The first thing I dread every morning upon arriving to work is the elevator ride. Upon leaving the parking garage, I am constantly on the lookout for fellow employees hoping that I can time an elevator that I won't have to ride with anyone I know. I am not a master of the early morning conversation and I can't stand the smalltalk. I would much rather ride the 9 floors by myself than discuss the weather with someone whom I barely have an acquaintanceship.
The typical morning conversation goes something like this:
THEM: Hey
ME: Hey, what's going on?
THEM: Oh, not much. Just another day here at work.
ME: Yeah
THEM: I'd rather be somewhere else.
ME: Yeah
THEM: Pretty cold out
ME: Yeah...it's winter but at least it's not snowing today...haha.
THEM: Yeah...I can't wait until spring.
ME: Yeah
THEM: Of course, I would like to see one blizzard this winter.
ME: Ummm...ok...well, you might get it...haha
THEM: Yeah
ME: Well, have a good day
THEM (enthusiastically): You too!
Exciting stuff...and that was my conversation this morning. It's the same everyday regardless of who is on the elevator. Wish I were somewhere else and it's cold out, hot out, nice out, "yucky" out, etc. AHHHH, the tedium...I despise the elevator. I think I'm going to request my own personal pod to deliver me to my office. I'm sure they'll go for that.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Weather is Bad?
I hate to be one of those "when I was in school we walked 5 miles...yada, yada, yada" people but someone needs to explain to me why school was cancelled today. I'm looking outside and I really don't see any snow. The roads don't appear bad. Is it too cold? Are they really going to close school because it's 13-degrees outside? I sure hope not...that would be pretty ridiculous. Put on a coat and suck it up folks...it's not bad out. Cancelling school because of cold...pure insanity.
Anyway, did anyone else here about O.J. Mayo being tossed from a basketball game and suspended for 2-games? I'll let you watch the video and determine whether Mayo should have been given two technical fouls and tossed. The ref in the incident has been ripped mercilessly this morning on the radio. I'm just not sure there wasn't a little overreaction.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3VWYjFzJV8
Anyway, did anyone else here about O.J. Mayo being tossed from a basketball game and suspended for 2-games? I'll let you watch the video and determine whether Mayo should have been given two technical fouls and tossed. The ref in the incident has been ripped mercilessly this morning on the radio. I'm just not sure there wasn't a little overreaction.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3VWYjFzJV8
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Women's Basketball
I am not a big women's basketball fan...big surprise there, I'm sure. But, I thought I'd give it a shot when #3 Maryland hosted #2 North Carolina. I am still not a women's basketball fan. Everyone has always defended the women's game by saying things like "fundamentals" or "team sport" or "the way basketball should be played." I completely disagree. From the 20 minutes or so I watched of the game, I would say the game is far worse fundamentally compared to the men's game. Bad passes, by dribbling, bad shots -- even bad free throw shooting -- it was all there.
But the main reason the women's game is worse is the way the players struggle. It looks very awkward when many of these players shoot...like they can't put enough strength behind the ball. The shooting from looks completely unnatural...there is just no flow to the shot by most of the players. Just looks plain ugly.
The other thing that bugged me was the coaches. Maryland's coach, Brenda Frese, who has always scared me, went off at one point in the game and was given a technical foul. She was screeching like Hilary Clinton on the court...it was quite a fit. On the other side was North Carolina coach Sylvia Hatchell looks like she should be hosting a knitting show, not coaching a basketball team. It was disturbing to watch her yelling out plays or reprimanding the players. I know, that's probably not fair but it just really bugged me. But, mostly, Brenda Frese scares me.
Anyway, the game ended up pretty close at the end. North Carolina pulled out the win but I can't say I enjoyed watching the game. It was an ugly, ugly game between two of the best women's teams...and if that's the best the game has to offer, I'll pass. Besides, Brenda Frese is one scary lady.
But the main reason the women's game is worse is the way the players struggle. It looks very awkward when many of these players shoot...like they can't put enough strength behind the ball. The shooting from looks completely unnatural...there is just no flow to the shot by most of the players. Just looks plain ugly.
The other thing that bugged me was the coaches. Maryland's coach, Brenda Frese, who has always scared me, went off at one point in the game and was given a technical foul. She was screeching like Hilary Clinton on the court...it was quite a fit. On the other side was North Carolina coach Sylvia Hatchell looks like she should be hosting a knitting show, not coaching a basketball team. It was disturbing to watch her yelling out plays or reprimanding the players. I know, that's probably not fair but it just really bugged me. But, mostly, Brenda Frese scares me.Anyway, the game ended up pretty close at the end. North Carolina pulled out the win but I can't say I enjoyed watching the game. It was an ugly, ugly game between two of the best women's teams...and if that's the best the game has to offer, I'll pass. Besides, Brenda Frese is one scary lady.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Duke Finally Gets a Break
After years of having calls go against them, the Duke Blue Devils were finally on the receiving end of favorable calls Thursday night. In case you missed it, Thursday night a timekeeper error gave the Blue Devils 4.4 seconds to score instead of the probably 2.9 or less they should have had. And Duke won the game with 0.1 seconds remaining in the game. On Friday, the ACC admitted that an error had been made and the error gave Duke a better chance of scoring and winning the game, which had been tied 66-66 at that point.
Some people are recalling an incident that occurred one year ago when a similarly awful officiating mistake in Duke's favor -- also at home -- helped the Blue Devils escape another upset loss. Last year officials botched a physical confrontation between Duke's Shelden Williams and Florida State's Alexander Johnson, calling a double-technical when it seemed clear that only Williams deserved one. The technical doubled as a personal foul, and was Johnson's fifth. He had been having a career game -- 13 points and 11 rebounds in just 14 minutes -- but was fouled out with almost 9½ minutes left. The game went to overtime, with Duke winning 97-96. The officiating crew from that Florida State debacle was suspended one game for "the incorrect assessment and handling of the dead-ball technical foul situation," which did Florida State exactly zero good. The Seminoles ended up being one of the last teams left out of the 2006 NCAA Tournament.
But, hey, that has nothing to do with Thursday night. And nevermind the constant critics who say Krzyzewski spends more time working the refs than coaching his team. And nevermind the consistent criticism of officials following nearly every close game at Cameron Indoor. It's all coincidence. If you don't believe me, ask ESPN or Dick Vitale. I'm sure they will be more than happy to defend Duke and Krzyzewski and the ACC. They can do no wrong.
And, as far as the Clemson game, Duke deserved to win. If you don't believe me, ask Coach K...here's what he said: "Our team deserved to win this game. We out-rebounded them 40-24, but we just couldn't make a basket. On the last play they took away the play we called, but Jon stepped up and made a play." So, see, it was fair regardless because Duke DESERVED to win.
Lastly, even if clock management was correct and the game went into overtime, Duke would have won. If you don't believe me, ask Coach K.
"The league acknowledges that a timing error was made in not starting the game clock at the correct time."
Some people are recalling an incident that occurred one year ago when a similarly awful officiating mistake in Duke's favor -- also at home -- helped the Blue Devils escape another upset loss. Last year officials botched a physical confrontation between Duke's Shelden Williams and Florida State's Alexander Johnson, calling a double-technical when it seemed clear that only Williams deserved one. The technical doubled as a personal foul, and was Johnson's fifth. He had been having a career game -- 13 points and 11 rebounds in just 14 minutes -- but was fouled out with almost 9½ minutes left. The game went to overtime, with Duke winning 97-96. The officiating crew from that Florida State debacle was suspended one game for "the incorrect assessment and handling of the dead-ball technical foul situation," which did Florida State exactly zero good. The Seminoles ended up being one of the last teams left out of the 2006 NCAA Tournament.
But, hey, that has nothing to do with Thursday night. And nevermind the constant critics who say Krzyzewski spends more time working the refs than coaching his team. And nevermind the consistent criticism of officials following nearly every close game at Cameron Indoor. It's all coincidence. If you don't believe me, ask ESPN or Dick Vitale. I'm sure they will be more than happy to defend Duke and Krzyzewski and the ACC. They can do no wrong.
And, as far as the Clemson game, Duke deserved to win. If you don't believe me, ask Coach K...here's what he said: "Our team deserved to win this game. We out-rebounded them 40-24, but we just couldn't make a basket. On the last play they took away the play we called, but Jon stepped up and made a play." So, see, it was fair regardless because Duke DESERVED to win.
Lastly, even if clock management was correct and the game went into overtime, Duke would have won. If you don't believe me, ask Coach K.
What Can I Say About Columbus?
As I said previously, I was out in Columbus on Thursday and Friday as we are opening an office out there next week. So, the computer equipment, phones, faxes, etc., needed to be setup. I had all the equipment that needed to be transported in Clarksburg but, unfortunately, Enterprise didn't have any large vehicles so we ended up getting a van from a smaller company in town. That minor detail is now regretted...
Left Thursday morning and arrived in Columbus without much fanfare. Located the office without too much hassle and a co-worker from Charleston was already there. Not a bad building. They hadn't cleared the sidewalks though...which meant we were dragging equipment through some slippery areas but we didn't have any problems. Unloaded all the equipment and started setting everything up. The phone guy arrived and ran the lines...we just had to patch them through. He hooked up the DSL lines but said that he didn't hook up the DSL modem...someone else handled that. Snag one...we called back to the man in charge of this project and he said the modem was shipped and should be at the office. It wasn't...so we went to Circuit City and purchased one. Hooked it up and it worked. But then AT&T said they shipped one and it was at UPS and we would need to pick it up...that the one we purchased would void the warranty. Argh...it was after 6:00 so we would have to pick it up on Friday.
Left the office and headed up one of the streets in downtown Columbus and the van started making a thump, thump, thump sound. Flat tire. Now, I'll be honest, in all my years of driving and travel, I have never had a flat tire, let alone change one. So, I pulled out the invoice I had received from the rental company and attempted to call the 6 phone numbers they listed. No answer at any of them. (If you rent from Enterprise, you can call them and they will come pick you up in another rental and let you us it until they can repair your vehicle...I had hoped my rental offered something similar.) I got out to look for the spare tire and couldn't find it. So, I called my boss...he said "there has to be a spare," so I looked again. It was under the van.
I found the directions to changing the tire and it said to find the hexnut to lower the tire from the bottom of the van. I could not find the hexnut...searched and searched and couldn't find it. By now, I was freezing...it was like 20-degrees out. I called my co-worker and told him that he would have to come find me. He did and he looked for the hexnut and couldn't find it. It was beginning to get very frustrating. I called my boss back and asked him to find the number for a tow company or something. He gave me a number and I tried to call them and they were closed. It was approaching 8:00 now and I hadn't eaten all day so Keith and I decided to go eat and leave the van in a parking lot and hope it wasn't towed.
After we left, I remembered something...I have AAA. Hmmm...wonder if they could help. So I found the number for AAA and gave them a call and, sure enough, they said to call when I got to the van and they would come out and change the tire. So, we ate and got back to the van at 10:00. AAA arrived in about 20 minutes and the guy, after looking for 10 minutes, found the hexnut (see, I'm not stupid...it was hard to find). He changed the tire which was awesome. And I drove it back to the office and rode with Keith to the hotel.
Next morning, get a call from my boss wanting to know what I was going to do about the van. Told him I would just drive it back on the spare...I'd just have to drive slow. He called the rental company and called me back. Change the tire...they're going to charge us regardless. WHAT? I get a flat and they're going to charge me to change it? That's ridiculous. So, I took it to a tire place and told them I wanted the cheapest tire they had. "I don't care if the thing disintegrates after 250-miles...and, while you have it in the garage, beat the hell out of that van." Apparently the guy didn't understand the cheap part because it came to $120.00. Just isn't right.
Anyway, the furniture arrived and we thought we'd be out by 2:00 or so. Well, as we test the computers one last time and call back home to say we're leaving, the operations manager said to wait for the locksmith. Well, when is the locksmith arriving? Well, not soon because no one has called him yet. What? The locksmith didn't arrive until 3:30 and didn't have keys ready until 4:30. I picked up the van at 5:00 and didn't get back in town until 9:00. While in Columbus, I had to buy a DSL modem, 3 business phones and a tire for a van. My travel report came out to $866.67, which might be the most expensive voucher I've turned in.
Overall, it was not a very enjoyable trip. Oh, I forgot to mention that the cleaning lady barged in my room Friday morning before my wakeup call...which I thought was a little bad too. But, hey, it kinda summed up the entire trip really. Stupid mini-van. From now on, it's major rental companies or no trip at all...I can't handle this again.
Left Thursday morning and arrived in Columbus without much fanfare. Located the office without too much hassle and a co-worker from Charleston was already there. Not a bad building. They hadn't cleared the sidewalks though...which meant we were dragging equipment through some slippery areas but we didn't have any problems. Unloaded all the equipment and started setting everything up. The phone guy arrived and ran the lines...we just had to patch them through. He hooked up the DSL lines but said that he didn't hook up the DSL modem...someone else handled that. Snag one...we called back to the man in charge of this project and he said the modem was shipped and should be at the office. It wasn't...so we went to Circuit City and purchased one. Hooked it up and it worked. But then AT&T said they shipped one and it was at UPS and we would need to pick it up...that the one we purchased would void the warranty. Argh...it was after 6:00 so we would have to pick it up on Friday.
Left the office and headed up one of the streets in downtown Columbus and the van started making a thump, thump, thump sound. Flat tire. Now, I'll be honest, in all my years of driving and travel, I have never had a flat tire, let alone change one. So, I pulled out the invoice I had received from the rental company and attempted to call the 6 phone numbers they listed. No answer at any of them. (If you rent from Enterprise, you can call them and they will come pick you up in another rental and let you us it until they can repair your vehicle...I had hoped my rental offered something similar.) I got out to look for the spare tire and couldn't find it. So, I called my boss...he said "there has to be a spare," so I looked again. It was under the van.
I found the directions to changing the tire and it said to find the hexnut to lower the tire from the bottom of the van. I could not find the hexnut...searched and searched and couldn't find it. By now, I was freezing...it was like 20-degrees out. I called my co-worker and told him that he would have to come find me. He did and he looked for the hexnut and couldn't find it. It was beginning to get very frustrating. I called my boss back and asked him to find the number for a tow company or something. He gave me a number and I tried to call them and they were closed. It was approaching 8:00 now and I hadn't eaten all day so Keith and I decided to go eat and leave the van in a parking lot and hope it wasn't towed.
After we left, I remembered something...I have AAA. Hmmm...wonder if they could help. So I found the number for AAA and gave them a call and, sure enough, they said to call when I got to the van and they would come out and change the tire. So, we ate and got back to the van at 10:00. AAA arrived in about 20 minutes and the guy, after looking for 10 minutes, found the hexnut (see, I'm not stupid...it was hard to find). He changed the tire which was awesome. And I drove it back to the office and rode with Keith to the hotel.
Next morning, get a call from my boss wanting to know what I was going to do about the van. Told him I would just drive it back on the spare...I'd just have to drive slow. He called the rental company and called me back. Change the tire...they're going to charge us regardless. WHAT? I get a flat and they're going to charge me to change it? That's ridiculous. So, I took it to a tire place and told them I wanted the cheapest tire they had. "I don't care if the thing disintegrates after 250-miles...and, while you have it in the garage, beat the hell out of that van." Apparently the guy didn't understand the cheap part because it came to $120.00. Just isn't right.
Anyway, the furniture arrived and we thought we'd be out by 2:00 or so. Well, as we test the computers one last time and call back home to say we're leaving, the operations manager said to wait for the locksmith. Well, when is the locksmith arriving? Well, not soon because no one has called him yet. What? The locksmith didn't arrive until 3:30 and didn't have keys ready until 4:30. I picked up the van at 5:00 and didn't get back in town until 9:00. While in Columbus, I had to buy a DSL modem, 3 business phones and a tire for a van. My travel report came out to $866.67, which might be the most expensive voucher I've turned in.
Overall, it was not a very enjoyable trip. Oh, I forgot to mention that the cleaning lady barged in my room Friday morning before my wakeup call...which I thought was a little bad too. But, hey, it kinda summed up the entire trip really. Stupid mini-van. From now on, it's major rental companies or no trip at all...I can't handle this again.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Take the Quiz! I'm Expanding West
I'll be out Thursday and Friday because I will be in Columbus. This will be our 7th office and I have to go out and setup equipment for the office. The telephone lines and Internet will be hooked up tomorrow...exciting stuff. I needed a rental vehicle to haul the equipment and they gave me a mini-van...no so exciting. So, I'm hauling around in some mini-van with a lot of equipment.
Anyway, I've only had a couple entries in this week's quiz and that's pretty disappointing. Yeah, the prizes are crap but you're playing for the notoriety. So, take the quiz...and I might add an additional prize if I can find anything cheap in Columbus. Right now, you're playing for a golf score keeper and the December '06 edition of WIRED. You gotta be in it to win it.
1) Who was the capital of Ohio named for?
2) Who said: "It's not the men in my life, it's the life in my men"?
3) Who advised listeners to "see the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet"?
4) Whose second novel was The Love Machine?
5) What two metals form the alloy white gold?
6) What team did Babe Ruth play his first major league game for?
Send your responses to mswish18@gmail.com. Good luck...and see ya'll Friday evening. I'll let you know how the Columbus setup goes because I'm really expecting issues...but, ya never know.
Anyway, I've only had a couple entries in this week's quiz and that's pretty disappointing. Yeah, the prizes are crap but you're playing for the notoriety. So, take the quiz...and I might add an additional prize if I can find anything cheap in Columbus. Right now, you're playing for a golf score keeper and the December '06 edition of WIRED. You gotta be in it to win it.
1) Who was the capital of Ohio named for?
2) Who said: "It's not the men in my life, it's the life in my men"?
3) Who advised listeners to "see the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet"?
4) Whose second novel was The Love Machine?
5) What two metals form the alloy white gold?
6) What team did Babe Ruth play his first major league game for?
Send your responses to mswish18@gmail.com. Good luck...and see ya'll Friday evening. I'll let you know how the Columbus setup goes because I'm really expecting issues...but, ya never know.
Did the Steelers Screw Russ Grimm?
Just a day after Pittsburgh announced Mike Tomlin would be their new head coach, Steelers assistant Russ Grimm joined former Steelers assistant Ken Whisenhunt in Arizona. Both Whisenhunt and Grimm were considered frontrunners to replace Bill Cowher as head man in Pittsburgh...but both were passed over for the position.
There is a growing rumor that Grimm was offered the job and accepted the job but that Roger Goddell, Commissioner of the NFL, wanted the Steelers to hire a minority candidate since the Rooney Rule (which requires a minority candidate be interviewed) was named after Steelers owner Dan Rooney. Since Grimm hadn't signed any papers with the Steelers, Pittsburgh retracted the offer to Grimm and offered the job to Tomlin.
Grimm hasn't really said anything publicly about it at all really...so, it may be a bunch of bull. The media declared both Grimm and Tomlin as head coach before a decision was made...so that doesn't mean a whole lot to me. But it sure didn't take Grimm very long to bolt the Steel City once Tomlin was named head coach.
I'm sure the real story will come out about this in due time. If Grimm was indeed offered the job before Tomlin, then the Rooney Rule is a failure because the Steelers would have believed that Grimm was the best man for the job but had to pass due to pressure to hire a minority. If the story is bogus...well, then it doesn't really mean much of anything.
There is a growing rumor that Grimm was offered the job and accepted the job but that Roger Goddell, Commissioner of the NFL, wanted the Steelers to hire a minority candidate since the Rooney Rule (which requires a minority candidate be interviewed) was named after Steelers owner Dan Rooney. Since Grimm hadn't signed any papers with the Steelers, Pittsburgh retracted the offer to Grimm and offered the job to Tomlin.
Grimm hasn't really said anything publicly about it at all really...so, it may be a bunch of bull. The media declared both Grimm and Tomlin as head coach before a decision was made...so that doesn't mean a whole lot to me. But it sure didn't take Grimm very long to bolt the Steel City once Tomlin was named head coach.
I'm sure the real story will come out about this in due time. If Grimm was indeed offered the job before Tomlin, then the Rooney Rule is a failure because the Steelers would have believed that Grimm was the best man for the job but had to pass due to pressure to hire a minority. If the story is bogus...well, then it doesn't really mean much of anything.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Scientologists are NUTS!!!
Alright...I've written in the past about how I think Tom Cruise is CRAAAAZY. And, quite frankly, I thought most Scientologists were either mentally challenged or drawn to the controversial religion just to be controversial or draw attention to themselves. But now there is a new reason to believe Scientology is bogus: They have declared Tom Cruise "Christ!"
Yes, you read that correctly...one of Scientology's leaders, David Miscavige, believes that in future Cruise will be worshipped like Jesus for his work to raise awareness of the religion. A source close to the actor, who has risen to one of the church’s top levels, said: “Tom has been told he is Scientology’s Christ-like figure. "Like Christ, he’s been criticised for his views. But future generations will realise he was right.”Wow. I don't even know where to begin with this one. First, I should identify that David Miscavige is indeed a person in the Scientology leadership. Miscavige is Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center (RTC), a non-profit organization formed in May of 1982 to preserve, maintain and protect the Scientology religion, according to his website: http://davidmiscavige.rtc.org/ -- so, there is a person out there that really believes Cruise is Christ-like. And I am sure this is what they are going to teach their fellow Scientologists.
So, what is Scientology? If you want to know, I recommend you visit http://www.xenu.net/ to find out more about the religion and the nuts who believe so much in it. It is absolutely fascinating reading.
Anyway, I'm sure Cruise will be back on TV following his ascension to Christ-like status in Scientology. He will be on the recruiting path. He's already trying to recruit the Beckhams into his cult. I don't know how this idiot continues to get work. I, for one, am completely sick of him and can't stand to see him anywhere...of course, if he's Christ, I'll really regret that later.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner AND Questions
Alright...here's the answers to the quiz according to Trivial Pursuit (and, surprisingly, none were ham):
1) What's the most popular drink in Greece? Ouzo
2) What film won Rod Steiger the best actor Oscar in 1967? "In the Heat of the Night"
3) What four letters were placed on the cross on which Christ was crucified? I.N.R.I.
4) Who commanded the Jolly Roger in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan? Captain Cook
5) What plan does natural vanilla flavoring come from? The orchid
6) What does a philatelist collect? Stamps
The winner, despite nearly being disqualified for: 1) complaining about the prize and 2) complaining about a delay in the results, is Steele. He won a 2006 Family Guy Wall Calendar. Congratulations! I will get you your prize eventually...when I feel like it.
In order to give more people a chance to play, I will post this week's questions today and I will now declare a winner and post new questions every Monday. This week has two prizes.
1. Score-4 Four Player DIGITAL GOLF SCORECARD. The pocket-sized, smart-card that keeps your score keeping up to par. Automatically tracks stroke-by-stroke, front and back 9 tallies and overall scores for up to 4 players. Batteries included. Never opened.
2. The December 2006 Edition of WIRED Magazine. Featured articles include YouTube Grows Up: Lonelygirl15, WebVideo & The End of TV Advertising; True Crime: Sex, Drugs and Triple Murder on Myspace.com; and Me Translate Pretty One Day: How one firm is cracking the language code.
Yes, both of these prizes can be yours if you can answer the following questions correctly, as picked from Trivial Pursuit: Genius Edition.
1) Who was the capital of Ohio named for?
2) Who said: "It's not the men in my life, it's the life in my men"?
3) Who advised listeners to "see the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet"?
4) Whose second novel was The Love Machine?
5) What two metals form the alloy white gold?
6) What team did Babe Ruth play his first major league game for?
Send your answers to mswish18@gmail.com or you can comment them but you risk giving the answers to cheaters. Everyone who answers all 6 questions correctly will be entered into the random drawing to win the 2 prizes described above. In the event no one answers all six questions correctly, the winner will be the person answering the most correct. Answers must be submitted by midnight on Sunday. Best of luck!
1) What's the most popular drink in Greece? Ouzo
2) What film won Rod Steiger the best actor Oscar in 1967? "In the Heat of the Night"
3) What four letters were placed on the cross on which Christ was crucified? I.N.R.I.
4) Who commanded the Jolly Roger in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan? Captain Cook
5) What plan does natural vanilla flavoring come from? The orchid
6) What does a philatelist collect? Stamps
The winner, despite nearly being disqualified for: 1) complaining about the prize and 2) complaining about a delay in the results, is Steele. He won a 2006 Family Guy Wall Calendar. Congratulations! I will get you your prize eventually...when I feel like it.
In order to give more people a chance to play, I will post this week's questions today and I will now declare a winner and post new questions every Monday. This week has two prizes.
1. Score-4 Four Player DIGITAL GOLF SCORECARD. The pocket-sized, smart-card that keeps your score keeping up to par. Automatically tracks stroke-by-stroke, front and back 9 tallies and overall scores for up to 4 players. Batteries included. Never opened.
2. The December 2006 Edition of WIRED Magazine. Featured articles include YouTube Grows Up: Lonelygirl15, WebVideo & The End of TV Advertising; True Crime: Sex, Drugs and Triple Murder on Myspace.com; and Me Translate Pretty One Day: How one firm is cracking the language code.
Yes, both of these prizes can be yours if you can answer the following questions correctly, as picked from Trivial Pursuit: Genius Edition.
1) Who was the capital of Ohio named for?
2) Who said: "It's not the men in my life, it's the life in my men"?
3) Who advised listeners to "see the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet"?
4) Whose second novel was The Love Machine?
5) What two metals form the alloy white gold?
6) What team did Babe Ruth play his first major league game for?
Send your answers to mswish18@gmail.com or you can comment them but you risk giving the answers to cheaters. Everyone who answers all 6 questions correctly will be entered into the random drawing to win the 2 prizes described above. In the event no one answers all six questions correctly, the winner will be the person answering the most correct. Answers must be submitted by midnight on Sunday. Best of luck!
Happiness = Patriots Losing
I cannot begin to tell you how happy I was to see the Patriots lose last night. The disdain I hold for Bill Belichick and Tom Brady cannot be overstated. But more so for Belichick who comes across as a complete jerk. And he's not a genius...he has surrounded himself with talent and good coaches yet he consistently refuses, or at least fails, to give them credit for their success. And then when someone like Eric Mangini moves out from under his shadow, he whines like a baby.
His treatment of the press is ridiculous. Granted, there are probably times he'd rather not speak to the media but that is part of a coaches' life now and he needs to get over himself. And I won't even get into the way he dresses on the sideline...but I've seen homeless dress better. I hope this signals the decline of the Patriots. They are no invincible...and that's what really matters.
As for the Colts, yeah, I'm glad Manning finally figured out how to beat New England. I think this could be the beginning of a good run for the Colts. They now know they can win big games closely and that should really help their confidence for the next few years. They need to continue to work on building the defense but they look to be in pretty good shape.
As for the other side, the Bears put a hurting on the Saints. I wanted the Bears to win but I wouldn't have minded the Saints winning...until Reggie Bush did his little show. After that, I wanted the Bears to win...and win big. And they did.
Bush is a huge talent...I will admit that. But there is no reason to act the way he did on the 88-yard touchdown strike. To taunt the Bears defense...are you insane? I wanted Urlacher to decapitate him after that. The Madden-like dive into the endzone broke Adrian Petersen's collarbone earlier this season. Did Bush not learn anything? Can you imagine if he had injured himself doing the dive? That would have been justice. And the dance...well, it was just horrendous and embarrassing. I don't see how the officials didn't throw a taunting or excessive celebration flag on the who debacle. It was really bad. And it probably fired up the Bears who turned it up and destroyed New Orleans.
And so we have the Super Bowl matchup -- Chicago Bears led by Sexy Rexy and Indianapolis Colts led by the Prodigal Son. And in case you haven't heard, it will be the first time an African-American coach will be in the Super Bowl...and it just happens to be two of them...which means it will most likely be the first time the Super Bowl champion has an African-American coach. So, in case you missed that, both coaches are African-American. It's cool but that story will be completely run into the ground over the next two weeks...it will be horrible.
As for a winner...I think it's time for the Colts. I hope Rexman doesn't lose it for the Bears...just a good battle that Manning and the Colts win. Should be a good game...especially if it's like all the other playoff games this season.
His treatment of the press is ridiculous. Granted, there are probably times he'd rather not speak to the media but that is part of a coaches' life now and he needs to get over himself. And I won't even get into the way he dresses on the sideline...but I've seen homeless dress better. I hope this signals the decline of the Patriots. They are no invincible...and that's what really matters.
As for the Colts, yeah, I'm glad Manning finally figured out how to beat New England. I think this could be the beginning of a good run for the Colts. They now know they can win big games closely and that should really help their confidence for the next few years. They need to continue to work on building the defense but they look to be in pretty good shape.
As for the other side, the Bears put a hurting on the Saints. I wanted the Bears to win but I wouldn't have minded the Saints winning...until Reggie Bush did his little show. After that, I wanted the Bears to win...and win big. And they did.
Bush is a huge talent...I will admit that. But there is no reason to act the way he did on the 88-yard touchdown strike. To taunt the Bears defense...are you insane? I wanted Urlacher to decapitate him after that. The Madden-like dive into the endzone broke Adrian Petersen's collarbone earlier this season. Did Bush not learn anything? Can you imagine if he had injured himself doing the dive? That would have been justice. And the dance...well, it was just horrendous and embarrassing. I don't see how the officials didn't throw a taunting or excessive celebration flag on the who debacle. It was really bad. And it probably fired up the Bears who turned it up and destroyed New Orleans.
And so we have the Super Bowl matchup -- Chicago Bears led by Sexy Rexy and Indianapolis Colts led by the Prodigal Son. And in case you haven't heard, it will be the first time an African-American coach will be in the Super Bowl...and it just happens to be two of them...which means it will most likely be the first time the Super Bowl champion has an African-American coach. So, in case you missed that, both coaches are African-American. It's cool but that story will be completely run into the ground over the next two weeks...it will be horrible.
As for a winner...I think it's time for the Colts. I hope Rexman doesn't lose it for the Bears...just a good battle that Manning and the Colts win. Should be a good game...especially if it's like all the other playoff games this season.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Hmmmm....What's Up with the Mountaineers?
Well, only a few people took the quiz...which was a little disappointing but I'll announce the winner and post the answers on Monday. And we'll give it another shot next week to see how it goes. I've already got another fabulous prize picked out...and we'll open up the answer session for the weekend or something. I don't know...
Anyway, what is the deal with the Mountaineers? I do not understand why this team cannot win on the road. Cincinnati is not very good this year. Their win over West Virginia was their first win in the Big East this season and they are now 9-9. West Virginia is 14-4, 4-3 in the Big East but 0-3 in the Big East on the road. Blowing a 17-point lead to a below average Wildcats team is very disconcerting. This could be a loss that really haunts WVU at the end of the season when it comes time to pick teams for the NCAA tournament considering the schedule they'll face down the stretch.
Hilary Clinton is running for President:
Pardon me while I throw up just a little bit. What do you want me to say? She looks pretty bad in that picture. I promise I did no work on that photo at all...that was pulled directly from Drudge. Maybe he edited her a little...but I don't think. Anyway, I am not looking forward to listening to Hilary campaign. Her voice makes my ears bleed. Democrats, I beg you to nominate anyone else...no Clinton. You hear me? NO CLINTON!
Michael Vick is an idiot! Does he not watch the news? Doesn't he realize they check beverages before you get on a plane now? Maybe the guy doesn't travel very much. Michael Vick/Marcus Vick...I can definitely see the family resemblence. I always thought Vick was a bum and that Atlanta and, previously, Frank Beamer hid his indiscretions. I hope Petrino declares it open season for quarterbacks in Atlanta and picks Schaub over Vick and sicks Vick on a train elsewhere. I don't think they check water bottles on trains.
Lastly, Oglebay is nice but overrated. The staff is tremendously nice and helpful. There just isn't a whole lot to do there in the winter since the golf course was closed and they haven't had enough snow to open their slope. But they tried...and that's what mattered. So, anyway, that's it for today.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Free Prize Friday
Hey...something new for the 2-5 regular readers...it's FREE PRIZE FRIDAY (but I'm posting it on a Thursday because I'm going to be out of town tomorrow). Anyway, yes, a free prize for the lucky person who can answer the six questions below correctly. The questions will come from a random card from the Genius Edition of Trivial Pursuit. The prizes will be mostly crap that I just don't want to throw away but I would like to no longer possess. Like the radio station prizes, you'll be responsible for figuring out a way to claim your prize...I guess I can mail it to you but I would rather not.
To enter, simply e-mail the answers to the questions below to mswish18@gmail.com. If you leave the answers as a comment, that's fine but others could cheat. Up to you. Everyone answering all questions correctly will be entered into a random drawing. The name drawn will win the prize. In the event that no one answers them all correctly, I will give it to the person who answers the most correct. In the event that no one enters, I will give the prize to the garbage man. Entries must be received by midnight on Friday.
Today's grand prize: A 2006 Family Guy Wall Calendar. Yes, everyone's favorite family in wall calendar form. The gang is all here: Peter, Lois, Meg, Chris, Stewie and Brian. There's even a visit from Quagmire in this terrific calendar. And it is only one year old. This can be yours if you can answer the following:
1) What's the most popular drink in Greece?
2) What film won Rod Steiger the best actor Oscar in 1967?
3) What four letters were placed on the cross on which Christ was crucified?
4) Who commanded the Jolly Roger in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan?
5) What plant does natural vanilla flavoring come from?
6) What does a philatelist collect?
Good luck!
To enter, simply e-mail the answers to the questions below to mswish18@gmail.com. If you leave the answers as a comment, that's fine but others could cheat. Up to you. Everyone answering all questions correctly will be entered into a random drawing. The name drawn will win the prize. In the event that no one answers them all correctly, I will give it to the person who answers the most correct. In the event that no one enters, I will give the prize to the garbage man. Entries must be received by midnight on Friday.
Today's grand prize: A 2006 Family Guy Wall Calendar. Yes, everyone's favorite family in wall calendar form. The gang is all here: Peter, Lois, Meg, Chris, Stewie and Brian. There's even a visit from Quagmire in this terrific calendar. And it is only one year old. This can be yours if you can answer the following:
1) What's the most popular drink in Greece?
2) What film won Rod Steiger the best actor Oscar in 1967?
3) What four letters were placed on the cross on which Christ was crucified?
4) Who commanded the Jolly Roger in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan?
5) What plant does natural vanilla flavoring come from?
6) What does a philatelist collect?
Good luck!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Same Topic Again!
Well, I just can't help it...I'm writing about pretty much the exact same thing I did yesterday...for the most part. I turn on "American Idol" this evening, which probably isn't the smartest thing to do, and I'm greeted by The Who's Teenage Wasteland. Steele's comments notwithstanding, The Who is one of the greatest and most influential rock bands of all time. Pete Townshend, Roger Daltry, Keith Moon and John Entwhistle, and later Kenney Jones, created some of the greatest music of all time. Songs like My Generation, Behind Blue Eyes, Won't Get Fooled Again, Magic Bus, and the musical Tommy were some of the greatest accomplishments in music.
Anyway, I'll get off my Who soapbox and get back to the point of the post...music legends like The Who shouldn't be near a show like "American Idol," just like Stevie Wonder shouldn't be there or Queen or Elton John or Gloria Estefan. It just drives me crazy. I understand why they do it...hoping to get some crossover and sell some albums or reignite a fading career but these artists I have listed are better than American Idol.
But, even more than Gloria Estefan or Elton John, who could be considered pop, The Who definitely don't belong on American Idol. The Who is rock 'n' roll at its purest. The Who represented the anti-establishment. They may have sold out in the '80s with songs like You Better You Bet, but anything before "Face Dances" should be kept far away from American Idol or TV commercials. It's not right...just not right at all.
Anyway, I'll get off my Who soapbox and get back to the point of the post...music legends like The Who shouldn't be near a show like "American Idol," just like Stevie Wonder shouldn't be there or Queen or Elton John or Gloria Estefan. It just drives me crazy. I understand why they do it...hoping to get some crossover and sell some albums or reignite a fading career but these artists I have listed are better than American Idol.
But, even more than Gloria Estefan or Elton John, who could be considered pop, The Who definitely don't belong on American Idol. The Who is rock 'n' roll at its purest. The Who represented the anti-establishment. They may have sold out in the '80s with songs like You Better You Bet, but anything before "Face Dances" should be kept far away from American Idol or TV commercials. It's not right...just not right at all.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Sacrilege!
Well, maybe not actually...but still very infuriating to myself. I was innocently watching television this evening when I heard a horrendous cover of the Beatles' Hello Goodbye and it was for a Target commercial. A Target commercial? Come on! Worse yet, as the horrible singer said "Goodbye," the words "goodBUY" appeared on the screen. Goodbuy? Oh my...
I hate it when good, established music is used to sell products. It greatly angered me to see The Who use every song they ever made to sell products: Won't Get Fooled Again and Magic Bus by Nissan, Happy Jack by Hummer, My Generation by thirdage.com. Start Me Up from the Rolling Stones was used by Microsoft. U2 soldout to sell IPods with Vertigo. Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll was used by Cadillac. But I always held the Beatles in a different spot from these other groups...their music seemed beyond reproach. To the best of my knowledge, the only Beatles song ever used in a commercial was Revolution in a Nike commercial in the late-80's and that caused quite a stir if I remember correctly.
If this is going to be the beginning of a slippery slope, I'm going to be really disappointed. I know how I felt hearing Happy Jack every 20 minutes on TV...and it wasn't good. I don't want to hear When I'm 64 in a Viagra commercial or Taxman for H&R Block. Nor do I want to hear Help! for On-Star or I Am The Walrus for Sea World. I don't know who is protecting the Beatles library but they need to be a little more selective...I think it might be Michael Jackson or Sony. Whoever it is must be stopped before it's too late and the Beatles become just a commercial group.
I hate it when good, established music is used to sell products. It greatly angered me to see The Who use every song they ever made to sell products: Won't Get Fooled Again and Magic Bus by Nissan, Happy Jack by Hummer, My Generation by thirdage.com. Start Me Up from the Rolling Stones was used by Microsoft. U2 soldout to sell IPods with Vertigo. Led Zeppelin's Rock and Roll was used by Cadillac. But I always held the Beatles in a different spot from these other groups...their music seemed beyond reproach. To the best of my knowledge, the only Beatles song ever used in a commercial was Revolution in a Nike commercial in the late-80's and that caused quite a stir if I remember correctly.
If this is going to be the beginning of a slippery slope, I'm going to be really disappointed. I know how I felt hearing Happy Jack every 20 minutes on TV...and it wasn't good. I don't want to hear When I'm 64 in a Viagra commercial or Taxman for H&R Block. Nor do I want to hear Help! for On-Star or I Am The Walrus for Sea World. I don't know who is protecting the Beatles library but they need to be a little more selective...I think it might be Michael Jackson or Sony. Whoever it is must be stopped before it's too late and the Beatles become just a commercial group.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Coaches Leave But Why Not Casteel?
Rick Trickett has left to coach the Florida State offensive line instead of the WVU defensive line. Herb Hand decided he would rather be offensive coordinator at Tulsa than continue being WVU's tight ends coach and recruiting coordinator. Wide receiver coach Butch Jones is now head coach at Central Michigan University. All losses that Rich Rodriguez probably never anticipated but not losses that the football program can't overcome.
However, there is one problem out there that needs to be addressed and that's the WVU defense and defensive coordinator Jeff Casteel. Let me say this first: I don't necessarily want Casteel to be fired. If he were hired away, I would be pleased but I don't think anyone would take him. But if he stays, I believe we need to have a change in defensive philosophy.
The 3-3-5 defense is an "odd" defense in college football today. For those not in the know, the 3-3-5 refers to 3 down linemen, 3 linebackers, and 5 defensive backs. What makes the 3-3-5 difficult is that the offensive line is supposed to have a difficult time telling who will rush the line on any given play. Unfortunately, the 3-3-5 didn't confuse offenses in the least this year. And the blitzing schemes became predictable and stale so quarterbacks could pick apart the weak secondary. And instead of increasing the blizters and trying to bring pressure, Casteel elected to drop the 3 linebackers into coverage many times which left 3 rushers and 8 men in coverage. But, for some reason, WVU still could not defend in the secondary.
I'm not saying Casteel did anything wrong really...but there's something amiss with WVU's 3-3-5 scheme. The 5 defensive backs lack size and speed...the only way to make up for their inabilities is to force the quarterback into making bad decisions by getting a good pass rush but only bringing 3 down linemen made that virtually impossible. The 3 linebackers usually played at home for rushes and short passes.
The other, more glaring, problem with the WVU defense was lack of fundamentals. Bad tackling plagued the Mountaineers many times this year. Once again, lack of size and speed proved deadly. Can I pin that on Casteel? Probably so. It's his job to make sure the players are ready to play and can perform at a high level and, many times, they did not.
I'm not saying scrap the whole system but some changes must be made. If we're going to stick with the 3-3-5, there has to be some improvements made in the secondary. I believe we have some very promising defensive back recruits that could make a huge difference. And we have to be willing to bring more pressure. Dropping 8 men into coverage should never be the answer to our secondary problems. We have to pressure the quarterback by bringing different blitz packages. Free safety blitz, middle lineback blitz, etc. on every play. If we can't pressure the quarterback, secondary weaknesses will continue to be exposed.
Simply relieving Casteel of his duties won't make those things happen. WVU needs to recommit themselves to building a strong defense. Nehlen's defenses were always tough. There's no reason WVU's defense can't be tough again. Without addressing those flaws, WVU will never compete for a national championship no matter how awesome the offense may be.
However, there is one problem out there that needs to be addressed and that's the WVU defense and defensive coordinator Jeff Casteel. Let me say this first: I don't necessarily want Casteel to be fired. If he were hired away, I would be pleased but I don't think anyone would take him. But if he stays, I believe we need to have a change in defensive philosophy.
The 3-3-5 defense is an "odd" defense in college football today. For those not in the know, the 3-3-5 refers to 3 down linemen, 3 linebackers, and 5 defensive backs. What makes the 3-3-5 difficult is that the offensive line is supposed to have a difficult time telling who will rush the line on any given play. Unfortunately, the 3-3-5 didn't confuse offenses in the least this year. And the blitzing schemes became predictable and stale so quarterbacks could pick apart the weak secondary. And instead of increasing the blizters and trying to bring pressure, Casteel elected to drop the 3 linebackers into coverage many times which left 3 rushers and 8 men in coverage. But, for some reason, WVU still could not defend in the secondary.
I'm not saying Casteel did anything wrong really...but there's something amiss with WVU's 3-3-5 scheme. The 5 defensive backs lack size and speed...the only way to make up for their inabilities is to force the quarterback into making bad decisions by getting a good pass rush but only bringing 3 down linemen made that virtually impossible. The 3 linebackers usually played at home for rushes and short passes.
The other, more glaring, problem with the WVU defense was lack of fundamentals. Bad tackling plagued the Mountaineers many times this year. Once again, lack of size and speed proved deadly. Can I pin that on Casteel? Probably so. It's his job to make sure the players are ready to play and can perform at a high level and, many times, they did not.
I'm not saying scrap the whole system but some changes must be made. If we're going to stick with the 3-3-5, there has to be some improvements made in the secondary. I believe we have some very promising defensive back recruits that could make a huge difference. And we have to be willing to bring more pressure. Dropping 8 men into coverage should never be the answer to our secondary problems. We have to pressure the quarterback by bringing different blitz packages. Free safety blitz, middle lineback blitz, etc. on every play. If we can't pressure the quarterback, secondary weaknesses will continue to be exposed.
Simply relieving Casteel of his duties won't make those things happen. WVU needs to recommit themselves to building a strong defense. Nehlen's defenses were always tough. There's no reason WVU's defense can't be tough again. Without addressing those flaws, WVU will never compete for a national championship no matter how awesome the offense may be.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Killerspin.com!
It's about time! I've finally found a site devoted to the "gear" for table tennis. "Professional Table Tennis and Ping Pong Media, Equipment and Accessories" to be exact. Wow. I can't tell you how long I have been waiting for this. Thank goodness ESPN has decided to air some table tennis matches.
Obviously, killerspin.com sells some of the ping pong essentials like a table. Maybe some rackets. How about some balls? Little did I know that there was ping pong apparel. AND Ping pong robots. AND don't forget the ping pong SHOES! and SHOE BAG!!
Anyone who thought ping pong was a cheap sport, well, you're WRONG. But you care about table tennis so the price means nothing to you. The blade that will "satisfy the requirements of The World's Top Players and YOURS" will cost only $149.99. And it is clear that only the world's best rubber will do for you, so get the Nitrx 5X rubber for $35.95. And I know that you will get some Rubber Cleaning Foam to go with that.
Of course, you're going to spend upward of $400.00 + on killerspin.com after reading this. You're going to buy ping pong balls, blades, rubbers, shoes and other apparel, and you're going to play like Forest Gumpbecause you're going to buy "Success in Table Tennis - 2nd Edition." With all this, you will be a table tennis champion. As for me, I'll stick to not playing.
Obviously, killerspin.com sells some of the ping pong essentials like a table. Maybe some rackets. How about some balls? Little did I know that there was ping pong apparel. AND Ping pong robots. AND don't forget the ping pong SHOES! and SHOE BAG!!
Anyone who thought ping pong was a cheap sport, well, you're WRONG. But you care about table tennis so the price means nothing to you. The blade that will "satisfy the requirements of The World's Top Players and YOURS" will cost only $149.99. And it is clear that only the world's best rubber will do for you, so get the Nitrx 5X rubber for $35.95. And I know that you will get some Rubber Cleaning Foam to go with that.
Of course, you're going to spend upward of $400.00 + on killerspin.com after reading this. You're going to buy ping pong balls, blades, rubbers, shoes and other apparel, and you're going to play like Forest Gumpbecause you're going to buy "Success in Table Tennis - 2nd Edition." With all this, you will be a table tennis champion. As for me, I'll stick to not playing.
Friday, January 12, 2007
The Verizon Stoner
So, we're having problems with one of the trunk lines at work which is handled by Verizon. It's a recurring issue that we've been working on for about a week. Long, boring story really. Verizon, of course, says there's nothing wrong...we beg to differ.
Anyway, receive a voicemail last night from a Verizon representative...at first, I thought it was just a hangup because it takes a good 7-10 seconds before anyone begins speaking. Then, here is the message...
Hi, this is [NAME REDACTED] calling from, uhhhh, Verizon regarding Case No., hold on....
(Pause)
Case No. ********. I called your line and it is working.
(Pause)
[EMPLOYEE] was there and said your line was working.
(Pause)
(Pause)
If you're experiencing problems, I don't think it's our line. But I called the line and it seems to be working.
(Pause)
I am going to close this case. If you have any questions, please call me at 304 -- oh, hold on. I'm going to close this case.
(Pause)
You can reach me at 866-[# REDACTED]
Then the line goes dead for a good 30 seconds. Seriously...and then it starts back up:
I called the line and it appears to be working. So I'm going to close this case. I did just call the line and it is working.
(Pause)
But if you need me, you can call back at 866-[# REDACTED].
(Pause)
We are going to close this case now. Thank you.
The pauses were at least 3-5 seconds and the total message lasted nearly 2 minutes. So, this morning, we called Verizon about the trunk line that still isn't working. We mentioned the call from [NAME REDACTED] and the guy said, "Yeah, we've had complaints about her before." Ya think?
Anyway, receive a voicemail last night from a Verizon representative...at first, I thought it was just a hangup because it takes a good 7-10 seconds before anyone begins speaking. Then, here is the message...
Hi, this is [NAME REDACTED] calling from, uhhhh, Verizon regarding Case No., hold on....
(Pause)
Case No. ********. I called your line and it is working.
(Pause)
[EMPLOYEE] was there and said your line was working.
(Pause)
(Pause)
If you're experiencing problems, I don't think it's our line. But I called the line and it seems to be working.
(Pause)
I am going to close this case. If you have any questions, please call me at 304 -- oh, hold on. I'm going to close this case.
(Pause)
You can reach me at 866-[# REDACTED]
Then the line goes dead for a good 30 seconds. Seriously...and then it starts back up:
I called the line and it appears to be working. So I'm going to close this case. I did just call the line and it is working.
(Pause)
But if you need me, you can call back at 866-[# REDACTED].
(Pause)
We are going to close this case now. Thank you.
The pauses were at least 3-5 seconds and the total message lasted nearly 2 minutes. So, this morning, we called Verizon about the trunk line that still isn't working. We mentioned the call from [NAME REDACTED] and the guy said, "Yeah, we've had complaints about her before." Ya think?
Out of Ideas
Well, I got nothing to write about today really. I've been a little busier than I care to be on a Friday but we're expecting several thousand documents this afternoon that need to be printed and organized so I've been trying to figure out the best way to accomplish this task. It is really quite a pain...and I don't like it much. So, I've just finished lunch and am now going to go back to figuring out what to do with this influx of material so I won't have to be in here on this long holiday weekend.
If you have any ideas for something I can write about, please e-mail me or whatever and let me know. None of the teams in the NFL playoffs particularly interest me to the point I care enough to evaluate them. The coaching searches are pretty boring really. WVU basketball is playing decently...they need to win tomorrow. UNC basketball is awesome, as expected.
Anyway, that's about it...have a good weekend and, like I said, if you have any ideas, let me know.
Oh, and this tidbit from "The Wizard of Odds" about the "defecating" Mountaineer fan.
If you have any ideas for something I can write about, please e-mail me or whatever and let me know. None of the teams in the NFL playoffs particularly interest me to the point I care enough to evaluate them. The coaching searches are pretty boring really. WVU basketball is playing decently...they need to win tomorrow. UNC basketball is awesome, as expected.
Anyway, that's about it...have a good weekend and, like I said, if you have any ideas, let me know.
Oh, and this tidbit from "The Wizard of Odds" about the "defecating" Mountaineer fan.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Oil Prices
Oil prices just keep dropping at an amazing rate. It hasn't necessarily translated into cheaper gas yet but there's talk that oil prices could drop into the $40 or even $30 range before prices rebound. Obviously this sounds good for us but eventually someone (Russia, OPEC, Chavez, Iran) is going to do something to stop this freefall. The Russian economy runs almost exclusively off oil profits. Falling to these low levels threatens the stability of that government...not that it was all that stable to begin with. Putin is on record saying that oil should not be below $70 per barrel and we're now around $54 p/b. Should be interesting to see what happens because a collapse in the oil market could really put the screws to some countries, see Iran.
Speaking of Iran, it appears the United State might finally be willing to stand up and say that Iran is causing a great deal of the instability in Iraq and may take steps to end their meddling in Iraqi affairs. I think many miss the fact that Iran has been the main aggressor in Middle East affairs. Iran provides the support to Syria who supports Hezbollah and Hamas. Iran looks to destabilize Lebanon and Iraq. And Iran looks to destroy Israel. It's not rhetoric...if they had the means, they would have already done so. Unfortunately, because the world sits by and does nothing, they will eventually find the means and will act. Iran is enemy #1 at this point. We might be fighting in Iraq but we are truly warring with the Iranians.
Speaking of Iran, it appears the United State might finally be willing to stand up and say that Iran is causing a great deal of the instability in Iraq and may take steps to end their meddling in Iraqi affairs. I think many miss the fact that Iran has been the main aggressor in Middle East affairs. Iran provides the support to Syria who supports Hezbollah and Hamas. Iran looks to destabilize Lebanon and Iraq. And Iran looks to destroy Israel. It's not rhetoric...if they had the means, they would have already done so. Unfortunately, because the world sits by and does nothing, they will eventually find the means and will act. Iran is enemy #1 at this point. We might be fighting in Iraq but we are truly warring with the Iranians.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Pittsburgh Implosion
In case you weren't aware, WVU legend Kevin Pittsnogle is currently playing basketball in the CBA (Continental Basketball Association) for the Pittsburgh Xplosion. The Xplosion are now 1-13 with no signs of necessarily improving. Pittsnogle, along with Duquense star Bryant McAllister, are the main attractions of the Xplosion. So Wes, Bojo, Stanley and I decided to trek up to Pittsburgh to see the Xplosion and to see if Pittsnogle has improved since he last wore the Blue and Gold.
Inevitably, the trip into Pittsburgh led to wrong turns and confusion and we ended up eating at the old Pittsburgh standby Primanti Brothers after searching for a parking spot for 20 minutes. The streets of Pittsburgh, especially around the PPG buildings, are not necessarily the most inviting areas to park a vehicle. I'm sure the people hanging out in the streets after dark are very nice and friendly...but, I'm always a little concerned.
Leaving Primanti, we only had 30 minutes before tipoff and no idea how to get to the Petersen Events Center. I knew it was in Oakland and that you had to head to Monroeville...but it was purely luck that we actually found Oakland. Then finding the Events Center and parking proved to be a chore. We drove all over the campus of Pittsburgh without any signs pointing to the arena. We found what we believed to be the building but couldn't actually find a sign or somewhere to park. Ten minutes before tip, we found parking at UPMC and made it into the arena before the start of the game. Whew...what luck.
So, we find our ways to the seats before tipoff and a capacity crowd of probably 200 silently await the tip. Looked like a funeral in the place really. Pittsnogle tipped and lost, of course, and now was time for good ol' CBA basketball. In an attempt to enliven the otherwise silent crowd, we began a chants and whatnot. A few people in front of us joined in the fun. Most did not. Pittsnogle actually played defense in the first quarter and had two blocks. That was the highlight of Pittsnogle's defensive play.
The yelling during free throw attempts apparently annoyed some late-comers who sat in front of us...finally a little girl, no older than 10, turned around and asked Wes to please quit yelling. It was apparently hurting her ears. So, we resolved at that point to move at halftime. There was some empty seats across the stadium that were much closer to the court and there were 5 Pitt fans on the other side that were joining in our chants, so we figured we could join them and our voices would resonate even more through the otherwise morgue-like atmosphere. The Explosion held an 8-point lead at the half and it looked like a certain Pittsburgh victory.
After a quick visit to Dippin' Dots and a lost spoon, we were on the other side of the arena but didn't make it all the way down to our Pitt fans. So, we sat towards the home basket for the 3rd quarter. It was rather uneventful except for the fact that the Explorers were making a comeback and Pittsnogle picked up his 4th foul (they play NBA rules so it is 6 before he is ejected). We tried yelling but we were too far from the visitor's basket so we moved again before the 4th quarter to be with our Pitt brethren.
So, we basically yelled through the entire 4th quarter...and, being completely unobjective, I think we were pretty loud and were annoying some of the fans around us. Wes picked out a poor player on the Explorers team, #38 Eric Strand, to heckle. Strand ignored us but the folks sitting around us found it rather humorous as he yelled "Hey, 38, you suck!" "Errrriiicccc, errrriiccc" chants followed. And I think we got in Eric's head...he started missing freethrows and it appeared the Explosion would win...they were up by 3 and were inbounding the ball with 7-seconds remaining.
But, alas, it wasn't meant to be. The inbound came to Pittsnogle who bobbled the ball and an Explorers player made a 3-pointer sending the game into overtime. And, by this time, we just wanted the game to end. Through overtime, the Explorers slowly pulled away. We continued to heckle poor Eric as he shot freethrows. He finally broke with the lead secure and laughed. I doubt he has been heckled much during his time with the CBA. Just glad we didn't get Artest'd after the game. Explorers win 111-106 or something like that. Pittsnogle had 28-points but played little to no defense following the first quarter.
After the game, 3 Explosion players stayed and signed autographs. After about 20-minutes, Pittsnogle emerged from the locker room and I heard another Explosion player make a derogatory remark about him...apparently, he's a bit of a jerk (since he is the "star" of the team). We had him sign his hat...which we determined was probably a waste of a good hat. Even though we were decked out in our West Virginia apparel, he didn't really acknowledge anyone. He didn't want to be there, obviously. But we also saw Mama and Baby Pittsnogle. I am certain he has a trailer outside the Petersen Events Center that he lives in. Surely he doesn't drive to Martinsburg every night. But who knows.
The University of South Florida basketball team showed up to do their walk-through because they played Pitt on Sunday. We watched them shoot for a bit and then went back to the entrance and had pictures taken with our heads in the Panther that Pitt has on their wall. I'm awaiting the pictures...
The trip home was rather uneventful I guess. I was tired and hoarse and ready for bed. All in all, it was fun. I won't buy VIP tickets again though because there's like 200 people there and no one is paying any attention to where your tickets are. It's a pretty sad display. The crowd was boring but I think we added some life. And the Explosion are pretty horrible. But, hey, it was an entertaining evening in which Kevin Pittsnogle was involved...how can you beat that?
Inevitably, the trip into Pittsburgh led to wrong turns and confusion and we ended up eating at the old Pittsburgh standby Primanti Brothers after searching for a parking spot for 20 minutes. The streets of Pittsburgh, especially around the PPG buildings, are not necessarily the most inviting areas to park a vehicle. I'm sure the people hanging out in the streets after dark are very nice and friendly...but, I'm always a little concerned.
Leaving Primanti, we only had 30 minutes before tipoff and no idea how to get to the Petersen Events Center. I knew it was in Oakland and that you had to head to Monroeville...but it was purely luck that we actually found Oakland. Then finding the Events Center and parking proved to be a chore. We drove all over the campus of Pittsburgh without any signs pointing to the arena. We found what we believed to be the building but couldn't actually find a sign or somewhere to park. Ten minutes before tip, we found parking at UPMC and made it into the arena before the start of the game. Whew...what luck.
So, we find our ways to the seats before tipoff and a capacity crowd of probably 200 silently await the tip. Looked like a funeral in the place really. Pittsnogle tipped and lost, of course, and now was time for good ol' CBA basketball. In an attempt to enliven the otherwise silent crowd, we began a chants and whatnot. A few people in front of us joined in the fun. Most did not. Pittsnogle actually played defense in the first quarter and had two blocks. That was the highlight of Pittsnogle's defensive play.
The yelling during free throw attempts apparently annoyed some late-comers who sat in front of us...finally a little girl, no older than 10, turned around and asked Wes to please quit yelling. It was apparently hurting her ears. So, we resolved at that point to move at halftime. There was some empty seats across the stadium that were much closer to the court and there were 5 Pitt fans on the other side that were joining in our chants, so we figured we could join them and our voices would resonate even more through the otherwise morgue-like atmosphere. The Explosion held an 8-point lead at the half and it looked like a certain Pittsburgh victory.After a quick visit to Dippin' Dots and a lost spoon, we were on the other side of the arena but didn't make it all the way down to our Pitt fans. So, we sat towards the home basket for the 3rd quarter. It was rather uneventful except for the fact that the Explorers were making a comeback and Pittsnogle picked up his 4th foul (they play NBA rules so it is 6 before he is ejected). We tried yelling but we were too far from the visitor's basket so we moved again before the 4th quarter to be with our Pitt brethren.
So, we basically yelled through the entire 4th quarter...and, being completely unobjective, I think we were pretty loud and were annoying some of the fans around us. Wes picked out a poor player on the Explorers team, #38 Eric Strand, to heckle. Strand ignored us but the folks sitting around us found it rather humorous as he yelled "Hey, 38, you suck!" "Errrriiicccc, errrriiccc" chants followed. And I think we got in Eric's head...he started missing freethrows and it appeared the Explosion would win...they were up by 3 and were inbounding the ball with 7-seconds remaining.
But, alas, it wasn't meant to be. The inbound came to Pittsnogle who bobbled the ball and an Explorers player made a 3-pointer sending the game into overtime. And, by this time, we just wanted the game to end. Through overtime, the Explorers slowly pulled away. We continued to heckle poor Eric as he shot freethrows. He finally broke with the lead secure and laughed. I doubt he has been heckled much during his time with the CBA. Just glad we didn't get Artest'd after the game. Explorers win 111-106 or something like that. Pittsnogle had 28-points but played little to no defense following the first quarter.
After the game, 3 Explosion players stayed and signed autographs. After about 20-minutes, Pittsnogle emerged from the locker room and I heard another Explosion player make a derogatory remark about him...apparently, he's a bit of a jerk (since he is the "star" of the team). We had him sign his hat...which we determined was probably a waste of a good hat. Even though we were decked out in our West Virginia apparel, he didn't really acknowledge anyone. He didn't want to be there, obviously. But we also saw Mama and Baby Pittsnogle. I am certain he has a trailer outside the Petersen Events Center that he lives in. Surely he doesn't drive to Martinsburg every night. But who knows.
The University of South Florida basketball team showed up to do their walk-through because they played Pitt on Sunday. We watched them shoot for a bit and then went back to the entrance and had pictures taken with our heads in the Panther that Pitt has on their wall. I'm awaiting the pictures...
The trip home was rather uneventful I guess. I was tired and hoarse and ready for bed. All in all, it was fun. I won't buy VIP tickets again though because there's like 200 people there and no one is paying any attention to where your tickets are. It's a pretty sad display. The crowd was boring but I think we added some life. And the Explosion are pretty horrible. But, hey, it was an entertaining evening in which Kevin Pittsnogle was involved...how can you beat that?
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Too Easy
Looked pretty easy for Florida last night. Other than a kickoff return, Florida dominated the game from beginning to end. Speed and innovation had the Ohio State team confused the entire game. Not even Jim Tressel's sweater-vest had an answer for the Gator attack.
So, with Michigan and Ohio State losing convincingly, the question must be asked: Was the Big Ten overrated? They ended up 2-5 in bowl games with the only quality win being Wisconsin over Arkansas. The Big Ten's struggle against out-of-conference teams is a product of its own image: three yards and a cloud of dust. Well, college football is no longer three yards and a cloud of dust...it is spread offenses and quarterbacks playing receiver and running backs throwing the ball. College football is now Florida, West Virginia and Boise State.
I knew that Florida was faster than Ohio State. The only hope the Buckeyes had was that their big defensive line would overpower the Florida O-Line and get to Leak. But Florida's odd looks led Ohio State to only rush 4 which gave Leak all the time in the world to pick apart the defense. Florida was also much faster to the corner than the Ohio State defense could have imagined. But, I didn't think the Ohio State defense was horrible...they were plagued by bad field position and no offense...they held Florida to 7 points in the second half and, if it weren't for two turnovers at the end of the first half, they're still in the game. The defense also stopped Florida several times in the second half only to watch the offense squander every opportunity. Troy Smith won a Heisman Trophy? Are you serious?
I don't know who drew up the offensive gameplan for Ohio State. They needed to establish a run game. They didn't. The should have been overpowering the Florida defensive line but they didn't. It doesn't make sense. Unless you believe the Big Ten is just overrated.
Personally, I believe Boise State could have beaten Ohio State last night. I believe Louisville could have beaten Ohio State last night. West Virginia, Arkansas, USC -- they all could have beaten Ohio State. LSU, probably. Rutgers would have given them a test (Rutgers plays more traditional, which would play more into Ohio State's game).
Anyway, can't say it was a great game because, well, it was 41-14 and the outcome was never in doubt. Doesn't touch last year's Rose Bowl. Doesn't compare with the Fiesta Bowl or the Gator Bowl or the Insight Bowl. But congrats to the Gators...they proved they deserved the opportunity. And congrats to Chris Leak...there's a lot of Gator fans who owe him an apology today. And, Jim, you'd better dig deeper into that sweater vest next time to find a better gameplan.
Lastly, congrats to the Mountaineers who finish #10 in both polls. That makes consecutive years that WVU finished in the Top 10. And 3 Big East teams finised the season in the Top 12. I didn't see any ACC teams up there? I do see 3 SEC teams, 3 Big Ten teams, 1 Pac Ten, 1 Big 12 and 1 WAC. No ACC? What's up with that?
So, with Michigan and Ohio State losing convincingly, the question must be asked: Was the Big Ten overrated? They ended up 2-5 in bowl games with the only quality win being Wisconsin over Arkansas. The Big Ten's struggle against out-of-conference teams is a product of its own image: three yards and a cloud of dust. Well, college football is no longer three yards and a cloud of dust...it is spread offenses and quarterbacks playing receiver and running backs throwing the ball. College football is now Florida, West Virginia and Boise State.
I knew that Florida was faster than Ohio State. The only hope the Buckeyes had was that their big defensive line would overpower the Florida O-Line and get to Leak. But Florida's odd looks led Ohio State to only rush 4 which gave Leak all the time in the world to pick apart the defense. Florida was also much faster to the corner than the Ohio State defense could have imagined. But, I didn't think the Ohio State defense was horrible...they were plagued by bad field position and no offense...they held Florida to 7 points in the second half and, if it weren't for two turnovers at the end of the first half, they're still in the game. The defense also stopped Florida several times in the second half only to watch the offense squander every opportunity. Troy Smith won a Heisman Trophy? Are you serious?
I don't know who drew up the offensive gameplan for Ohio State. They needed to establish a run game. They didn't. The should have been overpowering the Florida defensive line but they didn't. It doesn't make sense. Unless you believe the Big Ten is just overrated.
Personally, I believe Boise State could have beaten Ohio State last night. I believe Louisville could have beaten Ohio State last night. West Virginia, Arkansas, USC -- they all could have beaten Ohio State. LSU, probably. Rutgers would have given them a test (Rutgers plays more traditional, which would play more into Ohio State's game).
Anyway, can't say it was a great game because, well, it was 41-14 and the outcome was never in doubt. Doesn't touch last year's Rose Bowl. Doesn't compare with the Fiesta Bowl or the Gator Bowl or the Insight Bowl. But congrats to the Gators...they proved they deserved the opportunity. And congrats to Chris Leak...there's a lot of Gator fans who owe him an apology today. And, Jim, you'd better dig deeper into that sweater vest next time to find a better gameplan.
Lastly, congrats to the Mountaineers who finish #10 in both polls. That makes consecutive years that WVU finished in the Top 10. And 3 Big East teams finised the season in the Top 12. I didn't see any ACC teams up there? I do see 3 SEC teams, 3 Big Ten teams, 1 Pac Ten, 1 Big 12 and 1 WAC. No ACC? What's up with that?
Monday, January 08, 2007
Thoughts on the BCS NC Game
- Is there anything better than the Ohio State pregame? Script Ohio is just amazing.
- Why is Barry Alvarez part of the announcing team? He's still AD at Wisconsin so I really don't get it. And where's Maurice Clarrett? Oh...nevermind.
- Speed kills. Florida is just faster.
- Tim Tebow is going to run the ball. Why has no one figured this out this year? COME ON!
- All the Buckeye stickers completely ruin the otherwise classic Buckeye helmet. Get rid of those stickers...they're ugly.
- Tressel made a huge mistake going for the 4th and 1 with 3:40 left in the 1st half.
- I really think West Virginia could give Ohio State a run. Our offense would move the ball on them because of the different looks we give and the speed of White and Slaton and power of Schmitt. And, with Troy Smith playing this poorly, I think our defense could hold their own. The Big Ten is overrated...just ask Michigan.
- Chris Leak is destined to throw an interception before this game is over. He has come close 3 or 4 times already.
- The Florida kicker, who can't make a field goal to save his life this year, just hit from 42 and 40 yards to give Florida a 27-14 lead. How is that possible? He was 4 of 13 coming into the game.
- Is Teddy Ginn done for the game? What a hit.
- Well, Ohio State commits the first turnover of the game and, boy, is it a bad time for a turnover. Florida ball at the 5-yard line. Did I mention that I thought West Virginia could give Ohio State a run?
- Troy Smith isn't playing like a Heisman Trophy winner. He looks really poor...bad passes and running around without protecting the ball. Bad, bad news.
- Tebow tricked me and the Buckeyes by throwing a pass. 34-14 now. Florida wants this game. Ohio State is just lost. Jim Tressel had better come up with some serious changes at halftime because they have to kickoff to start the second half and the Buckeye defense has shown no ability to stop the Gators. Find some bail money for Clarrett and get him on the field NOW.
Halftime show...not watching. Here's my West Virginia halftime update for you: Many thought that LSU Offensive Coordinator Jimbo Fisher might follow Nick Saban to Alabama. But Bobby Bowden jumped up and said "Not so fast, my friend" and stole Jimbo from Nick and LSU. So, Florida State should be able to score next year thanks to Jimbo as O.C. and Rick Trickett as O-Line Coach. Bigger news for WVU is this - chances are that Jimbo was told he would be first in line to take over when Bowden hangs up the bifocals, which means that Rich Rodriguez won't be (it's been long rumored that Rod was waiting for the FSU job). So, take it for what it's worth...I think Jimbo will be the next head coach of the Seminoles. But, you never know I guess. And now, I'm waiting for halftime to end...
- I must admit that I do not believe that Ohio State has the offensive firepower to overcome this deficit. So, before halftime is over, I am crowning the Florida Gators as the 2007 National Champions.
- Family Guy is on TBS. I am really torn between watching a re-run of Family Guy and watching the national championship game. I don't know what to do.
- Well, nice stop for Ohio State out of halftime. Big hit by Marcus Freeman to stop a receiver who looked like he might pick up a first down. Terrible punt and the Buckeyes could be in business.
- A helmetless Everett just chased down Troy Smith and the Buckeyes blow great field position. Troy Smith is lost out there.
- Well, the Buckeyes defense is coming up big so far this half. Can the Buckeyes offense do anything? They should have decent field position again.
- Buckeye offense is completely inept and can't move the ball at all. It doesn't look like a comeback is going to happen. Time is already becoming a concern.
- I'm about to call it a night...this game really is beginning to suck. I'll wait a few more plays before I turn off the computer and TV and hand the trophy to Urban Meyer...but we're getting close. Very close.
- Well, 14:00 to play and Ohio State shows no signs of life. The defense is saving face but the offense has been bad. Ohio State has given Florida great field position all game long and has paid for it. The turnover and 4th down failure is 10 points.
- I'm done...no more. Florida 41 - Ohio State 14. I am shocked. I thought the Gators could win...but not this convincingly. Did I mention that I thought WVU could beat Ohio State? Did I say Big Ten is overrated? Well, I did now. More tomorrow maybe...but I don't know what I can add. Congrats Gators...great game.
The "Defecating" WVU fan
Alright...I wasn't even going to write about this at all but it appears that it's taking on a life of its own. Allegedly, a Georgia Tech fan watched a "WVU" fan actually take a dump in a seat at the Gator Bowl. And a Georgia Tech Marching Band seat at that. And has the pictures to "prove" it.
Now, the original story said nothing about the Mountaineer fan being arrested but, as these stories often do, it keeps growing and now the police are involved and the Mountaineer fan throws up all over himself. No pictures of that though...
Here's the pictures, of which I see nothing that proves he did anything...also, take note of all the people around him. Do you think they're going to sit there and let him poop on the chairs? Here they are:
http://picasaweb.google.com/THWUGA/WVUFanInTheGTBandSection
Here's the story from gojackets.com.
http://mb25.scout.com/fthehivefrm1.showMessage?topicID=65970.topic
Badjocks.com, deadspin.com and edsbs.com have all picked up on the story along with fanblogs.com. It's a stupid story...there's no proof, no police report, no puke. Where's the turd? Can someone get me a picture of that? I don't want to see it really...but I want more proof than someone that might or might not be a Mountaineer fan showing some boxer shorts. Where's the squat?
It's bogus...I don't believe it for a moment. And, if he were doing that and you were a GT fan, wouldn't you go kick him down the steps? Seriously? Mountaineer fans might be guilty of a lot of things but we would never sit back and watch something like that occur. It's a completely ridiculous story and I can't believe anyone is buying it. The whole thing is...well, uhhhh...crap.
Now, the original story said nothing about the Mountaineer fan being arrested but, as these stories often do, it keeps growing and now the police are involved and the Mountaineer fan throws up all over himself. No pictures of that though...
Here's the pictures, of which I see nothing that proves he did anything...also, take note of all the people around him. Do you think they're going to sit there and let him poop on the chairs? Here they are:
http://picasaweb.google.com/THWUGA/WVUFanInTheGTBandSection
Here's the story from gojackets.com.
http://mb25.scout.com/fthehivefrm1.showMessage?topicID=65970.topic
Badjocks.com, deadspin.com and edsbs.com have all picked up on the story along with fanblogs.com. It's a stupid story...there's no proof, no police report, no puke. Where's the turd? Can someone get me a picture of that? I don't want to see it really...but I want more proof than someone that might or might not be a Mountaineer fan showing some boxer shorts. Where's the squat?
It's bogus...I don't believe it for a moment. And, if he were doing that and you were a GT fan, wouldn't you go kick him down the steps? Seriously? Mountaineer fans might be guilty of a lot of things but we would never sit back and watch something like that occur. It's a completely ridiculous story and I can't believe anyone is buying it. The whole thing is...well, uhhhh...crap.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Goodbye Bobby Petrino
Well, I guess winning the Orange Bowl was Bobby Petrino's only goal at Louisville because, once it was done, he bolted the Cardinals to become the next head coach for the Atlanta Falcons where he will get to deal with the "Coach Killer" Ron Mexico. Louisville should have people knocking down their door to get the head coaching because they have a team that could be ready for a national title run next year. Petrino's exit is a blackeye for the Big East, which is coming off a 5-0 bowl season. We shouldn't be surprised by coaches lying and being disingenuous but Petrino was one of the people who expressed his happiness in the fact Rodriguez was staying at WVU and Schiano was staying at Rutgers and saying how great that was for the conference.
So, here are jobs that are still open:
So, here are jobs that are still open:
- NEW - Louisville
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Oakland Raiders
- Miami Dolphins
- Arizona Cardinals
- Minnesota Golden Gophers
And maybe open soon:
- New York Giants
Should be interesting as always. And, again, farewell to Bobby Petrino. Great foe...but Louisville will be just fine without him.
Basketball or Football
Steele is making me choose between my children...will WVU basketball or WVU football win a national championship first? There could be a passionate argument made for both sports...West Virginia football is obviously becoming a major player. West Virginia basketball is overachieving thanks to John Beilein. I was prepared to argue that neither squad would win a national championship in the next 50 years but, honestly, I don't believe that and don't want to argue for that. So, with that said, I have to pick football as most likely to win and here's why:
First, priority. I think the football program has a higher standing nationally and has more tools in place to win. With the recent promises to upgrade facilities, I believe the university has made football a priority which means the commitment to basketball with remain stagnant. There's only so much money in the state and it appears football is going to take more than their fair share.
Second, history. Both the football program and basketball program have been one win away from national championships. But lately, the football team is getting closer. The pieces, judging by history, seem to be in place for a championship run within the next 2 years. Will they win? No idea...but the pieces are in place.
Third, and most importantly, schedule. Let's face it...the basketball team has a most more difficult time navigating the Big East than the football team. The football team could easily run the table and be undefeated next year. The basketball team, on the other hand, would have to have quite a run to be better than a 5 or 6 seed in the NCAA tournament any given year.
And, in the same area, if the football team would go undefeated one year, they only need to win one more game to have a national championship. But the basketball team, even if they won the Big East and were a 1-seed, would still have to find a way to battle through the NCAA tournament to win a national championship.
Of course the counter is that if the basketball team sneaks into the NCAA's at a 7-seed but perform well, they still have a shot to win it all but if the football team loses one game, they're out.
But, I still think the football team is in the better position. Maybe we'll get really lucky and bother will bring home championships in the next couple years. The basketball team is making me a believer this year...and, well, football should be tremendous in 2007. Only time will tell.
First, priority. I think the football program has a higher standing nationally and has more tools in place to win. With the recent promises to upgrade facilities, I believe the university has made football a priority which means the commitment to basketball with remain stagnant. There's only so much money in the state and it appears football is going to take more than their fair share.
Second, history. Both the football program and basketball program have been one win away from national championships. But lately, the football team is getting closer. The pieces, judging by history, seem to be in place for a championship run within the next 2 years. Will they win? No idea...but the pieces are in place.
Third, and most importantly, schedule. Let's face it...the basketball team has a most more difficult time navigating the Big East than the football team. The football team could easily run the table and be undefeated next year. The basketball team, on the other hand, would have to have quite a run to be better than a 5 or 6 seed in the NCAA tournament any given year.
And, in the same area, if the football team would go undefeated one year, they only need to win one more game to have a national championship. But the basketball team, even if they won the Big East and were a 1-seed, would still have to find a way to battle through the NCAA tournament to win a national championship.
Of course the counter is that if the basketball team sneaks into the NCAA's at a 7-seed but perform well, they still have a shot to win it all but if the football team loses one game, they're out.
But, I still think the football team is in the better position. Maybe we'll get really lucky and bother will bring home championships in the next couple years. The basketball team is making me a believer this year...and, well, football should be tremendous in 2007. Only time will tell.
Friday, January 05, 2007
Goodbye Bill Cowher
Farewell to Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Bill Cowher. 15 seasons, 161 wins and 1 Super Bowl. And, while I will miss Cowher somewhat, I'm glad he's leaving. I think he should have left after winning the Super Bowl last year because he didn't coach at all this year. Everyone knew he was either going to get paid big $$$ or he was leaving. And Dan Rooney made it obvious that he wasn't going to pay Cowher so it was a wasted season.
The real question is when Cowher will return to coaching. It's disappointing to see a coach like him chase the cash instead of continuing to coach for the Rooneys, who have stood behind him through good and bad. Who knows...Cowher could be on the Miami sideline next season and that would be pretty sickening. But he will coach again somewhere other than Pittsburgh and, most likely, ruin his reputation as a winning, tough coach.
But congratulations to Cowher. Hopefully the Steelers can find another coach who will be willing to stay with the franchise for 15 or so years. It's rare these days (ask Bill Parcells), but it's possible. Especially with owners like the Rooneys.
Oh, and goodbye to Art Shell...I wasn't sure if he was really alive or not but the Raiders fired him so I guess he must have had a pulse. What a disappointment to see...I only watched Raiders games because everytime I saw Shell it reminded me of "Weekend at Bernies."
The real question is when Cowher will return to coaching. It's disappointing to see a coach like him chase the cash instead of continuing to coach for the Rooneys, who have stood behind him through good and bad. Who knows...Cowher could be on the Miami sideline next season and that would be pretty sickening. But he will coach again somewhere other than Pittsburgh and, most likely, ruin his reputation as a winning, tough coach.
But congratulations to Cowher. Hopefully the Steelers can find another coach who will be willing to stay with the franchise for 15 or so years. It's rare these days (ask Bill Parcells), but it's possible. Especially with owners like the Rooneys.
Oh, and goodbye to Art Shell...I wasn't sure if he was really alive or not but the Raiders fired him so I guess he must have had a pulse. What a disappointment to see...I only watched Raiders games because everytime I saw Shell it reminded me of "Weekend at Bernies."
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Saban Better Win
Nick Saban better go to Alabama and win a lot of games and win them quickly. Saban has become the Alex Rodriguez of college football, an overpriced coach with a history of being good. And, like Rodriguez, just remaining good won't be enough. The Alabama media, along with the national media, is going to be ready to bury Saban is he can't justify his $4 million per year for 8-years contract. And winning 9-10 games isn't going to justify that salary, just like A-Rods MVPs and homeruns don't justify his contract.
Saban has 1-year, in my opinion, to build a program. By Year Two, they had better be competing for an SEC championship and have 9-10 wins. By Year Three, an SEC championship is a must and they'd better be in the BCS. By Year Four, a national title better be within reach. And I'm not joking...for $4 million a year and a history like Alabama's, Saban better be winning a title in 4-years. Heck, there are going to be some Tide folks that think 4-years is too long to wait.
If this team struggles, expect the Alabama media to be blasting him non-stop. Paul Finebaum will have a field day with Saban and he'll deserve it because he's making $4 million a year (oh, plus an addition $700,000 - $800,000 in potential bonuses). Saban hates the press. Well, guess what, when you make that much money, they'll hate you too. And there will be no slack given to Coach Saban.
Nick, I think you made a mistake. I thought it was a mistake when you left LSU. Saban wants to control a program from top to bottom. Well, boy, you just took over the program that everyone wants to control. Good luck...you're gonna need it.
Also:
Saban has 1-year, in my opinion, to build a program. By Year Two, they had better be competing for an SEC championship and have 9-10 wins. By Year Three, an SEC championship is a must and they'd better be in the BCS. By Year Four, a national title better be within reach. And I'm not joking...for $4 million a year and a history like Alabama's, Saban better be winning a title in 4-years. Heck, there are going to be some Tide folks that think 4-years is too long to wait.
If this team struggles, expect the Alabama media to be blasting him non-stop. Paul Finebaum will have a field day with Saban and he'll deserve it because he's making $4 million a year (oh, plus an addition $700,000 - $800,000 in potential bonuses). Saban hates the press. Well, guess what, when you make that much money, they'll hate you too. And there will be no slack given to Coach Saban.
Nick, I think you made a mistake. I thought it was a mistake when you left LSU. Saban wants to control a program from top to bottom. Well, boy, you just took over the program that everyone wants to control. Good luck...you're gonna need it.
Also:
- What a sad, pathetic display by Notre Dame against LSU. If anyone really believed Notre Dame belonged in the BCS, that should have changed their mind. Jabba the Weis just had no answers...his team isn't that good. And Brady Quinn...HA!
- Great win for the WVU basketball team last night over Villanova. They let the Wildcats back in the game but came up with some shots when it mattered the most. If they win the games they are supposed to from this point on, there is a good chance of them making the NCAA Tournament.
- Is anyone watching the NHL? Does anyone care that the Penguins might be/probably are moving at the end of the year. I care but I'm not watching.
- Farewell to Denny Green. He was who I thought he was and Phoenix let him off the hook. If you want to crown his ass, then crown his ass but he was who I thought he was.
Thanks folks...I'll be here all week.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Oh yeah...Boise State
Yeah...I completely forgot about Boise State and "best game to EVER go down in history of college football" -- thanks Steele. First of all, I don't like those Best Ever - Instant History - statements. I would argue that Boise State's win was not the best ever. In the grand scheme of things, it didn't really mean a whole lot. Boise State didn't win a championship. Oklahoma didn't lose a championship. It was just a great game.
When it comes to greatest EVER, I would have to put last year's Rose Bowl towards the top of the list because of the meaning of the game. Winner is national champion, loser is...well, loser. And it came down to the final plays in a well-played game. I didn't think Oklahoma played well in the first half which diminishes the game a little for me. And I don't buy the whole little Boise State vs. the evil Oklahoma slant.
I would also say the 2003 Fiesta Bowl was higher on the greatest ever ladder because of the meaning of the game and the fact it went to overtime and is still one of the most talked about games ever (thanks to a controversial pass interference call and a broken Willis McGahee).
Other games that would deserve consideration would include the 1984 Orange Bowl (Miami 31 vs. Nebraska 30 - National Championship), 1987 Fiesta Bowl (Penn State 14 - Miami 10 - National Championship) and 1994 Orange Bowl (Florida State 18 - Nebraska 16 - National Championship). Those games were great and had more meaning at the end - a national championship.
Granted, Boise's win was nice and a very exciting game -- and eventually it may mean something to all of college football (playoff?) but I don't look for it to be a direct result of Boise's victory. But, mostly I don't think Boise State's win is the greatest game EVER just to make everyone mad.
When it comes to greatest EVER, I would have to put last year's Rose Bowl towards the top of the list because of the meaning of the game. Winner is national champion, loser is...well, loser. And it came down to the final plays in a well-played game. I didn't think Oklahoma played well in the first half which diminishes the game a little for me. And I don't buy the whole little Boise State vs. the evil Oklahoma slant.I would also say the 2003 Fiesta Bowl was higher on the greatest ever ladder because of the meaning of the game and the fact it went to overtime and is still one of the most talked about games ever (thanks to a controversial pass interference call and a broken Willis McGahee).
Other games that would deserve consideration would include the 1984 Orange Bowl (Miami 31 vs. Nebraska 30 - National Championship), 1987 Fiesta Bowl (Penn State 14 - Miami 10 - National Championship) and 1994 Orange Bowl (Florida State 18 - Nebraska 16 - National Championship). Those games were great and had more meaning at the end - a national championship.
Granted, Boise's win was nice and a very exciting game -- and eventually it may mean something to all of college football (playoff?) but I don't look for it to be a direct result of Boise's victory. But, mostly I don't think Boise State's win is the greatest game EVER just to make everyone mad.
Oh, and I'm disappointed by Nick Saban's decision to go to Alabama. I think he just simply failed in the NFL...I don't see anyway around that conclusion.
Good and Bad
Louisville defeated Wake Forest which secured the Conference Bowl Challenge thing for the Big East, now 4-0 with only the International Bowl remaining. And the Cardinals defeating Wake made the ACC the worst of the 6 BCS conferences. Both are good things. But I can't help but really have a dislike for the Cardinals and feel that I would have enjoyed seeing them lose. Louisville has, in many ways, become Miami-north. From the ghetto-style L on the hats to the attitude and rap music blaring at their games, Louisville is trying to emulate the Hurricanes brand of football. And I am not a fan of that.
Secondly, the announcers for the Orange Bowl said that Louisville's win over Wake Forest proved that Louisville was on of college football's "elite" programs. And that is because? They beat Wake Forest? I don't know. Yes, Bobby Petrino has really impressive numbers at Louisville but I don't think you can say the Cardinals are an elite program and the Mountaineers are not. Is that fair? WVU won a Sugar Bowl last year, a Gator Bowl this year and has played in 4 straight traditional New Year's bowl games.
In the past 5 years, Louisville is 50-13 with 3 of those years were in Conference USA. They were conference champions in Conference USA in 2004 and Big East Champions in 2006. They are 2-3 in bowls during those 5 years with wins in the Liberty Bowl against Boise State and the Orange Bowl against Wake Forest. West Virginia is 47-16 in the last 5 years which includes Big East Championships in 2003, 2004 and 2005. They are 2-3 in bowl games with wins in the Sugar Bowl against Georgia and the Gator Bowl against Georgia Tech. Very similar numbers. Head-to-head they each have one victory.
It may sound like sour grapes in the end, but I don't think it's fair to call Louisville an elite team without including West Virginia in the same category. The numbers speak for themselves. It appears both teams are on the same track really. And I'm happy about that. I just don't like Louisville's swagger and I think it will cost them fans eventually.
Anyway, I think it's fair to say the Big East has definitely reestablished itself as a football conference with this year's bowl season. I'll be anxious to see how much further the conference can advance. WVU vs. Louisville for Big East supremecy looks like a battle that will continue for several years barring a Petrino exit (if Saban doesn't take the Alabama job, Petrino could be next for the offer.)
Lastly, hope LSU whips Notre Dame tonight in the Sugar Bowl. 100-3 sounds like a great score to me. And hopefully the basketball team can continue to defy the odds and beat a sound Villanova team tonight. Should be a good game.
Secondly, the announcers for the Orange Bowl said that Louisville's win over Wake Forest proved that Louisville was on of college football's "elite" programs. And that is because? They beat Wake Forest? I don't know. Yes, Bobby Petrino has really impressive numbers at Louisville but I don't think you can say the Cardinals are an elite program and the Mountaineers are not. Is that fair? WVU won a Sugar Bowl last year, a Gator Bowl this year and has played in 4 straight traditional New Year's bowl games.
In the past 5 years, Louisville is 50-13 with 3 of those years were in Conference USA. They were conference champions in Conference USA in 2004 and Big East Champions in 2006. They are 2-3 in bowls during those 5 years with wins in the Liberty Bowl against Boise State and the Orange Bowl against Wake Forest. West Virginia is 47-16 in the last 5 years which includes Big East Championships in 2003, 2004 and 2005. They are 2-3 in bowl games with wins in the Sugar Bowl against Georgia and the Gator Bowl against Georgia Tech. Very similar numbers. Head-to-head they each have one victory.
It may sound like sour grapes in the end, but I don't think it's fair to call Louisville an elite team without including West Virginia in the same category. The numbers speak for themselves. It appears both teams are on the same track really. And I'm happy about that. I just don't like Louisville's swagger and I think it will cost them fans eventually.
Anyway, I think it's fair to say the Big East has definitely reestablished itself as a football conference with this year's bowl season. I'll be anxious to see how much further the conference can advance. WVU vs. Louisville for Big East supremecy looks like a battle that will continue for several years barring a Petrino exit (if Saban doesn't take the Alabama job, Petrino could be next for the offer.)
Lastly, hope LSU whips Notre Dame tonight in the Sugar Bowl. 100-3 sounds like a great score to me. And hopefully the basketball team can continue to defy the odds and beat a sound Villanova team tonight. Should be a good game.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Bowl Roundup
With some of the meaningful bowl games now played, I guess it's time to look at them and see what we can determine from the winners and losers.
First, the Big Ten. Michigan, which many argued should be #2 in the nation, got spanked in the Rose Bowl. I never thought they deserved a shot at the national championship and I was really happy to see them fall. The Big Ten is 2-4 in 6 bowls with only the NC game left. Penn State beat Tennessee and Wisconsin squeaked by Arkansas. I'm not saying the Big Ten is overrated but I am saying that they didn't have the Top 2 or 3 teams in the nation. Michigan was overrated, as USC proved, and I'm not completely sold on Wisconsin.
The ACC has been pretty mediocre as expected. They are currently 3-3 with a surprise loss by Clemson to lowly Kentucky. Miami squeaked out a disappointing win over Nevada and Boston College unforunately beat Navy by 1. The Orange Bowl remains for the ACC as Wake Forest will take on Louisville. Even if Wake pulls the upset, I still think the ACC is the worst BCS conference this year thanks to WVU's win over Georgia Tech.
The annoited king of college football, the SEC, is 4-3 with 2 bowl games remaining. The SEC was boistered by a surprise win by Kentucky over Clemson but the 2 of the 3 losses for the conference came in the biggest games outside of the BCS. Tennesse lost to Penn State and Arkansas lost to Wisconsin. So SEC #3 lost to Big Ten #3 and SEC #5 lost to Big Ten #4. What's that mean? Nothing...except I don't believe the SEC is heads and shoulders above every other conference.
I'm not completely sure what to think of the Big 12. They finished 3-5 that includes a devastating loss by their #1 Oklahoma to Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. Also their #2 team lost to the SEC #4 Auburn and their #3 Texas barely beat Iowa, which finished 2-6 in the Big Ten. They really have no quality wins but do have some blowout losses: California 45 - Texas A&M 10 and Rutgers 37 - Kansas State 10. Take it for what you will.
The Pac-10 finished the bowl season at 3-3 with the marquee win being the USC victory over Michigan. In addition to that, California destroyed Texas A&M, the Big 12 #3 team. On the flip side, UCLA made it look like Florida State had an offense and BYU stomped Oregon and Hawaii beat Arizona State. The Pac-10 is basically two teams...USC and California...everyone else is average at best.
And, lastly, the Big East. The Big East is 3-0 with two games left. It's very possible for the conference to go undefeated in this year's bowl season with only Louisville vs. Wake Forest and Cincinnati vs. Western Michigan remaining. Rutgers had a quality win over Kansas State and West Virginia defeated Georgia Tech sans Slaton. USF's win over a non-BCS foe doesn't necessarily give the conference a huge bump but 3-0 is something in which to be proud.
We'll see what the next week brings as bowl season finishes out and I will rank the 6 BCS conferences at that point. Right now, it looks like the SEC is #1 but I can't determine who is #2. If the Big East finishes 5-0, they could make a good argument for that honor.
First, the Big Ten. Michigan, which many argued should be #2 in the nation, got spanked in the Rose Bowl. I never thought they deserved a shot at the national championship and I was really happy to see them fall. The Big Ten is 2-4 in 6 bowls with only the NC game left. Penn State beat Tennessee and Wisconsin squeaked by Arkansas. I'm not saying the Big Ten is overrated but I am saying that they didn't have the Top 2 or 3 teams in the nation. Michigan was overrated, as USC proved, and I'm not completely sold on Wisconsin.
The ACC has been pretty mediocre as expected. They are currently 3-3 with a surprise loss by Clemson to lowly Kentucky. Miami squeaked out a disappointing win over Nevada and Boston College unforunately beat Navy by 1. The Orange Bowl remains for the ACC as Wake Forest will take on Louisville. Even if Wake pulls the upset, I still think the ACC is the worst BCS conference this year thanks to WVU's win over Georgia Tech.
The annoited king of college football, the SEC, is 4-3 with 2 bowl games remaining. The SEC was boistered by a surprise win by Kentucky over Clemson but the 2 of the 3 losses for the conference came in the biggest games outside of the BCS. Tennesse lost to Penn State and Arkansas lost to Wisconsin. So SEC #3 lost to Big Ten #3 and SEC #5 lost to Big Ten #4. What's that mean? Nothing...except I don't believe the SEC is heads and shoulders above every other conference.
I'm not completely sure what to think of the Big 12. They finished 3-5 that includes a devastating loss by their #1 Oklahoma to Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. Also their #2 team lost to the SEC #4 Auburn and their #3 Texas barely beat Iowa, which finished 2-6 in the Big Ten. They really have no quality wins but do have some blowout losses: California 45 - Texas A&M 10 and Rutgers 37 - Kansas State 10. Take it for what you will.
The Pac-10 finished the bowl season at 3-3 with the marquee win being the USC victory over Michigan. In addition to that, California destroyed Texas A&M, the Big 12 #3 team. On the flip side, UCLA made it look like Florida State had an offense and BYU stomped Oregon and Hawaii beat Arizona State. The Pac-10 is basically two teams...USC and California...everyone else is average at best.
And, lastly, the Big East. The Big East is 3-0 with two games left. It's very possible for the conference to go undefeated in this year's bowl season with only Louisville vs. Wake Forest and Cincinnati vs. Western Michigan remaining. Rutgers had a quality win over Kansas State and West Virginia defeated Georgia Tech sans Slaton. USF's win over a non-BCS foe doesn't necessarily give the conference a huge bump but 3-0 is something in which to be proud.
We'll see what the next week brings as bowl season finishes out and I will rank the 6 BCS conferences at that point. Right now, it looks like the SEC is #1 but I can't determine who is #2. If the Big East finishes 5-0, they could make a good argument for that honor.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Gator Bowl
hahahaha...hahahaha...oh geesh. I don't care if White is 100% and Slaton is 110%...if you can't play defense, you're not going to win many games. WVU is playing against a quarterback who threw 29 passes all season and they make him look like freakin' Peyton Manning. WVU good against the run? Made Choice look like Ray Rice or McFadden.
The onsides kick to start the second half should not have ever happened. How are you not prepared for that? That was huge because we could have pulled right back into this game had recovered that kick. Honestly, I felt it was coming...how are you not prepared for that? Stupid.
I'm just extremely disappointed. Pat White played a heckuva game in my opinion considering he was injured. He is the man. Schmitt is the man. Dan Mozes is the man. Slaton is still the man. Where's the man on defense? Where was Quinton Andrews? Where was Eric Wicks? Where was Antonio - I get bowled over every play - Lewis? Where was Jeff Casteel and the WVU defense? A backup quarterback and we can't get sacks or even scare the guy in the biggest game of his life? Can't force a turnover? Can't defend guys you know are going to get the ball?
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Well, that's what I wrote mid-third quarter when GT went up 35-17. Then, somehow, WVU squeezed out 21 unanswered points, which included a freak kickoff problem for the Yellow Jackets. Slaton was out and Pat White decided he and Schmitt would put up a bunch of points and the defense decided to wake up. Amazing. So, I was starting to feel bad about what I wrote in the 3rd quarter. And Andrews made an interception so I felt kinda bad about calling him out earlier. But WVU had the ball at the 4-yard line and couldn't move the ball so McAfee had to punt from inside the endzone which gave GT great field position again. My optimism was waning...
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Then WVU came up with a huge stop and forced a 54-yard field goal attempt that was short. It was all about pressuring the young quarterback in the 2nd half. And then the offensive line and Owen Schmitt started opening holes for Pat...Pat ran like Pat runs and WVU forced Georgia Tech to burn the timeouts and finally, finally, finally won the Gator Bowl in stunning fashion. 18 down to comeback and win by 3. They always say the first time is the sweetest. Well, this game was sweet. Congratulations to the WVU senior class. Congratulations to Dan Mozes. Congratulations to Pat White. Congratulations to Steve despite his limited action.
Folks, it's a GREAT night to be a Mountaineer wherever you may be!
The onsides kick to start the second half should not have ever happened. How are you not prepared for that? That was huge because we could have pulled right back into this game had recovered that kick. Honestly, I felt it was coming...how are you not prepared for that? Stupid.
I'm just extremely disappointed. Pat White played a heckuva game in my opinion considering he was injured. He is the man. Schmitt is the man. Dan Mozes is the man. Slaton is still the man. Where's the man on defense? Where was Quinton Andrews? Where was Eric Wicks? Where was Antonio - I get bowled over every play - Lewis? Where was Jeff Casteel and the WVU defense? A backup quarterback and we can't get sacks or even scare the guy in the biggest game of his life? Can't force a turnover? Can't defend guys you know are going to get the ball?
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Well, that's what I wrote mid-third quarter when GT went up 35-17. Then, somehow, WVU squeezed out 21 unanswered points, which included a freak kickoff problem for the Yellow Jackets. Slaton was out and Pat White decided he and Schmitt would put up a bunch of points and the defense decided to wake up. Amazing. So, I was starting to feel bad about what I wrote in the 3rd quarter. And Andrews made an interception so I felt kinda bad about calling him out earlier. But WVU had the ball at the 4-yard line and couldn't move the ball so McAfee had to punt from inside the endzone which gave GT great field position again. My optimism was waning...
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Then WVU came up with a huge stop and forced a 54-yard field goal attempt that was short. It was all about pressuring the young quarterback in the 2nd half. And then the offensive line and Owen Schmitt started opening holes for Pat...Pat ran like Pat runs and WVU forced Georgia Tech to burn the timeouts and finally, finally, finally won the Gator Bowl in stunning fashion. 18 down to comeback and win by 3. They always say the first time is the sweetest. Well, this game was sweet. Congratulations to the WVU senior class. Congratulations to Dan Mozes. Congratulations to Pat White. Congratulations to Steve despite his limited action.
Folks, it's a GREAT night to be a Mountaineer wherever you may be!
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