Big games, big names, big fame for the winners, big blame for the losers. Ken Moll and Matt Williamson join the party.
-Can the Texans rebound at home? Vince Young is definitely a big part of that answer, I think the Titans can win with their defense and VY's mere presence in the game would envigorate the offense a whole lot more than Kerry Collins would. It's similar to what Steve McNair always did, no matter how banged up he was he still played and they won. That's what I expect tomorrow, Tennesse and the 1.5.
-Willis McGahee will run with abandon tomorrow and have a bigtime game in Buffalo. And Trent Edwards playing against the Ravens defense is a recipe for disaster for the Bills. Kyle Boller has been playing well as of late and Baltimore wins big.
-Can Adrian Peterson be stopped? Maybe not completely, but he can be slowed down to the point that Dallas could pull this one out with relative ease. They need to bounce back in a big way, and Tony Romo will be able to air it out with ease against a poor Vikings pass D. Dallas plus the 10, check please!
-Lions offense or Bucs defense? A big battle of explosive units do battle. Ken Moll puts it down:
"Sprung, This should be an interesting contest. I think Tampa has a great chance to come away with a road victory due to the balance and athleticism of the Buccs defense. Great game to watch."
Damn straight, this is gonna be a fantastic game, so I'm going to go with the home team.
-The Redskins have a fast and furious defense, and the Cards think they could drift into DC with Rattay/Hasselbeck? It could be close early because of Ken Whisenhunt's 3-4, but I'll take the Skins plus a touch.
-The Giants defense is on fire, playing Trent Dilfer won't help the Niners. Burress and Clements will be a really good matchup to watch but I'll go with NY plus the points.
-Byron Leftwich will need some adjustment time to get into the starting role for Atlanta, and New Orleans will roll over the hapless Falcons.
-New England+Miami=blowout.
-KC is rollin, and both the Chiefs and Raiders will play some smash mouth. It'll be low scoring, but I'm going with the talent and the Chiefs with the points.
-Cincy's D is awful, so Chad Pennington and the Jet offense has to break out, right Matt Williamson?
"Geez, you would think so, but these two teams just have so many problems. Gotta think that T Jones will have a more than respectable day on the ground and that the 2 WRs should have success getting open."
Pennington will probably throw picks, and the Bengals O will be too much.
-I have no trust in the Bears at all besides for Devin Hester. Gimme the Iggles.
-I don't trust Seattle or St Louis, so I'll take the Rams to cover.
-Pittsburgh easily downs Denver, Indy takes a close one over J-Ville.
Stubhub
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
Around The Majors- Friday Rapid Fire
Let's spit this quick. Fast and informative.
-Joe Torre elected to reject the Yankees' offer because the number of years was insulting and gave him no security, and he was upset at the incentive base of his contract offer. Torre is at peace with his decision.
-Nippon Ham Fighters manager Trey Hillman was hired as Royals skipper today, he was considered a dark horse for the Yankees job, because of his prior experience in the orginazation.
-Josh Beckett was simply sensational last night as the Red Sox forced a game 6 with a 7-1 win. Game 6 is tomorrow night with Curt Schilling facing Fausto Carmona.
-The Rockies submitted forms at the patent and copyright offices for the sole use of Rocktober. This is almost as rediculous as bringing in the opposing starters ex to sing the national anthem, or anything Manny Ramirez does.
-Dusty Baker will keep pitching coach Dick Pole on his staff, extending the immature laughs in Cincy for at least another season.
-Milwaukee declined the option on Corey Koskie, making him a free agent.
-Like a presidential race, every local paper is endorsing their candidate. The Newark Star-Ledger likes Bobby Valentine, Newsday likes Don Mattingly (as does Johnny Damon), and the New York Post wants Joe Girardi.
-The Chicago Tribune reports that Joe Torre could end up in St Louis if Tony LaRussa leaves the Cardinals. The New York Daily News says that he could go to the Dodgers.
-Joe Torre elected to reject the Yankees' offer because the number of years was insulting and gave him no security, and he was upset at the incentive base of his contract offer. Torre is at peace with his decision.
-Nippon Ham Fighters manager Trey Hillman was hired as Royals skipper today, he was considered a dark horse for the Yankees job, because of his prior experience in the orginazation.
-Josh Beckett was simply sensational last night as the Red Sox forced a game 6 with a 7-1 win. Game 6 is tomorrow night with Curt Schilling facing Fausto Carmona.
-The Rockies submitted forms at the patent and copyright offices for the sole use of Rocktober. This is almost as rediculous as bringing in the opposing starters ex to sing the national anthem, or anything Manny Ramirez does.
-Dusty Baker will keep pitching coach Dick Pole on his staff, extending the immature laughs in Cincy for at least another season.
-Milwaukee declined the option on Corey Koskie, making him a free agent.
-Like a presidential race, every local paper is endorsing their candidate. The Newark Star-Ledger likes Bobby Valentine, Newsday likes Don Mattingly (as does Johnny Damon), and the New York Post wants Joe Girardi.
-The Chicago Tribune reports that Joe Torre could end up in St Louis if Tony LaRussa leaves the Cardinals. The New York Daily News says that he could go to the Dodgers.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Around The Majors Special Report
I heard Steve Phillips and Buster Olney say that the Yankee ordeal would come to a close today, and they were correct. But this scenario wasn't the one with the big odds (I'm sure there were Vegas plays on this subject). The Yankees ultimately got their just desserts, as Joe Torre rejected the Yankees' 1 year, 5 million dollar offer to stay with the team, and New York will have to look for a new skipper for the first time since the fall of 1995.
"It's a difficult day," general manager Brian Cashman said.
But it didn't have to be. Torre took this offer as a slap in the face. Not only would he have had a pay cut, but worse than that he would have had virtually no job security with a 1 year offer with an option and 2 million bucks more kicking in if he led the Yankees to the World Series. Torre was obviously great for this franchise, having brought the winning atmosphere back to The Bronx starting in 1996 when New York won their first championship in 18 years; one of four titles and six American League pennants under his leadership. But team president Randy Levine put it best:
"It is now time for the New York Yankees to move forward,"
But in which direction? My Crossroads article from Sunday is beginning to come to fruition, and the next manager is easily the most important decision the team will make, because it will have a domino effect on some of the other player decisons. Door number one, is everyone's favorite first baseman and bench coach, Don Mattingly:
"Don is reserving comment, at this time, out of respect to Joe Torre," Mattingly's agent, Ray Schulte, told 1050 ESPN Radio New York.
Hopefully, the Yankees reserve their offer to "Donnie Baseball", whose nickname doesn't apply to the dugout in my mind. He has as much managerial experience than me, and even I coached a little high school softball. And don't give me that former hero, PR garbage. This is New York, we smell that BS from miles away. Joe Girardi is THE MAN for this job, bar none and I'll tell you why. Not only does he bring a no nonsense approach to the game, which the Yankees would likely want, he could hold the key to bringing back Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada. Girardi taught Posada everything he knows about Catching, and helped groom and mentor Posada for the starting role in which he has held to this day. Girardi was also Rivera's first ever major league catcher, and perhaps that relationship will cause Mo to reup. Tony LaRussa would be a bad fit, because he can't handle the New York media. If Girardi really doesn't want the job, 3rd base coach Larry Bowa would be an excellent candidate. But this day is really about Joe:
"This has been a great 12 years. Whatever the hell happens from here on out, I'll look back on these 12 years with great, great pleasure,"
It was 12 great years for everyone involved for the Yankees, and it'll be sad to see him go. But the team must move forward, as it continues to remain at a crossroads.
"It's a difficult day," general manager Brian Cashman said.
But it didn't have to be. Torre took this offer as a slap in the face. Not only would he have had a pay cut, but worse than that he would have had virtually no job security with a 1 year offer with an option and 2 million bucks more kicking in if he led the Yankees to the World Series. Torre was obviously great for this franchise, having brought the winning atmosphere back to The Bronx starting in 1996 when New York won their first championship in 18 years; one of four titles and six American League pennants under his leadership. But team president Randy Levine put it best:
"It is now time for the New York Yankees to move forward,"
But in which direction? My Crossroads article from Sunday is beginning to come to fruition, and the next manager is easily the most important decision the team will make, because it will have a domino effect on some of the other player decisons. Door number one, is everyone's favorite first baseman and bench coach, Don Mattingly:
"Don is reserving comment, at this time, out of respect to Joe Torre," Mattingly's agent, Ray Schulte, told 1050 ESPN Radio New York.
Hopefully, the Yankees reserve their offer to "Donnie Baseball", whose nickname doesn't apply to the dugout in my mind. He has as much managerial experience than me, and even I coached a little high school softball. And don't give me that former hero, PR garbage. This is New York, we smell that BS from miles away. Joe Girardi is THE MAN for this job, bar none and I'll tell you why. Not only does he bring a no nonsense approach to the game, which the Yankees would likely want, he could hold the key to bringing back Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada. Girardi taught Posada everything he knows about Catching, and helped groom and mentor Posada for the starting role in which he has held to this day. Girardi was also Rivera's first ever major league catcher, and perhaps that relationship will cause Mo to reup. Tony LaRussa would be a bad fit, because he can't handle the New York media. If Girardi really doesn't want the job, 3rd base coach Larry Bowa would be an excellent candidate. But this day is really about Joe:
"This has been a great 12 years. Whatever the hell happens from here on out, I'll look back on these 12 years with great, great pleasure,"
It was 12 great years for everyone involved for the Yankees, and it'll be sad to see him go. But the team must move forward, as it continues to remain at a crossroads.
Hockeytalk with Barry Melrose
A few questions with the ESPN analyst/mullet man with some news and views thereafter. Because some people need their hockey fix.
SprungOnSports -Is Ottawa the clear favorite in the East right now?
Barry Melrose- I'd say so. Pitsburgh has started slow, I like Carolina, but others don't look good. I don't think anyone can argue that they're not.
-No argument here. The Penguins and Rangers need to get back in gear, but the 'Canes look good in a seemingly mediocre Southeast.
SprungOnSports-Can Paul Stastny become the next great Avalanche superstar?
Barry Melrose-He's pretty good--comes from a hockey family, obviously has an immense talent and great work ethic. The Avalanche have some great young players along with him. Their future is very bright.
-He's only 21 and leads Colorado in points with 13. The Joe Sakic age is quickly turning into the era of Stastny and Ryan Smyth to go along with vets like Sakic, Brunette, and Hejduk. The present and future are bright for the Avs.
SprungOnSports-What will the Senators do with Ray Emery?
Barry Melrose-Same situation as the Ducks--you're never in a hurry to get rid of a good goaltender. It gives Emery more chances to get ready to play and a chance to get hungry to play. They can afford to pay him and not hurt the cap. They're very happy with that situation right now.
-Martin Gerber is having a huge start to the season along with the entire team, and you never know when a Goalie will be on the fritz, and then they'll have Emery to take his place. Two capable goaltenders are always better than one.
The Rangers need to get back on track, and will try to do so against an 0-6 Thrashers team that just fired their head coach Bob Hartley. Saturday on CBC, Chicago takes on Toronto, followed by Edmonton and Calgary. The Flames could possibly deal Alex Tanguay to Montreal for a package of people or possibly Alexei Kovalev, according to the Calgary Sun. Boston battles Montreal Monday on Versus, the Rangers battle the Penguins Tuesday on the same station, while Colorado takes on Edmonton Tuesday on TSN. The next night on TSN, Detroit takes on Vancouver.
SprungOnSports -Is Ottawa the clear favorite in the East right now?
Barry Melrose- I'd say so. Pitsburgh has started slow, I like Carolina, but others don't look good. I don't think anyone can argue that they're not.
-No argument here. The Penguins and Rangers need to get back in gear, but the 'Canes look good in a seemingly mediocre Southeast.
SprungOnSports-Can Paul Stastny become the next great Avalanche superstar?
Barry Melrose-He's pretty good--comes from a hockey family, obviously has an immense talent and great work ethic. The Avalanche have some great young players along with him. Their future is very bright.
-He's only 21 and leads Colorado in points with 13. The Joe Sakic age is quickly turning into the era of Stastny and Ryan Smyth to go along with vets like Sakic, Brunette, and Hejduk. The present and future are bright for the Avs.
SprungOnSports-What will the Senators do with Ray Emery?
Barry Melrose-Same situation as the Ducks--you're never in a hurry to get rid of a good goaltender. It gives Emery more chances to get ready to play and a chance to get hungry to play. They can afford to pay him and not hurt the cap. They're very happy with that situation right now.
-Martin Gerber is having a huge start to the season along with the entire team, and you never know when a Goalie will be on the fritz, and then they'll have Emery to take his place. Two capable goaltenders are always better than one.
The Rangers need to get back on track, and will try to do so against an 0-6 Thrashers team that just fired their head coach Bob Hartley. Saturday on CBC, Chicago takes on Toronto, followed by Edmonton and Calgary. The Flames could possibly deal Alex Tanguay to Montreal for a package of people or possibly Alexei Kovalev, according to the Calgary Sun. Boston battles Montreal Monday on Versus, the Rangers battle the Penguins Tuesday on the same station, while Colorado takes on Edmonton Tuesday on TSN. The next night on TSN, Detroit takes on Vancouver.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
The NFL's Best Kept Secret Position
-When kids grow up they want to be the next Peyton Manning, Joe Montana, Dan Marino and now Tom Brady. Kids want to be the next Barry Sanders, Walter Payton and now LT. If someone came over to me at this point in my life and asked me what NFL position I would want to play, I would, without thinking, say safety. Figure this, not only do safetys now record interceptions, but they get sacks too along with between 70 and 100 tackles a year. Plus the money bug seems to like them too. I really want to be a safety. Think of the names, Bob Sanders, Troy Palumalu, Adrian Wilson, Ed Reed, Kerry Rhodes, Brian Dawkins, Roy Williams, Rodney Harrison, Darren Sharper, Dhonte Whitner, Ken Hamilin. These are the marquee names in ther NFL. Even if you dont know anything about defensive players, you know at least five of these guys. They hit hard, they play hard, some are captains of their defenses and they are exciting to watch. I sat a whole game once admiring the art of playing safety. Its amazing how they read Quarterbacks like they are their childhood goodnight story. These are the guys who score high on their wonderlick tests, and now I know why.
- There is one safety that I did not mention above because he is the one I want to focus on this year. Every year there seems to be one safety that explodes, maybe two. Two years ago it was Ed Reed and Mike Brown of the Bears. Last year was Adrian Wilson and a little bit of Kerry Rhodes action. So far this year, Sean Taylor has been a beastly player for the 3-2 Redskins. His 19 tackles and 4 interceptions have been a key reason why this team is ranked 5th in total defense and 3rd in three catagories. Thats a true safety. Thsi team's success the rest of the year will rest on his shoulders because after Arizona, its the Pats, Jets, Eagels, Cowboys and Bucs. Thats 4 hard games out of 5. New England being the easy one of coarse. This is his breakout year and I am looking foward to watching him as he quietly makes his mark on the NFL.
Safetys To Keep An Eye On:
1. Donte Whitner- look for this guy to be an icon for years to come
2. Sean Considine- The Eagles safety is the next Dawkins and has learnt from Mr. X himself.
3.LaRon Landry- Will be playing alongside Mr. Taylor for years.
4.Dawan Landry- Has already shown the Ravens what he is capable of.
5.Reggie Nelson- another rookie who will have us in awe sooner or later.
-A-Train Express
- There is one safety that I did not mention above because he is the one I want to focus on this year. Every year there seems to be one safety that explodes, maybe two. Two years ago it was Ed Reed and Mike Brown of the Bears. Last year was Adrian Wilson and a little bit of Kerry Rhodes action. So far this year, Sean Taylor has been a beastly player for the 3-2 Redskins. His 19 tackles and 4 interceptions have been a key reason why this team is ranked 5th in total defense and 3rd in three catagories. Thats a true safety. Thsi team's success the rest of the year will rest on his shoulders because after Arizona, its the Pats, Jets, Eagels, Cowboys and Bucs. Thats 4 hard games out of 5. New England being the easy one of coarse. This is his breakout year and I am looking foward to watching him as he quietly makes his mark on the NFL.
Safetys To Keep An Eye On:
1. Donte Whitner- look for this guy to be an icon for years to come
2. Sean Considine- The Eagles safety is the next Dawkins and has learnt from Mr. X himself.
3.LaRon Landry- Will be playing alongside Mr. Taylor for years.
4.Dawan Landry- Has already shown the Ravens what he is capable of.
5.Reggie Nelson- another rookie who will have us in awe sooner or later.
-A-Train Express
Around The Majors- Wednesday
News, notes, discussion, rumors, AFL. Lots to do here on a Wednesday.
LCS
I'll be talking about the Rockies at length tomorrow, but the Indians are getting fantastic starting pitching from their secondary starters Westbrook and Byrd, and their unbelievable ability to get big hits with two outs has been seemingly unparallelled. Many will question Terry Francona's decison to go with Wakefield over a clutch Josh Beckett, but consider that in postseason play, pitchers going on 3 days rest only win 36% of the time, it was likely not worth the risk. Had Wakefield won and Beckett would be going for a series lead rather then to save Boston's season, Tito would have been praised. FOX has to be rooting for Boston, becaus as my Dad told me, nobody's gonna give a damn about Colorado-Cleveland; except for myself and my fellow readers, and I will continue to give you my best Rockies coverage considering I'm the #2 Rockies blogger on sportingnews.com.
-Joe Torre's status is still up in the air after meetings, but it seems that pitching coach Ron Guidry will not be invited back, according to ESPN's Buster Olney. Guidry did a nice job with Chien Ming Wang, but that's about it. What does make sense is that minor league pitching coach Dave Eiland is the favorite to take over, considering the influx of young pitchers the Yankees will have in 2008. Not the sexy move like hiring a Leo Mazzone, but the right one.
-Alex Rodriguez just completed a 3 day meeting with agent Scott Boras about offseason strategy. My crack staff here at SOS decoded the meetings into this brief message: $$$$$$$$ or @#!^% you!!
-Baltimore has hired former Florida coach Rick Kranitz as their pitching coach.
-In another large roid raid, the NYPD found over 7.2 million bucks worth of HGH at a pharmacy in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, enough for one million doses (insert Dr Evil voice here).
"It's hard to believe that all the growth hormone we found was meant for the people of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn," Said investigator Mark "painfully obvious" Haskins.
Rumors
-Joe Girardi nixed talks that he would replace Joe Torre, said the New York Daily News.
-Arizona would like to bring back Tony Clark, according to the Arizona Republic.
-Aaron Rowand's price tag could be as much as 6 years at 84 million, according to the Kansas City Star.
-The Phillies, Twins, Angels, Dodgers and Astros are all interested in dealing for Garrett Atkins, said the Philadelphia Daily News.
-The Angels don't want A-Rod at 30 mill a year, said the LA Times.
-San Diego wants to sign Andruw Jones to a 1 year deal, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
-Joel Skinner (CLE 3B coach) and John Farrell (BOS pitching coach_ are both candidates for the Pirates managerial job. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
-The YES network could keep A-Rod in The Bronx, said the New York Post.
-Seattle is interested in Jon Garland, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
-Joe Mauer will undergo surgery to repair a sports hernia, said the St Paul Pioneer Press.
-Baltimore claimed Roberto Novoa off of waivers. (Baltimore Sun)
Arizona Fall League
Yesterday, Braves catching prospect Clint Sammons homered and drove in 5 as the Peoria Javelinas pounded Mesa 9-1. Braves 2B spect JC Holt drove in 2 for the Javelinas.
Pirates star CF prospect Nyjer Morgan, who is expected to start in center for Pittsburgh next year drove in 2 runs as Phoenix edged the Peoria Saguaros 3-2. Indians OF Trevor Crowe, Reds OF Christopher Dickerson, and Royals 1B Kila Kaaihue each drove in 2 as Surprise stomped Scottsdale 10-1.
LCS
I'll be talking about the Rockies at length tomorrow, but the Indians are getting fantastic starting pitching from their secondary starters Westbrook and Byrd, and their unbelievable ability to get big hits with two outs has been seemingly unparallelled. Many will question Terry Francona's decison to go with Wakefield over a clutch Josh Beckett, but consider that in postseason play, pitchers going on 3 days rest only win 36% of the time, it was likely not worth the risk. Had Wakefield won and Beckett would be going for a series lead rather then to save Boston's season, Tito would have been praised. FOX has to be rooting for Boston, becaus as my Dad told me, nobody's gonna give a damn about Colorado-Cleveland; except for myself and my fellow readers, and I will continue to give you my best Rockies coverage considering I'm the #2 Rockies blogger on sportingnews.com.
-Joe Torre's status is still up in the air after meetings, but it seems that pitching coach Ron Guidry will not be invited back, according to ESPN's Buster Olney. Guidry did a nice job with Chien Ming Wang, but that's about it. What does make sense is that minor league pitching coach Dave Eiland is the favorite to take over, considering the influx of young pitchers the Yankees will have in 2008. Not the sexy move like hiring a Leo Mazzone, but the right one.
-Alex Rodriguez just completed a 3 day meeting with agent Scott Boras about offseason strategy. My crack staff here at SOS decoded the meetings into this brief message: $$$$$$$$ or @#!^% you!!
-Baltimore has hired former Florida coach Rick Kranitz as their pitching coach.
-In another large roid raid, the NYPD found over 7.2 million bucks worth of HGH at a pharmacy in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, enough for one million doses (insert Dr Evil voice here).
"It's hard to believe that all the growth hormone we found was meant for the people of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn," Said investigator Mark "painfully obvious" Haskins.
Rumors
-Joe Girardi nixed talks that he would replace Joe Torre, said the New York Daily News.
-Arizona would like to bring back Tony Clark, according to the Arizona Republic.
-Aaron Rowand's price tag could be as much as 6 years at 84 million, according to the Kansas City Star.
-The Phillies, Twins, Angels, Dodgers and Astros are all interested in dealing for Garrett Atkins, said the Philadelphia Daily News.
-The Angels don't want A-Rod at 30 mill a year, said the LA Times.
-San Diego wants to sign Andruw Jones to a 1 year deal, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
-Joel Skinner (CLE 3B coach) and John Farrell (BOS pitching coach_ are both candidates for the Pirates managerial job. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
-The YES network could keep A-Rod in The Bronx, said the New York Post.
-Seattle is interested in Jon Garland, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
-Joe Mauer will undergo surgery to repair a sports hernia, said the St Paul Pioneer Press.
-Baltimore claimed Roberto Novoa off of waivers. (Baltimore Sun)
Arizona Fall League
Yesterday, Braves catching prospect Clint Sammons homered and drove in 5 as the Peoria Javelinas pounded Mesa 9-1. Braves 2B spect JC Holt drove in 2 for the Javelinas.
Pirates star CF prospect Nyjer Morgan, who is expected to start in center for Pittsburgh next year drove in 2 runs as Phoenix edged the Peoria Saguaros 3-2. Indians OF Trevor Crowe, Reds OF Christopher Dickerson, and Royals 1B Kila Kaaihue each drove in 2 as Surprise stomped Scottsdale 10-1.
NFL Daily Presents: The Wednesday Rundown
2 trades, news, injury reports, and the latest rumors hot off the presses.
Deadline Deals
-Chris Chambers was dealt from Miami to San Diego for a 2nd round pick, and Chambers has showtunes and an insane TD jig in his brain:
"Oh man, it's a pleasure, It's going to be very interesting. I can't wait to get out there and help this team win and continue to be successful."
The Chargers needed a WR after they had to place top wideout Eric Parker on IR with a broken toe, and they were able to acquire Chambers. This means that the Dolphins have thrown in the towel, and GM Randy Mueller isn't really hiding anything:
"Obviously, at 0-6 we're looking for answers. We're looking to change some things. ... Draft picks are valuable to our team right now."
Obviously, Chambers wasn't providing an answer, so they're building for the future. Ted Ginn will now get more opportunities at WR, and Miami fans will now get more paper bags to put over their heads.
-Michael Bennett was traded from Kansas City to Tampa Bay for draft picks that gives the Bucs depth, and will probably put Priest Holmes back on the field. Holmes will practice today for the first time since a severe head injury late in 2005. KC GM Carl Peterson said that people who doubt Holmes are very foolish:
"I've said a thousand times, those people who question Priest Holmes are very foolish. Throughout his entire career, he's always come back. When he called me last spring shortly before training camp and told me he would like to do this one more time, I felt that I owed him that opportunity."
The Rundown
-Former Bills TE Kevin Everett is now able to walk a bit with a specialized walker that doesn't put a lot of his weight on his legs. It's a great story and I wish him the best.
-On my Analytical Assault on SOS yesterday, I wrote this:
"Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way!"
Apparently, the Falcons are listening. The team is considering replacing Harrington at QB with Byron Leftwich as soon as this week against New Orleans. That is why you brought the guy in, right??
-According to ESPN's Chris Mortenen, the NFL has reinstated Packers WR Koren Robinson after a year long suspension.
-Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, and Santonio Holmes will all return this Sunday against the Broncos.
-Former Cowboys RB Ron Springs has been hospitalized in a coma, reportedly due to complications from surgery, more than seven months after receiving a kidney donated by ex-teammate Everson Walls. Our prayers go out to Springs.
-St Louis signed WR Travis Taylor.
-There is a QB controversy in Carolina between Carr and Testaverde. The Bills are likely to start Trent Edwards over JP Losman.
-Patriots RB Sammy Morris could be out a month with a chest injury.
Injury Updates
ARZ- Warner is questionable, Boldin is probable.
BAL- Dan Cody will not be reavtivated from the PUP list.
BUF- Rookie LB Paul Posluszny was placed on IR.
CAR- David Carr was probable.
CHI- Darwin Walker and Nathan Vasher are both questionable.
DEN- Rod Smith is out.
DET- Calvin Johnson is probable.
MIA- Trent Green is out.
OAK- Josh McCown is questionable.
PHI- Brian Dawkins is questionable.
PIT- Casey Hampton is questionable and could play.
SDG- Jamal Williams is questionable.
SEA- Shaun Alexander is probable, DJ Hackett is questionable.
SF- Vernon Davis and Alex Smith are questionable.
TEN- Chris Brown and Vince Young are questionable.
WSH- Marcus Washington is questionable.
Rumors
-Rex Grossman isn't going anywhere until at least the end of the season. (Chicago Tribune)
-The Tennessean reports that the Titans are working out several o-linemen. The paper also reports that the Titans released Punter Josh Miller to possibly make room for a QB.
-The Chiefs will hold on to Jared Allen, says the Kansas City Star.
-Tom Brady and Ty Warren are appealing fines from not buckling their chinstraps. New England may sign RB Kevan Barlow. (Boston Globe)
-Chris McAllister has been told by the Ravens that he'll be out 3 weeks. (Baltimore Sun)
-The league is denying the Broncos' request to move the October 29th MNF date to a Sunday because of a conflict of Game 5 of the World Series in Denver. (Denver Post)
-Marty Booker is not in the Dolphins plans for next year. (Miami Herald)
-Eric Mangini could be on the hot seat. (Newark Star-Ledger)
Deadline Deals
-Chris Chambers was dealt from Miami to San Diego for a 2nd round pick, and Chambers has showtunes and an insane TD jig in his brain:
"Oh man, it's a pleasure, It's going to be very interesting. I can't wait to get out there and help this team win and continue to be successful."
The Chargers needed a WR after they had to place top wideout Eric Parker on IR with a broken toe, and they were able to acquire Chambers. This means that the Dolphins have thrown in the towel, and GM Randy Mueller isn't really hiding anything:
"Obviously, at 0-6 we're looking for answers. We're looking to change some things. ... Draft picks are valuable to our team right now."
Obviously, Chambers wasn't providing an answer, so they're building for the future. Ted Ginn will now get more opportunities at WR, and Miami fans will now get more paper bags to put over their heads.
-Michael Bennett was traded from Kansas City to Tampa Bay for draft picks that gives the Bucs depth, and will probably put Priest Holmes back on the field. Holmes will practice today for the first time since a severe head injury late in 2005. KC GM Carl Peterson said that people who doubt Holmes are very foolish:
"I've said a thousand times, those people who question Priest Holmes are very foolish. Throughout his entire career, he's always come back. When he called me last spring shortly before training camp and told me he would like to do this one more time, I felt that I owed him that opportunity."
The Rundown
-Former Bills TE Kevin Everett is now able to walk a bit with a specialized walker that doesn't put a lot of his weight on his legs. It's a great story and I wish him the best.
-On my Analytical Assault on SOS yesterday, I wrote this:
"Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way!"
Apparently, the Falcons are listening. The team is considering replacing Harrington at QB with Byron Leftwich as soon as this week against New Orleans. That is why you brought the guy in, right??
-According to ESPN's Chris Mortenen, the NFL has reinstated Packers WR Koren Robinson after a year long suspension.
-Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, and Santonio Holmes will all return this Sunday against the Broncos.
-Former Cowboys RB Ron Springs has been hospitalized in a coma, reportedly due to complications from surgery, more than seven months after receiving a kidney donated by ex-teammate Everson Walls. Our prayers go out to Springs.
-St Louis signed WR Travis Taylor.
-There is a QB controversy in Carolina between Carr and Testaverde. The Bills are likely to start Trent Edwards over JP Losman.
-Patriots RB Sammy Morris could be out a month with a chest injury.
Injury Updates
ARZ- Warner is questionable, Boldin is probable.
BAL- Dan Cody will not be reavtivated from the PUP list.
BUF- Rookie LB Paul Posluszny was placed on IR.
CAR- David Carr was probable.
CHI- Darwin Walker and Nathan Vasher are both questionable.
DEN- Rod Smith is out.
DET- Calvin Johnson is probable.
MIA- Trent Green is out.
OAK- Josh McCown is questionable.
PHI- Brian Dawkins is questionable.
PIT- Casey Hampton is questionable and could play.
SDG- Jamal Williams is questionable.
SEA- Shaun Alexander is probable, DJ Hackett is questionable.
SF- Vernon Davis and Alex Smith are questionable.
TEN- Chris Brown and Vince Young are questionable.
WSH- Marcus Washington is questionable.
Rumors
-Rex Grossman isn't going anywhere until at least the end of the season. (Chicago Tribune)
-The Tennessean reports that the Titans are working out several o-linemen. The paper also reports that the Titans released Punter Josh Miller to possibly make room for a QB.
-The Chiefs will hold on to Jared Allen, says the Kansas City Star.
-Tom Brady and Ty Warren are appealing fines from not buckling their chinstraps. New England may sign RB Kevan Barlow. (Boston Globe)
-Chris McAllister has been told by the Ravens that he'll be out 3 weeks. (Baltimore Sun)
-The league is denying the Broncos' request to move the October 29th MNF date to a Sunday because of a conflict of Game 5 of the World Series in Denver. (Denver Post)
-Marty Booker is not in the Dolphins plans for next year. (Miami Herald)
-Eric Mangini could be on the hot seat. (Newark Star-Ledger)
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Analytical Assault Week 6
Breaking News Trade Deadline
According to John Clayton of ESPN, the Chargers are set to acquire WR Chris Chambers from the Dolphins. More details forthcoming on SOS and tomorrow in The Wednesday Rundown on SOS2.
3:30pm- According to FoxSports.com, Chambers will be dealt for a 2nd round pick. Chambers has confirmed the deal. As many of you already know, Michael Bennett has been acquired from the Chiefs by Tampa Bay to get more depth at RB.
Duels, trends, ratios. So many fun things going on. Getcha popcorn and dentures ready, cause I'm flying solo and the ride will be Hester fast and Welker shifty. "And now, I've made far too many daytime TV references."
-Hester fast you ask? Peterson dominant, says Minnesota. The Vikes won because they rushed the ball 43 times, 20 and 224 of those yards by Adrian Peterson, and he averaged 32 yards a kick return. Accept your OROY trophy, AP. "I'd like to thank the little people, like Tarvaris for getting the hell outta my way." He was 9/23, and while Brian Greise played well, the Bears will lose every time he throws it 45 times. Cedric Benson has nothing! He's in the negative! He'd get kicked out halfway through Jeopardy, and Alex Trebeck, Will Ferrell, Sean Connery, and Darrell Hammond could do better than Benson. In fact, those 4 could probably stop the run better than the Bear defense, who have apparently gone into hibernation. And new PIR host Drew Carey could make the Pro Bowl as a lead blocker for AP. He makes it easy. Hester returned a punt, and caught an 81 yard TD but Peterson stole the show.
-Braylon Edwards! Pinch your cheeks, you've grown up so very much this year. 3 TD catches to lead the Browns past the winless Dolphins. And man, can Cleveland score. Derek Anderson only needed 25 throws, and the running game was good enough without Jamal Lewis. Cleo Lemon threw it 43 times, that usually signals a loss. Ronnie Brown was a stud as usual, but the Miami defense has lost their luster, and now they're just a bad unit.
-What an ugly, yet oddly entertaining and exciting game between 2 of the NFC's "best". Both teams had great chances to win this game outright, but either fumbles or picks caused the team to fall short. Nobody really stood out besides for Chris Cooley and Charles Woodson, who won the game for the Pack. Both defenses played well, but Green Bay made like Gloria Gaynor and survived, and made like Harry Houdini and escaped.
-Chad Johnson was cool when his team was winning, now he just looks like an idiot. And after I threatened to kill Herm Edwards if he didn't start pounding Larry Johnson, he came threw and not surprisingly came up with the win. 31 for 119, that's how LJ should run every game. It keeps the defense honest and allowed the team to have the ball over 35 minutes, allowed Damon Huard to be efficient, and allowed Tony Gonzalez to break the Tight End TD record. Cincy needs Rudi Johnson to get back healthy, because Carson Palmer will make mistakes when forced to throw too many times. And maybe the Jailcats defense will stop somebody once in a blue moon. Low and behold, the Chiefs are in this AFC West race.
-The Bench Chad watch continues. The Jets Mime Tackling Club was in session once again, and allowed the only TD of the game on a long whiff-fest. Also returning were the hit comedies (tragedies for Jet fans) Same Damn Chad INT and Pathetic Playcalling featuring the 4th and 1 Fade of Doom that lost them the game (4 plays and a cloud of disgust says the New York Times). Thomas Jones was playing well, pound the god damn ball! If this is all Mangenious can do, then perhaps he had a coaching "stroke" if you will. I'll admit that's wrong, but so is putting out such a bad team in front of paying fans. Westbrook played well for the Eagles, but they were just along for the ride of the Gang Green Train Wreck.
-What a wild one in Tampa Bay, but the Bucs seem determined to have a good year. I'll give Tennesee credit for going out and tying the score even with Vince Young out of the game, but Jeff Garcia just willed them down the field for the game winning score from Matt Bryant, who is really a clutch kicker. Now the question will be why Jeff Fisher didn't ice the kicker. It's a lose-lose for everyone involved except for Nick Folk. The Bucs running game was nonexistent so they traded for Michael Bennett today. Galloway and Hilliard continue to excel, and Tampa keeps finding ways to win, despite the Titans having the ball for over 37 minutes. 3 turnovers also don't help if you're Tennessee.
-Wow! That's a 3 letter word I can say about the Jaguars. Insert a 4 letter word if you're a Texans fan, cause y'all got clobbered in the 2nd half. Garrard controlled it well, they got big plays from Taylor, from Jones-Drew, and from the defense. They stopped the run, and only allowed Owen Daniels to have a big game. He's really underrated. If Jacksonville keeps the turnovers down, they can beat the Colts next week.
-Humiliated, hammered, humbled, demoralized, dominated, destroyed. In HD, high definition. Ravens rock Rams, Frerotte throws 5 picks, Stover kicks 5 FG's, St Louis kneels down at the end of the game to end it, to beg for mercy, to beg to live another week. The defense did most of the work, the offense just moved it into Stover range. That's a game where a horrible offense meets a huge defense. It was a total annihilation.
-Buy me some dentures and prune juice, we don't care if they ever come back! Cause it's root, root for Vinny! 206 in the air, no picks, Williams and Smith played great. Arizona chose to sign Tim Rattay over Vinny, he came in for an injured Warner, threw 3 picks and will now start. And now they signed Tim Hasselbeck who's best known for a wife on The View, now they need another QB, and now I've made far too many daytime TV references. James and Fitzgerald were OK, but the QB cost them the game, and it's all Matt Leinart's fault. Now messing with karma is messing over the entire team. Karma 2 Whineart 0. Maybe Carolina will be able to get by. Heck, they play in the NFC South!
-Welker shifty? How bout Brady nifty, Patriots unstoppable, stale popcorn in the 2nd half, and we're all witnesses to one of the greatest teams EVER. That's in caps, as in there may not be a ceiling to their success, the Pats didn't even play their best football. To Dallas, New England is like Visa: It's everywhere they want to be. They're the measuring stick of the elite, they're the barometer of where the Boys have to go to reach the next level. Romo must look to Brady, the Cowboys weapons have to look to the Pats weapons of Welker, Stallworth, Watson, and oh yeah Moss. Dallas was lit up, there's nothing that could stop them. The Boys are head and shoulders above the NFC, but New England is head and shoulders above the rest of the universe. Another level, an entirely different stratosphere, and everyone wants what they've got.
-LT is angry. And when he plays with a mean streak, he's great. 4 TD's for LT + 21 throws for Phil Rivers=Victory. If Norv limits the throws Rivers attempts, San Diego stays classy. But Norv is a big fat loser, had to say it. And once LT got on a roll, the Raiders could have done anything but it would not have mattered. And Oakland played well, but it was a moot point. The AFC West is the Bolts' for the taking if they don't screw anything up.
-Beep-beep. Beep-beep. What's that? It's a pulse from the Saints. Bush played well, Patten could emerge as Drew Brees' top target, and Matt Hasselbeck's heroice weren't enough. The big question is can they build upon this win? And will anyone be consistent in the NFC West? There are more pathetic divisions in football in one year than I can ever remember.
-Here at the SOS research department, we've come out with a major discovery: all QB's whose last named end in the suffix "-ington" are terrible. Subject A, Chad Pennington. Subject B, Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way! The Giants defense was dominant, they're offense held the ball for almost 40 minutes, and Plaxico Burress is emerging as a stud. Eli Manning is showing improvement, but will have to cut down on the INT's. In a terrible NFC, the once lost Giants have now been found, and now find themselves in the conference mix.
According to John Clayton of ESPN, the Chargers are set to acquire WR Chris Chambers from the Dolphins. More details forthcoming on SOS and tomorrow in The Wednesday Rundown on SOS2.
3:30pm- According to FoxSports.com, Chambers will be dealt for a 2nd round pick. Chambers has confirmed the deal. As many of you already know, Michael Bennett has been acquired from the Chiefs by Tampa Bay to get more depth at RB.
Duels, trends, ratios. So many fun things going on. Getcha popcorn and dentures ready, cause I'm flying solo and the ride will be Hester fast and Welker shifty. "And now, I've made far too many daytime TV references."
-Hester fast you ask? Peterson dominant, says Minnesota. The Vikes won because they rushed the ball 43 times, 20 and 224 of those yards by Adrian Peterson, and he averaged 32 yards a kick return. Accept your OROY trophy, AP. "I'd like to thank the little people, like Tarvaris for getting the hell outta my way." He was 9/23, and while Brian Greise played well, the Bears will lose every time he throws it 45 times. Cedric Benson has nothing! He's in the negative! He'd get kicked out halfway through Jeopardy, and Alex Trebeck, Will Ferrell, Sean Connery, and Darrell Hammond could do better than Benson. In fact, those 4 could probably stop the run better than the Bear defense, who have apparently gone into hibernation. And new PIR host Drew Carey could make the Pro Bowl as a lead blocker for AP. He makes it easy. Hester returned a punt, and caught an 81 yard TD but Peterson stole the show.
-Braylon Edwards! Pinch your cheeks, you've grown up so very much this year. 3 TD catches to lead the Browns past the winless Dolphins. And man, can Cleveland score. Derek Anderson only needed 25 throws, and the running game was good enough without Jamal Lewis. Cleo Lemon threw it 43 times, that usually signals a loss. Ronnie Brown was a stud as usual, but the Miami defense has lost their luster, and now they're just a bad unit.
-What an ugly, yet oddly entertaining and exciting game between 2 of the NFC's "best". Both teams had great chances to win this game outright, but either fumbles or picks caused the team to fall short. Nobody really stood out besides for Chris Cooley and Charles Woodson, who won the game for the Pack. Both defenses played well, but Green Bay made like Gloria Gaynor and survived, and made like Harry Houdini and escaped.
-Chad Johnson was cool when his team was winning, now he just looks like an idiot. And after I threatened to kill Herm Edwards if he didn't start pounding Larry Johnson, he came threw and not surprisingly came up with the win. 31 for 119, that's how LJ should run every game. It keeps the defense honest and allowed the team to have the ball over 35 minutes, allowed Damon Huard to be efficient, and allowed Tony Gonzalez to break the Tight End TD record. Cincy needs Rudi Johnson to get back healthy, because Carson Palmer will make mistakes when forced to throw too many times. And maybe the Jailcats defense will stop somebody once in a blue moon. Low and behold, the Chiefs are in this AFC West race.
-The Bench Chad watch continues. The Jets Mime Tackling Club was in session once again, and allowed the only TD of the game on a long whiff-fest. Also returning were the hit comedies (tragedies for Jet fans) Same Damn Chad INT and Pathetic Playcalling featuring the 4th and 1 Fade of Doom that lost them the game (4 plays and a cloud of disgust says the New York Times). Thomas Jones was playing well, pound the god damn ball! If this is all Mangenious can do, then perhaps he had a coaching "stroke" if you will. I'll admit that's wrong, but so is putting out such a bad team in front of paying fans. Westbrook played well for the Eagles, but they were just along for the ride of the Gang Green Train Wreck.
-What a wild one in Tampa Bay, but the Bucs seem determined to have a good year. I'll give Tennesee credit for going out and tying the score even with Vince Young out of the game, but Jeff Garcia just willed them down the field for the game winning score from Matt Bryant, who is really a clutch kicker. Now the question will be why Jeff Fisher didn't ice the kicker. It's a lose-lose for everyone involved except for Nick Folk. The Bucs running game was nonexistent so they traded for Michael Bennett today. Galloway and Hilliard continue to excel, and Tampa keeps finding ways to win, despite the Titans having the ball for over 37 minutes. 3 turnovers also don't help if you're Tennessee.
-Wow! That's a 3 letter word I can say about the Jaguars. Insert a 4 letter word if you're a Texans fan, cause y'all got clobbered in the 2nd half. Garrard controlled it well, they got big plays from Taylor, from Jones-Drew, and from the defense. They stopped the run, and only allowed Owen Daniels to have a big game. He's really underrated. If Jacksonville keeps the turnovers down, they can beat the Colts next week.
-Humiliated, hammered, humbled, demoralized, dominated, destroyed. In HD, high definition. Ravens rock Rams, Frerotte throws 5 picks, Stover kicks 5 FG's, St Louis kneels down at the end of the game to end it, to beg for mercy, to beg to live another week. The defense did most of the work, the offense just moved it into Stover range. That's a game where a horrible offense meets a huge defense. It was a total annihilation.
-Buy me some dentures and prune juice, we don't care if they ever come back! Cause it's root, root for Vinny! 206 in the air, no picks, Williams and Smith played great. Arizona chose to sign Tim Rattay over Vinny, he came in for an injured Warner, threw 3 picks and will now start. And now they signed Tim Hasselbeck who's best known for a wife on The View, now they need another QB, and now I've made far too many daytime TV references. James and Fitzgerald were OK, but the QB cost them the game, and it's all Matt Leinart's fault. Now messing with karma is messing over the entire team. Karma 2 Whineart 0. Maybe Carolina will be able to get by. Heck, they play in the NFC South!
-Welker shifty? How bout Brady nifty, Patriots unstoppable, stale popcorn in the 2nd half, and we're all witnesses to one of the greatest teams EVER. That's in caps, as in there may not be a ceiling to their success, the Pats didn't even play their best football. To Dallas, New England is like Visa: It's everywhere they want to be. They're the measuring stick of the elite, they're the barometer of where the Boys have to go to reach the next level. Romo must look to Brady, the Cowboys weapons have to look to the Pats weapons of Welker, Stallworth, Watson, and oh yeah Moss. Dallas was lit up, there's nothing that could stop them. The Boys are head and shoulders above the NFC, but New England is head and shoulders above the rest of the universe. Another level, an entirely different stratosphere, and everyone wants what they've got.
-LT is angry. And when he plays with a mean streak, he's great. 4 TD's for LT + 21 throws for Phil Rivers=Victory. If Norv limits the throws Rivers attempts, San Diego stays classy. But Norv is a big fat loser, had to say it. And once LT got on a roll, the Raiders could have done anything but it would not have mattered. And Oakland played well, but it was a moot point. The AFC West is the Bolts' for the taking if they don't screw anything up.
-Beep-beep. Beep-beep. What's that? It's a pulse from the Saints. Bush played well, Patten could emerge as Drew Brees' top target, and Matt Hasselbeck's heroice weren't enough. The big question is can they build upon this win? And will anyone be consistent in the NFC West? There are more pathetic divisions in football in one year than I can ever remember.
-Here at the SOS research department, we've come out with a major discovery: all QB's whose last named end in the suffix "-ington" are terrible. Subject A, Chad Pennington. Subject B, Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way! The Giants defense was dominant, they're offense held the ball for almost 40 minutes, and Plaxico Burress is emerging as a stud. Eli Manning is showing improvement, but will have to cut down on the INT's. In a terrible NFC, the once lost Giants have now been found, and now find themselves in the conference mix.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Breaking MLB News
Breaking News
Longtime Los Angeles Angels GM Bill Stoneman has stepped down and will take a consultants role, according to the LA Times. Tony Reagins, the director of player development will take over. This is a tough loss for the team, Stoneman was the architect behind the franchise's World Series team in 2002. The team called a Tuesday press conference for a major announcement. AP contributed to this report.
Longtime Los Angeles Angels GM Bill Stoneman has stepped down and will take a consultants role, according to the LA Times. Tony Reagins, the director of player development will take over. This is a tough loss for the team, Stoneman was the architect behind the franchise's World Series team in 2002. The team called a Tuesday press conference for a major announcement. AP contributed to this report.
A-Train Express- Sports Stop
While Monday Night Football is being played in what looks to be a good and evenly balanced game, the NLCS and ALCS are going on as well. This time of year baseball is usually stealing the spot light but nowadays with the low market teams in the NLCS, football seems to still be on top.
-At this rate Tom Brady is already the record holder of most touchdowns in a season. Peyton is toast right now. The Pats are untouchable and they are looking good for a 16-0 season especially if they could beat the 'Boys that easily and they still play each team in the weak division at least one more time.
- Jason Campbell almost gave the Packers a loss but just fell short. I guess Green Bay does have a defense.
- The Dolphins are almost in stone to get the first pick of the draft at 0-6. They could choose between Colt Brennan, Brian Brohm, Andre Woodson and Pat White at QB. I cant believe I am talking about the draft in October but theres nothing else to talk about besides for those terrible Dane Cook commercials.
- Adrian Peterson is a beast. He had three thouchdowns and over 200 rushing yards. His kick return brought the Vikes into field goal range and gave Ryan Longwell a chance to seal the deal which he did. Did I mention he was on my opposing fantasy team.
- Braylon Edwards led the now 3-3 Browns to a victory with three touchdowns of his own, oh and he was on the fantasy team that's beat me 150-79 this week too.
- The Rams still cant buy a win and the Bucs are 4-2. Don't tell you expected this before the season because you would have to be psychic like the crossing guard on the way to school. How did she know i wanted to cross both streets? Sorry about that I lose track of what I am writing sometimes. Back to sports.
-Midnight Madness was last weekend and it looks like it will be a very entertaining season and I know I am looking forward to it.
-Fantasy Basketball is starting up and just one word of advice, draft Gerald Wallace.
That's the last stop, until next time, sleep sports(because i am very tired).
-At this rate Tom Brady is already the record holder of most touchdowns in a season. Peyton is toast right now. The Pats are untouchable and they are looking good for a 16-0 season especially if they could beat the 'Boys that easily and they still play each team in the weak division at least one more time.
- Jason Campbell almost gave the Packers a loss but just fell short. I guess Green Bay does have a defense.
- The Dolphins are almost in stone to get the first pick of the draft at 0-6. They could choose between Colt Brennan, Brian Brohm, Andre Woodson and Pat White at QB. I cant believe I am talking about the draft in October but theres nothing else to talk about besides for those terrible Dane Cook commercials.
- Adrian Peterson is a beast. He had three thouchdowns and over 200 rushing yards. His kick return brought the Vikes into field goal range and gave Ryan Longwell a chance to seal the deal which he did. Did I mention he was on my opposing fantasy team.
- Braylon Edwards led the now 3-3 Browns to a victory with three touchdowns of his own, oh and he was on the fantasy team that's beat me 150-79 this week too.
- The Rams still cant buy a win and the Bucs are 4-2. Don't tell you expected this before the season because you would have to be psychic like the crossing guard on the way to school. How did she know i wanted to cross both streets? Sorry about that I lose track of what I am writing sometimes. Back to sports.
-Midnight Madness was last weekend and it looks like it will be a very entertaining season and I know I am looking forward to it.
-Fantasy Basketball is starting up and just one word of advice, draft Gerald Wallace.
That's the last stop, until next time, sleep sports(because i am very tired).
Around The Majors- Monday
Rocky mountain highs, BoSox blues, Torre turmoil and tomorrow's stars right now on ATM.
LCS
Like Jeff Suppan and Jeff Weaver last year, Josh Fogg is a mediocre pitcher stepping it up in a huge way in the postseason. The former Pirate threw six strong innings and Yorvit Torrealba hit a huge 3 runs jack to give Colorado a 3-0 series lead with a 4-1 win. Torrealba is majorly boosting his FA value this postseason, and the Rox will probably let him walk to make way for prospect Chris Ianetta. On the Arizona side, their inability to score runs seems eerily similar to what happened to the Cubs in the LDS. What goes around........
Big plus for the Red Sox, they hit Sabathia and Carmona. Huge minus for the Red Sox, Gagne came up empty and they only managed a split in the first 2 games at Fenway. Scouting reports on the Indians say that their lineup can't hit inside breaking stuff, that should bode well for Daisuke Matsuzaka as he faces Jake Westbrook at 7pm on FOX.
The Snakes rest their fate in rookie Micah Owings in Denver as he faces young star Franklin Morales of Colorado at 10:15 on TBS.
-What will happen to Joe Torre now that the sons of Steinbrenner are taking control? Fine out on Wednesday, there are so many ways this thing can go.
-New Reds manager Dusty Baker wants to bring a winning atmosphere to The Natti, and the Chicago Tribune wonders whether Baker will bring in former veteran free agents of his such as Michael Barrett, Joe Borowski, LaTroy Hawkins, Kenny Lofton and Moises Alou. The paper also reports that the Cubs and Mariners are interested in 32 year old Japanese pitcher Hiroki Kuroda, who would be a 3rd or 4th starter. He is under contract in Japan, though.
-Considering that Joel Piniero was probably the Cardinals' best pitcher this past season, it was wise of them to lock him up for 2 years at 13 million. On a sad note, OF Juan Encarnacion now has 20/400 vision after a foul ball struck him in his eye and his career is in serious jeopardy.
-What will actually happen when the list of players, many expected to be big names are released by George Mitchell's findings? Will this be a huge witch hunt? Will they treat stas they way they did to Barry Bonds? This is juicier than a burger from the new Real Deal Grill. I wonder if it can take a beating like Holyfield did.
-The NY Daily News reports that the Mets are interested in top flight hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo to fill that vacancy. New York will not make any other changes besides for the position held on an interrim basis by Ricky Henderson.
-The Baltimore Sun reports that the Orioles are likely to hire former Florida pitching coach Rick Kranitz to fill the role previously held by the fired Leo Mazzone.
Arizona Fall League Update
Angels Catcher prospect Ben Johnson homered and drove in 2 as Surprise defeated Scottsdale 9-6. Royals OF Chris Lubanski and Reds C Craig Tatum also drove in 2. Arizona OF Aaron Cunningham hit a 3 run homer in defeat for Surprise.
Houston OF Mitch Einertson hit a 3 run homer and Cards 1B Mark Hamilton drove in 2 as Mesa pounded Peoria 9-3. Yankees 1B Juan Miranda hit a solo homer in defeat.
Giants OF prospect Dan Oremeier leads the league in hitting, 3 players including Rays top prospect Evan Longoria and Texas star OF John Mayberry lead in homers, and 9 players including Longoria, Mayberry, Miranda, and Brewers 2007 first rounder Matt LaPorta lead the circuit in RBI's.
LCS
Like Jeff Suppan and Jeff Weaver last year, Josh Fogg is a mediocre pitcher stepping it up in a huge way in the postseason. The former Pirate threw six strong innings and Yorvit Torrealba hit a huge 3 runs jack to give Colorado a 3-0 series lead with a 4-1 win. Torrealba is majorly boosting his FA value this postseason, and the Rox will probably let him walk to make way for prospect Chris Ianetta. On the Arizona side, their inability to score runs seems eerily similar to what happened to the Cubs in the LDS. What goes around........
Big plus for the Red Sox, they hit Sabathia and Carmona. Huge minus for the Red Sox, Gagne came up empty and they only managed a split in the first 2 games at Fenway. Scouting reports on the Indians say that their lineup can't hit inside breaking stuff, that should bode well for Daisuke Matsuzaka as he faces Jake Westbrook at 7pm on FOX.
The Snakes rest their fate in rookie Micah Owings in Denver as he faces young star Franklin Morales of Colorado at 10:15 on TBS.
-What will happen to Joe Torre now that the sons of Steinbrenner are taking control? Fine out on Wednesday, there are so many ways this thing can go.
-New Reds manager Dusty Baker wants to bring a winning atmosphere to The Natti, and the Chicago Tribune wonders whether Baker will bring in former veteran free agents of his such as Michael Barrett, Joe Borowski, LaTroy Hawkins, Kenny Lofton and Moises Alou. The paper also reports that the Cubs and Mariners are interested in 32 year old Japanese pitcher Hiroki Kuroda, who would be a 3rd or 4th starter. He is under contract in Japan, though.
-Considering that Joel Piniero was probably the Cardinals' best pitcher this past season, it was wise of them to lock him up for 2 years at 13 million. On a sad note, OF Juan Encarnacion now has 20/400 vision after a foul ball struck him in his eye and his career is in serious jeopardy.
-What will actually happen when the list of players, many expected to be big names are released by George Mitchell's findings? Will this be a huge witch hunt? Will they treat stas they way they did to Barry Bonds? This is juicier than a burger from the new Real Deal Grill. I wonder if it can take a beating like Holyfield did.
-The NY Daily News reports that the Mets are interested in top flight hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo to fill that vacancy. New York will not make any other changes besides for the position held on an interrim basis by Ricky Henderson.
-The Baltimore Sun reports that the Orioles are likely to hire former Florida pitching coach Rick Kranitz to fill the role previously held by the fired Leo Mazzone.
Arizona Fall League Update
Angels Catcher prospect Ben Johnson homered and drove in 2 as Surprise defeated Scottsdale 9-6. Royals OF Chris Lubanski and Reds C Craig Tatum also drove in 2. Arizona OF Aaron Cunningham hit a 3 run homer in defeat for Surprise.
Houston OF Mitch Einertson hit a 3 run homer and Cards 1B Mark Hamilton drove in 2 as Mesa pounded Peoria 9-3. Yankees 1B Juan Miranda hit a solo homer in defeat.
Giants OF prospect Dan Oremeier leads the league in hitting, 3 players including Rays top prospect Evan Longoria and Texas star OF John Mayberry lead in homers, and 9 players including Longoria, Mayberry, Miranda, and Brewers 2007 first rounder Matt LaPorta lead the circuit in RBI's.
College Hoops Today
3 weeks are left until the College Basketball season starts when highly touted Memphis hosts Tennessee-Martin on ESPNU. They had their first practice on Friday with one of the top teams in the nation led by a returning starting 5 with Joey Dorsey and Chris Douglas-Roberts. Oh, and they have Derrick Rose, one of the best freshmen in the country. The Tigers schedule includes a December 4th home game against USC, who had their first workouts of the OJ Mayo era in Los Angeles.
23,313 fans showed up at Rupp Arena for the first Kentucky practice under Billy Gillispie. Gillispie already did what former coach Tubby Smith couldn't, land the big recruit in Patrick Patterson. The Wildcats will likely run a more fast paced style than his predecessor which is a huge shot in the arm for the UK faithful. Their season starts on November 6th, but their first big game is on December 1st when they host North Carolina.
More College Hoops before the season begins, this is just a little taste of what's to come.
23,313 fans showed up at Rupp Arena for the first Kentucky practice under Billy Gillispie. Gillispie already did what former coach Tubby Smith couldn't, land the big recruit in Patrick Patterson. The Wildcats will likely run a more fast paced style than his predecessor which is a huge shot in the arm for the UK faithful. Their season starts on November 6th, but their first big game is on December 1st when they host North Carolina.
More College Hoops before the season begins, this is just a little taste of what's to come.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
The New York Yankees: A Franchise At A Crossroads
My friend Ben compared this year’s Yankees to the ‘03/’04 Los Angeles Lakers that didn’t win a title and blew everything up. The next season, everything was different. Legendary coach Phil Jackson was gone, megastar Shaquille O’Neal wasn’t back, and neither were several high priced former All Stars. That looks like a carbon copy of what could possibly happen this offseason for the Yanks; a disappointing season followed by complete turnover and utter disarray.
Joe Torre may not be back with the team he took to the postseason every year he was manager, and was well liked among players and fans alike. Although Lakers players may not have been very fond of Phil Jackson, they realized that he was one of the all time great coaches in NBA history. Shaquille O’Neal was traded that offseason, which rocked the league to its core. The same scenario could occur with baseball’s best player, Alex Rodriguez. He’s able to opt out of his contract and leave New York for the team that pays him the most money. And if superagent Scott Boras has his way (which he usually does), A-Rod could get a contract in the neighborhood of 12 years and 360 million dollars, which would balance the budgets of several African nations. The departure of Rodriguez, possibly to the rival Red Sox would have a titanic effect on the team’s lineup. There is clearly no player more valuable to this team than Rodriguez, even Derek Jeter. And if Rodriguez is the most valuable, the players that could potentially leave The Bronx are as precious as can be.
In addition to Torre and Rodriguez, the Yankees could lose both supreme closer Mariano Rivera and Catcher Jorge Posada via free agency. New York had the chance to lock Rivera up before the season began, but “Mo” will now give capitalism a whirl and explore the market. Rivera’s value has definitely decreased over the last year, but he still measures among the top relief pitchers in the American League, and other closing options out there include Todd Jones and Francisco Cordero. And to top that, Posada was only the best offensive Catcher in baseball this year, batting .338 with 20 home runs and 90 driven in. The potential loss of that battery would be devastating.
If that wasn’t enough, the list of players that could possibly be gone by Spring Training in February is staggering. Roger Clemens will not likely be back next year, Andy Pettitte could opt to play elsewhere, and the Yankees will be looking to deal Bobby Abreu, Jason Giambi, Johnny Damon, and perhaps even Hideki Matsui. So the Yankees stars you’ve grown to know and love could be gone faster than you could say “Lake Erie Midges”. The team will need some bullpen help and a new first baseman for sure, but the entire team could be younger and far different than what was the norm for the better part of a decade. The new age of the Yankees could very well be upon us in 2008, or New York could resign their players and make one last run for the glory. Either way, the next few months will bring decisions that will shape the franchise for the foreseeable future. There will be millions of opinions, dozens of difficult choices, and only one thing for certain: the New York Yankees is a franchise at a crossroads, and only time will tell which path they choose.
Joe Torre may not be back with the team he took to the postseason every year he was manager, and was well liked among players and fans alike. Although Lakers players may not have been very fond of Phil Jackson, they realized that he was one of the all time great coaches in NBA history. Shaquille O’Neal was traded that offseason, which rocked the league to its core. The same scenario could occur with baseball’s best player, Alex Rodriguez. He’s able to opt out of his contract and leave New York for the team that pays him the most money. And if superagent Scott Boras has his way (which he usually does), A-Rod could get a contract in the neighborhood of 12 years and 360 million dollars, which would balance the budgets of several African nations. The departure of Rodriguez, possibly to the rival Red Sox would have a titanic effect on the team’s lineup. There is clearly no player more valuable to this team than Rodriguez, even Derek Jeter. And if Rodriguez is the most valuable, the players that could potentially leave The Bronx are as precious as can be.
In addition to Torre and Rodriguez, the Yankees could lose both supreme closer Mariano Rivera and Catcher Jorge Posada via free agency. New York had the chance to lock Rivera up before the season began, but “Mo” will now give capitalism a whirl and explore the market. Rivera’s value has definitely decreased over the last year, but he still measures among the top relief pitchers in the American League, and other closing options out there include Todd Jones and Francisco Cordero. And to top that, Posada was only the best offensive Catcher in baseball this year, batting .338 with 20 home runs and 90 driven in. The potential loss of that battery would be devastating.
If that wasn’t enough, the list of players that could possibly be gone by Spring Training in February is staggering. Roger Clemens will not likely be back next year, Andy Pettitte could opt to play elsewhere, and the Yankees will be looking to deal Bobby Abreu, Jason Giambi, Johnny Damon, and perhaps even Hideki Matsui. So the Yankees stars you’ve grown to know and love could be gone faster than you could say “Lake Erie Midges”. The team will need some bullpen help and a new first baseman for sure, but the entire team could be younger and far different than what was the norm for the better part of a decade. The new age of the Yankees could very well be upon us in 2008, or New York could resign their players and make one last run for the glory. Either way, the next few months will bring decisions that will shape the franchise for the foreseeable future. There will be millions of opinions, dozens of difficult choices, and only one thing for certain: the New York Yankees is a franchise at a crossroads, and only time will tell which path they choose.
NFL Daily Presents: Week 6 Tuneup
Lots of injuries and various other news items to get to before kickoff here in week 6. ARZ- Bryant Johnson is probable and will likely play against Carolina ATL- Leftwich, Brooking, Coleman, Babineaux are questionable and Alge Crumpler is probable. BAL- Wilcox and Trevor Pryce are both out, Rolle, McNair, and Ogden are questionable, Mason and Heap are probable. CAR- David Carr is questionable after his back stiffened on the team's flight. Goings and Morgan are out against Arizona. CHI- Briggs, Tillman, Tait, and Berrian are questionable, and Tommie Harris is probable for Minnesota. CIN- Dexter Jackson and Rudi Johnson are probable. CLE- Jamal Lewis will be out today against Miami with a sore foot. Jason Wright will start at RB for Cleveland, and the Phins need to take advantage and stuff the run, forcing Derek Anderson to make plays. DAL- Anthony Henry is out for the showdown against New England. DEN- Embattled RB Travis Henry is probable. GB- Jennings and Morency are both probable for the match against Washington. HOU- Ryans, Johnson, and Brown are probable while Andre Johnson is out for the game against the Jaguars. JAX- Fred Taylor will be a game time decision, Wrightster and Meester are probable, Stroud and Hayward are questionable. KC- Eddie Kennison is out. MIA- Brown, Crowder, and Taylor are probable, Derek Hagan is questionable while Vonnie Holliday is out. MIN- Smith and Tarvaris Jackson are probable, Ben Leber is questionable. NE- Maroney is likely out, Washington, Samuel, Stallworth, and Thomas are all questionable. NYG- Steve Smith is out, Burress, Umenyiora, and Ward are questionable. NYJ- Coles, Coleman, Mccareins, and Pennington are questionable. OAK- McCown and Cooper are out, Jordan is questionable. PHI- Brian Dawkins is out, Sheppard and Thomas are questionable, Smith and Westbrook are probable. SDG- Vincent Jackson is probable. SEA- Marcus Pollard is questionable. SF- Alex Smith and Vernon Davis are questionable. STL- Bulger and Frerotte are both probable. TB- Pittman is out, Hilliard and Ruud are questionable. TEN- Haynesworth is probable, Jones is questionable. WSH- Thomas is out, Smoot, Sellers, and Daniels are probable. Late Breaking Active/Inactive Players Kilmer and Brooks are inactive for the Bengals Bender, Coleman and others are inactive for the Jets. Taveres Tillman won't play for Miami -After today's game, Arizona will sign QB Tim Hasselbeck. Andrew Livingston's Picks Tennesee over TB Chicago over Minny Jax Over Houston Clev Over Miami Balt over Rams Wash over Gb Cincy over KC Nyj over Philly Arizona Over Carolina SD Over Oakland Dallas Over New England New Orleans Over Seattle Atlanta Over NYG Jake Weintraub's Picks Ravens over Rams Bears over Vikings Browns over Miami Redskins over Packers Jaguars over Houston Bengals Over KC Jets Over Eagles Titans over Bucs Cardinals over Panthers Patriots over Cowboys Chargers over Raiders Seahawks over Saints Giants over Falcons
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