Football Night in America.”

Looks like he wasn't kidding about his intentions of being in the media.

“I am thrilled to be joining the NBC Universal family. This was a long and arduous decision process for me, but in the end NBC is where I felt I belonged. The opportunity to work for both a world-class news division and a world-class sports division is truly second to none.”

We take this as meaning, he appreciates the opportunity given to him by NBC, it was a tough decision for him, but in the end they are going to give him more time on the air and probably more money than any other network out there.

This could help his chances if he wants to get elected to Canton as well in five years. He will be in the national spotlight continuously and could make some allies along the way.

NFL star Tiki Barber joins NBC - NBC.com

Illini Basketball Players involved in car crash

2007-02-13T16:14:00.000-05:00

As some of you may have already heard, last night two University of Illinois basketball players were involved in an automobile accident when their car crossed the center line and slammed into a tree.

Brian Carlwell, 19, was at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana Tuesday in serious condition with a severe concussion, Illinois sports information director Kent Brown said. Carlwell previously was listed in critical condition.

His teammate, Jamar Smith, was treated at the hospital for a concussion and released after the accident, Brown said.

Weather could have been the issue as it was snowing heavily in Champaign last night, however the police are investigating further as to what caused the accident. It's unsure when the players will be able to play their next game.

Authorities investigate 2 Illinois players injured in car crash - nwi.com

No more Martyball in San Diego

2007-02-13T07:22:00.000-05:00

Marty Schottenheimer has been relieved of his duties as the San Diego Chargers head coach.

Apparently, Chargers' GM A.J. Smith was cool with Marty leading the team this upcoming season with the current cast of Cam Cameron and Wade Phillips as his coordinators. However, as everyone knows, Cameron went to Miami and Phillips to Dallas. There were arguments and silence between Smith and Marty and now Marty is out. Also, Schottenheimer ticked off Smith by allowing some top assistants to interview with other clubs, probably not a good thing.

“Clearly the situation – and I've talked about it on any number of occasions – is not an environment where you can consistently be successful,” he said. “I think it's hard enough in our business when everybody is on the same page, let alone when you have a breach . . . clearly, in my opinion, it was a very, very difficult circumstance to be in.”

Many could say the writing was on the wall, Schottenheimer last season lead the Chargers to a 14-2 record, obtaining home field advantage in the playoffs, then a playoff choke job against New England. He's the most successful coach in NFL history without a Super Bowl appearance.

Many Cleveland still can't get over the fact that Schottenheimer was so close to getting them to the Super Bowl, only to have their dreams wisked away by John Elway and Denver twice back in the late 80's.

Chargers give Schottenheimer the ax - The Union Tribune

Man convicted for jacking up Stephen Jackson with his car

2007-02-12T20:58:00.000-05:00

Remember the infamous strip club incident that involved ex-Pacer Stephen Jackson, who ended up discharging his weapon during the altercation, and current Pacer Jamal Tinsley?

Deon Willford, 23, will be sentenced Feb. 28 and was taken into the custody after Judge Patricia Gifford announced her verdict late this afternoon. In addition to battery, which is a Class C felony, Gifford also found Willford guilty of leaving the scene of an injury accident, a misdemeanor.

It's turned into a he said argument about what really went down that night. Jackson thought he was going to get shot, Willford hit Jackson with his car because he feared for his life.

Jackson apparently decided it was a good idea to kick Willford's disabled cousin during the brawl. Good move, sounds like a role model, nothing like a kid hearing that his favorite NBA player has kicked a disabled man during a fight at a strip club.

Man guilty in Pacers strip-club brawl - The Indianapolis Star

Cuban sees financial opportunities for first active gay NBA player

2007-02-12T18:10:00.000-05:00

Dallas Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban feels that the first NBA player to openly admit that they are gay could see some financial fortunes in their future if they just lay it on the line.

"From a marketing perspective, if you're a player who happens to be gay and you want to be incredibly rich, then you should come out, because it would be the best thing that ever happened to you from a marketing and an endorsement perspective," the Mavericks' owner said. "You would be an absolute hero to more Americans than you can ever possibly be as an athlete, and that'll put money in your pocket.

Attention NBA players that are currently riding the pine and making the league minimum. Were thinking of some guys that are currently, let's say 11th or 12th men on the depth chart. After all, $413K is tough to live on these days.

Cuban says gay player would be wealthy hero - Star-Telegram

Someone forgot to tell Sean Taylor that the Pro Bowl was an exhibition game

2007-02-12T17:44:00.001-05:00

If you haven't seen this video of Saturday's Pro Bowl in Hawaii, it's worth watching. Brian Moorman, the Buffalo Bills' punter gets a rude awakening from Redskins' safety Sean Taylor. This hit was by far the best play of the entire game.

You have to give Moorman some credit though, for a punter, he was able to bounce right back up and really didn't look dazed or confused.

We particularly like the Japanese broadcast at the end of the video, it was a nice touch. We can't stop laugh at the reaction they give in comparison to Phil Simms and the CBS crew.

Celtics Update: Losing Ain't Easy

2007-02-11T20:29:00.000-05:00

We know, we are riding the Celtics pretty hard during the rough times. However, how can't you, tonight they managed to do it again, can you believe it?

Yes folks, that is 18 consecutive losses! Just when you thought they might pull this one out, they were leading by 4 points with 2:38 left in the game.

It was tied with less than a second left to go, it looked like it was headed to overtime. Oh can they do it!!

NOPE, Ricky Davis hit a jumper from the corner with 0.2 seconds (how he got it off in that amount of time is beyond us) left in the game to seal the deal for the Wolves.

The Celts' have won a measly 12 games all year. How long can this misery last, and how is Doc Rivers not fired for Pete's sake!

Timberwolves 109, Celtics 107 - ESPN
The Celtics should just shoot for 20 losses in a row - SportsRx

Mark Cuban vs. Dwayne Wade

2007-02-11T17:15:00.000-05:00

Some of you have heard about the war of words between Dallas Mavericks Owner, Mark Cuban and Miami Heat guard Dwayne Wade.

The Heat players are bent because they feel that the Mavs' haven't given the respect that they earned for beating them in the NBA Finals last season.

Initially this argument started with Dwayne Wade talking to the media questioning Dirk Nowitzki's leadership skills during last years' championship series.

Cuban, who we all know isn't shy to voice his opinions on anything fired back on his blog. His post is a must read. Let us share some of the choice quotes from his post on DWade:

Say what ? Is this the DWade of some of the lamest , boring commercials known to man ? Commercials that are singlehandedly responsible for selling more commercial skipping Tivos than anything else on TV ?

And our personal favorite:

I know Shaq appreciates your leadership as well. He called out your team a few weeks ago saying it was "embarassing". Great leadership DWade. Your coach sat players for being fat. I guess you couldnt lead them away from the buffet.

You are an amazing player Dwayne. I love watching you shoot free throws. What you know about Dirk's leadership skills is non existent. You don't have a clue. Your ability to evaluate leadership skills....well you obviously have an overinflated value of your own. Did you take business classes at Marquette ?

We have a feeling that this will end here. We just can't see Wade giving Cuban the time of day unfortunately to make this a fun experience. Who knows though, many would love to see this battle continue, including us. You've got to love Mark Cuban.

'DWade' fires up Cuban - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Dwayne Wade a Leader ? - Blog Maverick
When It Comes to Effort, Shaq Can't Cast The First Stone - AOL Sports

NFL signs off for 2006-2007

2007-02-11T08:17:00.000-05:00

It's a sad day here today. The realization that there will be no more organized football for sometime, well unless you count Arena Football.

Yesterday was the end of the road for the 2006-2007 season in the NFL, The Pro Bowl. To sum up the game, other than the numerous hawaiian style shirts that were worn:

Nate Kaeding kicked a 21-yard field goal as time expired to cap a drive led by Carson Palmer, the MVP of the AFC's 31-28 victory Saturday in the 57th edition of the NFL's all-star game. This was also the final game of Giant's running back Tiki Barber, who did score one touchdown, gained 4 yards on the ground and threw an INT.

The next excitement we have to look forward to is the draft, probably with commentary from the freshly retired Tiki Barber. Of course we're sure there will be plenty of rumors and arrests to discuss before training camp begins this summer.

Drama in paradise - SI.com

Two Gonzaga Players busted and suspended

2007-02-11T07:39:00.000-05:00

Gonzaga sophomore Josh Heytvelt and freshman Theo Davis appeared on Friday night to be out having a good time the night before their game against St. Marys, unfortunately the end result was landing themselves in the slammer and now could be done for good at Gonzaga.

Heytvelt and Davis were busted late Friday night in nearby Cheney with a small amount of marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms. Police said they stopped Heytvelt's SUV for defective tail lights.

As the traffic stop progressed, police said they smelled marijuana in the vehicle. Upon further investigation, officers found marijuana as well as hallucinogenic mushrooms. The amount of marijuana justified a misdemeanor count, while possession of mushrooms is a felony. A Felony? OOOPS!!

The aftermath: Heytvelt is suspended indefinitely; Davis is redshirting after shoulder surgery so he wasn't playing or dressing anyway.

This could get interesting here in the next few weeks with their court cases. Will it get plead down or will the book be thrown at them?

Two Gonzaga players arrested on drug charges - MSNBC
Gonzaga suspends Heytvelt, Davis - The Seattle Times

The Celtics should just shoot for 20 losses in a row

2007-02-10T14:23:00.000-05:00

What do the Boston Celtics have to lose? They lost their 17th game in a row last night against New Jersey extending their franchise record losing streak. The streak of consecutive losses outnumbers the amount championships the mighty Celtics' franchise holds (16).

It was Paul Pierce's return to the lineup last night and it wasn't enough to stop the bleeding of their losing ways. They dropped the contest 92-78.

We say they should just go for 20 in a row. Well, it's a distinct possibility that it may happen. They are on the road for six of their next seven contests.

If they were to lose their next three (@ Minnesota, Milwaukee @ home, and @ Sacramento) that would make it a nice even 20 in a row. After the Kings game they remain on their west coast swing against, Phoenix, L.A. Lakers, Utah, and Houston.

So while you may want to feel sorry for the Celtics in their current situation, you can't help but want to see just how far this streak will go until they actually win. The funny thing will be to see the Celtics celebrate once they do finally break the streak.

New Jersey 92, Boston 78 - Yahoo Sports
Attention Celtics.... you can start playing like an NBA Franchise now! - SportsRx

Les Miles is ready to play F'in Alabama

2007-02-09T12:35:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows that the Alabama vs. LSU rivalry will be a little more intense than usual this season. After Saban's comments last week regarding his former team and state we knew there was the start to something.

LSU's Les Miles has had to compete with Saban as well as others in the SEC as always to land recruits.

The following comments were made at a recruiting party:

"We're looking forward to playing Florida," Miles told a large crowd at Wednesday's Bayou Bash recruiting party at the Baton Rouge (La.) River Center. "We're looking forward to playing Auburn. But we have a new rival in f--ing Alabama."

Nice, what a great way to get dem sons a bitches fired up!

It also appears that Miles is accusing some programs of illegal recruiting tactics and playing dirty by bashing LSU. It kind of sounds like he's a bit paranoid that he may not be getting the recruits he wanted. Is there a need for him to blame his competitors or should he blame himself and his program for not selling recruits enough to sign with LSU. Stay tuned from now until their match-up this fall, it can only get bloodier.

LSU coach directs expletive at Tide - The Birmingham News

USC could be under investigation for recruitment violations associated with McKnight

2007-02-09T07:15:00.000-05:00

Joe McKnight who is rated the top running back prospect in the nation and signed a letter of intent to attend USC could have said the wrong words in a press conference by stating he spoke with former Trojan star running back Reggie Bush by telephone, which would be an NCAA violation.

Former players are regarded by the NCAA as "representatives of athletics interests" and are forbidden from telephoning prospective recruits. For example, NCAA bylaw 13.1.3.5.1 states, "Representatives of an institution's athletics interests are prohibited from making telephonic communications with a prospective student-athlete or the prospective student-athlete's relatives or legal guardians."

Head coach Pete Carroll denounced there was even a conversation at all between the two.

The issue stems from the investigation on Reggie Bush's improper benefits violation last year. Apparently McKnight was concerned that the program would be on probation if he were to attend USC. He wanted to make sure he had the entire scoop before he signed the letter of intent to become a trojan.

The truth may never come out on this issue, but one thing is for sure, why would Reggie Bush's name be mentioned at all, if there wasn't a bit of contact in some way, shape, or form.

Could this jeopardize McKnight's career at USC, or is it just another attempt to put the hammer down on Reggie Bush?

USC looks into potential recruiting violation - L.A. Times

Can someone finally give Ron Zook some credit

2007-02-08T19:45:00.000-05:00

We're not one to read much or believe much of what the New York Times has to offer, but thought this was interesting just like everyone else.

It just goes to show you that you don't have to win football games to land a top recruiting class.

It appears that The University of Illinois has landed one of the top 15 recruiting classes nation. Seems a bit hard to believe considering they have won a whopping 4 games in two seasons.

Many coaches and fans around the country believe that there is something going on here that isn't right. Illinois has been on probation in the past for NCAA violations associated with their basketball and football programs.

A bitter, and once favorite of ours, former Big Ten coach chimmed on this issue:

John L. Smith, who was recently dismissed as the head coach at Michigan State, expressed a view shared privately by many rival coaches and recruiters: “If they had a winning program and all of that, it would be a different deal. If they had the greatest facilities in the world, then maybe they could sell them. But what are they selling?”

He added, “Where there’s smoke, there’s probably fire.”

We miss you John L. We're sure you'll be back soon.

But don't sell Ron Zook short here. Remember, the University of Florida who rolled Ohio State in the national title game last month was made up of many if not most Ron Zook recruits during while he was at Florida. Granted he has only one 4 games in two seasons so far at Illinois, however with this recruiting class will help tremendously to finally get his own guys in his system.

He's answered the question that he can get recruits, but the bigger question will be.... what does he do with them?

Illinois Has Rivals Fuming About Its Recruiting Coup - N.Y. Times

Browns' Owner Randy Lerner is not happy with Cleveland's Channel 19

2007-02-05T20:50:00.000-05:00

Cleveland Browns' Owner Randy Lerner isn't happy with a particular Cleveland Media Outlet, WOIO Channel 19. During the Super Bowl, Action News, ran adds for their newscast stating that the Browns are up for sale and the public should know about it.

"I can definitely, positively, and categorically say that the Cleveland Browns are NOT up for sale," Mr. Lerner told WKYC news anchor Romona Robinson in a private phone conservation Monday.

The station claimed that there was a mysterious letter that Lerner had written mentioning his intentions of selling the franchise. Lerner has had a few offers in the past for the team and has turned them down. His late father Al originally purchased the franchise bringing them back in 1999.

"There is no letter that I know of stating that fact. I adore this team," said Mr. Lerner. "I am working feverishly to make this a better team, and you can quote me."

Since their return, the Browns have made one playoff appearance and had several busts in the drafts, including but not limited to the fantastic, Courtney Brown, Gerard Warren, William Green, and who can forget Tim Couch.

"They have gone on a steady mission to try to embarass or denigrate me and the Cleveland Browns. I have never spoken with anyone from Channel 19, and I have no idea where this story came from."

Lerner is under fire in the Cleveland because it is seen that he is spending too much money on his football team in Europe when the Browns continue to lose. Apparently Browns' fans and the media have the right to tell Randy Lerner where he can spend his money, at least in Cleveland anyway.

Lerner: Browns not for sale - cleveland.com

Colts take care of business in Super Bowl XLI

2007-02-04T22:14:00.000-05:00

The Indianapolis Colts finally lived up their expectations, defeating the Chicago Bears 29-17. We called 24-17, so damn close.

Manning, completed 25 of 38 passes for 247 yards leading the Colts to their first title since 1970 and Tony Dungy to be the first black coach in NFL history to win the Super Bowl.

That's it for this season of football minus the Pro Bowl, which honestly we can't tell you the last time any of us watched it, maybe 1994?

Tomorrow will be a depressing day with the hangover and the realization that there will be no more football until August. On the brightside there is still the NBA.....uh yeah it's going to be more depressing than we thought.

Crowning achievement - SI.com

Someone tell us how this man became an NFL Quarterback

2007-02-04T21:47:00.000-05:00

We can think of 31 better quarterbacks in the NFL than Rex Grossman, as evidenced by his disgusting play all season and his especially gross performance on center stage.

You have to love some of the passes he's thrown tonight off balance, the INT that was run back for a touchdown by the Colts, which quite was the WORST pass thrown in the history of the game. A rainbow that appeared that it was going to crash into the clouds and stop the rain, but it only continued the bleeding for the Bears. Another great moment tonight, was his fumbled snap the very next play after his defense recovered an Indianapolis fumble. It just goes to show you he looks and acts clueless out there.

Lovie Smith kept insisting that Rex was his guy and now he's faced with an L in the big game because "his man" again, couldn't get the job done. Yes the Bears did make the Super Bowl, but Rex certainly didn't get them there, it was defense, special teams and Thomas Jones.

You can't help but think that this could be the final game of Rex Grossman's career in Chicago. It probably won't happen but it should.

Indy vs. Chicago for all the marbles

2007-02-04T12:31:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the night, the battle of offense vs. defense, Dungy vs. Smith, Colts vs. Bears in Miami. Who will it be? Will it be Peyton in his long awaited trip to the promised land or will it be Urlacher and the Bears stealing his dreams.

If the Bears gain the early lead with the way their defensive has been this season, it could be tough for the Colts to come back. However, Peyton, with the comeback against the Patriots (who were kryptonite to him throughout his career) has to concern the Bears, no matter how good their defense has been.

Should be an interesting battle between these two midwest teams. Will it be the long overdue Colts, or the surprising Bears?

Our prediction Colts 24, Bears 17. We just don't think that Rex Grossman can lead the Bears if they are behind, he's relied on his D all season. Stranger things have happened though.

Attention Celtics.... you can start playing like an NBA Franchise now!

2007-02-03T17:51:00.000-05:00

What happened to this once storied franchise? It's beginning to appear that if the Celtics were in the NCAA they might not even be able to make the final 65.

The Celtics managed to lose their 14th consecutive game last night to the L.A. Clippers at home. This is a franchise that has been to 19 NBA Finals, winning 16 of them in a 60 year span, their last in 1986. Now you can call them flat-out pathetic.

The Celtics have not won a game since January 5th against the just about as lowly Memphis Grizzlies. These two teams are battling it out to see who gets more ping pong balls in the hat on lottery day.

What is it going to take to rattle the cages of the execs in this once successful organization. Red Auerbach is surely rolling over in his grave looking down upon his former franchise.

A New Low - Clips' hand Celts' franchise-record 14th straight loss - SI.com

Rex Grossman: Will he excel or be in hell at the Super Bowl?

2007-01-31T18:16:00.000-05:00

According to a recent Yahoo Sports Poll, it appears that 58% of Americans feel that the Colts will win this Super Bowl. We have to tell you, it's all going to be up to Rex Grossman here. If the Bears D takes care of Manning and the Colts in typical Bear fashion, but fail to put points on the board, like they usually do, the ball will be in Rex's hand to make something happen.

These questions remain, will he be able to come through in the clutch, can he come from behind if needed? Finally, do his teammates and coaching staff have confidence in him to put the game on his shoulders?

Super Bowl Poll: 58% of Americans Expect Colts Victory - Yahoo Sports

Terrance Kiel Pissed

2007-01-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

Terence Kiel is pissed....literally. SAN DIEGO -- Chargers strong safety Terrence Kiel was cited for urinating in public last month, his second run-in with the law in less than three months and the eighth by a San Diego player since April.

Maria Velasquez, spokeswoman for City Attorney Mike Aguirre, confirmed that Kiel was cited and released by police outside a nightclub in the Gaslamp Quarter at 1:50 a.m. on Dec. 18. The case is being reviewed and no charges have been filed yet, Velasquez said. Kiel is scheduled to make a court appearance on Feb. 20

"It's very disappointing when you hear of things like this," Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said.

Kiel faces five felony drug charges stemming from his arrest in late September by Drug Enforcement Administration agents. The DEA said Kiel admitted to shipping at least two parcels of prescription cough syrup to Texas, apparently to be mixed with soft drinks to make a concoction known as "lean." -AP

It appears Matt Millen can do no wrong in Detroit

2007-01-03T21:32:00.000-05:00

Seriously what will it take for Matt Millen, president of the Detroit Lions to lose his job? The man has been a total failure during his tenure leading the Lions to the worst record in the NFL during his reign in Detroit. How pathetic are they? They are 24-72 since he took over in 2001.

"I'll never quit," Millen said in a story posted Tuesday by The Detroit News. "I can't do that. I don't even consider that.

"It's the way I'm made."

Maybe Millen will draft another first round wide receiver again this year, Lions fans should hope not.

What the Lions desperately need is an offensive line and a quarterback, after they gave up on Joey Harrington, shipping him to Miami, it's obvious that John Kitna is certainly not the answer. The reality is that there aren't enough picks in the draft to help the Lions out this year and they can little afford another bust after Harrington, Rogers and Mike Williams.

It makes one wonder, if he hasn't done the job well in six years, is one or two more years going to get any better?

Millen: "I'll never quit" - SI.com

Nick Saban Lands Himself Back in College Football

2007-01-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Well, well, well, it looks like the almighty dollar does talk especially if there is less stress. Well, maybe there isn't that much less stress coaching at Alabama than in the NFL, in fact they could be pretty comparable.

In Tuscaloosa there is a certain expectation for the Tide to win 10 games a year, win the SEC and beat rivals LSU and Auburn. It looks like they have the right guy to do so. With a National Championship under his belt, the Tide have landed their wish for the New Year.

Who should hate Saban more, LSU Fans or Dolphins Fans? Saban did go to a rival of the school he did win a national title with just three seasons ago. Or is it the Dolphins, where he barely got his feet wet in only two seasons where he lead the Dolphins to a 15-17 record.

The debate is in, and only time will tell if Saban will remain at 'Bama long enough to turn the program around. Will he jump ship early or remain for the entire contract? After all, he did say for the last month that he wasn't going to Tuscaloosa. Saban has 8 years and $32 million to prove his worth.

Saban Hoping to Turn the Tide at Alabama - Tuscaloosa News

Bernie Kosar wants the University of Miami job?

2006-12-06T16:59:00.000-05:00

Former 12-year NFL quarterback Bernie Kosar is interested in taking the reigns of the Miami Football Program. He was quoted on a Miami television station as saying that he would like the job.

UM people knew that I had been offered the president of the Cleveland Browns job," Kosar told the newspaper. "They knew I wanted to get back into football and asked if I'd be interested in the UM job. At first it was just flattering, but then I thought, 'Yeah, I'd really like to look into it.'"

Kosar played his college ball at Miami, but has no coaching experience at all. You have to wonder if Miami is actually considering this? Kosar, who is from Youngstown, Ohio won a national title for the 'Canes during his freshman season.

What was Michael Irvin not available, what about Lamar Thomas? Maybe Miami should throw Gino Toretta or Craig Erickson in the mix also. We just can't see Kosar trying to convince kids that come from nothing at all, to play football at Miami, when Florida State and Florida are after them as well. It's one thing to say you want to be coach and another to take the job and do it well. Yes, Kosar is a well known figure in Miami football but is he well known enough to build a program, land recruits and win games on the field?

Other possible candidates are Texas Tech's Gary Patterson and West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez.

Kosar says he's interested in Miami job - Yahoo Sports

Schiano says 'No Thanks" to Miami and will remain at Rutgers

2006-12-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

Does anyone want the University of Miami head football coaching job? It appears that Greg Schiano from Rutgers doesn't.

The Newark Ledger has reported that Greg Schiano will remain at Rutgers and the university will have to search for boosters and private businesses to give him a raise to remain at Rutgers and extend his contract through 2011.

The Scarlet Knights had their best season since 1977 this year with only two loses this season to Cincinnati and West Virginia and were a stones through away from playing in their first BCS game, the Orange Bowl.

"To compete at highest level, you have to have involvement from private dollars and alumni," said T.J. Nelligan, principal at Nelligan Sports Marketing, who serves as Rutgers' link to the corporate community. "Greg Schiano did the best job of any college coach in any sport in the country. He put the school on the map. He deserves to be paid with the top people in his industry."

Schiano is showing some love to Rutgers by staying for about half the money he could've made if he bolted to Miami. Even if he receives around $1 million a year, he would be among the highest paid in the Big East Conference. Schiano at the moment is showing a little dedication in an era where many coaches leave for the paycheck and better opportunities more often than not.

Maybe the Miami gig just isn't what's it's cracked up to be, with the controversy that former coach Larry Coker endured this past season and the pressure to win. Not to mention the inability for the 'Canes to keep a coach for a significant period of time, makes you wonder if it's all worth the coin in the end.

Rutgers: Boosters expected to cover Schiano's pay boost - Newark Ledger
Rutgers' Schiano to stay - Boston Herald

UCLA's Bruce Davis sticking it to Lee Corso and Kirk Herbstreit

2006-12-04T22:18:00.000-05:00

As we all know USC blew their chances for a national title matchup with Ohio State after their 13-9 loss to UCLA in Pasadena on Saturday.

Terry Bowden shows all what a playoff would look like in college football

2006-12-04T21:44:00.000-05:00

Terry Bowden has devised a potential playoff scheme for college football with actual dates. Unfortunately, as we all know in the world of college football it's all about the benjamins.

Many coaches support the need for a playoff, and the determining the national champion on the field rather than by a computer and human voting. Unfortunately, this isn't likely for a number of years, if at all due to the amount of money that is obtained in sponsorship revenue in the current setup.

Below you will find a draft of his idea for the playoff system. In our opinion one thing that may tempt the guru's to go to this system is to have the bowl games be playoff games.

For instance, 1st round could be arbitrary bowl games (Cotton, Peach, Gator, etc) depending on who bigs for them. Then the semi-finals can be either, Rose Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Sugar Bowl, or Orange Bowl and rotate them between quarterfinals and semi-finals every year just like in the current BCS system. College football can then get their bowl games and sponsorship revenue that they seek by avoiding the playoff system.

Also, for the teams that don't make the playoffs, you can also have bowl games for them to to make them feel special.

Believe it or not, there will be 64 teams that will make a bowl this season. This December when you watch these games pay close attention to the crowds of these lower tiered bowl games, the seats are nearly empty.

The bracket that wasn't - Yahoo Sports

Has Barry Bonds been blackballed from baseball?

2006-12-04T17:14:00.000-05:00

Probably not, but these days it's looking more and more like it.

The Giants don't appear to want him back after heavily pursuing Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Lee, and Manny Ramirez this offseason until they signed with the Cubs and Astros, while Ramirez remains on the Red Sox at least for the moment.

"They had so much interest in those other guys, and they've got so much interest in Manny," says an executive of one club that has talked to the Giants, "that clearly, they don't want to bring Barry back."

Bonds has played the last 14 seasons in a Giant uniform. Many around the league don't feel that he will be on the Giants next season if any team at all.

"I'm starting to buy into the theory that no one is going to sign him," said one assistant GM. "When Tom Hicks in Texas comes out one day and says, 'We'd be interested,' and then two days later says, 'No way,' you have to wonder if somebody somewhere said something to him. Don't you?"

Others feel that he might not be worth the hassle regardless of what he may provide a team on the field:

"Obviously, the guy can still hit," said one AL executive. "But is the payoff worth the headache? If you sign him, you start by having to answer questions for a month about 'How can you bring this guy into your organization?' Then you have to sit there all through spring training and deal with 15 ESPN reporters hanging around every day."

For now Bonds remains unemployed and with the Baseball Winter Meetings underway you have to wonder if someone will take that chance. Has Bonds done himself in with is actions in the past in the clubhouse and with the media? The man is 22 home runs away from breaking Hank Aaron's all-time record of 755. However, he did make $20 million last season and if someone is going to take a chance on him and his antics, at least to pack in some seats, they probably won't have to pay him that much, especially at this point when no offers are on the table.

What happened to Barry Bonds? - ESPN

Bengals WR McNeal Follows In Chris Henry's Footsteps

2006-12-04T16:47:00.000-05:00

Late Sunday, rookie 6th round draft pick wide receiver Reggie McNeal was arrested for resisting arrest outside a Houston, Texas nightclub after he was refused entrance.

McNeal, a former Texas A&M quarterback, was arrested outside The Red Door, said Houston police spokesman Gabe Ortiz on Monday.

Ortiz said McNeal approached two officers who were standing near the entrance and became unruly when the officers told him the club was closing. McNeal "became aggressive and started using profanity" when the officers refused to let him enter, Ortiz said.

Remember folks, when Bengals Odell Thurman was arrested for DUI in September, he was driving McNeal's truck at the time. McNeal was a passenger with Bengals WR Chris Henry who has been arrested four times in the past year.

McNeal is the seventh Bengal to be arrested this season. It looks as if the Bengals are continuing to spiral out of control off the field, but on the field they on fire after their 13-7 victory over the Ravens on this past Thursday.

McNeal is seventh Bengal to be arrested - Fox Sports
Bengals rookie WR Reggie McNeal arrested in Houston - USA Today

Tony Gonzalez Comments On Kellen Winslow, Jr.'s Mouth

2006-12-01T17:13:00.000-05:00

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez has had about enough of Cleveland Browns' tight end Kellen Winslow, Jr. and his ego. Gonzlalez, who hasn't said much of anything about himself or his abilities in the past comments on Winslow and his mouth:

“I had heard all the rumors about him that he was real cocky, but he wasn’t that way at all,” Gonzalez said. “So I guess I was kind of surprised when he came out and said that stuff. Maybe he’s challenging himself and trying to bring the best out of himself. I think he’ll realize this later: You can talk all you want, but you’ve got to get it done on the field.

“I’m from the old-school way. I learned from guys like Warren (Moon) and Marcus (Allen). You don’t have to say all of that stuff. Study the great ones. They don’t have anything to say like that. Some of these guys, they’re into self-promotion. Look what happened. It got them into the limelight and people know them.

“That’s just not the way I want to get people to know me. I’d rather they notice that for themselves.”

Gonzalez is currently fourth in receptions by a tight end this season behind Winslow, Antonio Gates of the Chargers, and Todd Heap of the Ravens.

Winslow has made comments stating that he is better at 90% than any other tight end in the league.

Gonzalez who pretty has pretty much owned the tight end position for the past decade is the staple that many tight ends in the league are to compare to. You would think that Winslow would look up to him rather than run his mouth, but that's Winslow's style and were sure more will spew out as his career continues.

Browns' Winslow Amuses Chiefs' Gonzalez - Kansas City Star

Pujols Is Salty That He Didn't Win The NL M.V.P.

2006-11-30T07:20:00.000-05:00

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols feels he should have won the National Leage Most Valuable Player Award over Ryan Howard of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Apparently he feels that the M.V.P. should only be won by a player who's team makes the playoffs.

"I see it this way: Someone who doesn't take his team to the playoffs doesn't deserve to win the MVP."

Pujols did hit .331/49HR/137RBI's this season while leading the Cardinals to their first World Series title since 1982.

The voting is done prior to the playoffs so it could be done, but to think that just because a players team didn't make the playoffs couldn't become the M.V.P. isn't quite the answer. In this case someone should tell Joe Girardi that he's not Manager of the Year in the N.L. because the Marlins didn't make the playoffs.

Looks as if Pujols is just a little bitter that he lost the award. He did have the numbers, but couldn't obtain his second straight award this year.

One Man's Opinion - SI.com

R.I.P. Johnnie Bettis

2006-11-29T06:37:00.000-05:00

The father of former Steelers Running Back Jerome Bettis has died. According to a spokesman for the former Steeler, Johnnie Bettis suffered a heart attack while he was driving in suburban Detroit late this afternoon. Bettis was found slumped over the wheel of his car. No one else was in the car with him at the time; and the spokesperson says Bettis was not involved in an accident.Bettis had no history of heart problems; and the spokesman says his death was completely unexpected. KDKA

Ben Wallace Is Realizing The Bulls Own Him And The Way He Dresses On The Court

2006-11-28T17:19:00.000-05:00

The Chicago Bulls apparently have a "no headband policy" and that is a separate policy from the NBA. Yes the NBA has a dress code on wristbands and that they can't be worn too high up on the forearm or a player will be fined.

Wallace who signed a 4 year/$60 million contract this offseason to join the Bulls, was benched this past Saturday because he was wearing a red headband during the game. This is a rule that was made by Bulls GM John Paxson, because he apparently didn't like the fact that the Bulls were wearing them under then GM Jerry Krause.

"It’s not meant in any way to stifle anybody’s individuality or creativity," Paxson said. "It was just simply part of a structure we were trying to create."

You have to wonder was he benched because of the headband or was it because he's averaging 5.5 ppg and 9.2 rebounds a contest all while the Bulls defense is worse than when he arrived. Or is it because Wallace has, according to media sources, not been happy with the Bulls on other issues since arriving and now Bulls management is fed up and this latest incident was the straw that broke the camel's back?

"I knew that we weren't allowed to wear the headbands," Wallace said. "If you know the rules and break them, you expect to be punished. I can't try to put myself above the team or anybody else and wear a headband like I did. I'm man enough to take the punishment. But I'm not sorry."

Has the NBA has gone overboard with this whole dress code thing? It's nice that they have to travel and sit on the bench when they are injured in a suit. However, to dictate whether a player can wear a wristband/headband or not is a bit harsh. The NBA should be more concerned about the basketball product that it puts on the floor than policing headbands and wristbands.

Ben Wallace is learning a thing or two about being the highest paid player on a team now. As well as the Bulls pretty much have control over their $60 million man.

Wallace: I'm Not Sorry - Chicago Tribune
Bulls downplay benching Wallace for wearing headband - Rocky Mountain News

Amato Done As N.C. State Coach

2006-11-27T07:12:00.000-05:00

Chuck Amato was fired yesterday as head coach of the North Carolina State Football Program.

"No Wolfpack fan can question the excitement and enthusiasm that Chuck Amato brought to the N.C. State football program when he came here in 2000,"Athletic Director Lee Fowler said. "However, because the results on the field in two of the last three seasons have fallen far below where we feel our program should be at this point, we have decided to take the program in a new direction."

Amato had a 47-39 record with N.C. State in during his tenure, but was 25-31 in A.C.C. play and never finished above fourth place.

This should pose an interesting question, who will replace Amato? It's looking more and more like Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach Bill Cowher. He purchased a home in North Carolina, his wife is a former women's basketball player and alumni of N.C. State, he has no contract after this season with the Steelers, and he's said he wants to see his youngest daughter play once she is out of high school. All the cards seem to be in a row for him to take over, I'm sure N.C. State would love to have him and with the money that college coaches are making these days, many NFL coaches have made the transition to the college rankings.

This season the Wolfpack finished 3-9, losing their last seven games of the year and a 21-16 loss at Carter-Finley Stadium to East Carolina.

Also fired was Alabama coach Mike Shula, one season after the Crimson Tide finished 10-2 last season, but finished a disappointing 6-6 this season.

Shula, a former Alabama quarterback, was winless in four tries against Auburn, his team's biggest rival. The Tigers beat the Crimson Tide 22-15 on Nov. 18, leaving Shula to answer questions about his job security.

Shula finished 26-23 during his brief stint at Alabama.

Wolfpack coach fired one day after seventh straight loss - CBS Sportsline
Shula dismissed as head coach of Crimson Tide - CBS Sportsline

Since When Was Nick Lachey A USC Fan?

2006-11-26T11:28:00.000-05:00

Must have happened when he started dating Vanessa Minnillo, Lachey from Ohio has been seen cheering on his Cincinnati Bearcats. Has he become a front runner, and will he go against his home state Buckeyes to please his lady friend if USC plays Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl? Weak!

It has come to our attention that he did attend USC for 1 year only, but did go closer to home to attend Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

Tiki's Torched, Coughlin Counters

2006-11-25T19:40:00.000-05:00

Other than saying the Wednesday night meeting went well, Barber refused to discuss it just two days before the Giants (6-4) were to play the Titans (3-7) in Tennessee. He also defended his decision to talk after being limited to 27 yards on 10 carries.

"You guys ask me questions and I tell you the truth," said Barber, whose 998 yards was the fourth best in the league heading into this week's action. "I tell you what's on my mind. I think if I said anything other than the truth, that would compromise who I am and that would be doing you guys a disservice."

Coughlin isn't a big fan of players going to the media.

Barber did it in the playoffs last year, saying the team was outcoached in a 23-0 playoff loss to Carolina.

Read the Story, SI.com

West Virginia Loses To South Florida in Morgantown

2006-11-25T18:52:00.000-05:00

For all of the Big East Football Conference lovers out there, it's official. The conference isn't what it was cracked up to be prior to the Louisville-West Virginia matchup weeks ago.

Why? Rutgers gets blown out by Cincinnati, now West Virginia, which many deemed as having the most potent offense in the country, with Pat White and Steve Slaton, bows down to South Florida. Let's give the Bulls some credit though, they did come into the game 7-4 and 3-3 in the Big East, it's not like they were Temple.

South Florida completely shut down Steve Slaton, holding him to only 43 yards on the ground today. That's 115 yards below his season average per game. West Virginia, just looked like the were in a haze today, and the outcome was a 24-19 loss. Not only that but USF held West Virginia without a first half touchdown, which no team had done in 17 straight games vs. the Mountaineers.

"That's the worst our offense has played all year. Some of our best runs today, we're losing yards," said West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez.

West Virginia will still have to play Rutgers next week, which could be their third loss of the season if they don't prevail, tough for a team that had a many gave a longshot to get into the BCS, even with their loss to Louisville.

West Virginia Stunned By South Florida - Tampa Bay Tribune

USC vs. Notre Dame For All The Marbles

2006-11-25T14:54:00.000-05:00

Tonight, USC takes on Notre Dame at The Colisseum in Los Angeles.

This game is huge for both programs. Notre Dame can spoil USC's National Title hopes with a victory and Brady Quinn and revenge his three previous losses to the Trojans.

While USC with a victory tonight and next weekend vs. rival UCLA can potentially move ahead of Michigan in the BCS rankings to take on Ohio State for the National Title in the Fiesta Bowl.

SportsRx choice tonight, USC, it's just too tough for the Irish to go into Southern Cal and grab a victory, yes Notre Dame is hot right now, with winning streak after the Michigan debacle. USC has the home crowd, title game hopes and Pete Carroll on their sideline, who's taken his team down this road before. Nothing against Weis and the Irish, but they don't have enough to do it this year.

USC 35, Notre Dame 24

Below is the recap of the final drive that orchestrated by Matt Leinart and USC that did in Notre Dame last season.

Big Shock, Not Really: Larry Coker Shown The Door By The Hurricanes

2006-11-24T11:56:00.000-05:00

No surprise here, Larry Coker has been given his walking papers by The University of Miami.

Coker was informed of the decision by athletics director Paul Dee early Friday. Coker has three years remaining on a contract that pays him nearly $2 million annually, and the school will owe him between $2.4 million and $3 million in a buyout.

Coker had a 59-15 record, a winning percentage of nearly 80 percent, and won a national championship in 2001 and played for another title the following season.

Miami barely salvaged a .500 season this year with a win last night over Boston College putting the 'Canes at 6-6 for the 2006 season. Not only were the 'Canes unsuccessful on the field, there were several distractions this season, including the on field brawl with Florida International, the shocking and tragic death of defensive lineman Brian Pata, and the mere appearance that Coker had lost complete control of his program.

Will Coker ever coach again, he is 58 years old and did have some success with the Hurricanes, although it was mostly with former coach Butch Davis' talent. Who will be next in line, will it be Rutgers Coach Greg Schiano? South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier? Does anyone want to touch a program in such shambles at the moment. We shall see.

Coker fired by Miami after .500 season - ESPN

Coker Must Go - These people finally got their wish

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T11:39:00.000-05:00

Today's the day we jam as much food as we possibly can in our stomachs, have a few beers, and sit down and watch some meaningless NFL football games.

Don't get us wrong, it's nice to see our families and eat some bird. But it will be interesting to see what puts us to sleep first the turkey or the football games on today.

Below are the games that will be on today in the NFL:

Miami @ Detroit - 12:30 PM on CBS
Tampa Bay @ Dallas - 4:15 PM on Fox

Game that people who only have NFL Network, which we do not:

Denver @ Kansas City - 8:00 PM

We would like to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving.

'72 Miami Dolphins Still Celebrating Or Are They?

2006-11-23T11:24:00.000-05:00

With the Indianapolis Colts losing this past weekend, the '72 Dolphins can continue to parade their undefeated season, the only one in NFL history of course.

Nick Buoniconti says it's ''preposterous'' how some people nationally believe the undefeated '72 Dolphins get together as a team to celebrate the last unbeaten team losing. Buoniconti says there has been no toast since Indianapolis lost Sunday and there won't be one until Dick Anderson joins the Dolphins Honor Roll Dec. 3.

Most years, Buoniconti said only he and Anderson do a toast. ''I know guys like Jim Rome criticize us,'' Buoniconti said. ''Why is there so much animosity toward the '72 team?'' His response to Rome? ''Hey pal, stick it in your [behind].''

Nice way to show a little class, yes the '72 Dolphins were the only undefeated team and as we all know it's not an easy thing to do. However, one must admit, the NFL has so much parity these days that there will most likely never be another undefeated team, never say never, but the odds are definitely stacked against it.

Orange Bowl selection committee has tough task choosing a team - Miami Herald

Torpedo Deep-sixed Swimming Career

2006-11-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

Five-time Olympic champion Ian Thorpe (a.k.a. "the human torpedo") retired from competitive swimming Tuesday at the age of 24, saying breaking records "wasn't as inspiring as it should have been."

Thorpe, who held a news conference at a hotel in Sydney, Australia, said he decided at "2:53 on Sunday afternoon" not to swim at next year's world championships in nearby Melbourne and to end his pro swimming career.

"None of my goals included breaking any more world records. I knew how to do it, but it wasn't as inspiring as it should have been."

Thorpe, who won five Olympic gold medals and 11 world titles, did not entirely rule out a comeback.

Source

Life Saving Sack

2006-11-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

Washington quarterback Johnny DuRocher was knocked out of their November 11th game against Stanford with a concussion. The concussion was considered severe enough to have DuRocher transported to the UW Medical Center for further observation. What the doctors found was a lot more than a simple concussion.

"They found a tumor the size of a golf ball," DuRocher told Dawgman.com Sunday night. The week after the Stanford game, he ended up having three CAT scans, as well as an MRI, and did not travel for Washington's final regular-season game against Washington State on November 18th.

DuRocher will have surgery to remove the tumor on November 30th. The tumor is not expected to be cancerous in nature. The fourth-year junior is done playing football, but it sounds like he could be cleared for baseball if the surgery is successful.

Source

Looks Like The Red Sox Really Are Serious About Signing Matsuzaka

2006-11-22T09:28:00.000-05:00

The Red Sox have until Dec. 15 to ink Matsuzaka to a contract after they paid $51.11 million to the Lions to acquire exclusive negotiating rights with Matsuzaka.

It appears that they are serious about signing him now, at first most thought that the Sox just put in the highest bid, knowing they would get their money back if a deal was not struck, to stop the Yankees from signing him.

“I have a feeling I want to come (to Boston) next season and I hope I can be (in Boston) in a good environment,” Matsuzaka told Japanese reporters in Los Angeles after his weekend dinner with top Red Sox brass at chairman Tom Werner’s house.

Matsuzaka also toured the Nike Facilities in Beaverton, Oregon and attended a Laker game. This looks positive for Boston Fans that they may get a deal done, we will see in the next three weeks.

Matsuzaka Likes Sox First Pitch - Boston Herald
Red Sox Offer $51.1 Million To Negotiate For Matsuzaka - SportsRx

Morneau Locks Up AL M.V.P.

2006-11-22T08:46:00.000-05:00

Justin Morneau of the Minnesota Twins yesterday won his first AL M.V.P Award narrowly over Yankee shortstop Derek Jeter.

Morneau had stellar numbers (.321/34HR/130RBI) on a Twins team that was overshadowed by it's pitching staff. The Twins had the best record in baseball during the second half of the season but were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Oakland A's.

But was Jeter more deserving of the award? Jeter's batted .343, had 18HR and 97 RBI's and won a Gold Glove Award, on a Yankee team that was banged up all season and Jeter pretty much carried the Yankees to a division title and to the playoffs.

The questions should be raised. Would the Twins have made the playoffs without Morneau and would the Yankees have made the playoffs without Jeter?

Both are deserving of the award, but has the MVP award strayed away from awarding the "Most Valuable Player" to awarding the "Best Player". Surely Morneau had the best stats offensively, but Jeter's leadership and the way he carried his team could have made him more "valuable". Congratulations to Justin Morneau.

Morneau Wins MVP Over Jeter In A Close Vote - N.Y. Times

Urban Meyer Fuming Over New BCS Rankings

2006-11-20T18:48:00.000-05:00

Florida coach Urban Meyer is sounding off about the BCS standings and his reaction to the potential for a Ohio State vs. Michigan rematch for the BCS National Title.

''If they do that [rematch], there should be a playoff system next year,'' Meyer said Sunday. ``I think if that [rematch] happens, I think it's over. All the presidents would need to get together immediately and put in a playoff system -- like now!''

''I think that would be unfair to Ohio State and I think it would be unfair to the country. I don't believe [a rematch] is the right thing to do,'' Meyer said. ``You're going to tell Ohio State that they have to beat the same team twice and that is extremely difficult. I think they had their chance. Someone else should have a chance to go get No. 1.''

When asked if Michigan wins the potential rematch would it be ludicrous, Meyer responded:

'Absolutely [there would be no national champion]. If I'm Ohio State I go get a bunch of rings and say, `We won the national championship.' That's not right,'' Meyer said.

It's damn near impossible to beat a team twice in the same season especially back to back. The point should be raised, should a team that doesn't even win their conference be allowed to play in the national title game? Isn't the BCS supposed to be the best teams from the BCS conferences along with an at-large team. Are the computers even working?

On the other hand, you have to think Meyer is fighting for his Gators to get in the championship, but at this point they will have their hands full with SEC West Champs, Arkansas.

This point will be irrevelant if USC takes care of Notre Dame, which will be no small feat, and UCLA.

BCS Rankings Perplex Gators - Miami Herald
College Football Fans Show Their Thoughts On The BCS - SportsRx

MLB Agents That Have Players On The Market Should Be Licking Their Chops

2006-11-20T18:01:00.000-05:00

Well the Chicago Cubs finally decided to pony up some big money this off-season and sign some free agents.

Today the Cubs signed former, Yankee, Ranger, and National, Alfonso Soriano to an 8 year/$136 million contract, which is the fifth largest in MLB History.

But is Soriano worth it? Yes he did hit 46 home runs and steal 41 bases last year for the lowly Nationals', while driving in 95 RBI's with a .277 average. But Soriano will be 31 in January. That might not mean much in the first few years of his contract, but look at the back end. The Cubs will be paying him almost $18 million a year when he is 37 or 38 years old.

This is following up last weeks resigning third baseman Aramis Ramirez to a 5 year/$75.

We must say we would never have thought the Cubs would shell out this type of jack to Soriano or anyone at all for that matter. Current free agents should be salivating with a contract like this being completed this early in the off season. Look for other large contracts to follow if this is a sign of the times in the 2006-2007 free agent market.

Cubs Splash Out For Star Soriano - BBC Sport

McNabb and Rodgers Down For The Count

2006-11-20T17:24:00.000-05:00

The Eagles took a significant blow yesterday when they lost Donovan McNabb to an ACL injury during their 31-13 loss to the Titans. They say it could be anywhere from eight months to a year until McNabb sniffs the field again.

"It's an unfortunate thing," said Jeff Garcia, who replaced McNabb. "Donovan is a competitor, a leader and he was having a great season. He'll be missed."

Were pretty sure Garcia isn't disappointed by this one. Although he probably didn't want McNabb to go down this way, he's surely happy to be playing. It appears that the Eagles can begin packing their bags for the end of the season now.

Another note Aaron Rodgers, backup for Brett Favre in Green Bay, finally get's his shot as Favre went down with and elbow injury early during yesterdays game. You would like to see the guy who's supposed to be the future for the Packers take full advantage. Unfortunately, he ends up breaking his foot and is done for the season. Tough break for Rodgers.

That's Gonna Hurt - CNN/SI

Packer Rodgers Breaks Foot - Yahoo Sports

Rutgers Takes One On The Chin From The Bearcats

2006-11-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

Last night proved that the hype on Rutgers will now come to an end. The 30-11 beat down they took in Cincinnati just took another undefeated team off the list.

With Ray Rice being shutdown by the Bearcats defense Rutgers quarterback Mike Teel needed to do something and put the team on his back to victory. He didn't exactly do that either, for the first three quarters of the game he ended up being 12-26 for 86 yards and 4 interceptions.

"It's so hard to be at your best each week, and we weren't at our best tonight," coach Greg Schiano said.

Last night Rutgers looked like the Scarlet Knight teams of the past and with a matchup vs. West Virginia coming up, it could only get worse for them. While it is hard to be at your best, even if the Knights would have played half as good as they've played all year, they may have had a chance to win.

Cincinnati 30, Rutgers 11

Ohio State Silences Doubters

2006-11-19T12:44:00.000-05:00

We ran a poll the last week on the Ohio State-Michigan battle and found that 71% of people felt that Michigan would go into Ohio State and defeat the Buckeyes. Apparently the consensus was wrong.

Our heads still hurt, probably from the number of beers we drank and our ears are still ringing from the celebration that happened yesterday in Columbus, as Ohio State defeated Michigan 42-39 in a long battle last night at Ohio Stadium.

Will there be a rematch? Who knows, with USC winning big against Cal and if they roll Notre Dame next week, Ohio State will likely play USC it would appear. Is Michigan the second best team in the nation still? Probably, but does anyone really want to see a rematch besides Michigan fans?

Interestingly enough at the postgame news conference Michigan RB Mike Hart was saying how he didn't see anything special about the Ohio State defense and he wasn't impressed by them. However, wasn't it Michigan's Defense that was tops in the nation and not Ohio State? Yes, Ohio State was the leader in defensive points scored but they certainly didn't have the defensive line that UM possessed. The Wolverines were putting a lot of pressure on Troy Smith, but at times it appeared that Smith was standing back there for a while maybe having a sandwich, waiting for his receivers to get open.

There will be some interesting questions that will loom in the upcoming weeks. It could all work itself out if USC and Florida don't take care of their business. Then there will surely be another matchup.

UM Would Welcome Rematch

Bo Schembechler Passes At Age 77

2006-11-17T12:41:00.000-05:00

One day prior to one of the biggest showdowns in the history of the Ohio State/Michigan rivalry, former University of Michigan Coach Bo Schembechler passes away. He collapsed this morning during a show taping in a studio in Michigan. Schembechler has had heart trouble in the past, including two heart attacks and quadruple bypass surgery.

According to WXYZ-TV in Detroit, Schembechler was preparing for the taping of the "Big Ten Ticket" show at the studio on Friday morning when he collapsed. He was taken to Providence Hospital in Southfield and later died. He was 77 years old.

During his 21-year tenure at Michigan that ended after the 1989 season, Schembechler posted a 194-48-5 record. His teams won or tied for 13 Big Ten championships. In his 27-year coaching career, he posted a mark of 234-65-8.

Regardless if you are a fan of Michigan, Ohio State or any other football program you have to have total respect for Bo. The man is a true legend and made a significant impact on college football.

Source

Pitt Kick Returner Revis Gets By With A Little Help From His Blockers

2006-11-17T11:52:00.000-05:00

This punt return could arguably be the best we've seen in a long time, if ever.

With all the talk about how great Steve Slaton and Pat White are for West Virginia, this return was the most exciting play of the whole game. Pitt lost 45-27 to West Virginia but watch the block by Derek Kinder that opens the way for Darrell Revis to take it 73 yards for 6. Revis definitely did a lot of work on his own to get in in for the TD. A truly unbelievable play.

3

Chocolate Milk.....It's What's In You

2006-11-17T06:50:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't like a big glass of chocolate milk once in a while? A group of scientists found out that it could be the best thing out there for today's athletes, no not Gatorade, Powerade, Vitamin Water, or even H2O, that's right chocolate milk.

A study was conducted at Indiana University on a few athletes to prove this theory.

The small group of fit athletes who took part in the study were asked to work out strenuously on a stationery bicycle, then drink low-fat chocolate milk, a fluid-replacement drink like Gatorade and a carbohydrate replacement drink like Endurox R4. A few hours later, they were asked to cycle again until they reached exhaustion.

The athletes that drank the chocolate milk had around 50% better endurance than those on the energy drinks, hmm, then why were we always told to lay off the chocolate milk as a kid, cause it's bad for you?

"My way of explaining it is, there's really nothing magic about the powder in a can that you mix with water," cycling coach Scott Saifer said of the carbohydrate drink. "It's water, carbs, proteins, maybe minerals and electrolytes. What's in chocolate milk? The same thing. There's no reason it shouldn't be as good for recovery as a carb drink."

Ladies and Gents, it appears that you should now buy your favorite childhood drink instead of what the pro athletes tell you to drink. It will be interesting to see which if any professional athlete will land a sponsorship from this one.

Read Full Article

Lloyd Carr and Jim Tressel Showing The Love

2006-11-16T20:59:00.000-05:00

With the biggest game of the entire football season going down on Saturday in Columbus, which is sure to be a barnburner, it looks like Jim Tressel and Lloyd Carr aren't exactly shall we say buddies.

Both coaches are so intense about the rivalry that they don't appear to be friends. It may be because this game can make or break each coaches career at their respected schools.

It sure did the same for former Buckeye coach John Cooper, who was deemed an "outsider" of the Buckeye program since he was never a coach at the Ohio State University and many felt he didn't understand how important this rivalry really was to everyone associated with it.

It could be the same for Carr, though he's been with the Michigan program for years and is Bo's guy, if he takes an L on Saturday in this bitter rivalry, many will question whether he truly is the man for the Michigan program, getting them oh so close, but no cigar.

"I think we’ve always had an extremely professional relationship," Carr said of Tressel. "But I do think that the rivalry is so intense … sometimes you have closer friendships than others. I don’t think you’re going to see the Ohio State and Michigan coach going to parties together."
Former Michigan coach Bo Schembechler said of the two, "I don’t think they’re friends."

Friends or no friends it's all going to come out on the field in two days and we will see which undefeated team can take their show to the National Championship. In fact, it only fuels the rivalry when the relationship is this way, who says they have to hang out and have beers together? This is what the last game of the season for both of these teams is supposed to be all about.

Source

Kirk Herbstreit Calls Steve Breaston "Worthless"

Portis Put On The Shelf For The Remainder of Season

2006-11-16T08:05:00.000-05:00

As if no one could tell that the Redskins season was over after last weeks loss, it only seems to get worse. With an adjustment at quarterback, Jason Campbell replacing Mark Brunell, now RB Clinton Portis is done for the year.

Portis, who was placed on the injured reserve list yesterday after having surgery to repair a broken bone in his right hand Monday, will undergo additional surgery soon to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, which was partially dislocated on the opening drive of the preseason.

"You know in football you're going to have nicks and bruises, and it's only a matter of time" until a serious injury arises, Portis said. "If you play long enough, it's going to happen. If I ran out of bounds every play I'm sure I'd be a lot happier, but at the same time I'd be getting bashed for running out of bounds. You can't win in this situation. It's going to happen, and my time is going to come to an end one day, eventually. And before it does I want to get the most out of this game, and if my carries pile up, I'm going to have the opportunity to walk away on top of this game with money."

Portis is only 25 and with a full recovery we are sure he will be back to dominating the league next season. We are just going to miss his postgame newsconferences.

Source

Red Sox Offer $51.1 Million to Negotiate For Matsuzaka

2006-11-15T17:37:00.000-05:00

The figures are finally out and they are pretty obscene for the cost it will take to negotiate with Japanese Baseball pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka to play in the U.S .

The fact that is more amazing is that this guy will only pitch every five games and on top of that hasn't faced the caliber of hitting that he faces today in Japan.

To spend $51.1 million on a player that is this unproven to just negotiate a contract. This should be a good look as to how the free agent contracts will go this off-season. Through the roof!

"I was very surprised when I heard the figure," the 26-year-old said Wednesday before flying to the United States. "It shows that they really appreciate my ability. I know there will be a lot of pressure, but that's something I'm used to and something I enjoy."

But not as surprised as we are.

Is this a sign of desperation for the Red Sox, that they are willing to throw this much jack at a guy to just simply negotiate? Yes they get it back if he doesn't sign but that's a ton of money for someone who a pitcher who is unproven against MLB talent.

"We have long admired Mr. Matsuzaka's abilities and believe he would be a great fit with the Red Sox organization," Boston general manager Theo Epstein said at the general managers' meetings in Naples, Fla. "Clearly, we believe Mr. Matsuzaka is a real talent."

No kidding, but are you going to give him an Alex Rodriguez contract or are you just trying to hold him from the Yankees? Only time will tell.

Source

Kobe Bryant Being Hit With Lawsuit

2006-11-15T17:06:00.000-05:00

Los Angeles Laker Kobe Bryant is being sued by an Arkansas man, who claims the Los Angeles Lakers star deliberately elbowed him during a Memphis Grizzlies' game last year.

Bill Geeslin sat in the stands when the Lakers played in Memphis last Nov. 14. His three-page federal lawsuit filed Tuesday claims that Bryant came off the court during play, landed on Geeslin and "without provocation" committed assault and battery when he struck Geeslin with his elbow.

Geeslin claims seeks more than $75,000 in damages for unspecified injuries that required medical attention.

We're sure that this fan did nothing to provoke Bryant if in fact he did elbow him on purpose which remains to be seen. It's amazing to see that people will file lawsuits on anything at all in the U.S. What did it slip their mind to do it say 9 months ago, or did they file suit when he realized he might actually have to pay a medical bill? The lawsuit comes a year and a day after the incident occurred.

Source

Testaverde Back In The NFL

2006-11-15T16:43:00.000-05:00

It's only been about 20 years and 261 interceptions (35 in 1988) later since Vinny Testaverde entered the league with the lowly Buccaneers in 1987.

Well, the New England Patriots are looking for a veteran who has a ton of experience but no rings to help mentor a three time Super Bowl Champion and Super Bowl MVP Tom Brady and get him through his current funk.

The Patriots have lost two games in a row and Vinny will most likely be the third string QB. Belichick and Testaverde have a long history together with their days in Cleveland and New York Jets. Testaverde had a workout with the Pats back in late September but apparently nothing surfaced from it until yesterday. Will this guy ever hang it up for good? You have to wonder if he will have any skills at all, if injuries should start to happen in New England.

Testaverde's Career Stats

Minor League Hockey Player Booted

2006-11-15T16:23:00.000-05:00

We are not huge hockey fans as evidenced by our lack of posts on the sport. Nothing against the teams, players, organizations, coaches, etc...well maybe one player.

A Dayton Bombers hockey player was arrested Monday for soliciting sex from Warren County Cyber Crimes Task Force detectives posing as two 13-year-old girls on the Internet.

Daniel A. Knapp, 23, of Beavercreek was arrested after he arrived at Kd's Market, 4471 N. Ohio 48 in Clearcreek Twp.

Knapp, who told officers he wanted to be a kindergarten teacher someday, was charged with two counts of importuning and two counts of attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. If convicted, he could face up to four years in prison.

The Bombers released Knapp on Tuesday after learning of the charges. It's sad to think what really would have happened to this guy had he become a school teacher.

Source

Does The Media Loves To Hate Bobby Knight?

2006-11-14T11:43:00.000-05:00

The media is out against Texas Tech coach Bobby Knight again. This time for pushing up the chin of one of his players during the second half of their game in Lubbock, TX last night.

Television replays show Knight using his hand to push Texas Tech forward Michael Prince's chin during a timeout, as if to make him look the coach in the eye.

The player at the center of the latest uproar over Bob Knight says he had no problem with his coach's actions during Monday's game.

"It was nothing," Prince told the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. "He was trying to teach me and I had my head down, so he raised my chin up.

"He was telling me to go out there and don't be afraid to make mistakes. He said I was being too hard on myself."

Look, these days it appears that if you so much as lay a finger on a player, the media will be all over it. However, since Bobby Knight has such a past, you can't help but wonder if he's a target in this case. It's not like smacked him, or threw him down on the bench. If this were any other basketball program with a big time head coach would this issue be raised?

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Seriously Isiah Thomas, You Are Now A Coach, Act Like One

2006-11-13T17:40:00.000-05:00

Isiah Thomas in his playing days had a reputation of being a hard nosed, tough player. Now he's an NBA coach and seems to think he can still carry that attitude towards the players on the opposing teams. The latest events with San Antonio Spurs forward Bruce Bowen on Saturday showed us why.

Bowen accused Thomas of threatening him during the game, saying the coach said he would "break his neck." Thomas became upset because he felt Bowen was intentionally sticking his foot under Jamal Crawford as the Knick guard was leaving his feet to take a jump shot, a tactic that Bowen has been accused of by Vince Carter and Ray Allen. Both Thomas and Bowen were called for technical fouls.

Thomas also shouted to his players that the "next time (Bowen) does that, break his --- foot."

The incident came one day after Thomas said before the Knicks-Rockets game how he would have reacted during his playing days if someone had used a similar method.

"I'd beat the --- out of somebody," Thomas said Friday. "Really, I would --- murder them. ... There's certain things you don't do."

Sure Bowen certainly does things during games that are questionable, but for a coach to say he was going to break his neck, that's going overboard.

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Houshmandzada Lit Up

2006-11-13T17:06:00.000-05:00

Below you will find the knockout hit laid by Chargers safety Marlon McCree yesterday in the Chargers 49-41 win over the Bengals. Just listen to the pop, it's an obvious pass interference call, but did McCree us his helmet, it doesn't appear so and will he be fined?

Are You Packin'? Most Pro Athletes Are

2006-11-10T11:32:00.000-05:00

It must be tough to be professional athlete today. You make millions of dollars, are adored by fans who want to talk to you, get your autograph or a picture taken. Apparently, many of them feel it's necessary to pack a little heat when they are off the court or field.

Shaq is know to be packin' so are many other American sports figures, including NBA stars Paul Pierce and Vince Carter, NFL standouts Edgerrin James, Marvin Harrison, and Daunte Culpepper, and New York Yankee pitcher Carl Pavano, according to players and a Globe review of concealed weapon permits in states where the names of license holders are public record. Players and team officials estimated a vast majority of NBA and NFL athletes carry firearms -- legally or illegally -- and that the number of handgun owners among them has reached an all-time high.

"I would say about 90 percent of players in the league have guns to protect themselves," said New England Patriots receiver Jabar Gaffney, who holds a Texas license to carry a concealed weapon.

In the NBA, the figure "is closer to 100 percent than it is to 50 [percent]," said a team official who requested anonymity.

Now isn't it tough enough to raise kids these days? Most kids grow up idolizing professional athletes for their fame and fortune. Are these players sending the wrong message to the kids out there by carrying weopons on their person. Especially what would happen if these athletes were to get into an altercation with someone who is trying to rob or harm them?

"Fortunately, nobody has gotten killed" in recent years, said Boston Celtics center Theo Ratliff, who said he does not carry a firearm but has seen handgun ownership rise among NBA players during his 11 seasons in the league. "If something like that happens, it would put a big X on the situation."

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Paterno Will Not Be At The Stadium Against Temple

2006-11-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

Coming off a brutal hit on the sidelines last week and a torn ACL and broken leg against Wisconsin Joe Paterno will not be in attendance against Temple this weekend.

Heeding his doctor's advice, injured Penn State coach Joe Paterno will not be in the stadium tomorrow when the Nittany Lions play Temple at State College, Pa. -- missing his first game since 1977.

Paterno had missed only one game in his 41-year head-coaching career -- after his son, David, was involved in an accident. He also missed one game as an assistant in 1955 after his father died.

Paterno is hardcore, he wasn't exactly a model patient this week and has been extremely stir crazy in the hospital demanding to get out so he can go back to the sidelines for this weekends game. Many have questioned why he's still on the sidelines at 79 years old, well this should sum it up for you, he still has the fire in his belly to do the job. We're pretty sure if it was a team that other than Temple that Penn State was playing this week, Paterno would have to be carted on the field.

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Rutgers Fans Have Earned The Right To Go Crazy

2006-11-10T07:50:00.000-05:00

In case you were sleeping last night and didn't see the Louisville-Rutgers game last night, Rutgers made an 18 point comeback in the second half and to beat Louisville on a game winning field goal with less than 20 seconds left to win 28-25.

It's nice to see a football program who was the laughing stock of college football show some life and have a dream season like Rutgers with it's 9-0 record. The stadium looked surreal last night and it was hard to believe you were watching a Rutgers football game. We, like most thought Rutgers would rollover last night on the spotlight, we were wrong.

Rutgers Shocks Louisville

Someone Tell John Daly To Stop Shelling Out Rings

2006-11-09T17:52:00.000-05:00

We are huge fans of PGA Professional John Daly, but this has gotten out of control......

Two-time major champion John Daly and his wife have filed for divorce, four months after she finished serving a federal sentence involving finances from an alleged drug and gambling ring.

Mrs. Daly pleaded guilty in November 2004 to a charge of conspiracy to structure a transaction to evade the reporting requirement. She began serving a five-month sentence Jan. 25, the day before Daly teed off in the Buick Invitational.

Daly's autobiography — "My Life In & Out of the Rough" — was released in May. He went into lurid detail about his gambling and drinking addictions, and he devoted one chapter to his three ex-wives that was titled, "All My Exes Wear Rolexes."

This will be divorce number four for Daly! There has to be a point in a man's life when he realizes that maybe he's better off to not being married. Let's hope for John Daly he's learned his lesson about being a married man. For all the stuff he's been through in his career, you have to feel for the guy, but someone stop him from giving out rings like Halloween candy.

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The Biggest Game In School History For Rutgers Tonight

2006-11-09T17:40:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that it's taken almost 100 years for a school that played in the first ever college football game, to have their biggest game in school history. Well, considering Rutgers football program history, it might not be that hard to believe.

Tonight host Louisville the only other team in the Big East who is undefeated. If Louisville wins, they could breeze to the conference title and a potential national championship bid, if they win out. For Rutgers, they would still have to face West Virginia along with winning out to win the conference title.

Who will it be tonight. Although we would like to see the underdog Scarlet Knights bring one home, it just looks like Louisville is too strong. Louisville 42-31.

George Steinbrenner Knows How To Handle Sheffield's Whining

2006-11-09T17:25:00.000-05:00

George Steinbrenner is no dummy when it comes to buying players to make a winning team. Apparently he's not going to talk to outfielder Gary Sheffield about his desire to stay in the pinstripes for the future.
Gary Sheffield said he's being blocked by "middle men" from speaking with Yankees owner George Steinbrenner about his desire to stay in New York and will comply with the team's request to form a list of clubs he'd prefer to be traded to.

Since Steinbrenner collapsed in public back in October, Sheffield feels that he is unable to reach out to Steinbrenner and his being blocked is because of his health issue.

"If it wasn't for his health, I'd have made that conversation happen, but my situation ain't worth that to me," Sheffield said, adding that "you've got middle men blocking him. ... They get in the way and their personal feelings get in the way."

Sheffield doesn't like the fact that he's being replaced by Bobby Abreu either, he had these words to say:

"He's a good player, but like I say, you can draw it up any kind of way, he ain't me, and that's the bottom line," Sheffield said. "I understood them having to make this move for the remainder of the season but ... I always was told that you leave because somebody's better than you, and I don't think that's the case here."

Well, it's seems like a done deal that Sheff, will not be in a Yankee uniform past this year even if they decide not to trade him. It's funny how this has made Sheffield look like a whiney, bitter, old player. Who knows where he'll land next season, whomever it may be, good luck.

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LeBron James Expresses His Feelings On The New NBA Basketball

2006-11-08T07:23:00.000-05:00

The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost two games in a row, to arguably two of the worst teams in the NBA, the Charlotte Bobcats and now the Atlanta Hawks last night. Before the game last night in Cleveland, LeBron sounded off on his thoughts on the new NBA ball and some of the new rules implemented by commissioner David Stern.

"It's not a good basketball, it kind of feels like a basketball you buy for your kids at Christmas or something."

"Sometimes it feels good, sometimes it doesn't, it's got no consistency."

"Sometimes you can grip it, and sometimes during the game it sticks to your hand," he said. "It won't bounce, it will just roll on you. I don't know why we can't get used to this ball. But it's just not good."

He feels that the ball is hindering how the game is being played everyday. We have to agree to change the foundation of the game by changing the feel of the basketball seems to be a bit extreme, not too many players seem to feel that the new ball is a positive change, if any at all feel that way.

"You can shorten our shorts, tell us how to wear wristbands, things like that. Change the dress code. But the one thing we care about is the basketball," he said. "When you start changing the thing we play with every single day, it doesn't make sense to me -- at all."

"Technicals are being thrown like Peyton Manning passes," James said. "You have to watch you say and me being an emotional player, I've always been passionate about the game. So I've got to be cool."

We're not sure if anyone caught the end of the game last night vs. the Atlanta, but James was so furious that with 8 seconds left on the clock, he pulled a Randy Moss and walked off the court in the middle of play towards the locker room. Of course, the Cleveland media who is all about James and walks on eggshells in fear that he will leave town on the drop of a hat, didn't mention one word of it.

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University of Miami DT Pata Shot and Killed

2006-11-08T07:12:00.000-05:00

As if the University of Miami hasn't gone through enough this season with their football program, a tragedy has now struck their program.

University of Miami defensive tackle Bryan Pata was shot and killed in the parking lot of his apartment building Tuesday night, about two hours after he left practice, school officials said.

Miami-Dade police were called to the scene of a shooting at the Colony Apartments, 9315 SW 77th Ave., at approximately 7:30 p.m. When officers arrived they found Pata a victim of multiple gunshot wounds.

Pata, a 6-4, 280-pound defensive tackle, had started all but one game this year, recording 26 tackles and two sacks. The converted defensive end had started 15 games in his four-year career and was on pace to finish the year with his best individual season, which prompted his stock to rise for April's draft.

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Three Tennessee Volunteers Busted

2006-11-07T07:26:00.000-05:00

Another case of college athletes gone wrong happened this weekend, this time in Knoxville, TN. Three Tennessee football players, including starting running back Arian Foster were arrested for disorderly conduct and underage drinking, after trying to drink off their loss to LSU this past weekend.

Coach Phillip Fulmer has disiplined the players for their actions:

Foster will be suspended for the first half of the Arkansas game on Saturday. Fullback David Holbert will be suspended for the entire game. And safety Antonio Wardlow will be suspended for the Arkansas game and the Vanderbilt game on Nov. 18.

Foster was arrested, and about 10 minutes later, police found Holbert and Wardlow in an altercation with each other outside, DeBusk said.

"The defendant was yelling and attempting to fight in the parking lot and street. The defendant squared off with another male and began to throw punches," according to the affidavit.

Holbert was advised of his rights and "admitted to drinking alcoholic beverages inside of Good Fellas," according to the report.

Wardlow was charged with public intoxication because he had an odor of alcohol, "slurred speech and an unsteady walk," police said.

What constitutes a one player from being suspended a half a game, a full game, and for two games. If we had to guess, it' s because of the amount they played before the incident. Foster is a starter, so it's as if the Vols, don't want to miss him from their lineup.....at least it appears that way. It appears that the extra public intoxication charge to Wardlow did him in and gained him the extra game suspension by Fulmer.

"The three young men who were arrested let their teammates, coaches, administration and great fans down," Fulmer said. "Their behavior is an example ... (of) when immature male ego mixes with alcohol and stupidity."

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No More Bottled Beers For Ohio State Students

2006-11-06T18:48:00.000-05:00

Prepping for what could be a national title deciding game vs. Michigan in a little less than two weeks. Columbus is preparing their United Dairy Farmers stores by only selling canned beer at their stores near The Ohio State University campus.

Three convenience stores near the Ohio State University campus have agreed to stop selling domestic beer in glass bottles through the end of the school year, at the university's request.

"Our students drink cheap beer, so the foreign beers are not a problem," he said. "You never see those bottles in the neighborhood."

"Beer bottles are lethal weapons when thrown empty, and cans don't hurt you, empty," Young said.

Really, not one?, that's let's see some data to back that up. Isn't that like saying that rich people only drink fine wine or the best scotch in the world? It is a known fact that college students drink Busch Light and Natural Light, but we're sure there are some kids out there with "silver spoons" at The Ohio State University who do choose to drink some quality beers. I guess they'll have to go away from campus to buy their beers. We feel bad for the hippies, that love their dank beers out of the bottles too.

It's well known that when the Buckeyes have beaten Michigan in the past it's been complete chaos on and near campus. We wouldn't expect things to change too much if they win their next two vs. Northwestern and Michigan.

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Sorry Cal Fans You Will Now Have To Pay To See Your Beloved Bears

2006-11-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

Many Cal football fans have watched their beloved Bears from an area located about the stadium called Tightwad Hill. Well, the university now wants to break a tradition that has been going on since 1920 with some new renovations to Memorial Stadium which would block the fans view of the game.

Fans are pissed:

"They're screwing with tradition from the 1920s," said Marc Gantz, 51, a Berkeley native who has been watching games on the hill since he was in elementary school. "How can they not have the foresight?"

The history behind Tightwad Hill is as follows:

In the early 1920s, engineers excavated the rocky flanks of Strawberry Creek to make way for the stadium, and fans soon claimed the handiest ledges for watching games. Tightwad Hill was born.

Apparently when there is a winning season for the Cal Bears the hill will have about 300 fans hanging up there and during the rivalry vs. Stanford there are about 500 fans hanging out.

Well, we guess these fans will just have to buy some tickets to see their team just like the rest of college football fans out there. The world has lost another freebee, Cal football from Tightwad Hill.

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Larry Johnson Wins Madden 2007 Game vs. Chad Johnson

2006-11-03T16:23:00.000-05:00

We are big fans of Chad Johnson, if you can't already tell. But this is what makes him even cooler, he puts his money where his mouth is. He was fined $5,000 by the NFL for his "Ocho Cinco" name badge on the back of his jersey during warmups vs. Atlanta on Sunday. But now he has to pay a debt to Chiefs running back Larry Johnson when he lost in a Madden 2007 game 24-23.

As part of a new gaming show on MTV called “Settle the Score,” LJ played a game of “Madden 2007” against the Bengals’ Chad Johnson last week on the Internet (Xbox Live).

As the game progressed, Chad and Larry increased their wagers for each other from autographed footballs and memorabilia to their actual motorcycles and then finally to this: If Chad won, Larry would have to create a mini-Mohawk on his head and dye it Bengals orange; if Larry won, Chad would have to dye his blond Mohawk a Chiefs red.

LJ was in trouble late in the game, trailing 23-21 with 1 minute, 27 seconds left and the ball on his 20. But LJ methodically drove his team down to the 8 and delivered the game-winning field goal with 3 seconds left.

Chad honored his wager by immediately dying his Mohawk red, though he subsequently shaved it altogether after losing a bet last Sunday to the Falcons’ DeAngelo Hall.
LJ also apparently will be getting Chad’s motorcycle, which was to be shipped from Cincinnati to Kansas City.

The show premiers on MTV on November 13th.

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Louisville Dominates WVU

2006-11-03T08:10:00.000-05:00

In what many are deemed the biggest game in college football so far this season Louisville stomped West Virginia 44-34 on their home turf.

One question we have is where was West Virginia star running back Steve Slaton when he was needed in the 3rd quarter last night. Apparently he was nursing as wrist injury that was discovered after he was stripped 2 times in as many carries, leading to Louisville recoveries and the momentum shifter.

This was the biggest game of the season and his career. He needed man up, sure you've got a wrist injury, but many guys would suffer through it to give their team a fighting chance, especially when Slaton and QB Pat White are pretty much then entire offense.

Once Slaton was out of the game, Pat White just pretty much took snaps and started to run, even when he was trying to throw you knew he was going to run. It was predictable but still effective, but not enough to win the game.

With WVU out of the national title picture, Louisville travels to New Jersey to face an undefeated Rutgers team to keep their BCS hopes alive.

Winslow Running His Mouth Again, Should We Be Surprised?

2006-11-02T18:10:00.000-05:00

Looks like NFL Soldier Kellen Winslow, Jr. is up to his old antics. Looks like he's pretty charged up for the game against San Diego this weekend and had some choice words to say about his own play:

"When I looked on the schedule, I always knew I'd be back for this game,"

"I look at it as a heavyweight match. It's me vs. Gates," Winslow said Wednesday. "I want to be the best tight end out there, and I've got to go do it on Sunday. You know, Tony's right behind me, Gates is right behind me. So I've got to stay on top."

"I said I was the best. I am the best. And I'm going to prove it on Sunday," Winslow said.

Winslow acknowledged that he has not silenced his critics.

"Not at all," he attests. "You've got to keep going because when you play for the Browns, right now you don't get a lot of pub [publicity]. I don't even think they know what I'm doing. So I've got to prove it against a good team like the Chargers, [and] the Ravens. I've got to ball up."

"I've got all the respect for Gates. But my father, he's on a whole other level. He made the tight end position," Winslow said.

"I think I'm a different type of breed," Winslow continued. "I'm not really a tight end, I'm not really a receiver. I'm kind of a 'tweener. And they figure out ways to give me the ball. Tony's more big body, big frame, like my dad. I'm kind of in between."

Big words from a man who hasn't even played 10 NFL games. Nevermind the rest of the team, it's just Antonio and Kellen on the field on Sunday. Keep in mind the Browns have not won back to back games since 2003.

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We Guess The NBA Isn't Messing Around: Rasheed Wallace Ejected In Opener

2006-11-02T07:35:00.000-05:00

The Detroit Pistons lost their opener last night to the Milwaukee Bucks 105-97 at home. Rasheed Wallace was shown the door with an ejection during the game. Not surprising since he had 16 technicals last season, though considerably down from years past. It appears, however, NBA officials were setting an example to Wallace and others that they are taking the newly implemented rules very seriously.

Wallace, notorious for bantering with officials and reacting demonstratively to their calls, might have trouble adjusting to a new NBA point of emphasis.

He was called for a foul late in the first quarter. When he reacted with his eyes wide, mouth open in disbelief and his arms out at his sides, official Ken Mauer whistled him for a technical.

Official Luis Grillo ejected Wallace with a second technical after twice motioning -- with his finger across his neck -- for him to stop complaining about a call against teammate Mohammed.

Players are fined $1,000 for each of their first five technicals, an amount that increases by $500 for each five after that, capped by a $2,500 penalty for each one starting with the 16th. A one-game suspension also comes at that point and for every other technical thereafter.

Could we see a change in Sheed this year, when it comes down to the money, or will the Sheed continue to do his thing regardless of what the league says. Honestly, we think that Wallace should just go on doing what he does, it's certainly more entertaining regardless of what David Stern has to say.

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John L. Smith Will Not Return To Spartans Sidelines In 2007

2006-11-02T07:24:00.000-05:00

We can't say we're surprised by the move made by Michigan State yesterday. The firing of head coach John L. Smith after the program has seen little or no improvement during his tenure and his loss of control of his players. Smith lost to Illinois and Indiana this season, who have been the laughing stock of the Big Ten for the past decade. The Spartans have also lost 4 out of their last 5 games. You have to think the turning point of the season was their meltdown to Notre Dame.

"If we play the very best we can, and that's what we're going to do, hopefully we can get a reward," Smith said. "And if we go to a bowl game, which we're going to get done, we'll have a heckuva going-away party."

"I am going to, and the staff is going to, for the next whatever time we have left, enjoy being with these guys, enjoy going to the field, enjoy coaching them and enjoy spending time with them. I love these guys and I'm going to miss them. That's the hardest part about any of this -- leaving your kids."

He's melted down several time this season and if you see him on the sidelines he looks stressed and tired. The next coach will be the 5th in 12 years for MSU.

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We will miss classic moments like this from John L.: