((ht: espn.com))
Shhh...quiet. Don't tell Texas Christian they aren't playing in the College Bowl Playoff this year. If their Peach Bowl game performance is an indicator...they may be in said playoff next year.
TCU ran out to a 28-0 halftime lead and coasted to a 42-3 rout of alleged SEC West power Ole Miss. And really, the game wasn't that close.
Ole Miss could scratch out only 129 yards of total offense including a total of 9 yards running the ball. Rebel QB Bo Wallace wasn't much better throwing for 109 yards and 3 interceptions.
As for the Horned Frogs, 3 TD passes by Trevonne Boykin were more than enough as TCU finishes the season 12-1. Ole Miss finished 9-4.
Your highlights from ESPN.com:
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Basta Breakdown: Cardinal End Poor Season on High Note, Thrash Terps 45-21
By: Ben Leonard
Follow Ben on Twitter @Ben___Leonard
Stanford came into Tuesday’s Foster Farms Bowl as heavy favorites against the Maryland Terrapins. They left nothing to be desired after a dominant 45-21 win over the Terps, controlling both sides of the ball. The Cardinal held 35-7 lead early in the third quarter, and took their foot off the gas after that. They did so without Ty Montgomery, who was out with a shoulder injury. A senior, Montgomery did not have a chance to end his career on a high note. Although Montgomery did not have a chance to do so, the Cardinal did not squander their opportunity to bring momentum into 2015 after a disappointing 8-5 season.
Quarterback Kevin Hogan had a nearly flawless game, completing fourteen passes of twenty passes for 189 yards and two touchdowns. The chilly conditions at Levi’s Stadium didn’t fluster Hogan, who had no trouble throwing the ball to all sides of the field. His continued stretch of efficiency could make him jump to the NFL after this season, opening the door for redshirt freshman Keller Chryst to take over. Chryst appeared to be picking Hogan’s mind in the waning stages of the game, looking for nuggets of wisdom from the senior signal-caller.
Hogan (8) mentors Chryst (10) on the sideline in Tuesday's bowl game. (Image: Own)
HOGAN (8) MENTORS CHRYST (10) ON THE SIDELINE IN TUESDAY’S BOWL GAME. (IMAGE: OWN)
Hogan appeared calm, cool, and collected in the pocket, with Maryland’s defensive front providing little resistance. He worked the intermediate passing game very well, completing seven passes of more than ten yards. He connected twice with receiver Devon Cajuste for scores, who took advantage of an undersized Terps’ secondary. Hogan spread the ball very well, with ten different receivers catching passes. He seemed to go through his progressions very slowly, a product of Montgomery’s absence. Hogan looked to his tight ends frequently, completing seven passes for 102 yards, including seventy-one to freshman phenom Austin Hooper. Hogan’s efforts earned him the Foster Farms Bowl offensive MVP award.
Hogan’s only miscue came on a fumbled handoff early in the third, when he inexplicably dropped the ball before handing it off to his back. It did not hurt the Cardinal in the end, as Maryland quarterback C.J. Brown immediately threw an interception to safety Kyle Olugbode. Brown overthrew his receiver by several feet, giving Olugbode an easy play on the ball. Stanford would respond with a quick touchdown drive, capped by Cajuste’s second touchdown catch. Cajuste finished with four catches for forty-seven yards, and will announce whether he will stay for another season at Stanford, or leave for the NFL on Wednesday.
David Shaw finally let Christian McCaffery do his thing, something Stanford fans have been calling for all season long. McCaffery’s speed and agility is well-suited for outside runs, and Maryland’s poor secondary allowed Stanford to utilize McCaffery to exploit this weakness. Stanford’s offense more closely resembled Oregon’s spread offense on Tuesday night to take advantage of this deficiency. They utilized intermediated passes and runs outside the tackles to avoid Maryland’s relatively stronger defensive front.
unnamed-3
THE CARDINAL SPACED OUT THEIR OFFENSE ON TUESDAY, AS SHOWN ABOVE.
He rushed for fifty-seven yards on just seven carries, and returned four punts for eighty-one yards. His electric play-making ability figures to play a larger role in 2015, although his style does not necessarily fit Stanford’s philosophy of physical running.
In spite of a poor second drive, the Cardinal defense was dominant, holding Maryland to just seventeen rushing yards. They controlled the line of scrimmage all game long, only letting up with the score well out of hand in the second half. Dual-threat quarterback C.J. Brown was kept in check, throwing for just 205 yards on twenty seven attempts. A big twenty-six yard catch by receiver Stefon Diggs led Maryland to their only score in the first half, facilitating the drive. Outside of that drive, the Terps gathered just 178 total yards. Foster Farms Bowl Defensive MVP James Vaughters led the charge for the Cardinal, sacking Brown twice and forcing a fumble. Tuesday’s game was the last for Vaughters at Stanford, who will enter the NFL Draft after graduating.
Although Stanford won just eight games in 2014, they were one play away from beating both Notre Dame and USC. They did not have quite as awful of a year as it has been made out to be, and have a bright future with McCaffery leading the charge. Whether or not Hogan leaves, the Cardinal are poised for a more successful 2015 campaign. Their school bowl record forty-five point outburst gives the offense confidence for next year, with Montgomery and Peat being the only players likely to leave. That is not the case on defense, with A.J. Tarpley, Vaughters, and Henry Anderson all graduating, to name a few. The Cardinal may be disappointed with 2014, but the Foster Farms Bowl was something to “cluck” about.
Follow Ben on Twitter @Ben___Leonard
Stanford came into Tuesday’s Foster Farms Bowl as heavy favorites against the Maryland Terrapins. They left nothing to be desired after a dominant 45-21 win over the Terps, controlling both sides of the ball. The Cardinal held 35-7 lead early in the third quarter, and took their foot off the gas after that. They did so without Ty Montgomery, who was out with a shoulder injury. A senior, Montgomery did not have a chance to end his career on a high note. Although Montgomery did not have a chance to do so, the Cardinal did not squander their opportunity to bring momentum into 2015 after a disappointing 8-5 season.
Quarterback Kevin Hogan had a nearly flawless game, completing fourteen passes of twenty passes for 189 yards and two touchdowns. The chilly conditions at Levi’s Stadium didn’t fluster Hogan, who had no trouble throwing the ball to all sides of the field. His continued stretch of efficiency could make him jump to the NFL after this season, opening the door for redshirt freshman Keller Chryst to take over. Chryst appeared to be picking Hogan’s mind in the waning stages of the game, looking for nuggets of wisdom from the senior signal-caller.
Hogan (8) mentors Chryst (10) on the sideline in Tuesday's bowl game. (Image: Own)
HOGAN (8) MENTORS CHRYST (10) ON THE SIDELINE IN TUESDAY’S BOWL GAME. (IMAGE: OWN)
Hogan appeared calm, cool, and collected in the pocket, with Maryland’s defensive front providing little resistance. He worked the intermediate passing game very well, completing seven passes of more than ten yards. He connected twice with receiver Devon Cajuste for scores, who took advantage of an undersized Terps’ secondary. Hogan spread the ball very well, with ten different receivers catching passes. He seemed to go through his progressions very slowly, a product of Montgomery’s absence. Hogan looked to his tight ends frequently, completing seven passes for 102 yards, including seventy-one to freshman phenom Austin Hooper. Hogan’s efforts earned him the Foster Farms Bowl offensive MVP award.
Hogan’s only miscue came on a fumbled handoff early in the third, when he inexplicably dropped the ball before handing it off to his back. It did not hurt the Cardinal in the end, as Maryland quarterback C.J. Brown immediately threw an interception to safety Kyle Olugbode. Brown overthrew his receiver by several feet, giving Olugbode an easy play on the ball. Stanford would respond with a quick touchdown drive, capped by Cajuste’s second touchdown catch. Cajuste finished with four catches for forty-seven yards, and will announce whether he will stay for another season at Stanford, or leave for the NFL on Wednesday.
David Shaw finally let Christian McCaffery do his thing, something Stanford fans have been calling for all season long. McCaffery’s speed and agility is well-suited for outside runs, and Maryland’s poor secondary allowed Stanford to utilize McCaffery to exploit this weakness. Stanford’s offense more closely resembled Oregon’s spread offense on Tuesday night to take advantage of this deficiency. They utilized intermediated passes and runs outside the tackles to avoid Maryland’s relatively stronger defensive front.
unnamed-3
THE CARDINAL SPACED OUT THEIR OFFENSE ON TUESDAY, AS SHOWN ABOVE.
He rushed for fifty-seven yards on just seven carries, and returned four punts for eighty-one yards. His electric play-making ability figures to play a larger role in 2015, although his style does not necessarily fit Stanford’s philosophy of physical running.
In spite of a poor second drive, the Cardinal defense was dominant, holding Maryland to just seventeen rushing yards. They controlled the line of scrimmage all game long, only letting up with the score well out of hand in the second half. Dual-threat quarterback C.J. Brown was kept in check, throwing for just 205 yards on twenty seven attempts. A big twenty-six yard catch by receiver Stefon Diggs led Maryland to their only score in the first half, facilitating the drive. Outside of that drive, the Terps gathered just 178 total yards. Foster Farms Bowl Defensive MVP James Vaughters led the charge for the Cardinal, sacking Brown twice and forcing a fumble. Tuesday’s game was the last for Vaughters at Stanford, who will enter the NFL Draft after graduating.
Although Stanford won just eight games in 2014, they were one play away from beating both Notre Dame and USC. They did not have quite as awful of a year as it has been made out to be, and have a bright future with McCaffery leading the charge. Whether or not Hogan leaves, the Cardinal are poised for a more successful 2015 campaign. Their school bowl record forty-five point outburst gives the offense confidence for next year, with Montgomery and Peat being the only players likely to leave. That is not the case on defense, with A.J. Tarpley, Vaughters, and Henry Anderson all graduating, to name a few. The Cardinal may be disappointed with 2014, but the Foster Farms Bowl was something to “cluck” about.
Heads Up: Predators TV Guy Hit by Puck During Interview
((ht: cbssports.com))
Look out Willy Daunic!
If you've ever spent time around a hockey rink chances are you've seen a puck go flying over the glass and into the stands. It's one of the reasons during games, most arenas won't let you walk the isles during game action.
It happens a lot at practice too.
Check out what happened Tuesday to Nashville Predators TV guy Willy Daunic as he was taping an interview during morning skate before the Preds nighttime game with the St. Louis Blues.
Yes, that's a flying puck that hits Daunic square in the noggin while he's talking. But the part we are impressed with--Daunic kept going, never stopping the interview.
Look out Willy Daunic!
If you've ever spent time around a hockey rink chances are you've seen a puck go flying over the glass and into the stands. It's one of the reasons during games, most arenas won't let you walk the isles during game action.
It happens a lot at practice too.
Check out what happened Tuesday to Nashville Predators TV guy Willy Daunic as he was taping an interview during morning skate before the Preds nighttime game with the St. Louis Blues.
Yes, that's a flying puck that hits Daunic square in the noggin while he's talking. But the part we are impressed with--Daunic kept going, never stopping the interview.
UGA Runs Over Louisville in Belk Bowl
He's only a freshman. And University of Georgia running back Nick Chubb may have already established himself as a leading Heisman Trophy candidate for 2015.
Chubb ran for 266 yards and 3 TD's to lead UGA to a 37-14 win over Louisville in the Belk Bowl Tuesday night.
The game which featured the Bulldogs offense matching up with the teams former defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, now the coordinator at Louisville, was never close.
Grantham's Cardinal D, one of the top defenses in the country at stopping the run had no answer for Chubb who just kept getting the ball. And UGA really didn't do anything other than run it after the half as starting QB Huston Mason left the game with vision issues and the Bulldogs had redshirt freshman Bryce Ramsey who had limited experience running the club.
Here are the highlights from ESPN.com, mostly featuring #27...
Chubb ran for 266 yards and 3 TD's to lead UGA to a 37-14 win over Louisville in the Belk Bowl Tuesday night.
The game which featured the Bulldogs offense matching up with the teams former defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, now the coordinator at Louisville, was never close.
Grantham's Cardinal D, one of the top defenses in the country at stopping the run had no answer for Chubb who just kept getting the ball. And UGA really didn't do anything other than run it after the half as starting QB Huston Mason left the game with vision issues and the Bulldogs had redshirt freshman Bryce Ramsey who had limited experience running the club.
Here are the highlights from ESPN.com, mostly featuring #27...
FSU Gets Win over Florida on Tipped Basket
Ooopsie!
It's bad enough to lose a rivalry game. It's worse when you lose the game on your own mistake.
Which is exactly what happened Tuesday night in the FSU vs. Florida game in Tallahassee.
Here's the set-up: Game tied at 63 with just over 2 seconds left in the hard fought game. Florida State throws the ball in. Devon Brookert is forced by the defense to throw up a 3-pointer from deep in the right corner.
Brandon's shot is short and Gators forward Jacob Kurtz goes up to knock the ball away from the hoop.
One problem--Kurtz didn't do a very good job of knocking the ball away. With just 0.4 seconds left, his soft tip hits the rim and goes in. Basket counts---For the Seminoles.
The stunned Gators just shake their collective heads while the FSU faithful stare at the play for a second before they realize what happened and start celebrating the crazy win.
It's bad enough to lose a rivalry game. It's worse when you lose the game on your own mistake.
Which is exactly what happened Tuesday night in the FSU vs. Florida game in Tallahassee.
Here's the set-up: Game tied at 63 with just over 2 seconds left in the hard fought game. Florida State throws the ball in. Devon Brookert is forced by the defense to throw up a 3-pointer from deep in the right corner.
Brandon's shot is short and Gators forward Jacob Kurtz goes up to knock the ball away from the hoop.
One problem--Kurtz didn't do a very good job of knocking the ball away. With just 0.4 seconds left, his soft tip hits the rim and goes in. Basket counts---For the Seminoles.
The stunned Gators just shake their collective heads while the FSU faithful stare at the play for a second before they realize what happened and start celebrating the crazy win.
ICYMI: Ndamukong Suh Wins Appeal Will Play Sunday
Detroit Lions walking fine Ndamukong Suh somehow got his one game suspension for stepping on Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers overturned Tuesday evening.
Suh had appealed the suspension, which would have kept him out of the Lions wild-card game vs. Dallas. In his appeal he claimed his feet were "Numb from the Cold" and he couldn't tell if he was on the frozen turf in Green Bay or not. In lieu of the suspension, he will pay a $70,000 fine.
Uh...yeah.
Suh has a history of after the fact silly things like this. Yes, he made it through the 2014 season without incident but he's been fined and/or suspended several times for offenses similar to this one.
The move will help the Lions as they face the powerful Cowboys offense led by the NFL's leading rusher, DeMarco Murray on Sunday.
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
DEVELOPING: And The Aggie GA Is Fired
That didn't take long...
In a two-paragraph apology, Texas A&M head football coach Kevin Sumlin has dismissed grad assistant Michael Richardson for his two shots on West Virginia players in yesterday's Liberty Bowl in Memphis:
From George Schroeder's Twitter:
For those of you under a rock, here are the two plays that got Richardson in hot water
In a two-paragraph apology, Texas A&M head football coach Kevin Sumlin has dismissed grad assistant Michael Richardson for his two shots on West Virginia players in yesterday's Liberty Bowl in Memphis:
From George Schroeder's Twitter:
Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin has permanently dismissed student assistant Michael Richardson for striking WV player. pic.twitter.com/qaxaop3zt9
— George Schroeder (@GeorgeSchroeder) December 30, 2014For those of you under a rock, here are the two plays that got Richardson in hot water
Reports: Harbaugh to Get $5 Million at Michigan
((ht: footballscoop.com))
So apparently new Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh will NOT be the highest paid coach in College Football.
According to reports; Harbaugh has told Michigan athletic director Jim Hackett a $5 million deal will be fine with him. Harbaugh apparently has said he'd rather the extra money go for his assistants. That word came from John Bacon who spoke with Hackett Tuesday morning.
That sigh of relief you hear might be from the Alabama booster club...
Just kidding...
Harbaugh will officially be introduced at Michigan Tuesday at noon and will be introduced to the student body at a Tuesday night home basketball game. The game by the way has been dubbed a "Khaki Out" by the students in honor of Harbaugh's frequent use of Khaki's as his pant of choice...
Reports had circulated earlier this month that UM was floating an $8 million, 6-year deal for their new coach and though the length of the contract has not been disclosed...and $5 million is still a lot of money, it's a lot less money than originally thought.
Congratulations to the Michigan fans, you got your man. Now let's see if he can sort out your mess and return you to the glory you feel like you should have.
So apparently new Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh will NOT be the highest paid coach in College Football.
According to reports; Harbaugh has told Michigan athletic director Jim Hackett a $5 million deal will be fine with him. Harbaugh apparently has said he'd rather the extra money go for his assistants. That word came from John Bacon who spoke with Hackett Tuesday morning.
BREAKING NEWS: Straight from UM AD Jim Hackett. Harbaugh's salary will be roughly $5M a year, plus incentives, same basic contract as 49ers.
— John U. Bacon (@Johnubacon) December 30, 2014
That sigh of relief you hear might be from the Alabama booster club...
Just kidding...
Harbaugh will officially be introduced at Michigan Tuesday at noon and will be introduced to the student body at a Tuesday night home basketball game. The game by the way has been dubbed a "Khaki Out" by the students in honor of Harbaugh's frequent use of Khaki's as his pant of choice...
Reports had circulated earlier this month that UM was floating an $8 million, 6-year deal for their new coach and though the length of the contract has not been disclosed...and $5 million is still a lot of money, it's a lot less money than originally thought.
Congratulations to the Michigan fans, you got your man. Now let's see if he can sort out your mess and return you to the glory you feel like you should have.
Morning Wrap: Clemson Destroys Oklahoma in Bowl Game
((ht: espn.com))
Rumors of the ACC's weakness in football may be greatly exaggerated.
Either that or the Oklahoma Sooners and/or the Big 10 have a big problem.
The Clemson Tigers rolled to an early 40-0 lead and cruised home to a 40-6 Russell Athletic Bowl win over the reeling Oklahoma Sooners in front of 40,000 or so fans in a half-full stadium in Orlando, Florida.
QB Cole Stoudt had a career game, throwing for 319 yards and 3 TD's. He also ran for another score to lead the Tigers. Meanwhile, much hyped Oklahoma QB Trevor Knight threw for 103 yards and 3 interceptions.
It wasn't pretty. And not to diminish the dominating performance by Clemson, the loss raised a ton of questions about longtime Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops.
Stoops, once considered a coaching darling or possible NFL head coach has struggled to keep the once competitive Sooners...well, um, competitive. The team was ranked as high as #3 or #4 in the preseason and finished the year 8-5 with a ton of question marks.
As for Clemson, while it wasn't a title winning year, the Tigers won 10 games for the 4th straight season under head coach Dabo Swinney.
Your highlights from ESPN.com:
Tootoo and Bortuzzo Go Twice In One Night
((HT: HockeyFights/MSG))
They went once
And, then, they went again...
Jordin Tootoo and Robert Bortuzzo decided to go after each other as a reminder of the Jarmoir Jagr check from the last time the two teams met.
Admittedly, the thought that two guys would go at it twice in a game is odd in today's NHL, but if it was going to be two guys- the HQ would think that it would be these two.
Carry on...
They went once
And, then, they went again...
Jordin Tootoo and Robert Bortuzzo decided to go after each other as a reminder of the Jarmoir Jagr check from the last time the two teams met.
Admittedly, the thought that two guys would go at it twice in a game is odd in today's NHL, but if it was going to be two guys- the HQ would think that it would be these two.
Carry on...
Monday, December 29, 2014
OSG Prem: West Brom Sacks Irvine, Is Pardew Going Home...?
((HT: NBCSN/Sky Sports))
The HQ saw that Crystal Palace would be the first to sack a manager in the Premier League season- Neil Warnock on Saturday after a 3-1 loss to Southampton as they fight in relegation.
Now, West Brom (struggling themselves at the bottom of the table) has sacked Alan Irvine who was regarded as a strange choice to take over in the first place after last season's misfortunes. The West Brom side have lost three in a row and are currently 16th in the table, but they're only one point above the drop zone.
The odd part of all this was that former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood was in line to take over for Warnock at Palace, but now he is lined up to take over for Irvine- according to the London Telegraph.
Got all that...???
But it gets better...
Alan Pardew may be jetting from Newcastle to go back to the place where he was a player in the 1980's and '90s- Crystal Palace.
Rebecca and the Robbies discuss
There will be a quiz later on...
The HQ saw that Crystal Palace would be the first to sack a manager in the Premier League season- Neil Warnock on Saturday after a 3-1 loss to Southampton as they fight in relegation.
Now, West Brom (struggling themselves at the bottom of the table) has sacked Alan Irvine who was regarded as a strange choice to take over in the first place after last season's misfortunes. The West Brom side have lost three in a row and are currently 16th in the table, but they're only one point above the drop zone.
The odd part of all this was that former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood was in line to take over for Warnock at Palace, but now he is lined up to take over for Irvine- according to the London Telegraph.
Got all that...???
But it gets better...
Alan Pardew may be jetting from Newcastle to go back to the place where he was a player in the 1980's and '90s- Crystal Palace.
Rebecca and the Robbies discuss
There will be a quiz later on...
How Not To Remain A Student Assistant
((HT: ESPN/Football News))
If you're a student assistant for a football program, you're the lowest on the totem pole.
You're the guy that analyzes film at really odd hours
You're the guy that makes index cards for whoever wants them for game planning
You're the guy that makes those really big placards that have the symbols that, supposedly, tell the offense what the next play is
But, you're not the guy that is supposed to do this to West Virginia players during the Liberty Bowl
TWICE!!! Once to corner Daryll Worley and the other to RB Andrew Buie
The Texas A&M assistant, Michael Richardson, was given the football equivalent of being sent to his room- he was told by head coach Kevin Sumlin to remain in the locker room for the second half.
More on the future of Richardson when we know more...
If you're a student assistant for a football program, you're the lowest on the totem pole.
You're the guy that analyzes film at really odd hours
You're the guy that makes index cards for whoever wants them for game planning
You're the guy that makes those really big placards that have the symbols that, supposedly, tell the offense what the next play is
But, you're not the guy that is supposed to do this to West Virginia players during the Liberty Bowl
TWICE!!! Once to corner Daryll Worley and the other to RB Andrew Buie
The Texas A&M assistant, Michael Richardson, was given the football equivalent of being sent to his room- he was told by head coach Kevin Sumlin to remain in the locker room for the second half.
More on the future of Richardson when we know more...
REPORTS: Harbaugh accepts Michigan job
Well, that didn't take long.
 |
OSG sources are reporting former San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh has agreed to take over the helm of the Michigan Wolverines. There is a news conference scheduled on Tuesday in Ann Arbor with interim AD Jim Hackett. Harbaugh and his family were scheduled on a private jet from San Fran to Ann Arbor at 10:00am PST this morning, so that's just a coincidence, right? *insert eye roll here*
The details of the deal have not been released, but it was reported earlier that Michigan offered Harbaugh a six-year contract worth at least $48 million. Michigan officials did meet with Harbaugh Sunday night after the embattled head coach and the 49ers organization "agreed to mutually part ways."
Harbaugh played QB for Michigan under legendary head coach Bo Schembechler.
More details when they become available.
The details of the deal have not been released, but it was reported earlier that Michigan offered Harbaugh a six-year contract worth at least $48 million. Michigan officials did meet with Harbaugh Sunday night after the embattled head coach and the 49ers organization "agreed to mutually part ways."
Harbaugh played QB for Michigan under legendary head coach Bo Schembechler.
More details when they become available.
Black Monday: Bears Fire Marc Trestman and GM Phil Emery
The house cleaning for teams that did not make the NFL Playoffs continues with the Chicago Bears cleaning house in their top management.
Head Coach Marc Trestman and General Manager Phil Emery were let got Monday morning by the underachieving Bears who finished 2014 at 5-11 with lots of tension.
Trestman finished his second season in the Windy City on a real down note as reports of internal fights among teammates and the general lack of performance by high paid QB Jay Cutler ultimately undid the team.
Like all the others, the Bears will begin the search for replacements immediately. No telling which direction the team will go....
Head Coach Marc Trestman and General Manager Phil Emery were let got Monday morning by the underachieving Bears who finished 2014 at 5-11 with lots of tension.
Trestman finished his second season in the Windy City on a real down note as reports of internal fights among teammates and the general lack of performance by high paid QB Jay Cutler ultimately undid the team.
Like all the others, the Bears will begin the search for replacements immediately. No telling which direction the team will go....
Black Monday: Falcons Fire Coach Mike Smith
The Atlanta Falcons have announced they've parted ways with now former head coach Mike Smith.On Black Monday, the day after the NFL regular season came to an end, Smith became the 3rd casualty.
He coached the Falcons for 7 years beginning in 2008. And during that time, the team had quite a bit of success, recording back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in their history. Smith got them into the playoffs 5 times and helped guide them within a touchdown of a Super Bowl berth.
But the past two seasons haven't been as kind as the Falcons fell victim to bad luck, injuries and problems finding quality linemen. Smith also made some questionable coaching decisions which this past season cost his team two games.
We should add that GM Thomas Dimitroff is not without blame here as the Falcons have severely lacked top flight talent on the line and have not drafted well the past several seasons.
But Dmitroff is likely to stay--though his status is a bit iffy too.
We feel bad about this, having covered the Falcons for 10-years. We were there when Smitty was hired and he was a total class act.
But the team has not produced and ultimately, owner Arthur Blank, with a billion dollar stadium on the way had to make a change. And he made it with the hope a new regime can bring in a winning team to launch the new building.
Only time will tell.
Awesome! FSU Fans Produce Oregon Ducks Themed Duck Hunt Game
((ht: si.com))
Oh, this is fantastic....
A couple of Florida State football fans at A Flat Miner Studios apparently had some time on their hands this past week.
And to keep busy...the produced a football themed version of the classic Nintendo game "Duck Hunt". Only the duck featured in the game was an Oregon Duck.
Or at least a Duck dressed in an Oregon sweater.
And if you shoot the Duck, it falls into the grass only to be retrieved by a Florida State football player with the Seminoles War Chant theme playing in the background.
Yes really.
Click on the link HERE to play....
Fantastic...a great way to pass some time until the two teams play at the Rose Bowl in Round One of the College Football Playoff later in the week.
Oh, this is fantastic....
A couple of Florida State football fans at A Flat Miner Studios apparently had some time on their hands this past week.
And to keep busy...the produced a football themed version of the classic Nintendo game "Duck Hunt". Only the duck featured in the game was an Oregon Duck.
Or at least a Duck dressed in an Oregon sweater.
And if you shoot the Duck, it falls into the grass only to be retrieved by a Florida State football player with the Seminoles War Chant theme playing in the background.
Yes really.
Click on the link HERE to play....
Fantastic...a great way to pass some time until the two teams play at the Rose Bowl in Round One of the College Football Playoff later in the week.
BASTA: 49ers Close Fruitless Season With A Win; Coaching Situation in Question
((HT: BASTA/Baichwal))
This season has been full of ups and downs, with the 49ers showing great promise in some moments but then looking listless in others. Over the past four years, in the Jim Harbaugh and Colin Kaepernick era, the 49ers have had great success, except for this year. They went to three straight NFC Championship games, and even made the Super Bowl two years ago. However, this year all of the success that they had built up fizzled, going from a Super Bowl contender to mediocrity. Coming into today’s matchup against their division rival Arizona Cardinals, the 49ers were 7-8. They managed a 20-17 win today, ending their season at an even 8-8, maintaining Jim Harbaugh’s streak of no losing seasons.
The 49ers 2014 season looked promising as the preseason ended, and they continued to look extremely good, starting the season with a resounding win over the Cowboys. However, the 49ers’ hot start quickly ended, losing two games straight for the first time in Harbaugh’s NFL coaching career to the Bears and the Cardinals. Fortunately, they came back after this with strength, as they took their 1-2 record, and then won three straight games against the Eagles, the Chiefs, and the Rams. However, this 4-2 surge was stopped by back-to-back losses to the Broncos and the Rams, bringing the 49ers record to an even 4-4. The 49ers were then able to bear down and battle hard for three straight wins: an overtime win over the Saints, a defensive win over the Giants, and an Anquan Boldin led win over Washington, giving them a 7-4 record and putting them in a tie with the Seattle Seahawks, in the chase for the NFC Wild Card spot. However, the 49ers’ playoff hopes were quickly yet painfully stripped away, as the 49ers lost four straight games, including a blowout by the division rival Seahawks, a stinging loss to the awful Raiders, another bad loss to the Seahawks, and an overtime loss to the Chargers, forming the 49ers’ longest losing streak in the Jim Harbaugh era. With a 7-8 record, the 49ers tip-toed into today’s matchup, and were luckily able to grab a win, to give them a somewhat acceptable record of 8-8.
On Sunday, the volatile 49ers were on one of their good days. Frank Gore rushed for a season high 144 yards on 25 carries, continuing to add onto his franchise leading rushing totals. Some believe that free-agent-to-be Gore will retire after his tenth year in the league. However, Gore prides himself on his determination and resiliency, making it unlikely that he would leave after a subpar season like this one. Furthermore, he has indicated that he would like to continue his career with the 49ers, the only team he has ever known. Whether or not he plays next season, it is highly unlikely that he will remain with San Francisco due to the fact that they have been grooming rookie Carlos Hyde to be his successor. Furthermore, they simply do not have the money to pay him, even though he is still a very reliable running back at age 31.
Even so, in today’s game he set a couple milestones in what may be his last game in Levi’s Stadium. He recorded his eighth season gaining 1000
rushing yards, also becoming the 20th running back to make it to 11,000 rushing yards. Whether or not he retires after this season, he will have left a huge impression on the 49ers’ franchise, as one of the most consistent players to ever step on the field. ((thanks to BASTA for the photo))
In the passing game, Colin Kaepernick threw for 204 yards on 15 of 26 attempts and two touchdowns, including a 76 yard catch and run to Anquan Boldin. The touchdown catch came early in the first quarter, just after the Cardinals had executed a flawless drive to take an early 7-0 lead. This score tied up the game for the 49ers, shifting the momentum back in their favor. It also gave receiver Anquan Boldin a 1000 yard receiving season for the second year in a row, making him the first 49ers’ receiver to achieve this feat in franchise history. Here’s a link to that play, that capitalized on a breakdown in the Cardinals’ secondary:
Anquan Boldin’s 76-yard touchdown catch and run
The 49ers had a field day on defense, coming up with three interceptions off of Arizona’s backup quarterback Ryan Lindley, all of which extremely important in stopping Cardinals’ drives. The first came courtesy of linebacker Michael Wilhoite, who snagged a third down pass and prevented the Cardinals from taking a field goal attempt that could have changed the result of the game. Cornerback Chris Culliver snagged the next interception early in the third quarter on what looked to be a promising Cardinals’ drive, both ending their drive and giving the 49ers great field position for their own, one that ended in their second touchdown. This touchdown came on a play action drag route by the fullback Bruce Miller, for a three yard score. The third and final interception came in the fourth quarter from linebacker Craig Dahl right after a sack that followed the 49ers punting the ball at the two minute warning. This interception sealed the game as it took away the Cardinals’ final chance to come back in the game, and allowed the 49ers to kneel the ball three times for the win.
Today’s win was great, and it served as a reminder that the 49ers are an extremely talented and capable team that had the potential for much better results this season than they ended up with. The 49ers executed very well today, and they showed that they should return to their successful ways next year. However, it is now guaranteed that they will have to do so without the coach that brought them success after an extremely long drought: Jim Harbaugh.
Ever since the 49ers started losing, and especially since they fell out of playoff contention, the narrative of this season has been about Harbaugh leaving. People have been predicting whether or not he would leave, who would replace him if he did (we discussed some options here), and where he will go next. Jim Harbaugh is unquestionably a very talented coach, and even when there were allegations that he had lost respect in the locker room, his players were always proactive in stepping up and denying these rumors, speaking about how they like Jim Harbaugh as a coach and have the utmost respect for him. After today’s game, when speaking about Harbaugh’s departure, quarterback Colin Kaepernick said:
((HT: CSN Bay Area))
Out of the three questions that people have been asking for this season, one has been definitively answered, one has a very strong possibility, and one has yet to be answered.
The first and most pressing question was answered after today’s win: Jim Harbaugh is leaving the 49ers. Jim Harbaugh and the 49ers announced that they have mutually agreed to part ways, and he will either leave the NFL or be traded away to fulfill the remaining one year on his five year, 25 million dollar contract. After the game, Jim Harbaugh said:
“I’m forever proud to have been a part of this. It’s been a tremendous four years, it’s been a pleasure to work and serve for this organization…You work at the pleasure of the organization, that’s what we all do.”
Quote courtesy of ESPN
The second question about his replacement is the one that has yet to be answered. The 49ers organization will have to come up with a decision quickly. However, they would want to give their new coach as much time as possible with the team, especially if they look outside the organization. As it currently stands, there are only a few probable options for the coaching position next year, due to the fact that the 49ers need some resemblance of continuity. In addition, Trent Baalke will want a coach who he can control, unlike the abrasive Harbaugh. Also, the 49ers need a coach who can help Kaepernick develop. Currently, he is the only viable starting quarterback in the system, and he has shown signs that he can succeed at the NFL level, although he still needs guidance from a good coach. The three main options in no particular order are Vic Fangio if the 49ers look inward, and Adam Gase or Mike Shanahan if they look outwards.
Vic Fangio would provide the most continuity, as he has been the 49ers’ defensive coordinator for the past four years, joining with Jim Harbaugh from Stanford, and he has 15 years of NFL defensive coordinator experience. Throughout the past four years, Harbaugh has steered clear of the defense, knowing that Vic Fangio is fully capable of running that aspect of the team. If he is promoted to head coach, he would continue to run the defense, and he would give wide berth to current offensive coordinator Greg Roman to run the offense, and essentially the two would work in tandem. Also, he would nestle in nicely with Trent Baalke, and he is a much calmer presence that would not ruffle the management’s feathers.
Adam Gase would be another intriguing option, the hot name on the market this year after transforming Denver’s offense into a well-oiled machine as their offensive coordinator. Of course he would not have the same offensive tools in San Francisco, especially at quarterback and receiver. Hopefully he would be able to help Kaepernick grow, while also providing a valuable boost to the offense, leaving Vic Fangio to handle the defensive side of the game, as Harbaugh has done for the last four years. Experience coaching Peyton Manning give Gase valuable knowledge about the quarterback position, learning from an all-time great.
Mike Shanahan may be too old for the job at 62, but he has experience with the 49ers as their offensive coordinator from 1992 to 1994, and he also has 20 years of NFL head coaching experience. However, his last season as head coach was with the Redskins in 2013, guiding them to a woeful 3-13 campaign. Shanahan would have been a great option for the 49ers a few years ago, but now he is more of a fringe candidate, due to both his age and lack of recent success. Even so, he would probably provide the largest offensive boost of these three candidates, as he led the Broncos to win the 1997 and 1998 Super Bowls as their offensive coordinator.
Whether the 49ers end up with one of these three candidates or another candidate not listed will be mainly based on how much money they want to spend on a coach and how much control Trent Baalke wants to exert. Each of these coaches comes with a different price tag, with Vic Fangio being the cheapest and Adam Gase the most expensive. The 49ers should probably announce a coaching decision within a few weeks, and they will probably target somebody outside the organization first, and if that falls through, they will be safe with Vic Fangio as a very solid in-house option.
The third question is the one that has not yet been definitively answered, although Jim Harbaugh may have already internally answered the question. He received a quite lucrative offer to go back to the college level as a head coach for his alma mater Michigan, which is looking for a coach with his ability to take a team from rags to riches. He has proven himself extremely capable of raising programs from nothing to instant contenders, first at Stanford and then with the 49ers. However, he has been noncommittal when asked about Michigan, saying that “announcements will be made” about where he will go next year. Unquestionably, Jim Harbaugh is out of the picture for the 49ers, but his next location is still technically up in the air, although Michigan looks to be the destination. From the 49ers’ perspective, it would be better for Harbaugh to stay in the NFL so that the 49ers could trade him either for cash compensation or possibly even players. Either way, Harbaugh should have great success wherever he goes, while simultaneously earning a lofty paycheck.
The 49ers 2014 season is now over, and although it was subpar, the organization still has a bright future. It will be led by breakout rookies like Carlos Hyde and Chris Borland and young veterans Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid. The 49ers have a lot of talent on their team, and they are still very capable of contending next year, especially if they find a coach who can bring out the best in Kaepernick, so that he can finally get the Super Bowl ring that he so badly desires.
This season has been full of ups and downs, with the 49ers showing great promise in some moments but then looking listless in others. Over the past four years, in the Jim Harbaugh and Colin Kaepernick era, the 49ers have had great success, except for this year. They went to three straight NFC Championship games, and even made the Super Bowl two years ago. However, this year all of the success that they had built up fizzled, going from a Super Bowl contender to mediocrity. Coming into today’s matchup against their division rival Arizona Cardinals, the 49ers were 7-8. They managed a 20-17 win today, ending their season at an even 8-8, maintaining Jim Harbaugh’s streak of no losing seasons.
The 49ers 2014 season looked promising as the preseason ended, and they continued to look extremely good, starting the season with a resounding win over the Cowboys. However, the 49ers’ hot start quickly ended, losing two games straight for the first time in Harbaugh’s NFL coaching career to the Bears and the Cardinals. Fortunately, they came back after this with strength, as they took their 1-2 record, and then won three straight games against the Eagles, the Chiefs, and the Rams. However, this 4-2 surge was stopped by back-to-back losses to the Broncos and the Rams, bringing the 49ers record to an even 4-4. The 49ers were then able to bear down and battle hard for three straight wins: an overtime win over the Saints, a defensive win over the Giants, and an Anquan Boldin led win over Washington, giving them a 7-4 record and putting them in a tie with the Seattle Seahawks, in the chase for the NFC Wild Card spot. However, the 49ers’ playoff hopes were quickly yet painfully stripped away, as the 49ers lost four straight games, including a blowout by the division rival Seahawks, a stinging loss to the awful Raiders, another bad loss to the Seahawks, and an overtime loss to the Chargers, forming the 49ers’ longest losing streak in the Jim Harbaugh era. With a 7-8 record, the 49ers tip-toed into today’s matchup, and were luckily able to grab a win, to give them a somewhat acceptable record of 8-8.
On Sunday, the volatile 49ers were on one of their good days. Frank Gore rushed for a season high 144 yards on 25 carries, continuing to add onto his franchise leading rushing totals. Some believe that free-agent-to-be Gore will retire after his tenth year in the league. However, Gore prides himself on his determination and resiliency, making it unlikely that he would leave after a subpar season like this one. Furthermore, he has indicated that he would like to continue his career with the 49ers, the only team he has ever known. Whether or not he plays next season, it is highly unlikely that he will remain with San Francisco due to the fact that they have been grooming rookie Carlos Hyde to be his successor. Furthermore, they simply do not have the money to pay him, even though he is still a very reliable running back at age 31.
Even so, in today’s game he set a couple milestones in what may be his last game in Levi’s Stadium. He recorded his eighth season gaining 1000
In the passing game, Colin Kaepernick threw for 204 yards on 15 of 26 attempts and two touchdowns, including a 76 yard catch and run to Anquan Boldin. The touchdown catch came early in the first quarter, just after the Cardinals had executed a flawless drive to take an early 7-0 lead. This score tied up the game for the 49ers, shifting the momentum back in their favor. It also gave receiver Anquan Boldin a 1000 yard receiving season for the second year in a row, making him the first 49ers’ receiver to achieve this feat in franchise history. Here’s a link to that play, that capitalized on a breakdown in the Cardinals’ secondary:
Anquan Boldin’s 76-yard touchdown catch and run
The 49ers had a field day on defense, coming up with three interceptions off of Arizona’s backup quarterback Ryan Lindley, all of which extremely important in stopping Cardinals’ drives. The first came courtesy of linebacker Michael Wilhoite, who snagged a third down pass and prevented the Cardinals from taking a field goal attempt that could have changed the result of the game. Cornerback Chris Culliver snagged the next interception early in the third quarter on what looked to be a promising Cardinals’ drive, both ending their drive and giving the 49ers great field position for their own, one that ended in their second touchdown. This touchdown came on a play action drag route by the fullback Bruce Miller, for a three yard score. The third and final interception came in the fourth quarter from linebacker Craig Dahl right after a sack that followed the 49ers punting the ball at the two minute warning. This interception sealed the game as it took away the Cardinals’ final chance to come back in the game, and allowed the 49ers to kneel the ball three times for the win.
Today’s win was great, and it served as a reminder that the 49ers are an extremely talented and capable team that had the potential for much better results this season than they ended up with. The 49ers executed very well today, and they showed that they should return to their successful ways next year. However, it is now guaranteed that they will have to do so without the coach that brought them success after an extremely long drought: Jim Harbaugh.
Ever since the 49ers started losing, and especially since they fell out of playoff contention, the narrative of this season has been about Harbaugh leaving. People have been predicting whether or not he would leave, who would replace him if he did (we discussed some options here), and where he will go next. Jim Harbaugh is unquestionably a very talented coach, and even when there were allegations that he had lost respect in the locker room, his players were always proactive in stepping up and denying these rumors, speaking about how they like Jim Harbaugh as a coach and have the utmost respect for him. After today’s game, when speaking about Harbaugh’s departure, quarterback Colin Kaepernick said:
((HT: CSN Bay Area))
Out of the three questions that people have been asking for this season, one has been definitively answered, one has a very strong possibility, and one has yet to be answered.
The first and most pressing question was answered after today’s win: Jim Harbaugh is leaving the 49ers. Jim Harbaugh and the 49ers announced that they have mutually agreed to part ways, and he will either leave the NFL or be traded away to fulfill the remaining one year on his five year, 25 million dollar contract. After the game, Jim Harbaugh said:
“I’m forever proud to have been a part of this. It’s been a tremendous four years, it’s been a pleasure to work and serve for this organization…You work at the pleasure of the organization, that’s what we all do.”
Quote courtesy of ESPN
The second question about his replacement is the one that has yet to be answered. The 49ers organization will have to come up with a decision quickly. However, they would want to give their new coach as much time as possible with the team, especially if they look outside the organization. As it currently stands, there are only a few probable options for the coaching position next year, due to the fact that the 49ers need some resemblance of continuity. In addition, Trent Baalke will want a coach who he can control, unlike the abrasive Harbaugh. Also, the 49ers need a coach who can help Kaepernick develop. Currently, he is the only viable starting quarterback in the system, and he has shown signs that he can succeed at the NFL level, although he still needs guidance from a good coach. The three main options in no particular order are Vic Fangio if the 49ers look inward, and Adam Gase or Mike Shanahan if they look outwards.
Vic Fangio would provide the most continuity, as he has been the 49ers’ defensive coordinator for the past four years, joining with Jim Harbaugh from Stanford, and he has 15 years of NFL defensive coordinator experience. Throughout the past four years, Harbaugh has steered clear of the defense, knowing that Vic Fangio is fully capable of running that aspect of the team. If he is promoted to head coach, he would continue to run the defense, and he would give wide berth to current offensive coordinator Greg Roman to run the offense, and essentially the two would work in tandem. Also, he would nestle in nicely with Trent Baalke, and he is a much calmer presence that would not ruffle the management’s feathers.
Adam Gase would be another intriguing option, the hot name on the market this year after transforming Denver’s offense into a well-oiled machine as their offensive coordinator. Of course he would not have the same offensive tools in San Francisco, especially at quarterback and receiver. Hopefully he would be able to help Kaepernick grow, while also providing a valuable boost to the offense, leaving Vic Fangio to handle the defensive side of the game, as Harbaugh has done for the last four years. Experience coaching Peyton Manning give Gase valuable knowledge about the quarterback position, learning from an all-time great.
Mike Shanahan may be too old for the job at 62, but he has experience with the 49ers as their offensive coordinator from 1992 to 1994, and he also has 20 years of NFL head coaching experience. However, his last season as head coach was with the Redskins in 2013, guiding them to a woeful 3-13 campaign. Shanahan would have been a great option for the 49ers a few years ago, but now he is more of a fringe candidate, due to both his age and lack of recent success. Even so, he would probably provide the largest offensive boost of these three candidates, as he led the Broncos to win the 1997 and 1998 Super Bowls as their offensive coordinator.
Whether the 49ers end up with one of these three candidates or another candidate not listed will be mainly based on how much money they want to spend on a coach and how much control Trent Baalke wants to exert. Each of these coaches comes with a different price tag, with Vic Fangio being the cheapest and Adam Gase the most expensive. The 49ers should probably announce a coaching decision within a few weeks, and they will probably target somebody outside the organization first, and if that falls through, they will be safe with Vic Fangio as a very solid in-house option.
The third question is the one that has not yet been definitively answered, although Jim Harbaugh may have already internally answered the question. He received a quite lucrative offer to go back to the college level as a head coach for his alma mater Michigan, which is looking for a coach with his ability to take a team from rags to riches. He has proven himself extremely capable of raising programs from nothing to instant contenders, first at Stanford and then with the 49ers. However, he has been noncommittal when asked about Michigan, saying that “announcements will be made” about where he will go next year. Unquestionably, Jim Harbaugh is out of the picture for the 49ers, but his next location is still technically up in the air, although Michigan looks to be the destination. From the 49ers’ perspective, it would be better for Harbaugh to stay in the NFL so that the 49ers could trade him either for cash compensation or possibly even players. Either way, Harbaugh should have great success wherever he goes, while simultaneously earning a lofty paycheck.
The 49ers 2014 season is now over, and although it was subpar, the organization still has a bright future. It will be led by breakout rookies like Carlos Hyde and Chris Borland and young veterans Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid. The 49ers have a lot of talent on their team, and they are still very capable of contending next year, especially if they find a coach who can bring out the best in Kaepernick, so that he can finally get the Super Bowl ring that he so badly desires.
DEVELOPING: Black Monday Begins: Ryan and Idzik Fired
((HT: NJ.com/SNY))
Surprising no one, really, Black Monday begins with a dual firing in New York with both head coach Rex Ryan and GM John Idzik being shown their walking papers.
Owner Woody Johnson has long been known for wanting to clean house and he went two levels on a team that seemed ill-fitted to compete in the AFC- until yesterday with their fun performance and win over the Miami Dolphins
Here's his game ball presentation
And his addressing the media after the game
The HQ anticipates their will be further action in Chicago, Atlanta, and the actions in San Francisco
More when we know more...
Surprising no one, really, Black Monday begins with a dual firing in New York with both head coach Rex Ryan and GM John Idzik being shown their walking papers.
Owner Woody Johnson has long been known for wanting to clean house and he went two levels on a team that seemed ill-fitted to compete in the AFC- until yesterday with their fun performance and win over the Miami Dolphins
Here's his game ball presentation
And his addressing the media after the game
The HQ anticipates their will be further action in Chicago, Atlanta, and the actions in San Francisco
More when we know more...
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Rex Ryan might finally be leavin' on a non-Jet plane...
 |
| Idzik (L)) and Ryan (C) might be shown the door by Johnson (R) |
According to NJ.com, former Redskins general manager and consultant Charley Casserly has already started contacting people about replacing the embattled head coach AND current NYJ GM John Idzik. Owner Woody Johnson is apparently not wasting any time.
According to another source, Ryan has already started cleaning out his office in advance of the impending move. If this happens, at least Ryan and Idzik went out after a 37-24 win over Brother Phil's Miami Dolphins. Ryan spoke out after the game, in a message directed right at Johnson.
"Fire me, already. Don't jerk me around."
The OSG Sports team will keep you posted as details arise.
Reports: Jim Harbaugh to Michigan is a Done Deal
((ht: csnbayarea.com))So, it appears the Jim Harbaugh watch may already be over.
CSN Bay Area's Dave Feldman is reporting that the San Francisco 49ers head coach will be introduced at a press conference on Tuesday as the new head football coach at Michigan.
Confirmed: Harbaugh to Michigan! Press Conference Tues in Ann Arbor
— Dave Feldman (@FeldyCSN) December 28, 2014
CSN's story is RIGHT HERE
CBSSports.com had various tweets from all saying it's done RIGHT HERE
If so, that would put an end to the biggest fish potentially on the coaching carousel.
Of course Harbaugh still coaches the 49ers, who've already been eliminated from the NFC Playoffs. And the team plays their final game of the season Sunday afternoon vs. the Arizona Cardinals.
The move would mark a return to the college game for Harbaugh who was very successful at Stanford prior to taking the 49ers job. And it would also bring home the man Michigan supporters believe will be the one to revive the one-time powerhouse program that has lagged behind arch-rival Ohio State and pretty much everyone else in the Big 10 for quite a few years.
Mind you Harbaugh has not been let go by the Niners yet, though that is expected to happen Sunday night or Monday morning. By going from the NFL back to college, the Niners would not be entitled to any compensation, something they had hoped to get if he went looking for another NFL gig.
Multiple reports say the deal is official and is for close to what was reported last week. 6 years at roughly $48 million dollars which would make Harbaugh the highest paid coach in College Football. At least until the Alabama fans have a chance to boost Nick Saban's lifetime deal.
OSG Sports is Moving to a New Home
Hey Everyone,
We hope you had an awesome Christmas/Hanukkah/Festivus/Kwanza season and you are looking forward to the new year like we are.
The reason: OSG Sports is moving. Our new site is: OSGSports.sportsblog.com
After 5-years with the Yardbarker Network and on Blogger, we've found a new home. And it's a home we are really excited about.
The SportsBlog Network....
SportsBlog will give us access to photos and video that we've not ever had access to. And it will give us the ability to draw on a big network of resources to give you the best of the world of Sports.
Which is what we love to do.
So make sure you bookmark us: OSGSports.sportsblog.com
The transition will be gradual. We will continue posting content here for the next month or so and also posting it at the new site.
Hopefully by February, everyone will know how to find us and we'll be SportsBlog only.
Thank you all for your support over the years, you have no idea how much it means to us that you come and read our content. Words cannot thank you all enough, just know that we enjoy doing it as much as you enjoy reading it. And our goal is to continue to bring you the best, the funniest and sometimes the irreverent parts of the sports world with insight by a team of professionals who know much, much more than the average blogger.
Thanks again and Happy New Year!
The OSG Sports Team
Brother Phil
Brother Jon
Brother Wilkie
Brother J-Dub
We hope you had an awesome Christmas/Hanukkah/Festivus/Kwanza season and you are looking forward to the new year like we are.
The reason: OSG Sports is moving. Our new site is: OSGSports.sportsblog.com
After 5-years with the Yardbarker Network and on Blogger, we've found a new home. And it's a home we are really excited about.
The SportsBlog Network....
SportsBlog will give us access to photos and video that we've not ever had access to. And it will give us the ability to draw on a big network of resources to give you the best of the world of Sports.
Which is what we love to do.
So make sure you bookmark us: OSGSports.sportsblog.com
The transition will be gradual. We will continue posting content here for the next month or so and also posting it at the new site.
Hopefully by February, everyone will know how to find us and we'll be SportsBlog only.
Thank you all for your support over the years, you have no idea how much it means to us that you come and read our content. Words cannot thank you all enough, just know that we enjoy doing it as much as you enjoy reading it. And our goal is to continue to bring you the best, the funniest and sometimes the irreverent parts of the sports world with insight by a team of professionals who know much, much more than the average blogger.
Thanks again and Happy New Year!
The OSG Sports Team
Brother Phil
Brother Jon
Brother Wilkie
Brother J-Dub
Saturday, December 27, 2014
We Simply Can Not Make This Up... Roll Tide, Xmas Lights, And Conduit
((HT: WSFA-TV))
It's Christmas time...
The HQ gets that...
And it's also Christmas time in the south...
The HQ gets that as well...
But only in a few states can the following story by Judd Davis not be considered abnormal and aberrant behavior...
WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news.
Told you that there would not be any surprises...
It's Christmas time...
The HQ gets that...
And it's also Christmas time in the south...
The HQ gets that as well...
But only in a few states can the following story by Judd Davis not be considered abnormal and aberrant behavior...
WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news.
Told you that there would not be any surprises...
OSG Prem: And We Have Our First Sacking
((HT: BPL/NBCSN))
At least Crystal Palace waited until after the holiday to do it...
It took this loss to Southampton to send Neil Warnock on his way- after only four months on the job...
Warnock was manager from 2007 and 2010 and was seen as a hopeful replacement for Tony Pulis- who left the squad two days before the regular season after a dispute with the ownership over player control. Pulis, strangely, and former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood are seen as replacements for the replacement now that Palace are back in the relegation zone.
From the Palace website:
Crystal Palace Football Club can today confirm that Neil Warnock has been relieved of his duties and is no longer first-team manager.
The club would like to put on record its thanks to Neil for all his hard work and energy over the past four months.
Keith Millen will lead the team against Queens Park Rangers tomorrow as caretaker manager.
This was the longest time a Premier League season had gone without a sacking since the 95-96 season.
At least Crystal Palace waited until after the holiday to do it...
It took this loss to Southampton to send Neil Warnock on his way- after only four months on the job...
Warnock was manager from 2007 and 2010 and was seen as a hopeful replacement for Tony Pulis- who left the squad two days before the regular season after a dispute with the ownership over player control. Pulis, strangely, and former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood are seen as replacements for the replacement now that Palace are back in the relegation zone.
From the Palace website:
Crystal Palace Football Club can today confirm that Neil Warnock has been relieved of his duties and is no longer first-team manager.
The club would like to put on record its thanks to Neil for all his hard work and energy over the past four months.
Keith Millen will lead the team against Queens Park Rangers tomorrow as caretaker manager.
This was the longest time a Premier League season had gone without a sacking since the 95-96 season.
Rutgers Rolls North Carolina in Quick Lane Bowl
((ht: espn.com))
Sigh...anyone can sponsor a bowl game can't they? Maybe it's just because we're based in the south, but we've never heard of Quick Lane...
Anyway...
Rutgers jumped out to a 23-0 1st half lead, were up 40-7 in the 4th quarter, then cruised to a 40-21 win Friday in the Quick Lane Bowl in front of hundreds of fans at Ford Field in Detroit.
Josh Hicks ran for 202 yards and a TD, teammate Robert Martin ran for 100 yards and 2 TD's to lead the Scarlet Knights who ran for 340 yards against a very mediocre Tar Heels team.
Rutgers finishes the season at 8-5, North Carolina fell to 6-7.
Your highlights from ESPN.com:
Sigh...anyone can sponsor a bowl game can't they? Maybe it's just because we're based in the south, but we've never heard of Quick Lane...
Anyway...
Rutgers jumped out to a 23-0 1st half lead, were up 40-7 in the 4th quarter, then cruised to a 40-21 win Friday in the Quick Lane Bowl in front of hundreds of fans at Ford Field in Detroit.
Josh Hicks ran for 202 yards and a TD, teammate Robert Martin ran for 100 yards and 2 TD's to lead the Scarlet Knights who ran for 340 yards against a very mediocre Tar Heels team.
Rutgers finishes the season at 8-5, North Carolina fell to 6-7.
Your highlights from ESPN.com:
NC State Wins Bitcoin Bowl on Horrible Field
((ht: espn.com))
Oooof...bowl games are fun. Right? They must be, why else would there be so many of them.
One of the...well, one of them was played Friday, the Bitcoin Bowl. It was played in the crappy Tropicana Dome in that exciting place known as St. Petersburg, Florida.
And based on the video, it was played in front of hundreds of fans. (Bowls don't release attendance figures for a reason we're thinking)
North Carolina State won the game 34-27 over UCF but not before the Knights valiantly tried to mount a comeback after being down 31-13 after three quarters.
Wolfpack RB Matt Dayes ran for 78 yards and 2 TD's, Jacoby Brissett threw for 262 yards and 1 TD to lead NC State to their 8th win on the season.
UCF QB Justin Holman threw for 291 yards and 3 TD's to lead the Knights who finish the season at 7-6.
Highlights from ESPN.com
Oooof...bowl games are fun. Right? They must be, why else would there be so many of them.
One of the...well, one of them was played Friday, the Bitcoin Bowl. It was played in the crappy Tropicana Dome in that exciting place known as St. Petersburg, Florida.
And based on the video, it was played in front of hundreds of fans. (Bowls don't release attendance figures for a reason we're thinking)
North Carolina State won the game 34-27 over UCF but not before the Knights valiantly tried to mount a comeback after being down 31-13 after three quarters.
Wolfpack RB Matt Dayes ran for 78 yards and 2 TD's, Jacoby Brissett threw for 262 yards and 1 TD to lead NC State to their 8th win on the season.
UCF QB Justin Holman threw for 291 yards and 3 TD's to lead the Knights who finish the season at 7-6.
Highlights from ESPN.com
Florida and West Virginia Football Players Hurt in Shooting
((ht: naplesnews.com))
Three young men are nursing injuries from a shooting Christmas Eve in Immokalee, Florida that scared the crap out of them all.
Two of those three are college football players: 19-year old J.C Jackson, a freshman WR and DB at the University of Florida and 20-year old Jacky Marcellus is a wide receiver at West Virginia.
Both were injured, though not seriously in the shooting which happened in the car of Marcellus's 21-year old brother Jackinson. Jackinson Marcellus was shot in the face by an unidentified assailant near the Crestview Apartments.
All three are from Immokalee and based on reports, were friends who were just out and about that night. Police have not offered a motive for the shooting.
The Naples News has more RIGHT HERE
No word yet on Jackson or the younger Marcellus being able to play in their teams bowl games. Both were in town on Christmas Break.
WINK-TV in Naples, Florida has the TV Story:
Three young men are nursing injuries from a shooting Christmas Eve in Immokalee, Florida that scared the crap out of them all.
Two of those three are college football players: 19-year old J.C Jackson, a freshman WR and DB at the University of Florida and 20-year old Jacky Marcellus is a wide receiver at West Virginia.
Both were injured, though not seriously in the shooting which happened in the car of Marcellus's 21-year old brother Jackinson. Jackinson Marcellus was shot in the face by an unidentified assailant near the Crestview Apartments.
All three are from Immokalee and based on reports, were friends who were just out and about that night. Police have not offered a motive for the shooting.
The Naples News has more RIGHT HERE
No word yet on Jackson or the younger Marcellus being able to play in their teams bowl games. Both were in town on Christmas Break.
WINK-TV in Naples, Florida has the TV Story:
Friday, December 26, 2014
WVU QB Trickett Hangs Up Cleats After Multiple Concussions
Want proof football is a violent game that takes a huge physical toll on players? Look no further than Clint Trickett, Quarterback for West Virginia University.
The school...and Trickett announced Friday the senior has ended his football career after his 5th concussion in the past 14 months. The 5th and final concussion for Trickett happened November 20th when the Mountaineers played Kansas State. It would end up being his last game.
Now, a month plus removed from that last concussion, Trickett has yet to be able to pass a test that would clear him to play in the teams Liberty Bowl game vs. Texas A&M. And it's what prompted him to say enough is enough.
Skyler Howard relieved Trickett in the K-State game and started the next week vs. Iowa State. Howard will also start the Liberty Bowl game.
As for Trickett, he intends to take up the family business. Daddy Rick is the offensive line coach at Florida State, where Trickett began his college career.
We wish him the best of luck....
The school...and Trickett announced Friday the senior has ended his football career after his 5th concussion in the past 14 months. The 5th and final concussion for Trickett happened November 20th when the Mountaineers played Kansas State. It would end up being his last game.
Now, a month plus removed from that last concussion, Trickett has yet to be able to pass a test that would clear him to play in the teams Liberty Bowl game vs. Texas A&M. And it's what prompted him to say enough is enough.
Skyler Howard relieved Trickett in the K-State game and started the next week vs. Iowa State. Howard will also start the Liberty Bowl game.
As for Trickett, he intends to take up the family business. Daddy Rick is the offensive line coach at Florida State, where Trickett began his college career.
We wish him the best of luck....
OSG High: How One Man Saved A Hoops Program
((HT: KING5 TV))
Late March in Washington state will always be remembered for the killer mudslides that seemed to take over the state.
The Oso mudslide made its impact on the people of the town of Darrington where the high school was this/close to having to disband the boy's basketball program because they couldn't find a coach who was interested that could combat all the travel difficulties to get to the Darrington area to coach.
Here's Chris Daniels to introduce you to the man whose "heart project" has the Loggers on the floor...
Late March in Washington state will always be remembered for the killer mudslides that seemed to take over the state.
The Oso mudslide made its impact on the people of the town of Darrington where the high school was this/close to having to disband the boy's basketball program because they couldn't find a coach who was interested that could combat all the travel difficulties to get to the Darrington area to coach.
Here's Chris Daniels to introduce you to the man whose "heart project" has the Loggers on the floor...
NBA Suit of the Night: Spencer Hawes and the Short Christmas Tree Suit
((ht: nba.com))
Oh my....
NBA players have been known on occasion to dress...um, well, a little differently at times. And keeping in the spirit of Thursday's holiday a few of them took advantage of it.
With several games being played Christmas day, there were few highlights and lots of chatter about LeBron in Miami. Which we don't care about.
What we do care about...
This.
Check out Spencer Hawes of the Los Angeles Clippers making his pre game entrance ahead of Thursday nights game vs. The Golden State Warriors. Yes, he's wearing a Christmas Tree suit.
The 7 foot plus Hawes is on the injured list, he didn't play. But he sat on the bench. In the suit, which appears a bit too short. And yeah, he got a bit of attention.
Oh my....
NBA players have been known on occasion to dress...um, well, a little differently at times. And keeping in the spirit of Thursday's holiday a few of them took advantage of it.
With several games being played Christmas day, there were few highlights and lots of chatter about LeBron in Miami. Which we don't care about.
What we do care about...
This.
Check out Spencer Hawes of the Los Angeles Clippers making his pre game entrance ahead of Thursday nights game vs. The Golden State Warriors. Yes, he's wearing a Christmas Tree suit.
The 7 foot plus Hawes is on the injured list, he didn't play. But he sat on the bench. In the suit, which appears a bit too short. And yeah, he got a bit of attention.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
The Centennial Of The Christmas Soccer Truce
((HT: CNN/Masters))
It's one of the great legends of this day...
100 years ago, the western front was where the battle was the fiercest in World War I- for more reasons than just the weaponry this time of year. In what was referred to as "No Man's Land" in Belgium, it has been told that British and German soldiers laid down their arms on the day the War was promised to end and played a spontaneous match of soccer.
And we're talking hundreds per side...
It has been romanticized and retold- even making it to the Sainsbury's Chocolates ad campaign for this holiday season
The question, though, has always been: Did this happen...???
There has been eyewitness reference to it, but one professor says the whole event has been blown up to match the tale. Mark Connelly, Professor of Modern British History at the Center for War, Propaganda and Society at the UK's University of Kent gives the whole thing a "Yeah, but" mentality.
"I think it highly likely that someone, somewhere did bring out a ball and a bit of a kick about took place, but that is a long, long way from saying it definitely happened and that it was anything like a formal match rather than just men tapping a ball about a bit," Connelly told CNN.
"There is a huge difference between a truce and fraternization and we have tended to put the two together."
Here's how Fox Sports addressed the story in their "Rise As One" series...
Although, the HQ strenuously objects to beer bottles being held in a war memorial
((HT: Budweiser))
An educational program has been brought about by the Football Association (the FA) and the Premier League to continue the education of youth in the theatre. There have been annual tournaments in Belgium at Ypres, ad campaigns on their own, and educational packets to make sure the stories are not lost and the importance of remembering history is always retained.
And that's the larger message, we think...
Never forget a sacrifice and recall the bravery of those who served and continue to serve to this day...
Learn more about the Christmas Truce below...
((HT: The History Channel))
It's one of the great legends of this day...
100 years ago, the western front was where the battle was the fiercest in World War I- for more reasons than just the weaponry this time of year. In what was referred to as "No Man's Land" in Belgium, it has been told that British and German soldiers laid down their arms on the day the War was promised to end and played a spontaneous match of soccer.
And we're talking hundreds per side...
It has been romanticized and retold- even making it to the Sainsbury's Chocolates ad campaign for this holiday season
The question, though, has always been: Did this happen...???
There has been eyewitness reference to it, but one professor says the whole event has been blown up to match the tale. Mark Connelly, Professor of Modern British History at the Center for War, Propaganda and Society at the UK's University of Kent gives the whole thing a "Yeah, but" mentality.
"I think it highly likely that someone, somewhere did bring out a ball and a bit of a kick about took place, but that is a long, long way from saying it definitely happened and that it was anything like a formal match rather than just men tapping a ball about a bit," Connelly told CNN.
"There is a huge difference between a truce and fraternization and we have tended to put the two together."
Here's how Fox Sports addressed the story in their "Rise As One" series...
Although, the HQ strenuously objects to beer bottles being held in a war memorial
((HT: Budweiser))
An educational program has been brought about by the Football Association (the FA) and the Premier League to continue the education of youth in the theatre. There have been annual tournaments in Belgium at Ypres, ad campaigns on their own, and educational packets to make sure the stories are not lost and the importance of remembering history is always retained.
And that's the larger message, we think...
Never forget a sacrifice and recall the bravery of those who served and continue to serve to this day...
Learn more about the Christmas Truce below...
((HT: The History Channel))
Kevin Nash, Son Arrested After Domestic Dispute
((HT: WFTV))
Looks like "Big Daddy Cool" had to lose his cool just before the holiday...
It appears that WWE legend Kevin Nash and his 18-year-old son, Tristen, had an altercation in their home in central Florida.
Police reports initially had the elder Nash arrested after getting into a fight with his son. Nash said he was trying to defend his wife against his son who had come home drunk and belligerent. Police then returned once there was another 9-1-1 call from the same address after the son tried to allegedly take some more swings at other family members.
They then arrested the son...
Here's the report from Daytona Beach
The only objection the HQ has to the live shot the day after the arrest is the shooting of the license plate of one of the family cars parked in the driveway. Now, anyone can trace the Ford Mustang and chase after one of the Nash family at any time they choose...
Let's be careful out there...
Looks like "Big Daddy Cool" had to lose his cool just before the holiday...
It appears that WWE legend Kevin Nash and his 18-year-old son, Tristen, had an altercation in their home in central Florida.
Police reports initially had the elder Nash arrested after getting into a fight with his son. Nash said he was trying to defend his wife against his son who had come home drunk and belligerent. Police then returned once there was another 9-1-1 call from the same address after the son tried to allegedly take some more swings at other family members.
They then arrested the son...
Here's the report from Daytona Beach
The only objection the HQ has to the live shot the day after the arrest is the shooting of the license plate of one of the family cars parked in the driveway. Now, anyone can trace the Ford Mustang and chase after one of the Nash family at any time they choose...
Let's be careful out there...
A Little Christmas Run for Everyone
Happy Christmas to all and Merry New Year to many--
From the OSG Sports team: Brother Phil, Brother Jon, Brother Wilkie and Brother J-Dub...
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Central Michigan and the Crazy Bahamas Bowl Finish
((ht: espn.com))
Okay, other than the trip to the Bahamas, we have no idea why a bowl game is played there. And based on the video, it appears nobody actually went to the game.
But boy TV viewers were treated to one of the craziest games and finishes in a long, long time.
Western Kentucky won the game over Central Michigan 49-48. But not before the Hilltoppers nearly lost it.
The Chippewas, down 49-14 scored 34 straight points in the 4th quarter, coming within one on one of the craziest plays we've ever seen. QB Cooper Rush heaved the ball downfield on a hail mary throw. One of his receivers Jesse Kroll caught it in traffic and began a series of laterals which ended in a Titus Davis scoring the Central Michigan touchdown at the buzzer.
Rather than settle for a bowl game tie, the Chippewas went for the 2-point conversion and win. It failed.
Rush set a bowl game record with 7 TD passes overshadowing Western's QB Brandon Doughty who threw for 486 yards and 5 TD's.
Okay, other than the trip to the Bahamas, we have no idea why a bowl game is played there. And based on the video, it appears nobody actually went to the game.
But boy TV viewers were treated to one of the craziest games and finishes in a long, long time.
Western Kentucky won the game over Central Michigan 49-48. But not before the Hilltoppers nearly lost it.
The Chippewas, down 49-14 scored 34 straight points in the 4th quarter, coming within one on one of the craziest plays we've ever seen. QB Cooper Rush heaved the ball downfield on a hail mary throw. One of his receivers Jesse Kroll caught it in traffic and began a series of laterals which ended in a Titus Davis scoring the Central Michigan touchdown at the buzzer.
Rather than settle for a bowl game tie, the Chippewas went for the 2-point conversion and win. It failed.
Rush set a bowl game record with 7 TD passes overshadowing Western's QB Brandon Doughty who threw for 486 yards and 5 TD's.
Fan Finds Out Braves Sign A.J Pierzynski at Honey Baked Ham Store
No really, the headline really happened. Let us explain.
The Atlanta Braves, in the market for a veteran backup catcher apparently signed long time backstop A.J Pierzynski sometime Wednesday afternoon.
They were not yet prepared to announce the one-year deal pending a physical.
But--
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez was apparently told about the signing while at a Honey Baked Ham store. (really) And he was talking to someone from the front office about it on his phone while online.
After finishing the conversation, the fan in front of him asked if it was true, the Braves had signed Pierzynski.
Fredi confirmed it. The man told his son Aaron Lusford who immediately began tweeting baseball writers.
Yes, this really happened.
The Atlanta Braves, in the market for a veteran backup catcher apparently signed long time backstop A.J Pierzynski sometime Wednesday afternoon.
They were not yet prepared to announce the one-year deal pending a physical.
But--
Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez was apparently told about the signing while at a Honey Baked Ham store. (really) And he was talking to someone from the front office about it on his phone while online.
After finishing the conversation, the fan in front of him asked if it was true, the Braves had signed Pierzynski.
Fredi confirmed it. The man told his son Aaron Lusford who immediately began tweeting baseball writers.
Source: @braves and AJ pierzynski agree to deal. No details. Check it @Buster_ESPN @Ken_Rosenthal @jcrasnick @jessespector
not kidding
— Aaron Lunsford (@darrenstains) December 24, 2014
Yes, this really happened.
UAB IS Sounding Way Too Optimistic About Their Future
((HT: CBS Sports/Solomon))
Jon Solomon wrote another stellar piece on the future of the UAB Athletics program- and their thinking, through the CarrSports Report, is that they'll be fine. But there are a few issues with their report.
The biggest issue is the idea that they'll be retained by Conference USA- which would be a violation of the conference's own by-laws.
From the piece:
UAB is projected to lose roughly $2 million per year in NCAA and Conference USA revenue starting in 2015-16. That includes annual payouts of $900,000 in C-USA TV revenue, $800,000 from the College Football Playoff, and $40,000 in C-USA bowl money. Carr projected a flat $800,000 from the playoff each year even though it's expected the payouts will increase.
The financial projections assume UAB will remain a C-USA member -- a value the study shows is $657,000 annually as a non-football member -- but many people believe that's unlikely to happen since C-USA's current bylaws require playing football for membership. UAB projects $350,000 per year in NCAA men's basketball tournament units from C-USA, $260,000 a year from a C-USA revenue growth supplement, and $40,000 a year from the C-USA men's basketball tournament.
The school seems to be banking on the idea that they can broker the lost football games from 2015 and lessen their make-goods: which, frankly, is a misconceived idea. Any school that might be looking for a 2015 game probably already has a schedule mapped out. And any school that is REALLY looking for a game, probably, can handle their own negotiating.
Thanks for asking, though...
There's nothing in it for the seeker- except doing President Ray Watts a solid.
And that's got to be a small group of Presidents and Athletics Directors...
There is the further assumption that people will return (or new donors will emerge) with football gone. In the south, that would be a rarity indeed. A school that had football that now does not, but will be adding cross country and track and field doesn't seem like a fair swap for donor dollars.
For the record, Solomon says CarrSports got a little under $80,000 for their wisdom using VCU, Wichita State, and the American Athletic Conference as their benchmarks for thought when it comes to UAB's future.
The HQ would think that UAB is destined for a conference like the Atlantic Sun for their sports since they're more interested in saving dollars rather than investing. That latter notion would send them to the American, the Missouri Valley, or the Atlantic-10. But cost-cutting moves like wiping out the band don't give mid-major basketball conferences reasons to be all that enthusiastic about level of competitiveness.
Tommy Spina caught up with former UAB football booster Justin Craft about the demise of the program and what can be done from here- if anything
((HT: CW21/MYTV68 Birmingham))
Jon Solomon wrote another stellar piece on the future of the UAB Athletics program- and their thinking, through the CarrSports Report, is that they'll be fine. But there are a few issues with their report.
The biggest issue is the idea that they'll be retained by Conference USA- which would be a violation of the conference's own by-laws.
From the piece:
UAB is projected to lose roughly $2 million per year in NCAA and Conference USA revenue starting in 2015-16. That includes annual payouts of $900,000 in C-USA TV revenue, $800,000 from the College Football Playoff, and $40,000 in C-USA bowl money. Carr projected a flat $800,000 from the playoff each year even though it's expected the payouts will increase.
The financial projections assume UAB will remain a C-USA member -- a value the study shows is $657,000 annually as a non-football member -- but many people believe that's unlikely to happen since C-USA's current bylaws require playing football for membership. UAB projects $350,000 per year in NCAA men's basketball tournament units from C-USA, $260,000 a year from a C-USA revenue growth supplement, and $40,000 a year from the C-USA men's basketball tournament.
The school seems to be banking on the idea that they can broker the lost football games from 2015 and lessen their make-goods: which, frankly, is a misconceived idea. Any school that might be looking for a 2015 game probably already has a schedule mapped out. And any school that is REALLY looking for a game, probably, can handle their own negotiating.
Thanks for asking, though...
There's nothing in it for the seeker- except doing President Ray Watts a solid.
And that's got to be a small group of Presidents and Athletics Directors...
There is the further assumption that people will return (or new donors will emerge) with football gone. In the south, that would be a rarity indeed. A school that had football that now does not, but will be adding cross country and track and field doesn't seem like a fair swap for donor dollars.
For the record, Solomon says CarrSports got a little under $80,000 for their wisdom using VCU, Wichita State, and the American Athletic Conference as their benchmarks for thought when it comes to UAB's future.
The HQ would think that UAB is destined for a conference like the Atlantic Sun for their sports since they're more interested in saving dollars rather than investing. That latter notion would send them to the American, the Missouri Valley, or the Atlantic-10. But cost-cutting moves like wiping out the band don't give mid-major basketball conferences reasons to be all that enthusiastic about level of competitiveness.
Tommy Spina caught up with former UAB football booster Justin Craft about the demise of the program and what can be done from here- if anything
((HT: CW21/MYTV68 Birmingham))
Morning Wrap: Navy Wins Crappily Played Poinsettia Bowl
((ht: espn.com))
If you live on the east coast and aren't a Navy fan and watched the Poinsettia Bowl game Tuesday, you have no life.
The bowl game, featuring the Midshipmen and San Diego State was perhaps one of the worst bowl games of the year.
The reason: Seven turnovers and a missed game winning field goal attempt.
Navy won the game 17-16 on an Austin Grebe 24-yard field goal with 1:20 left in the game.
But it wasn't over until the Aztecs Donnie Hageman missed a 34-yarder with :20 to go.
Navy coach Ken Niumatololo said later "I have no idea how we won the game.
The two teams combined for less than 600 yards total offense, the quarterbacks for both teams threw a combined 34 passes, completing 14 of them.
ESPN.com gives us the high/low lights:
If you live on the east coast and aren't a Navy fan and watched the Poinsettia Bowl game Tuesday, you have no life.
The bowl game, featuring the Midshipmen and San Diego State was perhaps one of the worst bowl games of the year.
The reason: Seven turnovers and a missed game winning field goal attempt.
Navy won the game 17-16 on an Austin Grebe 24-yard field goal with 1:20 left in the game.
But it wasn't over until the Aztecs Donnie Hageman missed a 34-yarder with :20 to go.
Navy coach Ken Niumatololo said later "I have no idea how we won the game.
The two teams combined for less than 600 yards total offense, the quarterbacks for both teams threw a combined 34 passes, completing 14 of them.
ESPN.com gives us the high/low lights:
Morning Wrap: Vlade Divac Drains Half Court Shot for $90K
((ht: probasketballtalk.com))
Oh you Vlade Divac. Never change.
The former Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings center was a guest at Tuesday nights Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors game. And at some point he got to be the guest half-court shooter.
Which meant between the end of the third and beginning of the 4th quarter Divac was brought out onto the court where he promptly drained the runner from the center circle at half court.
Divac gave the crowd a golf wave, smiled and walked away with $90,000 which he immediately donated to his favorite charity.
Oh...we should add the lowly Lakers pulled out an upset win over the Warriors minus Laker star Kobe Bryant....
Boom!
Oh you Vlade Divac. Never change.
The former Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings center was a guest at Tuesday nights Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors game. And at some point he got to be the guest half-court shooter.
Which meant between the end of the third and beginning of the 4th quarter Divac was brought out onto the court where he promptly drained the runner from the center circle at half court.
Divac gave the crowd a golf wave, smiled and walked away with $90,000 which he immediately donated to his favorite charity.
Oh...we should add the lowly Lakers pulled out an upset win over the Warriors minus Laker star Kobe Bryant....
Boom!
Morning Wrap: Louisville RB Dyer Ruled Ineligible--Again
((ht: courier-journal.com))
The saga of former Auburn/Arkansas State/Lousiville RB Michael Dyer may have reached an end.
Dyer was ruled academically ineligible for Louisville's Belk Bowl game with Georgia next week. The senior was the 2nd leading rusher for the Cardinals and had missed the 1st three games of the season due to a thigh injury.
Dyer's journey through college was confusing and seemingly always filled with trouble. He began at Auburn where he got playing time on the Tigers 2010 National Championship team. At that point his future looked bright.
But when then offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn briefly left to coach at Arkansas State, Dyer followed. He had some success there, but eventually was dismissed from that team due to academic and other issues.
He landed at Louisville in 2013, but didn't play much his first season due to injuries.
The saga of former Auburn/Arkansas State/Lousiville RB Michael Dyer may have reached an end.
Dyer was ruled academically ineligible for Louisville's Belk Bowl game with Georgia next week. The senior was the 2nd leading rusher for the Cardinals and had missed the 1st three games of the season due to a thigh injury.
Dyer's journey through college was confusing and seemingly always filled with trouble. He began at Auburn where he got playing time on the Tigers 2010 National Championship team. At that point his future looked bright.
But when then offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn briefly left to coach at Arkansas State, Dyer followed. He had some success there, but eventually was dismissed from that team due to academic and other issues.
He landed at Louisville in 2013, but didn't play much his first season due to injuries.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Former Kentucky Star Triggers Bizarre Chinese Hoops Fight
((ht: thebiglead.com))
This is strange. But then again it happened in the Chinese Basketball Association and a former University of Kentucky "star" recruit was involved.
Daniel Orton one of many "Big Time" Kentucky recruits who did not amount to anything in the NBA was a big part of this fight featuring his team, the Sichuan Blue Whales and a team from Tianjin.
You'll have to excuse the jittery video and strange and totally crappy music dubbed in by the YouTube poster. The action is somewhat innocuous until we get a minute or so in.
Orton gets the ball after rubbing off a screen at the top of the key. He takes the ball, drives to the hoop colliding with a defender.
The action moves the other way but the camera cuts back and shows Orton and the defender wrestling. They get up as other players jump in and punches begin flying.
And as Jim Ross once said, we got us a "Slobberknocker"...
Your Video:
This is strange. But then again it happened in the Chinese Basketball Association and a former University of Kentucky "star" recruit was involved.
Daniel Orton one of many "Big Time" Kentucky recruits who did not amount to anything in the NBA was a big part of this fight featuring his team, the Sichuan Blue Whales and a team from Tianjin.
You'll have to excuse the jittery video and strange and totally crappy music dubbed in by the YouTube poster. The action is somewhat innocuous until we get a minute or so in.
Orton gets the ball after rubbing off a screen at the top of the key. He takes the ball, drives to the hoop colliding with a defender.
The action moves the other way but the camera cuts back and shows Orton and the defender wrestling. They get up as other players jump in and punches begin flying.
And as Jim Ross once said, we got us a "Slobberknocker"...
Your Video:
Morning Wrap: SDSU Fwd Polee Collapses On Court During Game
((ht: foxsports.com))
A scary few minutes Tuesday night in San Diego when San Diego State forward Dwayne Polee II passed out face first on the court during the Aztecs game with UC Riverside.
Polee had just missed a layup early in the 1st half of the game and as he turned to run back down the court, he fell and landed in front of the bench.
Paramedics were at the gym and immediately got Polee hooked up to an EKG machine. After a couple seconds of grogginess, his eyes opened.
According to reports, he didn't require oxygen or any other treatment, but he was wheeled off the court and taken to a nearby hospital for observation and tests.
The Aztecs, initially stunned and shocked at what happened eventually recovered and beat Riverside handily, 67-33.
FoxSports.com gives us video and game highlights:
A scary few minutes Tuesday night in San Diego when San Diego State forward Dwayne Polee II passed out face first on the court during the Aztecs game with UC Riverside.
Polee had just missed a layup early in the 1st half of the game and as he turned to run back down the court, he fell and landed in front of the bench.
Paramedics were at the gym and immediately got Polee hooked up to an EKG machine. After a couple seconds of grogginess, his eyes opened.
According to reports, he didn't require oxygen or any other treatment, but he was wheeled off the court and taken to a nearby hospital for observation and tests.
The Aztecs, initially stunned and shocked at what happened eventually recovered and beat Riverside handily, 67-33.
FoxSports.com gives us video and game highlights:
Jameis Winston Almost Answers Questions In FSU Hearing
((HT: WCTV))
But, instead, he chose to read from a prepared statement and then invoke the Code of Conduct hearing equivalent of the 5th Amendment.
When asked if he would go any further, he volunteered his version of verbal and physical agreement and stated the sex he had with his accuser two years ago was consensual.
Major Harding wrote in his letter to Winston when the proceeding was all over: "I do not find the credibility of one story substantially stronger than that of the other."
So, technically, the ploy worked even if it wasn't all that believable.
Andy Alcock sits down with another lawyer to discuss the case
Winston's accuser could appeal or file a lawsuit and that may be the only way Winston would be compelled to answer any kind of question about the matter.
Mark Schlabach views the issues more in depth hyah...
And you yourself can view the Harding decision hyah...
But, instead, he chose to read from a prepared statement and then invoke the Code of Conduct hearing equivalent of the 5th Amendment.
When asked if he would go any further, he volunteered his version of verbal and physical agreement and stated the sex he had with his accuser two years ago was consensual.
Major Harding wrote in his letter to Winston when the proceeding was all over: "I do not find the credibility of one story substantially stronger than that of the other."
So, technically, the ploy worked even if it wasn't all that believable.
Andy Alcock sits down with another lawyer to discuss the case
Winston's accuser could appeal or file a lawsuit and that may be the only way Winston would be compelled to answer any kind of question about the matter.
Mark Schlabach views the issues more in depth hyah...
And you yourself can view the Harding decision hyah...
Birmingham Econ Leaders Meet To Discuss UAB
((HT: ABC3340))
Looks like it was a luncheon or something...
But Birmingham civic and economic leaders met to discuss the future of UAB as an institution- wondering aloud a few things including whether or not the school should break away from the University of Alabama system
ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports
Not that a whole lot was accomplished- other than making sure other civic leaders remember where the situation stands at present- a detached president, a selfish Board of Regents, and a lot of athletes trying to fend for an education.
But the HQ hopes more UAB kids and coaches find jobs and can stick it to the current President of the university in more ways than one...
Looks like it was a luncheon or something...
But Birmingham civic and economic leaders met to discuss the future of UAB as an institution- wondering aloud a few things including whether or not the school should break away from the University of Alabama system
ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports
Not that a whole lot was accomplished- other than making sure other civic leaders remember where the situation stands at present- a detached president, a selfish Board of Regents, and a lot of athletes trying to fend for an education.
But the HQ hopes more UAB kids and coaches find jobs and can stick it to the current President of the university in more ways than one...
People Will Remember The First Miami Beach Bowl
((HT: ESPN/KSL-TV))
For the wrong reason, probably...
The game itself was fantastic.
Memphis scores on a 4th Down and 4 with ten seconds left in regulation to send the game to overtime at 45.
Both teams kick field goals in the first, and Memphis holds off BYU with another field goal and interception in the second overtime for the 51-48 win.
But here's what went down afterwards- and it was UGLY!
BYU AD Tom Holmoe took to Twitter to apologize for his team's behavior.
What will come of this...???
Don't know, really...
But the HQ figures that anything that happens will be internal...
For the wrong reason, probably...
The game itself was fantastic.
Memphis scores on a 4th Down and 4 with ten seconds left in regulation to send the game to overtime at 45.
Both teams kick field goals in the first, and Memphis holds off BYU with another field goal and interception in the second overtime for the 51-48 win.
But here's what went down afterwards- and it was UGLY!
BYU AD Tom Holmoe took to Twitter to apologize for his team's behavior.
What will come of this...???
Don't know, really...
But the HQ figures that anything that happens will be internal...
Monday, December 22, 2014
Reports: UGA Offensive Coordinator Mike Bobo to get Colorado State Job
((ht: ajc.com))
Well it appears University of Georgia football fans will have to find another offensive coordinator to whine about.
According to reports in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Denver Post, UGA Offensive Coordinator Mike Bobo is going to be announced as the new head coach at Colorado State on Tuesday.
More from AJC.com RIGHT HERE
The Denver Post story is RIGHT HERE
The Coloradan newspaper in Ft. Collins is reporting it's a done deal RIGHT HERE
We should note the Rams are waiting until Tuesday according to several reports as to not interfere with Monday nights Broncos/Bengals game in Denver.
Bobo would replace new Florida head coach Jim McElwain, who left Ft. Collins to take the Gators job just a couple of weeks ago.
Bobo is respected by most in the College Football business as one of the nations best coordinators. His Bulldog offenses have been among the top in country for several years.
However, he leaves Athens with mixed reviews among the ignorant Georgia faithful who too often blamed losses or play calls they did not agree with on him. We would add not all fans--but a vocal group of them. Those fans will come to find out Bobo was a little better than the TV bound pseudo coaches think he is.
We've gotten to interview coach Bobo several times, he's truly one of the nice guys in the game. He also is very smart and commands respect from his players. We wish Coach Bobo the best in Colorado, we have no doubt he will be successful. And who knows, once he gets some head coaching experience under his belt, he might find his way back some time in the near future. We wish him the best.
Well it appears University of Georgia football fans will have to find another offensive coordinator to whine about.
According to reports in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Denver Post, UGA Offensive Coordinator Mike Bobo is going to be announced as the new head coach at Colorado State on Tuesday.
More from AJC.com RIGHT HERE
The Denver Post story is RIGHT HERE
The Coloradan newspaper in Ft. Collins is reporting it's a done deal RIGHT HERE
We should note the Rams are waiting until Tuesday according to several reports as to not interfere with Monday nights Broncos/Bengals game in Denver.
Bobo would replace new Florida head coach Jim McElwain, who left Ft. Collins to take the Gators job just a couple of weeks ago.
Bobo is respected by most in the College Football business as one of the nations best coordinators. His Bulldog offenses have been among the top in country for several years.
However, he leaves Athens with mixed reviews among the ignorant Georgia faithful who too often blamed losses or play calls they did not agree with on him. We would add not all fans--but a vocal group of them. Those fans will come to find out Bobo was a little better than the TV bound pseudo coaches think he is.
We've gotten to interview coach Bobo several times, he's truly one of the nice guys in the game. He also is very smart and commands respect from his players. We wish Coach Bobo the best in Colorado, we have no doubt he will be successful. And who knows, once he gets some head coaching experience under his belt, he might find his way back some time in the near future. We wish him the best.
Gary Pinkel and The All Gold Sweats and Shoes
((ht: footballscoop.com))
Yeah, all that's left now is calling University of Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel--"Swaggy P"....
Haha!
Check out Pinkel dressed in gold from head to toe Saturday at a Tigers team meeting and then in practice as the team prepared for their Citrus Bowl game in Orlando, Florida.
The best part of the video without a doubt--the beginning. Watching the players reactions once they figure out what is going on---priceless...
Yeah, all that's left now is calling University of Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel--"Swaggy P"....
Haha!
Check out Pinkel dressed in gold from head to toe Saturday at a Tigers team meeting and then in practice as the team prepared for their Citrus Bowl game in Orlando, Florida.
The best part of the video without a doubt--the beginning. Watching the players reactions once they figure out what is going on---priceless...
Ole Miss Signee Chad Kelly Arrested in Buffalo (Updated with Video)
((ht: buffalonews.com))
Chad Kelly has some issues that need to be dealt with before he should be allowed to play college football.
The oft-travelled 20-year old Kelly, nephew of former Buffalo Bills QB Jim Kelly was arrested early Sunday morning in Buffalo after a skirmish at a local bar.
Chad Kelly recently (Wednesday) signed a scholarship offer with Ole Miss after a successful 2014 season at East Mississippi Junior College, winning the NJCAA title. Kelly was there in large part because in early 2014, he was kicked off the Clemson roster after arguing with coaches during the teams spring game.
And according to several reports, Kelly had issues in High School as well.
His latest incident came after he refused to leave a downtown Buffalo restaurant and bar sometime after 3 a.m Sunday morning. Reports say he punched a bouncer in the face. A 21-year old friend of Kelly's who had already been tossed from the place was trying to go back in when the melee ensued.
According to the Buffalo News, Kelly told the bouncer; "I'm going to go to my car and get my AK-47 and spray this place".
Kelly then left Encore when police stopped him down the street. He reportedly threw punches when officers tried putting him in a squad car.
Kelly is facing multiple charges.
Read more from the Buffalo News RIGHT HERE
No word yet from Ole Miss on what they'll do with Kelly, but it will be interesting to see how they handle it.
The Rebels are looking to replace graduating starter Bo Wallace and with Kelly's credentials in Junior College, he certainly would have a shot at the job. However he also appears to have some issues. How those issues are dealt with now becomes the question.
Updated: There's now video of the brawl outside Encore. While Kelly's lawyer is quick to say that the audio clears his client, said audio is very hard to hear outside someone yelling "Chill dude". This probably will not help as much as the lawyer thinks--
Chad Kelly has some issues that need to be dealt with before he should be allowed to play college football.
The oft-travelled 20-year old Kelly, nephew of former Buffalo Bills QB Jim Kelly was arrested early Sunday morning in Buffalo after a skirmish at a local bar.
Chad Kelly recently (Wednesday) signed a scholarship offer with Ole Miss after a successful 2014 season at East Mississippi Junior College, winning the NJCAA title. Kelly was there in large part because in early 2014, he was kicked off the Clemson roster after arguing with coaches during the teams spring game.
And according to several reports, Kelly had issues in High School as well.
His latest incident came after he refused to leave a downtown Buffalo restaurant and bar sometime after 3 a.m Sunday morning. Reports say he punched a bouncer in the face. A 21-year old friend of Kelly's who had already been tossed from the place was trying to go back in when the melee ensued.
According to the Buffalo News, Kelly told the bouncer; "I'm going to go to my car and get my AK-47 and spray this place".
Kelly then left Encore when police stopped him down the street. He reportedly threw punches when officers tried putting him in a squad car.
Kelly is facing multiple charges.
Read more from the Buffalo News RIGHT HERE
No word yet from Ole Miss on what they'll do with Kelly, but it will be interesting to see how they handle it.
The Rebels are looking to replace graduating starter Bo Wallace and with Kelly's credentials in Junior College, he certainly would have a shot at the job. However he also appears to have some issues. How those issues are dealt with now becomes the question.
Updated: There's now video of the brawl outside Encore. While Kelly's lawyer is quick to say that the audio clears his client, said audio is very hard to hear outside someone yelling "Chill dude". This probably will not help as much as the lawyer thinks--
Marshawn Lynch Wraps Up Crazy Run and Night With Silly Interview
Seattle Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch IS Beast Mode. And he proved it yet again Sunday night with one of the most incredible 79-yard TD runs you'll ever see.
Shedding tacklers like sand fleas, Lynch isn't the fastest guy on the field, but at times nobody seems able to get him off his feet.
Check out the crazy run along with the highlights of Seattle dismantling the Arizona Cardinals 35-6.
((Note-Lynch is going to get fined, if you notice at the end of his TD run, he leaps in the air and grabs his crotch. That is a no-no and stupid. It should cost him money for that and hopefully will))
But then there is post game. And reporters always want to talk to the best players after the games. However Lynch, he's apparently not a big fan of talking to the assembled media. He's been fined by the NFL for not participating in the post game scrum.
And Lynch, rather than get fined again has participated. But his answers to questions well, they leave a bit to be desired though admittedly at times they are funny.
The other interesting issue to us is the duel between reporters and Lynch. The reporters are genuinely upset "Beast Mode" won't talk to them. And having been on that end, sure, we get it. You want the interview with the star of the day. But we also get Lynch. He doesn't like to talk. He should not be required to.
Yes we know he's a professional, it's part of the job. But it should be his choice whether he talks or not. If he doesn't want to, talk to his teammates. Find someone else to talk to. It should be his choice. (Just our opinion here)
Here's video of the Lynch Post Game interview from ESPN.com--Thanks for asking:
Here's a transcript:
Shedding tacklers like sand fleas, Lynch isn't the fastest guy on the field, but at times nobody seems able to get him off his feet.
Check out the crazy run along with the highlights of Seattle dismantling the Arizona Cardinals 35-6.
((Note-Lynch is going to get fined, if you notice at the end of his TD run, he leaps in the air and grabs his crotch. That is a no-no and stupid. It should cost him money for that and hopefully will))
But then there is post game. And reporters always want to talk to the best players after the games. However Lynch, he's apparently not a big fan of talking to the assembled media. He's been fined by the NFL for not participating in the post game scrum.
And Lynch, rather than get fined again has participated. But his answers to questions well, they leave a bit to be desired though admittedly at times they are funny.
The other interesting issue to us is the duel between reporters and Lynch. The reporters are genuinely upset "Beast Mode" won't talk to them. And having been on that end, sure, we get it. You want the interview with the star of the day. But we also get Lynch. He doesn't like to talk. He should not be required to.
Yes we know he's a professional, it's part of the job. But it should be his choice whether he talks or not. If he doesn't want to, talk to his teammates. Find someone else to talk to. It should be his choice. (Just our opinion here)
Here's video of the Lynch Post Game interview from ESPN.com--Thanks for asking:
Here's a transcript:
Here's the transcript of Marshawn Lynch's post game interview. pic.twitter.com/aVMlNPIjv0
— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) December 22, 2014
Morning Wrap: Bruins vs. Sabres Skirmish Starts and Finished With Matt Bartkowski
((ht: cbssports.com))
Um, this play may and probably will draw some fines. And is the part of hockey that isn't necessarily the good part.
Boston Bruins defenseman Matt Bartkowski triggered a full scale Pier 6er Sunday afternoon when he blew up Buffalo Sabres captain Brian Gionta as Gionta was waiting to receive a pass.
Bartkowski went high towards Gionta's head, leaving the Sabres captain sprawled out on the ice and requiring medical attention. Sabres forward Marcus Foligno immediately jumped Bartkowski and a brawl ensued.
And yeah...Bartkowski got the better of Foligno too. The Bruins defenseman racked up 20 minutes of penalty time on the play. Gionta was not able to return to the game. The Bruins got the win, 4-3.
The NHL hasn't fined anyone yet for this...but it's coming...
Um, this play may and probably will draw some fines. And is the part of hockey that isn't necessarily the good part.
Boston Bruins defenseman Matt Bartkowski triggered a full scale Pier 6er Sunday afternoon when he blew up Buffalo Sabres captain Brian Gionta as Gionta was waiting to receive a pass.
Bartkowski went high towards Gionta's head, leaving the Sabres captain sprawled out on the ice and requiring medical attention. Sabres forward Marcus Foligno immediately jumped Bartkowski and a brawl ensued.
And yeah...Bartkowski got the better of Foligno too. The Bruins defenseman racked up 20 minutes of penalty time on the play. Gionta was not able to return to the game. The Bruins got the win, 4-3.
The NHL hasn't fined anyone yet for this...but it's coming...
Sunday, December 21, 2014
DEVELOPING: Winston Cleared In FSU Conduct Case
((HT: CBS Sports/Fornelli))
Of course, he was...
Florida State QB Jameis Winston was cleared on sexual assault allegations in his Code of Conduct hearing on campus.
Winston's attorney, David Cornwell, announced the decision on his Twitter account Sunday afternoon:
"In sum, the preponderance of the evidence has not shown that you are responsible for ANY of the charged violations of the Code."
This does not mean that the accuser in the case is locked out of options. She and her legal representation could pursue a civil case- which is highly likely. But had Winston's Code of Conduct case come back with a decision against him, he could have been expelled (among other things you can to to a student in an evidentiary hearing setting).
And, to no one's surprise, the way the university handled the Winston case might have been a little different than the others the school has handled in the past that were similar in charge and scope.
Andy Alcock examines...
((HT: WCTV))
Of course, he was...
Florida State QB Jameis Winston was cleared on sexual assault allegations in his Code of Conduct hearing on campus.
Winston's attorney, David Cornwell, announced the decision on his Twitter account Sunday afternoon:
"In sum, the preponderance of the evidence has not shown that you are responsible for ANY of the charged violations of the Code."
This does not mean that the accuser in the case is locked out of options. She and her legal representation could pursue a civil case- which is highly likely. But had Winston's Code of Conduct case come back with a decision against him, he could have been expelled (among other things you can to to a student in an evidentiary hearing setting).
And, to no one's surprise, the way the university handled the Winston case might have been a little different than the others the school has handled in the past that were similar in charge and scope.
Andy Alcock examines...
((HT: WCTV))
Jonathan Toews All Star Promo Video is Pure 80's Awesomeness
((ht: foxsports.com))
Oh boy....this is pure cheese and we love it.
Check out this promo video touting Chicago Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews for this years NHL All-Star team.
Words cannot describe this one...so just watch in awe. Oh, and note teammate Patrick Kane on an elliptical trainer wearing a Loverboy style headband.
Oh boy....this is pure cheese and we love it.
Check out this promo video touting Chicago Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews for this years NHL All-Star team.
Words cannot describe this one...so just watch in awe. Oh, and note teammate Patrick Kane on an elliptical trainer wearing a Loverboy style headband.
Morning Wrap: Bowling Green Wins Bowl Game on 78 Yard TD Pass
((ht: espn.com))
And we are off and running with College Bowl season.
Five bowl games were played on Saturday, the best most likely being in the newest game the Camellia Bowl where Bowling Green squared off with South Alabama.
The game was uneventful for the most part. Until the end of the game.
The Jaguars scored with just 1:20 left in the game to take their first lead 28-27. After kicking off to Bowling Green, it took just one play for that to change.
Falcons QB James Knapke hit WR Roger Lewis in stride near the sideline and Lewis was off to the races, 78 yards later, he scored giving Bowling Green the 34-27 win.
Knapke, the games MVP was 25-39 with 368 yards passing and 2 TD's. Lewis caught 4 of those passes for 137 yards and both of the touchdowns.
The win ended Bowling Green's season at 8-6, South Alabama finished 6-7.
Highlights from ESPN.com:
And we are off and running with College Bowl season.
Five bowl games were played on Saturday, the best most likely being in the newest game the Camellia Bowl where Bowling Green squared off with South Alabama.
The game was uneventful for the most part. Until the end of the game.
The Jaguars scored with just 1:20 left in the game to take their first lead 28-27. After kicking off to Bowling Green, it took just one play for that to change.
Falcons QB James Knapke hit WR Roger Lewis in stride near the sideline and Lewis was off to the races, 78 yards later, he scored giving Bowling Green the 34-27 win.
Knapke, the games MVP was 25-39 with 368 yards passing and 2 TD's. Lewis caught 4 of those passes for 137 yards and both of the touchdowns.
The win ended Bowling Green's season at 8-6, South Alabama finished 6-7.
Highlights from ESPN.com:
Morning Wrap: Kentucky Embarrasses UCLA in Hoops
((ht: cbssports.com))
The game was over after UCLA could manage only 7 points in the first half.
Yes...seven...
Twenty minutes into their CBS Classic (made for TV) game vs. top ranked Kentucky, the Bruins trailed 41-7.
Did we mention it was 24-0 before UCLA finally got on the scoreboard?
Kentucky's long line of 6-10 plus athletes tormented UCLA, holding the Bruins to 3 for 37 shooting in the first half. After Wildcats coach John Calipari called off the dogs in the second half, UCLA managed to make the game a little closer.
The final score 83-44.
Devin Booker had 19 points and Aaron Harrison chipped in 15 for Kentucky who was able to empty the bench and shot 50 percent as a team on the night.
The Wildcats, at least early in season are proving to be the best team in all the land. And while there are still three months to go, nobody else looks to be even close.
Your highlights from CBSSports.com:
The game was over after UCLA could manage only 7 points in the first half.
Yes...seven...
Twenty minutes into their CBS Classic (made for TV) game vs. top ranked Kentucky, the Bruins trailed 41-7.
Did we mention it was 24-0 before UCLA finally got on the scoreboard?
Kentucky's long line of 6-10 plus athletes tormented UCLA, holding the Bruins to 3 for 37 shooting in the first half. After Wildcats coach John Calipari called off the dogs in the second half, UCLA managed to make the game a little closer.
The final score 83-44.
Devin Booker had 19 points and Aaron Harrison chipped in 15 for Kentucky who was able to empty the bench and shot 50 percent as a team on the night.
The Wildcats, at least early in season are proving to be the best team in all the land. And while there are still three months to go, nobody else looks to be even close.
Your highlights from CBSSports.com:
Morning Wrap: Calgary Flames With Worst Own Goal Ever This Week
((ht: nhl.com))
It's never good to put the puck in your own net, but in hockey and a few other sports it happens from time to time.
But you are not likely to see an "Own Goal" like this one.
Saturday night, the Calgary Flames put one in between the pipes when goalie Jonas Hiller left the net unattended after a delayed penalty call.
Which in hockey happens quite frequently. When you know a penalty is coming, you try to run an extra attacker out there until the whistle blows.
Here's the problem: A Flames defender got the puck and launched it back towards the blue line.
Nobody was there.
The puck kept sliding down the ice and yup, it goes in the net. Vancouver Canucks defender Yannick Weber, the last Canuck to touch the puck gets credit for the goal and all Flames coach Bob Hartley can do is shake his head.
It's never good to put the puck in your own net, but in hockey and a few other sports it happens from time to time.
But you are not likely to see an "Own Goal" like this one.
Saturday night, the Calgary Flames put one in between the pipes when goalie Jonas Hiller left the net unattended after a delayed penalty call.
Which in hockey happens quite frequently. When you know a penalty is coming, you try to run an extra attacker out there until the whistle blows.
Here's the problem: A Flames defender got the puck and launched it back towards the blue line.
Nobody was there.
The puck kept sliding down the ice and yup, it goes in the net. Vancouver Canucks defender Yannick Weber, the last Canuck to touch the puck gets credit for the goal and all Flames coach Bob Hartley can do is shake his head.
Morning Wrap: Texas A and M Blows Up Kyle Field
Let the renovations begin.
Texas A and M took the big step in renovating their football stadium Sunday morning by imploding a large chunk of the west end seats.
The school has already kicked off the $450 million renovation of Kyle Field which will increase the capacity to over 102,000 seats.
In addition, the new west side of the stadium will include a "Hall of Champions", premium seating and suites and upgraded TV facilities.
All that and it's expected to be done in time for the beginning of the 2015 season.
Good luck, that's a pretty tight timeline.
Here's video of the implosion from the Aggies their ownselves...
Texas A and M took the big step in renovating their football stadium Sunday morning by imploding a large chunk of the west end seats.
The school has already kicked off the $450 million renovation of Kyle Field which will increase the capacity to over 102,000 seats.
In addition, the new west side of the stadium will include a "Hall of Champions", premium seating and suites and upgraded TV facilities.
All that and it's expected to be done in time for the beginning of the 2015 season.
Good luck, that's a pretty tight timeline.
Here's video of the implosion from the Aggies their ownselves...
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Bearcats Coach Mick Cronin Sits Out With Aneurysm
University of Cincinnati's head basketball coach Mick Cronin missed his teams game on Saturday and is likely to miss a few more while being treated at the school's hospital for what was termed an "Unruptured Aneurysm".
The 43-year old Cronin had been complaining the past few weeks about headaches and got a series of tests early in the week.
That's when doctors noticed the Aneurysm. Thankfully, it had not yet done anything other than cause discomfort. Cronin is resting comfortably at the hospital and is keeping track of his team.
He also tweeted out his thanks to Bearcat fans and other for their support.
The 43-year old Cronin had been complaining the past few weeks about headaches and got a series of tests early in the week.
That's when doctors noticed the Aneurysm. Thankfully, it had not yet done anything other than cause discomfort. Cronin is resting comfortably at the hospital and is keeping track of his team.
He also tweeted out his thanks to Bearcat fans and other for their support.
I want everyone to know I am going to be ok!! I just can't coach for precautionary reasons with my medical condition.
— Mick Cronin (@CoachCroninUC) December 20, 2014
I hope to be back ASAP but that will not be my call. As I love to say " I am always day to day. " so that really applies now.
— Mick Cronin (@CoachCroninUC) December 20, 2014
BASTA: Brian Sabean Quietly Having A Solid Offseason
((HT: BASTA/Ben Leonard))
Clearly, the Giants have not had the most flashy off-season. They missed out on re-signing Pablo Sandoval and picking up Yasmany Tomas and Jon Lester, while the Padres went out and acquired practically every outfielder on the market. However, standing relatively pat may not be the worst thing for the Giants. They have made three financially sound moves this winter, the first being re-signing reliever Sergio Romo to a two-year, fifteen million dollar contract. Sabean followed by signing Jake Peavy to a two-year, twenty-four million dollar deal, and then went out and acquired Casey McGehee from Miami to man the hot corner. In acquiring McGehee, the Giants gave up merely pitching prospects Kendry Flores and Luis Castillo, who apparently play baseball. Giants fans may bemoan Sabean’s seeming lack of action, but his moves may prove to be shrewd when it is all said and done.
First and foremost, McGehee will never replace Sandoval in the clubhouse or on the field. He does have a very similar portly frame, but has much less power. He was about an average major league hitter in 2014, becoming the National League’s Comeback Player of the Year and posting a wRC+ of 102. For those looking for a masher, McGehee has never been one in any resemblance, although he did launch twenty-three homers in 2011, albeit fueled in part by relatively hitter-neutral Miller Park. He also brings championship experience to the table, as he won a title in Japan with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in 2013. Perhaps Sabean values his experience winning in odd years.
Lacking power, his success is fueled by average, a statistic that can largely be dictated by luck, as hit placement fluctuates from season to season. However, despite his inflated .335 BABIP, way above his career averages, McGehee’s line drive rate spiked almost three percent in 2014. Harder contact makes it easier for hits to fall in. Hence, McGehee’s increase in hard hits balls was likely due to an adjustment he successfully made, not luck.
In addition, McGehee has proven to be an slightly-below average defender at the big league level. He has lost twenty-four DRS (Defensive Runs Saved) in his six years in the big leagues, a serviceable number. He is no Manny Machado, but he certainly isn’t the Matt Kemp of the infield. Once more, McGehee comes at virtually no cost in prospects or money, and likewise risk, commanding a salary of just over one million dollars in 2015. He is under club control for just one year, and is likely a stop-gap type piece until Sabean can find a free agent or trading partner to solidify the position for good. Essentially, the Giants gave up next to nothing for a reliable rental at third base, a player who posted a sold 2.0 WAR in 2014.
The Giants didn’t just save money at third base: they also bought from the bargain bin at starting pitcher in signing Peavy. Peavy pitched very well with the Giants in 2014, posting a 2.17 ERA after coming to the Bay Area from Boston. However, this success was largely fueled by an insanely low 3.2 HR/FB%, well below his career average of 9.5%. For this reason, Steamer pegs Peavy for a 3.67 ERA in 2015, a solid number for a bottom-of-the-rotation starter, about market value for twelve million. Bochy has a special bond with Peavy that started in their days in San Diego; he just pitches better under Bochy.
For these reasons, Peavy likely represents insurance for the Giants if they don’t sign James Shields or Max Scherzer, and could fit in nicely in the fourth spot in the rotation behind Bumgarner, Cain, and Hudson. If they do sign Shields or Scherzer, Tim Lincecum would be forced out of the rotation, leaving the Giants with considerable depth at starting pitcher, coupled with Yusmiero Petit. In either scenario, the Giants are set for 2015 with their rotation; Shields or Scherzer would just be icing on the cake. Economic savings on Peavy and McGehee give the Giants the flexibility to win a bidding war with any team competing for Scherzer or Shields’ services, namely the Detroit Tigers. The Giants are currently the favorites for Shields, with no other team clearly in the running. Shields would be markedly cheaper, and is much more likely to sign with San Francisco.
Sergio Romo’s deal was probably the worst financially for the Giants, but fifteen million over two years isn’t much of a risk in this era of baseball. However, as I mentioned in my offseason preview, Romo has been in decline every year since 2011.
Year/xFIP/WAR
2011 1.49/2.0
2012 2.61/1.0
2013 3.20/1/1
2014 3.40/-.3
Romo’s slider didn’t break as tightly in 2014, especially during a rough June stretch. However, he picked it up as the season dragged on in the setup role. Hitters seem to have adjusted to his increasingly hittable slider. However, with righty reliever Pat Neshek signing a very similar deal with Houston, the Giants did not over-spend, at least too much. Romo projects to be somewhat better in 2015, as Steamer sees him posting a 2.95 ERA.
In all, Sabean spent around twenty million on three players. Giants fans may decry Sabean as frugal, but his strategy of signing his homegrown players has certainly paid off in the last five years. Sabean has shown he was willing to spend big in offering competitive deals to Lester and Sandoval, and these smaller deals allow him to spend big on a right-handed horse. Casey McGehee and Jake Peavy aren’t quite Sandoval and Lester, but they aren’t quite Joaquin Arias and Tim Lincecum, either. This mid-tier moves may not seem significant, but they solidify two very shaky spots on the Giants’ roster. Whether Sabean uses his surplus money on a left fielder AND a top-of-the-line starter remains to be seen, but the Giants would be fine starting off 2015 with Lincecum in the fifth starter role and Blanco in left. Blanco is a perfectly competent major league left fielder, one who can handle cavernous AT&T Park very well. As I alluded to in my off-season preview in November:
Unless Sabean becomes infatuated with another veteran outfielder (See Derosa, Mark), there is no reason to believe that anyone but Gregor Blanco will be the Opening Day left fielder.
Blanco is cheap and reliable, and can handle the bat more than well enough, posting a 107 wRC+ in 2014. Sabean quietly has had a great offseason, although not moving at quite the same pace as the A’s or the Padres. His apparent frugality allows him to spend big on those who deserve the big bucks, Nick Markakis not being one of them.
Clearly, the Giants have not had the most flashy off-season. They missed out on re-signing Pablo Sandoval and picking up Yasmany Tomas and Jon Lester, while the Padres went out and acquired practically every outfielder on the market. However, standing relatively pat may not be the worst thing for the Giants. They have made three financially sound moves this winter, the first being re-signing reliever Sergio Romo to a two-year, fifteen million dollar contract. Sabean followed by signing Jake Peavy to a two-year, twenty-four million dollar deal, and then went out and acquired Casey McGehee from Miami to man the hot corner. In acquiring McGehee, the Giants gave up merely pitching prospects Kendry Flores and Luis Castillo, who apparently play baseball. Giants fans may bemoan Sabean’s seeming lack of action, but his moves may prove to be shrewd when it is all said and done.
First and foremost, McGehee will never replace Sandoval in the clubhouse or on the field. He does have a very similar portly frame, but has much less power. He was about an average major league hitter in 2014, becoming the National League’s Comeback Player of the Year and posting a wRC+ of 102. For those looking for a masher, McGehee has never been one in any resemblance, although he did launch twenty-three homers in 2011, albeit fueled in part by relatively hitter-neutral Miller Park. He also brings championship experience to the table, as he won a title in Japan with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in 2013. Perhaps Sabean values his experience winning in odd years.
Lacking power, his success is fueled by average, a statistic that can largely be dictated by luck, as hit placement fluctuates from season to season. However, despite his inflated .335 BABIP, way above his career averages, McGehee’s line drive rate spiked almost three percent in 2014. Harder contact makes it easier for hits to fall in. Hence, McGehee’s increase in hard hits balls was likely due to an adjustment he successfully made, not luck.
In addition, McGehee has proven to be an slightly-below average defender at the big league level. He has lost twenty-four DRS (Defensive Runs Saved) in his six years in the big leagues, a serviceable number. He is no Manny Machado, but he certainly isn’t the Matt Kemp of the infield. Once more, McGehee comes at virtually no cost in prospects or money, and likewise risk, commanding a salary of just over one million dollars in 2015. He is under club control for just one year, and is likely a stop-gap type piece until Sabean can find a free agent or trading partner to solidify the position for good. Essentially, the Giants gave up next to nothing for a reliable rental at third base, a player who posted a sold 2.0 WAR in 2014.
The Giants didn’t just save money at third base: they also bought from the bargain bin at starting pitcher in signing Peavy. Peavy pitched very well with the Giants in 2014, posting a 2.17 ERA after coming to the Bay Area from Boston. However, this success was largely fueled by an insanely low 3.2 HR/FB%, well below his career average of 9.5%. For this reason, Steamer pegs Peavy for a 3.67 ERA in 2015, a solid number for a bottom-of-the-rotation starter, about market value for twelve million. Bochy has a special bond with Peavy that started in their days in San Diego; he just pitches better under Bochy.
For these reasons, Peavy likely represents insurance for the Giants if they don’t sign James Shields or Max Scherzer, and could fit in nicely in the fourth spot in the rotation behind Bumgarner, Cain, and Hudson. If they do sign Shields or Scherzer, Tim Lincecum would be forced out of the rotation, leaving the Giants with considerable depth at starting pitcher, coupled with Yusmiero Petit. In either scenario, the Giants are set for 2015 with their rotation; Shields or Scherzer would just be icing on the cake. Economic savings on Peavy and McGehee give the Giants the flexibility to win a bidding war with any team competing for Scherzer or Shields’ services, namely the Detroit Tigers. The Giants are currently the favorites for Shields, with no other team clearly in the running. Shields would be markedly cheaper, and is much more likely to sign with San Francisco.
Sergio Romo’s deal was probably the worst financially for the Giants, but fifteen million over two years isn’t much of a risk in this era of baseball. However, as I mentioned in my offseason preview, Romo has been in decline every year since 2011.
Year/xFIP/WAR
2011 1.49/2.0
2012 2.61/1.0
2013 3.20/1/1
2014 3.40/-.3
Romo’s slider didn’t break as tightly in 2014, especially during a rough June stretch. However, he picked it up as the season dragged on in the setup role. Hitters seem to have adjusted to his increasingly hittable slider. However, with righty reliever Pat Neshek signing a very similar deal with Houston, the Giants did not over-spend, at least too much. Romo projects to be somewhat better in 2015, as Steamer sees him posting a 2.95 ERA.
In all, Sabean spent around twenty million on three players. Giants fans may decry Sabean as frugal, but his strategy of signing his homegrown players has certainly paid off in the last five years. Sabean has shown he was willing to spend big in offering competitive deals to Lester and Sandoval, and these smaller deals allow him to spend big on a right-handed horse. Casey McGehee and Jake Peavy aren’t quite Sandoval and Lester, but they aren’t quite Joaquin Arias and Tim Lincecum, either. This mid-tier moves may not seem significant, but they solidify two very shaky spots on the Giants’ roster. Whether Sabean uses his surplus money on a left fielder AND a top-of-the-line starter remains to be seen, but the Giants would be fine starting off 2015 with Lincecum in the fifth starter role and Blanco in left. Blanco is a perfectly competent major league left fielder, one who can handle cavernous AT&T Park very well. As I alluded to in my off-season preview in November:
Unless Sabean becomes infatuated with another veteran outfielder (See Derosa, Mark), there is no reason to believe that anyone but Gregor Blanco will be the Opening Day left fielder.
Blanco is cheap and reliable, and can handle the bat more than well enough, posting a 107 wRC+ in 2014. Sabean quietly has had a great offseason, although not moving at quite the same pace as the A’s or the Padres. His apparent frugality allows him to spend big on those who deserve the big bucks, Nick Markakis not being one of them.
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