"You don't have to worry about me."
Then again, if it's Kobe Bryant & the current state of his relationship with the LA Lakers, you have to worry. A lot. No, a whole lot.
Things are going downhill fast & the only way to end this round of sour gripes, this enmity between Bryant & the rest of the Lakers in general (teammates, coaches, GMs, etc.) is to send his antics elsewhere. He didn't just want to be the Lakers' marquee player; he wanted to be the Lakers all by his lonesome. And he senses that his team, in a conference chock full of powerhouse ballclubs, is in no way, shape or form, ready to compete with the best of the best. That's right: the Lakers pack little if any punch to be one of the top teams in the Western Conference. So it only seems natural that Kobe wants out of town to play ball somewhere out east, right?
Of course, given the simple fact that Kobe has brought as much pain as he has brought joy to the Lakers fanbase & all for a good decade. It's time to move on, time to get over the terrible path of destruction he left behind for sports enthusiasts to marvel at no end. After running Shaq & Phil Jackson out of town on a rail (only to bring Jackson back into the picture shortly afterward), Kobe now feels it's his turn to run, to leave his not-so-humble abode called the Staples Center before he does any more damage to the Lakers organization.
He once could trust in his teammates; now he only trusts himself. For Kobe, that type of blind commitment to self is what has brought him to a predicament along the lines of Alex Rodriguez & his relationship with the New York Yankees. The next question is finding a tenable exit strategy which could be seen as a good call for everyone involved. Bryant's employer for 11 years sure hopes that it's a good call & damn if something doesn't give.
"You don't have to worry about me." And yet seeing another dramatic episode in the turbulent saga in which the main characters are Kobe & the Los Angeles Lakers front office, we're already getting worried. What now, my friends? Will Kobe head to Chicago or another respectable ballclub where he can feel right at home? or will he stay on in LA & create more grief & contention? Kobe helped bring on the Lakers' current state of suckitude; leaving may not be the easiest option to end this suckitude (then again, nothing ever is easy) but it could get an uncoachable, recalcitrant monkey off the backs of both Jackson & Lakers owner Jerry Buss once & for all.
The Lakers might stink if they made good on the trade but at least they don't have to worry about who got them to stink to begin with.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
The Last Act of Defiance
For almost three decades, Robert Mugabe has held sway over the nation of Zimbabwe with an iron fist, if not an unswerving mindset that he is the man in charge & anyone who dares to object to how he is ruling Zimbabwe is asking for trouble. But now one senses the tide is starting to turn, not because of the democratic opposition, not because the nations next door are seething with rage over Mugabe's tyrannical antics. No, the tide is beginning to turn because his own cronies are feeling that it's their time to shine, that Mugabe's bright star of terror & oppressive tactics is beginning to fade.
In fact, his gang of spooks (aka the senior VIPs of the ruling ZANU-PF party) saw to it last December that either it was their way or the highway, when they put their feet down & refused to accept a proposal which could postpone elections slated for next year until 2010. That's typical Mugabe mullarkey in a nutshell: I'll rule for Zimbabwe for a couple more years then I'll decide to resign in 2010. But this time around, his strategy backfired on him.
Basically, what Mugabe was really saying that he would run for President again in 2008 & therefore stay in power until 2014 - by which he'll be 90 years old if he's lucky to be alive that long. Yet taking a look at the nation's imploding economy, its population moving abroad to start anew- several more years of Mugabe running the show is rather untenable as well as plain inconceivable. Naturally enough, seeing Mugabe's gobbledygook as impossible, the higher-ups in ZANU-PF itself are beginning to rebel, among other factions who'd rather see Mugabe give up his presidency.
Mugabe, throughout his long three decades of misrule, doesn't know how to let go, the Old Dinosaur that he is. But like Mobutu before him (an equally inept dude in his own right when it came to running a nation properly), his time is running out; this could soon spell the beginning of the end of Mugabe's power over Zimbabwe once & for all.
And soon he will have to let go of the reins which he has held on to so stubbornly for 27 years running. Then the next question will be: "Who will be the man to set things right?" It's anyone's guess; either way, Mugabe will have to step down from his autocratic post either by force or peacefully.
In fact, his gang of spooks (aka the senior VIPs of the ruling ZANU-PF party) saw to it last December that either it was their way or the highway, when they put their feet down & refused to accept a proposal which could postpone elections slated for next year until 2010. That's typical Mugabe mullarkey in a nutshell: I'll rule for Zimbabwe for a couple more years then I'll decide to resign in 2010. But this time around, his strategy backfired on him.
Basically, what Mugabe was really saying that he would run for President again in 2008 & therefore stay in power until 2014 - by which he'll be 90 years old if he's lucky to be alive that long. Yet taking a look at the nation's imploding economy, its population moving abroad to start anew- several more years of Mugabe running the show is rather untenable as well as plain inconceivable. Naturally enough, seeing Mugabe's gobbledygook as impossible, the higher-ups in ZANU-PF itself are beginning to rebel, among other factions who'd rather see Mugabe give up his presidency.
Mugabe, throughout his long three decades of misrule, doesn't know how to let go, the Old Dinosaur that he is. But like Mobutu before him (an equally inept dude in his own right when it came to running a nation properly), his time is running out; this could soon spell the beginning of the end of Mugabe's power over Zimbabwe once & for all.
And soon he will have to let go of the reins which he has held on to so stubbornly for 27 years running. Then the next question will be: "Who will be the man to set things right?" It's anyone's guess; either way, Mugabe will have to step down from his autocratic post either by force or peacefully.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The Spirit of '66
1966 was a pretty awesome year in the world of popular music in general, with some of the most important (& revered) albums of all-time coming out left & right: The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds, The Beatles' Revolver (which was their longest-running album at this point), Simon & Garfunkel's Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, Bob Dylan's Blonde on Blonde just to name a few. (And of course, Dylan loved defying convention: Blonde on Blonde is about 73 minutes worth of great music, as opposed to the half-hour or so of power which could be found in just 12 or so songs during that era.)
Indeed, popular music was a sacred institution unto itself & every release of monumental value was seen as a sacred book, scriptures full of comforts, assurances & truths folks would so desperately need as the '60s began not only to draw to a close but also descend into its downward spiral (which the never-ending Vietnam War helped bring on in full force). By the end of the decade, popular music was never the same again, its status as something sacred demolished, imploded, never again to regain its luster & glory.
But 1966 was a very good year, a very good year for popular music in general, a far cry from the current assessment held about popular music overall. There was life, meaning, symbolism, truths in those songs back then; even the most schmaltzy stuff carried some fabric of sincerity & truth which today's material unfortunately is in need of. If that isn't enough, the music has still found ways to endure (especially the above albums I listed) for four decades straight. Not only was it born out of necessity, but out of experience, being able to articulate one's concerns, emotions & feelings - in short, much of the most important music from that year was made out of risk-taking, breaking the norms & conventions of the day. Buying a record in 1966 was like buying an inspirational book in hopes that you could be enlightened, that it could bring sparks of hope & joy into your life. With albums like Blonde on Blonde, Parsley, Sage..., Revolver, & Pet Sounds, the main premise of each artist was to speak the truth in their own way, on their own terms.
And they would also leave us wanting more.
That was the Spirit of '66 as viewed from the world of popular music, a vast receptacle of all things cultural, political, mystical & spiritual.
Indeed, popular music was a sacred institution unto itself & every release of monumental value was seen as a sacred book, scriptures full of comforts, assurances & truths folks would so desperately need as the '60s began not only to draw to a close but also descend into its downward spiral (which the never-ending Vietnam War helped bring on in full force). By the end of the decade, popular music was never the same again, its status as something sacred demolished, imploded, never again to regain its luster & glory.
But 1966 was a very good year, a very good year for popular music in general, a far cry from the current assessment held about popular music overall. There was life, meaning, symbolism, truths in those songs back then; even the most schmaltzy stuff carried some fabric of sincerity & truth which today's material unfortunately is in need of. If that isn't enough, the music has still found ways to endure (especially the above albums I listed) for four decades straight. Not only was it born out of necessity, but out of experience, being able to articulate one's concerns, emotions & feelings - in short, much of the most important music from that year was made out of risk-taking, breaking the norms & conventions of the day. Buying a record in 1966 was like buying an inspirational book in hopes that you could be enlightened, that it could bring sparks of hope & joy into your life. With albums like Blonde on Blonde, Parsley, Sage..., Revolver, & Pet Sounds, the main premise of each artist was to speak the truth in their own way, on their own terms.
And they would also leave us wanting more.
That was the Spirit of '66 as viewed from the world of popular music, a vast receptacle of all things cultural, political, mystical & spiritual.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Rocky Mountain Low
When the Boston Red Sox fought long & hard to earn their way into the World Series, I along with who knows how many other folks sensed that Colorado's fabled run to the Main Event would also come to an early end. And we all came to a similar conclusion - that the Red Sox would sweep this thing right off the Rockies' feet (though I did have my doubts a la the 2007 NBA Finals).
And that's what Boston did to Colorado, getting that much anticipated sweep which we were all predicting would occur.
The amazing thing about this whole Series is that the Rockies didn't really put much of a fight & against a team whose offensive & defensive (particularly in the pitching dep't.) firepower is just too strong, how could they? Well, for games 2 & 4, you can't accuse them of not trying; far from it. It's just that Boston has been in this situation before, having won a World Series themselves a short while back. The Red Sox knew the routine. And though the upstarts hung around, the BoSox didn't fold & stepped their game up a notch.
But we shouldn't overlook Colorado next season, should they play like they played during the tail end of the regular season as well as the NL playoffs...if they're lucky enough to have lifted the hype off their backs by then. Until then, we'll just keep waiting. And waiting. And waiting.
And that's what Boston did to Colorado, getting that much anticipated sweep which we were all predicting would occur.
The amazing thing about this whole Series is that the Rockies didn't really put much of a fight & against a team whose offensive & defensive (particularly in the pitching dep't.) firepower is just too strong, how could they? Well, for games 2 & 4, you can't accuse them of not trying; far from it. It's just that Boston has been in this situation before, having won a World Series themselves a short while back. The Red Sox knew the routine. And though the upstarts hung around, the BoSox didn't fold & stepped their game up a notch.
But we shouldn't overlook Colorado next season, should they play like they played during the tail end of the regular season as well as the NL playoffs...if they're lucky enough to have lifted the hype off their backs by then. Until then, we'll just keep waiting. And waiting. And waiting.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Colroado can't knock those (Red) Sox off
In game 2 of the World Series, Boston may have been down but they didn't bow out either as the Red Sox bullpen kept Colorado in check on their way to a 2-1 victory.
Sure, game 2 didn't have all the offensive fireworks which the BoSox displayed in spades but then again with strong pitching & a bullpen that was up to the task, how can you go wrong?
Well, from the looks of things, Boston appears to be on its way to a sweep if they keep up their stellar play on both sides of the ball: strong hitting, stubborn pitching & clutch defensive plays to keep the Rockies in check. I've heard everyone go on & on about the Red Sox getting a sweep, but let's wait & see how they fare @ Coors Field first before we start doing any major celebrating.
As anyone knows by now, when you're down 2-0 in the World Series or NBA Finals, Game 3 is a do-or-die game; not only will it give Colorado the psychological edge (as well as much-needed confidence); it could give them incentive to prove that they're invincible in Mile High mode as well. And that's saying something: they're back at home with nothing to lose & a definite advantage in their favor (home field!!) But Boston has other plans as well & knows that this game is a big deal on their part as they attempt to go up 3-0...one game short of sealing the deal on the whole World Series!!
Anything can happen come Saturday night & both ballclubs know what's at stake. May the best team win!!
Sure, game 2 didn't have all the offensive fireworks which the BoSox displayed in spades but then again with strong pitching & a bullpen that was up to the task, how can you go wrong?
Well, from the looks of things, Boston appears to be on its way to a sweep if they keep up their stellar play on both sides of the ball: strong hitting, stubborn pitching & clutch defensive plays to keep the Rockies in check. I've heard everyone go on & on about the Red Sox getting a sweep, but let's wait & see how they fare @ Coors Field first before we start doing any major celebrating.
As anyone knows by now, when you're down 2-0 in the World Series or NBA Finals, Game 3 is a do-or-die game; not only will it give Colorado the psychological edge (as well as much-needed confidence); it could give them incentive to prove that they're invincible in Mile High mode as well. And that's saying something: they're back at home with nothing to lose & a definite advantage in their favor (home field!!) But Boston has other plans as well & knows that this game is a big deal on their part as they attempt to go up 3-0...one game short of sealing the deal on the whole World Series!!
Anything can happen come Saturday night & both ballclubs know what's at stake. May the best team win!!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Rox vs. Sox
Sorry, Colorado. Your days of riding high had to come to an end sometime during postseason play.
After convincing sweeps of the Phillies & Diamondbacks, a lot of folks thought that Colorado could perhaps do more of the same against the AL Champs (who BTW are the Red Sox, not the Indians...boo to that).
But with a long layoff, there also comes that trademark rustiness which is the end result of not having played baseball for the longest time...a good week or so in Colorado's case. And did the Rockies ever look rusty as Boston took it to the house to the tune of 13-1.
Then again, Boston could show these upstarts a thing or two about playing quality baseball. I mean, they've got Manny, David Ortiz, Dice-K, Beckett...how can you top these four dudes? At the same time, the Red Sox has way too many weapons under its belt for the Rockies to have a chance at even keeping things close in the World Series. Point is, Boston has been there, done that already. On the other hand, Colorado is an up & coming ballclub newly arrived on the scene reveling in the hype, living the dream of finally making it this far into the postseason.
If there is something to be said about last night's game, the Red Sox made a clear statement of intent for Colorado to take note of: we're not handing this World Series away easily...wait a minute, this World Series is ours for the taking.
After seeing the Red Sox storm back to win the AL Finals 4 games to 3 (way to step it up, Cleveland...talk about choking), I can't help but say that the days of judgment have now arrived for the Rockies. They're not playing Arizona or Philly; they're playing a team on a mission, a team which has almost had its season end early but kept believing, kept fighting to punch their ticket into this gala event. And that kind of stubborn, bend-but-don't-break team spirit which Boston has brought into the World Series spells trouble for Colorado, if not a prophesied sweep of these young bucks from Denver.
All good things come to an end sometime, Colorado. Too bad they had to end last night at the Green Monster aka Fenway.
After convincing sweeps of the Phillies & Diamondbacks, a lot of folks thought that Colorado could perhaps do more of the same against the AL Champs (who BTW are the Red Sox, not the Indians...boo to that).
But with a long layoff, there also comes that trademark rustiness which is the end result of not having played baseball for the longest time...a good week or so in Colorado's case. And did the Rockies ever look rusty as Boston took it to the house to the tune of 13-1.
Then again, Boston could show these upstarts a thing or two about playing quality baseball. I mean, they've got Manny, David Ortiz, Dice-K, Beckett...how can you top these four dudes? At the same time, the Red Sox has way too many weapons under its belt for the Rockies to have a chance at even keeping things close in the World Series. Point is, Boston has been there, done that already. On the other hand, Colorado is an up & coming ballclub newly arrived on the scene reveling in the hype, living the dream of finally making it this far into the postseason.
If there is something to be said about last night's game, the Red Sox made a clear statement of intent for Colorado to take note of: we're not handing this World Series away easily...wait a minute, this World Series is ours for the taking.
After seeing the Red Sox storm back to win the AL Finals 4 games to 3 (way to step it up, Cleveland...talk about choking), I can't help but say that the days of judgment have now arrived for the Rockies. They're not playing Arizona or Philly; they're playing a team on a mission, a team which has almost had its season end early but kept believing, kept fighting to punch their ticket into this gala event. And that kind of stubborn, bend-but-don't-break team spirit which Boston has brought into the World Series spells trouble for Colorado, if not a prophesied sweep of these young bucks from Denver.
All good things come to an end sometime, Colorado. Too bad they had to end last night at the Green Monster aka Fenway.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
(another untitled)
Loyalty. Dedication. Appreciation.
Three words which lead to the exact same destination: support.
When it comes to showing support for just one sorority in the Greek system, a lot of duders are more than happy to do just that. But for the most part, it's all a bunch of lip service, fake sincerity in every sense of the word "fake." Sure, plenty of the aforementioned men who wear Greek letters may mean well & are willing to show their love when they're up to the task but in the end, when the excitement & fun wears off, their hearts are with another sorority, then another, then another...In summary, their "love" & "support" are nothing more but facades, fronts, farcical.
However, there are a select group of Greek men who truly love one sorority with all their hearts & truly are going the extra mile to show their support (be it through philanthropic events that they hold, Bid Day, Homecoming, among other positive things). That's the mark of a true gentleman, a man of good character, a man who actually cares about his sorority counterparts with a passion that is unique as much as it is heartfelt. It's support that is not meant just for four years or so worth of college but as a lifelong deal; this is a fact about Greek life which I among countless others share wholeheartedly & has remained part of my personal philosophy for the longest time.
For those men who don't love one sorority with all their hearts or see sororities as a scoring station, I find their support (if they show any) downright laughable. I mean, what's so difficult about doing the little things to make them smile? to cheer them up? to show that they're appreciated? to show that they're loved? It's not that hard to find a sorority who has the classiest, most wonderful ladies around & say, "I love AOII," "I love AGD," "I love DZ," etc. & really mean every word that you said. And it's not that hard to do the little things to show your Greek counterparts that you're willing to stand by them through thick & thin, through good & bad & via the most random acts of kindness.
Support of this magnitude is giving 110% to your fave sororities in the Greek system, not 25% or 50%. That's the kind of support any fraternity member with a heart & personality should show his favorite sorority, & not just when he feels like doing so either.
Take it from one who knows, one who has lived these words out like none other.
Three words which lead to the exact same destination: support.
When it comes to showing support for just one sorority in the Greek system, a lot of duders are more than happy to do just that. But for the most part, it's all a bunch of lip service, fake sincerity in every sense of the word "fake." Sure, plenty of the aforementioned men who wear Greek letters may mean well & are willing to show their love when they're up to the task but in the end, when the excitement & fun wears off, their hearts are with another sorority, then another, then another...In summary, their "love" & "support" are nothing more but facades, fronts, farcical.
However, there are a select group of Greek men who truly love one sorority with all their hearts & truly are going the extra mile to show their support (be it through philanthropic events that they hold, Bid Day, Homecoming, among other positive things). That's the mark of a true gentleman, a man of good character, a man who actually cares about his sorority counterparts with a passion that is unique as much as it is heartfelt. It's support that is not meant just for four years or so worth of college but as a lifelong deal; this is a fact about Greek life which I among countless others share wholeheartedly & has remained part of my personal philosophy for the longest time.
For those men who don't love one sorority with all their hearts or see sororities as a scoring station, I find their support (if they show any) downright laughable. I mean, what's so difficult about doing the little things to make them smile? to cheer them up? to show that they're appreciated? to show that they're loved? It's not that hard to find a sorority who has the classiest, most wonderful ladies around & say, "I love AOII," "I love AGD," "I love DZ," etc. & really mean every word that you said. And it's not that hard to do the little things to show your Greek counterparts that you're willing to stand by them through thick & thin, through good & bad & via the most random acts of kindness.
Support of this magnitude is giving 110% to your fave sororities in the Greek system, not 25% or 50%. That's the kind of support any fraternity member with a heart & personality should show his favorite sorority, & not just when he feels like doing so either.
Take it from one who knows, one who has lived these words out like none other.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Looking out for #1
Ohio State knew that they were a marked team when they grabbed the top spot in college football; they didn't need to be told of the complications & implications which come with being the #1 team in the nation.
They were riding high with a 24-0 lead @ the good ol' Horseshoe until Michigan State surged back to make things as interesting as they were scary. And with good reason: they beat Ohio State when they were ranked #1 two times, the most recent upset being 9 years ago. But the Buckeyes rode it out & grabbed a hard-fought 24-17 victory.
The only offense Michigan State really had came from the defense; both TDs were the result of an interception & someone coughing up the football. Yes, that's how awful the Spartans looked offensively & much credit needs to be given to the Buckeye D for neutralizing a balanced MSU attack which caused the Hoosiers fits the week before. On the other hand, despite the two late turnovers (& almost a third giveaway) Ohio State churned things out offensively & never really gave the Michigan State offense a chance to get untracked to do some damage of their own.
Who said being ranked #1 was all fun & games could do worse than to overlook their next opponent. And that can be real effortless to do for the more cocky & overtly arrogant teams who think they're the greatest college football powerhouses to ever roam the face of the earth. Not so with the Buckeyes, after assessing their overall performance against MSU: they know it's not fun & games from this point on.
They were riding high with a 24-0 lead @ the good ol' Horseshoe until Michigan State surged back to make things as interesting as they were scary. And with good reason: they beat Ohio State when they were ranked #1 two times, the most recent upset being 9 years ago. But the Buckeyes rode it out & grabbed a hard-fought 24-17 victory.
The only offense Michigan State really had came from the defense; both TDs were the result of an interception & someone coughing up the football. Yes, that's how awful the Spartans looked offensively & much credit needs to be given to the Buckeye D for neutralizing a balanced MSU attack which caused the Hoosiers fits the week before. On the other hand, despite the two late turnovers (& almost a third giveaway) Ohio State churned things out offensively & never really gave the Michigan State offense a chance to get untracked to do some damage of their own.
Who said being ranked #1 was all fun & games could do worse than to overlook their next opponent. And that can be real effortless to do for the more cocky & overtly arrogant teams who think they're the greatest college football powerhouses to ever roam the face of the earth. Not so with the Buckeyes, after assessing their overall performance against MSU: they know it's not fun & games from this point on.
Friday, October 19, 2007
#2 Dilemma
This year has been a topsy-turvy team for college football in general & none more so than those teams who were ranked - you guessed it - #2.
USC & California held on to the #2 spot for a short time before Stanford & Oregon State respectively sent them packing down the rankings ladder.
The latest #2 victim is South Florida, who got knocked off by Rutgers last night 30-27. Which is going to lead us to the next question: who's grabbing that cursed #2 ranking? Boston College? LSU? Oklahoma? Oregon?
I wish I knew. And man, do I loathe the Bowl Championship Series ranking system with a passion.
But anyways: whoever is moving up to #2 had better be on their guard like Ohio State needs to be on their guard with their #1 ranking (LSU losing their hold of the top spot to Kentucky should be caution enough already); we've seen just how much of a bugbear being ranked #2 has been for three teams this season alone.
Proceeding with caution is something, it seems, has been if not a complete joke this year in the world of college football, more like an anomaly as some lesser-known ballclubs are moving out of the doghouses & into the higher echelons which the elite football powerhouses are known to dwell. And for the next team who gets ranked #2, I'd advise them to be ready to play unless their next opponent wants the immediate go-ahead to knock them off (which Rutgers did BTW to South Florida).
The number two: what a dreaded number it has become only a month into the 2007 season. And I thought that being ranked #1 was bad enough. Just to be #2 this year is saying that you're a marked team, no matter how many awesome players you have on the field.
USC. Cal-Berkeley. Now South Florida. Who's next to fall?
USC & California held on to the #2 spot for a short time before Stanford & Oregon State respectively sent them packing down the rankings ladder.
The latest #2 victim is South Florida, who got knocked off by Rutgers last night 30-27. Which is going to lead us to the next question: who's grabbing that cursed #2 ranking? Boston College? LSU? Oklahoma? Oregon?
I wish I knew. And man, do I loathe the Bowl Championship Series ranking system with a passion.
But anyways: whoever is moving up to #2 had better be on their guard like Ohio State needs to be on their guard with their #1 ranking (LSU losing their hold of the top spot to Kentucky should be caution enough already); we've seen just how much of a bugbear being ranked #2 has been for three teams this season alone.
Proceeding with caution is something, it seems, has been if not a complete joke this year in the world of college football, more like an anomaly as some lesser-known ballclubs are moving out of the doghouses & into the higher echelons which the elite football powerhouses are known to dwell. And for the next team who gets ranked #2, I'd advise them to be ready to play unless their next opponent wants the immediate go-ahead to knock them off (which Rutgers did BTW to South Florida).
The number two: what a dreaded number it has become only a month into the 2007 season. And I thought that being ranked #1 was bad enough. Just to be #2 this year is saying that you're a marked team, no matter how many awesome players you have on the field.
USC. Cal-Berkeley. Now South Florida. Who's next to fall?
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
The Luck of the Draw
The luck of the draw.
Sectionals for high school football start tonight & some sectionals are tougher than others, with enough competitive teams scrambling for the same prize: a championship & a chance to advance further into postseason play.
But no sectional, I feel, is going to be more challenging than in Class 2A, Sectional 27, where defending 2A state champion Harding (5-4) takes on Fairfield (9-0); top-ranked Jimtown (9-0) plays Woodlan (5-4); Garrett (8-1) plays Central Noble (5-4) & Bishop Luers takes on Prairie Heights in a battle of 5-4 squads.
Yes, the competition is that loaded. And what some folks don't realize is that the two SAC (one of the more competitive conferences statewide) teams in this thing are 5-4 but they're pretty awesome 5-4 ballclubs, given the fact that they've taken on much larger schools & are all the better for having played the 3/4A (i.e. larger schools) competition come sectional time. If that's not enough to have some folks worried, the coaching squads @ Fairfield & Prairie Heights have been if not on edge, really focusing on their more physical opponents all week, knowing that you can't emulate the speed of Luers or Harding in practice...it's that impossible once you get on the field & actually meet them head on.
Here are my picks for this week on who's going to beat who:
Harding over Fairfield - upset special; Harding a bit down this season but looking to set things right now that they're in sectional action against a formidable opponent
Luers over Prairie Heights - SAC does it again; no contest here since Luers is smarting over their loss to Dwenger last week
Garrett over Central Noble - ACAC champs keep on the right track but proceeding with caution
Jimtown over Woodlan - Jimmies run, run, run away with win...& I thought playing Adams Central was tough enough for the Warriors; Jimtown is ten times as good as AC though
Nothing beats the joy of Friday nights under the lights playing high school football; for every team involved, it's do or die. And may the last team standing move on!!
Sectionals for high school football start tonight & some sectionals are tougher than others, with enough competitive teams scrambling for the same prize: a championship & a chance to advance further into postseason play.
But no sectional, I feel, is going to be more challenging than in Class 2A, Sectional 27, where defending 2A state champion Harding (5-4) takes on Fairfield (9-0); top-ranked Jimtown (9-0) plays Woodlan (5-4); Garrett (8-1) plays Central Noble (5-4) & Bishop Luers takes on Prairie Heights in a battle of 5-4 squads.
Yes, the competition is that loaded. And what some folks don't realize is that the two SAC (one of the more competitive conferences statewide) teams in this thing are 5-4 but they're pretty awesome 5-4 ballclubs, given the fact that they've taken on much larger schools & are all the better for having played the 3/4A (i.e. larger schools) competition come sectional time. If that's not enough to have some folks worried, the coaching squads @ Fairfield & Prairie Heights have been if not on edge, really focusing on their more physical opponents all week, knowing that you can't emulate the speed of Luers or Harding in practice...it's that impossible once you get on the field & actually meet them head on.
Here are my picks for this week on who's going to beat who:
Harding over Fairfield - upset special; Harding a bit down this season but looking to set things right now that they're in sectional action against a formidable opponent
Luers over Prairie Heights - SAC does it again; no contest here since Luers is smarting over their loss to Dwenger last week
Garrett over Central Noble - ACAC champs keep on the right track but proceeding with caution
Jimtown over Woodlan - Jimmies run, run, run away with win...& I thought playing Adams Central was tough enough for the Warriors; Jimtown is ten times as good as AC though
Nothing beats the joy of Friday nights under the lights playing high school football; for every team involved, it's do or die. And may the last team standing move on!!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Quote(s) of the day
"One person can make a world of a difference to others just by doing the most random acts of kindness. For the longest time, that's what I've been doing & that's what I'll always continue to do." - yours truly
Last thoughts on Homecoming
Last weekend was one of the best times of my life, bar none, & plenty of folks, I surmise, are echoing my sentiments.
Homecoming took place @ Ball State on Saturday & of course Saturday is the culmination of a really fun, wild & exciting week made ten times more wild & crazy. Most of the wild & crazy times were @ tailgating of course...hahah...what better way to celebrate Homecoming than to be @ tailgating for the longest time!!
Now it's back to life & business as usual; bummer, I know...lol. But Fall Break is just a few days/less down the line & not only is this a time to chill out, take a break & regroup for my next journey to Muncie (which BTW will be next weekend), it's also a time to, as it were, recharge one's batteries altogether before diving headlong into the rest of this term. How I miss times like this already.
But my love for all things Ball State has not been lost. If anything, it's only grown stronger & more so at the present time.
Homecoming took place @ Ball State on Saturday & of course Saturday is the culmination of a really fun, wild & exciting week made ten times more wild & crazy. Most of the wild & crazy times were @ tailgating of course...hahah...what better way to celebrate Homecoming than to be @ tailgating for the longest time!!
Now it's back to life & business as usual; bummer, I know...lol. But Fall Break is just a few days/less down the line & not only is this a time to chill out, take a break & regroup for my next journey to Muncie (which BTW will be next weekend), it's also a time to, as it were, recharge one's batteries altogether before diving headlong into the rest of this term. How I miss times like this already.
But my love for all things Ball State has not been lost. If anything, it's only grown stronger & more so at the present time.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Homecoming: A Thought For Today
Time is inching slowly but ever so surely before I head down to Muncie for Homecoming, my third consecutive journey back to Ball State for all things related to football & good times.
Hate to say this but I've got to be an early riser; tomorrow I'll have to be. The fun is getting started well in advance & I'll be dipped if I'm not in the least ready to go by making it down to Muncie bright & early.
Meeting up with old friends, perhaps making new ones along the way...such are the joys which Homecoming Weekend can provide in spades. I'm doing both of the above for sure on Saturday.
Until then I'm just counting down time, waiting for the sign to get back down to Ball State.
Hate to say this but I've got to be an early riser; tomorrow I'll have to be. The fun is getting started well in advance & I'll be dipped if I'm not in the least ready to go by making it down to Muncie bright & early.
Meeting up with old friends, perhaps making new ones along the way...such are the joys which Homecoming Weekend can provide in spades. I'm doing both of the above for sure on Saturday.
Until then I'm just counting down time, waiting for the sign to get back down to Ball State.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Homecoming Week, Part Four
In this last installment on Homecoming Week, I wanted to focus on Air Jam & all the craziness surrounding it.
Not only is Air Jam a great vehicle to lipsync to your fave tunes but it's also a chance to display one's dance moves, one's choreographic abilities...in short, to have a mighty good time doing all of the above!!
At the same time, it's a perfect opportunity to lend your wholehearted support to your respective fraternities/sororities, etc. as they take to the stage & do their respective routines. The whole premise of this event is to have a good time & even if you didn't get first place (or even second) say that you still had a blast regardless!! Yet for those who aren't participating, it's an awesome relief to know that they can show up & cheer on their house & the sororities whom they're paired with for the whole week. That not only shows you care about your fellow Greeks; it also shows much love for them as well.
Sure enough, some duders who wear letters will show up & not give their sorority counterparts much thought as they perform...yet when it comes to their own brothers, they whoop it up left & right. That's bandwagon support in just one nutshell: giving much love to your own house for Air Jam, but showing none to say, A-Phi, AGD, etc.
To return things to an upbeat note, the best of luck to everyone who's participating in Air Jam; it should turn out to be an outstanding night for all involved!! (I know: I wish I could be there to get in on the fun but can't make it; I'm still showing my support though so take heart :-))
Not only is Air Jam a great vehicle to lipsync to your fave tunes but it's also a chance to display one's dance moves, one's choreographic abilities...in short, to have a mighty good time doing all of the above!!
At the same time, it's a perfect opportunity to lend your wholehearted support to your respective fraternities/sororities, etc. as they take to the stage & do their respective routines. The whole premise of this event is to have a good time & even if you didn't get first place (or even second) say that you still had a blast regardless!! Yet for those who aren't participating, it's an awesome relief to know that they can show up & cheer on their house & the sororities whom they're paired with for the whole week. That not only shows you care about your fellow Greeks; it also shows much love for them as well.
Sure enough, some duders who wear letters will show up & not give their sorority counterparts much thought as they perform...yet when it comes to their own brothers, they whoop it up left & right. That's bandwagon support in just one nutshell: giving much love to your own house for Air Jam, but showing none to say, A-Phi, AGD, etc.
To return things to an upbeat note, the best of luck to everyone who's participating in Air Jam; it should turn out to be an outstanding night for all involved!! (I know: I wish I could be there to get in on the fun but can't make it; I'm still showing my support though so take heart :-))
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Homecoming Week, Part Three
In this installment on Homecoming Week, I wanted to touch on one of the most awesome pregame occasions where living it up, having fun & good times across the board are taken to a whole new level on Homecoming altogether: tailgating.
So when it comes to wearing letters on Saturday or no, particularly for those fraternities participating in the action, the words "respect" & "courtesy" once more reappear in full force. I'm not saying we don't have to go tailgating with our letters on (with most sororities, this is a pretty strong issue & would take another article to delve into); it's not like that at all. What I'm saying is: if we're planning to wear our letters, we should wear them in a way that (reiterating one of the last posts I did for August 2007) emphasizes courtesy, respect & most of all the very fact that we're proud to wholeheartedly represent our respective houses.
But then again, there are those duders who'd rather act the fool with their letters on, turning into raging wastoids within the timeframe of a few hours or so...those are the guys who just don't get the words "courtesy" & "respect" even if they looked them in the face. Yet I'd like to hope that these same men would give their letters some thought before going into "hellified" or "Irish drunk" mode...seriously, if any guys are wearing their letters, they should be worn well & of course with heartfelt pride!! True, we love to have fun, we like to get our drink on (& even more so on Homecoming Weekend) but when it comes down to it, our letters should be worn respectfully, to prove that we're not just the stereotypical party animals non-Greeks take us as being.
At any rate, if we're wearing our letters to tailgating, wear them well, wear them with pride, with respect, with courtesy & with love!!
So when it comes to wearing letters on Saturday or no, particularly for those fraternities participating in the action, the words "respect" & "courtesy" once more reappear in full force. I'm not saying we don't have to go tailgating with our letters on (with most sororities, this is a pretty strong issue & would take another article to delve into); it's not like that at all. What I'm saying is: if we're planning to wear our letters, we should wear them in a way that (reiterating one of the last posts I did for August 2007) emphasizes courtesy, respect & most of all the very fact that we're proud to wholeheartedly represent our respective houses.
But then again, there are those duders who'd rather act the fool with their letters on, turning into raging wastoids within the timeframe of a few hours or so...those are the guys who just don't get the words "courtesy" & "respect" even if they looked them in the face. Yet I'd like to hope that these same men would give their letters some thought before going into "hellified" or "Irish drunk" mode...seriously, if any guys are wearing their letters, they should be worn well & of course with heartfelt pride!! True, we love to have fun, we like to get our drink on (& even more so on Homecoming Weekend) but when it comes down to it, our letters should be worn respectfully, to prove that we're not just the stereotypical party animals non-Greeks take us as being.
At any rate, if we're wearing our letters to tailgating, wear them well, wear them with pride, with respect, with courtesy & with love!!
Homecoming Week, Part Deux
In my last post, I focused on every superlative I could give Homecoming Week, especially since it's happening this week back at my alma mater. For this post, I wanted to shift the focus over to my fellow Greek brothers & sisters - & this is a recurring theme in virtually each post I have written pertaining to all things Greek - how important this week is for everyone involved:
As stated earlier on, this week is a perfect opportunity to make new connections, as well as make new friends. If fraternity members haven't made the effort to take their new guys out to serenade the sororities of their choice (& this is something which every new member educator needs to do with the new duders, seriously, if they haven't done so yet), what better way to get them acquainted with their sorority counterparts via Homecoming!! But this shouldn't be a one-week deal like Watermelon Bust or other events of that nature, that is to say, we hang out & party with a bunch of wonderful ladies for pretty much several days running then want nothing to do with them after Saturday night/early Sunday morning...That to me is not only plain wrong but to a certain extent disrespectful as well.
Here's the thing: Homecoming Week is a great time to establish new connections & make new friends with our sorority counterparts & I say this not just for the new members but also for the actives & alumni as well. The worst that any duder who wears Greek letters could do is write off the entire sorority whom they were paired up with for Homecoming & not give them much thought for the longest time afterwards...the last lines in the previous paragraph sum up everything which needs to be said about fraternity members who go this route so I won't reiterate it again. Some of the best, most lasting, most lifelong connections one could possibly make have occurred during Homecoming Week & I say these things from experience.
This week in general is one of the most awesome, most exciting, most memorable weeks anyone could have during their four or so years of college, & especially if we're willing to make it as each of the above. For my fellow Greek brothers & sisters back @ Ball State, these are words worth taking to heart. And worth putting to good use for a majority of this week.
I've said it once before but this time around-
For AOII, Sigs, Delts, A-Phi, DZ, SigEp, etc...fire up for Homecoming '07 :-)
As stated earlier on, this week is a perfect opportunity to make new connections, as well as make new friends. If fraternity members haven't made the effort to take their new guys out to serenade the sororities of their choice (& this is something which every new member educator needs to do with the new duders, seriously, if they haven't done so yet), what better way to get them acquainted with their sorority counterparts via Homecoming!! But this shouldn't be a one-week deal like Watermelon Bust or other events of that nature, that is to say, we hang out & party with a bunch of wonderful ladies for pretty much several days running then want nothing to do with them after Saturday night/early Sunday morning...That to me is not only plain wrong but to a certain extent disrespectful as well.
Here's the thing: Homecoming Week is a great time to establish new connections & make new friends with our sorority counterparts & I say this not just for the new members but also for the actives & alumni as well. The worst that any duder who wears Greek letters could do is write off the entire sorority whom they were paired up with for Homecoming & not give them much thought for the longest time afterwards...the last lines in the previous paragraph sum up everything which needs to be said about fraternity members who go this route so I won't reiterate it again. Some of the best, most lasting, most lifelong connections one could possibly make have occurred during Homecoming Week & I say these things from experience.
This week in general is one of the most awesome, most exciting, most memorable weeks anyone could have during their four or so years of college, & especially if we're willing to make it as each of the above. For my fellow Greek brothers & sisters back @ Ball State, these are words worth taking to heart. And worth putting to good use for a majority of this week.
I've said it once before but this time around-
For AOII, Sigs, Delts, A-Phi, DZ, SigEp, etc...fire up for Homecoming '07 :-)
Monday, October 8, 2007
Homecoming Week
I'm definitely excited about this coming Saturday. Not only will it be my third consecutive journey down to Ball State to watch the Cardinals play football (along with the prerequisite tailgating...lol); it is going to be a pretty special day in every sense of the words special.
This week is Homecoming Week; this Saturday'll be the high point of Homecoming Weekend & I couldn't be more enthusiastic about either of the above than I am now. For those who are going to be attending not only the game itself but also who knows what events that will be taking place during the next few days (Air Jam, though, is the ultimate highlight of the entire week, no question about that!!), they should be plenty excited as well & echoing my sentiments about this week in general.
At the same time, this week & with it this weekend is a time to revisit old haunts, reconnect with old friends, renew old connections. Also, it is a perfect chance to forge new connections & make new friends in the process. For me, from Monday through Saturday, this is what Homecoming is all about & has always been: old times, good times, always full of surprises, always something new...Homecoming only happens once a year & I'll make the most of my weekend, this much is for certain. For those who are feeling the exact same way, I'm positive that there'll be lots of living it up, fun times to be had, everything I brought up in the first three lines of this paragraph & then some.
Fire up for Homecoming 2007!!
This week is Homecoming Week; this Saturday'll be the high point of Homecoming Weekend & I couldn't be more enthusiastic about either of the above than I am now. For those who are going to be attending not only the game itself but also who knows what events that will be taking place during the next few days (Air Jam, though, is the ultimate highlight of the entire week, no question about that!!), they should be plenty excited as well & echoing my sentiments about this week in general.
At the same time, this week & with it this weekend is a time to revisit old haunts, reconnect with old friends, renew old connections. Also, it is a perfect chance to forge new connections & make new friends in the process. For me, from Monday through Saturday, this is what Homecoming is all about & has always been: old times, good times, always full of surprises, always something new...Homecoming only happens once a year & I'll make the most of my weekend, this much is for certain. For those who are feeling the exact same way, I'm positive that there'll be lots of living it up, fun times to be had, everything I brought up in the first three lines of this paragraph & then some.
Fire up for Homecoming 2007!!
"wait until next year..."
The inevitable has happened: the Chicago Cubs are now out of the playoffs, losing their series to the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-0.
For plenty of diehard Cubs fans, the insightful words "Wait until next year" seem to be a bit much to stomach, even now. And why is that? Those same fans felt that this year would be the year for Chicago to put their postseason futility to a screeching halt by winning the World Series. But unfortunately, it just wasn't meant to be.
"Wait until next year..."
Even for fans of the Indianapolis Colts, those words were rather hard to take, each season they were denied an opportunity to do some great things (e.g. win the Super Bowl). Pittsburgh's defeat of the Colts in the 2006 AFC playoffs could have been the perfect impetus Tony Dungy & his team needed to prove his critics wrong. And last season, did they ever prove doubters wrong left & right; the words "Wait until next year..." indeed sound like a distant memory now that they've finally won a Super Bowl (& paid plenty of dues to make this possible).
Maybe next season could be the season when Chicago wins it all in the World Series; maybe no. I haven't really lost faith in the Cubbies although they got the rug swept from under them by a bunch of young bucks called the Arizona Diamondbacks. Even now, how can I?
"Wait until next year..." For plenty of Cubs fans such as myself, we're still waiting. And hoping. And believing. But for how much longer?
For plenty of diehard Cubs fans, the insightful words "Wait until next year" seem to be a bit much to stomach, even now. And why is that? Those same fans felt that this year would be the year for Chicago to put their postseason futility to a screeching halt by winning the World Series. But unfortunately, it just wasn't meant to be.
"Wait until next year..."
Even for fans of the Indianapolis Colts, those words were rather hard to take, each season they were denied an opportunity to do some great things (e.g. win the Super Bowl). Pittsburgh's defeat of the Colts in the 2006 AFC playoffs could have been the perfect impetus Tony Dungy & his team needed to prove his critics wrong. And last season, did they ever prove doubters wrong left & right; the words "Wait until next year..." indeed sound like a distant memory now that they've finally won a Super Bowl (& paid plenty of dues to make this possible).
Maybe next season could be the season when Chicago wins it all in the World Series; maybe no. I haven't really lost faith in the Cubbies although they got the rug swept from under them by a bunch of young bucks called the Arizona Diamondbacks. Even now, how can I?
"Wait until next year..." For plenty of Cubs fans such as myself, we're still waiting. And hoping. And believing. But for how much longer?
Friday, October 5, 2007
What now?
The Diamondbacks are one step closer to knocking my beloved Cubbies from postseason play, now that they're sporting a 2-0 lead in the whole affair.
Man, I thought that the Cubs would at least be ready to take it to Arizona early but much to the D-Backs' credit this hasn't happened. Hopefully the next game things will turn around; if not, the Cubbies are going to be calling it a season. Folks, I had 'em headed for the World Series but then again countless others besides myself are feeling the same way: What is up with Chicago?
It'll take another game to find out but from the looks of things, the D-Backs are firing on all cylinders, reminding us of the olden days when they had Randy Johnson on the mound & plenty of hitting firepower to back him up. The youthful ballclub which they are, Arizona is playing as if they're on a mission, knowing the pitfalls of overlooking their first opponent or taking them too lightly. As for the Cubs, they're running out of time to get back up on their feet & make this a series.
Game 3 is now or never & winner takes all; here's hoping that Chicago's fortunes change in short order.
Man, I thought that the Cubs would at least be ready to take it to Arizona early but much to the D-Backs' credit this hasn't happened. Hopefully the next game things will turn around; if not, the Cubbies are going to be calling it a season. Folks, I had 'em headed for the World Series but then again countless others besides myself are feeling the same way: What is up with Chicago?
It'll take another game to find out but from the looks of things, the D-Backs are firing on all cylinders, reminding us of the olden days when they had Randy Johnson on the mound & plenty of hitting firepower to back him up. The youthful ballclub which they are, Arizona is playing as if they're on a mission, knowing the pitfalls of overlooking their first opponent or taking them too lightly. As for the Cubs, they're running out of time to get back up on their feet & make this a series.
Game 3 is now or never & winner takes all; here's hoping that Chicago's fortunes change in short order.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Opening remarks
A couple weeks back, who knows how many fraternities ended up getting new guys (or duders as I prefer to call them). And of course, they're just getting their feet wet as they embark on an adventure of an indefinite duration, one of the transforming experiences most of these men will go through during their 4 or so years at college.
That's right. It's pledgeship.
Not only is it a time to make new friends & new connections along the way. It's also a time to put one's leadership skills to the test, skills that could work wonders once one is fully initiated into, say, Sigs or SAE. If you're up for hosting parties & are great at planning them accordingly/formulating where to hold your pledge bashes, sign up for social chair. If you're a pretty good leader who'll see to it that your fellow pledges are on the same page when it comes to getting things done, you'd do awesome as president. If you feel you & your fellow pledges should keep themselves accountable in terms of paying their pledgeship dues & other whatnot, give it a go as treasurer. At any rate, pledgeship is the springboard for who knows how many duders to step up, get involved any way they can...in short, build on their leadership, communication & networking skills, skills which are going to be beneficial not only after initiation but also in the real world as well.
There are those men who'll state the obvious, i.e. "Greek life isn't really for me after all," & this is understandable to a certain point. Seeing the obligations which their pledge programs entail, some are taken aback at demands which in a sense cramp their style or demands which they're just not up to. Some fold early when their grades take a hit. Others leave out of pressure from their fams. Some get kicked out of the pledge program for some of the pettiest stuff...& yet I'll guarantee you, 9 times out of 10 it'll be because of conduct unbecoming. But for the majority who stay on & are busting their tails to make their pledging experiences not just meaningful but some of the best days of their lives...Greek life & all of its benefits grow by a thousandfold!!
If there is something to be said about pledgeship, it might seem like a long road with lots of signs & obstacles to clear every now & then, not to forget plenty of twists & turns. But once the end of the road - initiation - has been reached, the meaning of one's quest to be a man of good character, a man of integrity, etc. become fully clear. Pledgeship is the one way to become each of the above & much more. In fact, it's the start of something big for every duder who feels that Greek life shouldn't be taken for granted.
That's right. It's pledgeship.
Not only is it a time to make new friends & new connections along the way. It's also a time to put one's leadership skills to the test, skills that could work wonders once one is fully initiated into, say, Sigs or SAE. If you're up for hosting parties & are great at planning them accordingly/formulating where to hold your pledge bashes, sign up for social chair. If you're a pretty good leader who'll see to it that your fellow pledges are on the same page when it comes to getting things done, you'd do awesome as president. If you feel you & your fellow pledges should keep themselves accountable in terms of paying their pledgeship dues & other whatnot, give it a go as treasurer. At any rate, pledgeship is the springboard for who knows how many duders to step up, get involved any way they can...in short, build on their leadership, communication & networking skills, skills which are going to be beneficial not only after initiation but also in the real world as well.
There are those men who'll state the obvious, i.e. "Greek life isn't really for me after all," & this is understandable to a certain point. Seeing the obligations which their pledge programs entail, some are taken aback at demands which in a sense cramp their style or demands which they're just not up to. Some fold early when their grades take a hit. Others leave out of pressure from their fams. Some get kicked out of the pledge program for some of the pettiest stuff...& yet I'll guarantee you, 9 times out of 10 it'll be because of conduct unbecoming. But for the majority who stay on & are busting their tails to make their pledging experiences not just meaningful but some of the best days of their lives...Greek life & all of its benefits grow by a thousandfold!!
If there is something to be said about pledgeship, it might seem like a long road with lots of signs & obstacles to clear every now & then, not to forget plenty of twists & turns. But once the end of the road - initiation - has been reached, the meaning of one's quest to be a man of good character, a man of integrity, etc. become fully clear. Pledgeship is the one way to become each of the above & much more. In fact, it's the start of something big for every duder who feels that Greek life shouldn't be taken for granted.
Two out of three aren't bad
In my last post, I focused on the down & out state of the San Diego Chargers, one of three teams whose hype so far this season is getting shut down quickly. Among the other two, I'll give a short order assessment on their state of affairs:
(1) The New Orleans Saints. I felt that they'd do great things, very great things in the NFC South if not the entire NL. Boy, was I ever wrong here. The dynamic duo of Drew Brees & Reggie Bush isn't performing up to their expectations & neither is their defense (in fact, their D is the only team in the NFL, if memory serves me well, which hasn't gotten a sack this season). But Brees & Bush are the two dudes I worry about the most: Brees because his touch is way off the mark, that is to say, he's not hooking them up with catches of 15+ yards, Bush because he's not running/catching the ball as much as he should. And (their opponent for this Sunday)Carolina's not going to make matters any easier for Naw'lins; the Panthers have won on their last 5 treks to the Superdome.
(2) The Bears. Again, I felt they'd pull a repeat of last year's success but so far this season they've been just plain lousy on offense. Defensively, banged-up players aside, they've been doing fine but offensively - & the performance of their first starting QB should ring bells - they've been gross, man...lol...seriously, they've been that inconsistent. Brian Griese may have looked like he was up to the task but his 3 INTs against Detroit are cause for concern. Who's next behind center, Kyle Orton? If only we knew. Green Bay is on a roll so far in the NFC North; playing catchup is one thing the Bears would rather not do at this time of year but from the looks of things if they want to win the division, much less get into the playoffs, they'll have to do just that. And yes, solve their QB dilemma.
Only one team who started out 0-4/1-3 has made its way into the playoffs & that's saying something. Already, San Diego, Chicago & New Orleans are finding out how hard they must fight just to get back into the swing of things.
(1) The New Orleans Saints. I felt that they'd do great things, very great things in the NFC South if not the entire NL. Boy, was I ever wrong here. The dynamic duo of Drew Brees & Reggie Bush isn't performing up to their expectations & neither is their defense (in fact, their D is the only team in the NFL, if memory serves me well, which hasn't gotten a sack this season). But Brees & Bush are the two dudes I worry about the most: Brees because his touch is way off the mark, that is to say, he's not hooking them up with catches of 15+ yards, Bush because he's not running/catching the ball as much as he should. And (their opponent for this Sunday)Carolina's not going to make matters any easier for Naw'lins; the Panthers have won on their last 5 treks to the Superdome.
(2) The Bears. Again, I felt they'd pull a repeat of last year's success but so far this season they've been just plain lousy on offense. Defensively, banged-up players aside, they've been doing fine but offensively - & the performance of their first starting QB should ring bells - they've been gross, man...lol...seriously, they've been that inconsistent. Brian Griese may have looked like he was up to the task but his 3 INTs against Detroit are cause for concern. Who's next behind center, Kyle Orton? If only we knew. Green Bay is on a roll so far in the NFC North; playing catchup is one thing the Bears would rather not do at this time of year but from the looks of things if they want to win the division, much less get into the playoffs, they'll have to do just that. And yes, solve their QB dilemma.
Only one team who started out 0-4/1-3 has made its way into the playoffs & that's saying something. Already, San Diego, Chicago & New Orleans are finding out how hard they must fight just to get back into the swing of things.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Charging after the Chargers
Aw man.
I thought that the San Diego Chargers were going to make a statement this season as a possible Super Bowl contender. But after looking at their current 1-3 start, I'm absolutely starting to have second thoughts on the Chargers altogether.
First of all, how do you let a AFC Western rival like the Chiefs beat you on your home turf? Well, that's exactly what San Diego allowed Kansas City to do this past Sunday & the fans are already speaking a piece of their mind about why on earth the VIPs in SD's front office chose Norv Turner to coach these dudes. "MAR-TY!! MAR-TY!!" That's proof on how much Marty Schottenheimer's missed back in San Diego; why he got cut loose in the first place is just shady, to tell you the truth. And to think that the Chargers had only two losses all of last season; they've got three so far...if that's not record breaking, what is?
Secondly, against New England, they looked like nothing & played like it. But then again, Pats QB Tom Brady, WR Randy Moss (back with a vengeance!!) & an at-the-ready defense realized that they didn't want to play catch-up against these guys either. At least the Chargers could have put up some sort of a fight, even against an offense as high-powered as New England's has become this season.
Third, (Gasp!!) they lost to the Packers. Sure, Green Bay QB Brett Favre has re-emerged as MVP material & is playing like he's never played before - awesome!! - but it's Norv's responsibility to get the team ready to play, even in a pretty imposing environment like Lambeau Field. To lose to a team whose star QB is back with a vengeance from the stats he's put up thus far is unacceptable if not plain lame.
San Diego, instead of playing like the hyped Super Bowl candidate so many folks have made them out to be, is playing more like the Average Joes of the NFL. And if they ever found a bad time to hit rock bottom, that time is now. The question is, with a coach whose rep in his other stints around the NFL hasn't been exactly stellar, when will they find the initiative to pick themselves up & finish strong for the remainder of this season?
I don't know. I just don't know. Only LT & company can answer that question before their season goes down the slippery slope for good.
I thought that the San Diego Chargers were going to make a statement this season as a possible Super Bowl contender. But after looking at their current 1-3 start, I'm absolutely starting to have second thoughts on the Chargers altogether.
First of all, how do you let a AFC Western rival like the Chiefs beat you on your home turf? Well, that's exactly what San Diego allowed Kansas City to do this past Sunday & the fans are already speaking a piece of their mind about why on earth the VIPs in SD's front office chose Norv Turner to coach these dudes. "MAR-TY!! MAR-TY!!" That's proof on how much Marty Schottenheimer's missed back in San Diego; why he got cut loose in the first place is just shady, to tell you the truth. And to think that the Chargers had only two losses all of last season; they've got three so far...if that's not record breaking, what is?
Secondly, against New England, they looked like nothing & played like it. But then again, Pats QB Tom Brady, WR Randy Moss (back with a vengeance!!) & an at-the-ready defense realized that they didn't want to play catch-up against these guys either. At least the Chargers could have put up some sort of a fight, even against an offense as high-powered as New England's has become this season.
Third, (Gasp!!) they lost to the Packers. Sure, Green Bay QB Brett Favre has re-emerged as MVP material & is playing like he's never played before - awesome!! - but it's Norv's responsibility to get the team ready to play, even in a pretty imposing environment like Lambeau Field. To lose to a team whose star QB is back with a vengeance from the stats he's put up thus far is unacceptable if not plain lame.
San Diego, instead of playing like the hyped Super Bowl candidate so many folks have made them out to be, is playing more like the Average Joes of the NFL. And if they ever found a bad time to hit rock bottom, that time is now. The question is, with a coach whose rep in his other stints around the NFL hasn't been exactly stellar, when will they find the initiative to pick themselves up & finish strong for the remainder of this season?
I don't know. I just don't know. Only LT & company can answer that question before their season goes down the slippery slope for good.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
The (un)likely heroes of the day
For this postseason in MLB, the National League without a doubt is chock full of surprises.
First of all, it doesn't have the usual suspects: that is to say, the New York Mets & the St. Louis Cardinals. As we should all know by now, the Mets croaked in their last regular season game, allowing the Phillies to win the NL East & in the process win a trip into postseason play. Then of course the Cards have had it rough all season, just struggling to play catchup with Milwaukee & the Cubbies among so many other ballclubs vying to make the postseason.
Secondly, it has teams who have paid their dues & kept their faith just to make it this far. The aforementioned Phillies are living proof of that: They could have folded up their tents midway through this season but they kept believing, they had the confidence that they could do some good things like winning their division. If that doesn't suffice, they've had to endure 14 years of waiting just to get back into postseason play; no doubt this wait was overdue & they deserved to be here.
How about the Chicago Cubs? They deserve to be in postseason play as well; it's been awhile since they were even in the playoffs. If the Cubbies found a perfect time to break out with an awesome season, this year could very well be the one but first things first with...
the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the typical NL West rivals (the Dodgers, Padres, Giants & Rockies) all over their radar, determined to make a statement on who's best in the West division, the D-Backs came through with great hitting, solid pitching...& persevered with the best record in the league.
Then we've got Colorado. No one was expecting the Rockies to make it this far; I had my eyes set on San Diego grabbing a wild-card spot. But if there's definitely one surprise team to take note of, it's the Rockies; they may not get all the accolades as the above ballclubs but in a word, I'd tell a lot of folks to look out because they're for real...ironically enough they played their hearts out last night against the Padres to prove that very point.
Wow, what more can I say? Just seeing the roster of teams in NL postseason play, I can't help but wonder how far we've come in so little time. Yes, I'm definitely surprised on a majority of the teams who got in with the exception of Chicago...this year could be where they win it all.
Then again, you never know; anything can happen.
First of all, it doesn't have the usual suspects: that is to say, the New York Mets & the St. Louis Cardinals. As we should all know by now, the Mets croaked in their last regular season game, allowing the Phillies to win the NL East & in the process win a trip into postseason play. Then of course the Cards have had it rough all season, just struggling to play catchup with Milwaukee & the Cubbies among so many other ballclubs vying to make the postseason.
Secondly, it has teams who have paid their dues & kept their faith just to make it this far. The aforementioned Phillies are living proof of that: They could have folded up their tents midway through this season but they kept believing, they had the confidence that they could do some good things like winning their division. If that doesn't suffice, they've had to endure 14 years of waiting just to get back into postseason play; no doubt this wait was overdue & they deserved to be here.
How about the Chicago Cubs? They deserve to be in postseason play as well; it's been awhile since they were even in the playoffs. If the Cubbies found a perfect time to break out with an awesome season, this year could very well be the one but first things first with...
the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the typical NL West rivals (the Dodgers, Padres, Giants & Rockies) all over their radar, determined to make a statement on who's best in the West division, the D-Backs came through with great hitting, solid pitching...& persevered with the best record in the league.
Then we've got Colorado. No one was expecting the Rockies to make it this far; I had my eyes set on San Diego grabbing a wild-card spot. But if there's definitely one surprise team to take note of, it's the Rockies; they may not get all the accolades as the above ballclubs but in a word, I'd tell a lot of folks to look out because they're for real...ironically enough they played their hearts out last night against the Padres to prove that very point.
Wow, what more can I say? Just seeing the roster of teams in NL postseason play, I can't help but wonder how far we've come in so little time. Yes, I'm definitely surprised on a majority of the teams who got in with the exception of Chicago...this year could be where they win it all.
Then again, you never know; anything can happen.
Monday, October 1, 2007
A Long Time Coming
For much of this season, the Chicago Cubs have had a huge chip on their shoulder called the Milwaukee Brewers. Even near the close of the regular season, the Brewers still hung around in hopes that they would get the NL Central or at least a wild-card bid. But no. The Cubbies are winners of the NL Central going up against the Arizona Diamondbacks & the Brewers are now sitting at home thinking about what might have been. Go Cubbies...it's been a long time since they got a chance to return into the playoffs. Could this year be a banner year for Chicago?
Speaking of what might have been: the Mets are also sitting at home, trying to make sense of their late regular season meltdown, one that cost them the NL East & with it a chance to make a racket in the postseason. The Philadelphia Phillies, the MLB's most losingest ballclub ever, is waltzing into the playoffs instead & should be feeling good that they paid their dues to get here (the last time they were in the postseason or won in their division was 1993). On the other hand, the Mets are at a loss to figure out why they let a 7-game lead slip away from their hands in the last 3 weeks or so...if there was a perfect example of self-destruction at its finest in the MLB, the Mets are that team you want to talk about more than anyone else.
Then one more game remains to be played to determine who gets to go on to the postseason as a wild card team when San Diego takes on Colorado...should shape up to be an interesting game as each ballclub is going to play as if there's nothing left to lose at this point.
In the NL, craziness has been the word of the day for the past few weeks. But at least there's some order in the court now, some of it coming from unlikely sources...Oh wait, the Cubs were overdue for a trip to the postseason. Then the Phillies...they love to play baseball; they never stopped believing that they could win the NL East even though their pitching was enough to make a lot of folks roll their eyes in despair. Arizona, too, is returning to its former days of glory as well. As for the winner of the Padres-Rockies game...no comment just yet.
At any rate, this postseason in the NL should be an awesome one if not crazy like the regular season. Of course, I'm rooting for the Cubs as always.
Fire up!!
Speaking of what might have been: the Mets are also sitting at home, trying to make sense of their late regular season meltdown, one that cost them the NL East & with it a chance to make a racket in the postseason. The Philadelphia Phillies, the MLB's most losingest ballclub ever, is waltzing into the playoffs instead & should be feeling good that they paid their dues to get here (the last time they were in the postseason or won in their division was 1993). On the other hand, the Mets are at a loss to figure out why they let a 7-game lead slip away from their hands in the last 3 weeks or so...if there was a perfect example of self-destruction at its finest in the MLB, the Mets are that team you want to talk about more than anyone else.
Then one more game remains to be played to determine who gets to go on to the postseason as a wild card team when San Diego takes on Colorado...should shape up to be an interesting game as each ballclub is going to play as if there's nothing left to lose at this point.
In the NL, craziness has been the word of the day for the past few weeks. But at least there's some order in the court now, some of it coming from unlikely sources...Oh wait, the Cubs were overdue for a trip to the postseason. Then the Phillies...they love to play baseball; they never stopped believing that they could win the NL East even though their pitching was enough to make a lot of folks roll their eyes in despair. Arizona, too, is returning to its former days of glory as well. As for the winner of the Padres-Rockies game...no comment just yet.
At any rate, this postseason in the NL should be an awesome one if not crazy like the regular season. Of course, I'm rooting for the Cubs as always.
Fire up!!
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