I am sure you have had this discussion before. Who is the greatest American rock band of all time? At first the question seems easy enough but as you think back through all of the greatest bands you soon realize just how many were NOT from America. Wasn't the U.S. the birthplace of Rock 'n Roll?
First, a set of criteria needs to be set because this can be very opinionated and one's taste could vary drastically from another's. Hence Brittney Spears sells billions of records. (Isn't it funny that we all refer to Spears as a bad music example? Poor thing.)
This is a quick and general set of standards to start us off. A "great band" has to:
1) Have music considered to be of good quality to the masses or reliable critics
2) Remain successful for an extended period of time
3) Sell a significant amount of their work
4) Be well known and recognizeable
5) Be within the genre of Rock (R&B, Soul, Rap, Electronica etc are a different topic)
This could lead to some great debate so let's have at it. Before long my criteria may change drastically due to apsects I am missing and so on. I eagerly await my Indie expert to chime in.
So who are the greates rock bands? The Who? Beattles? Rolling Stones? Led Zepplin? Pink Floyd? U2? AC/DC?
I deliberately named those first since they are not American but generally though of as great.
Who can America contribute? Aerosmith? Metallica? Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers? Are they considered a band like the others? The Beach Boys? Are they rock? The Eagles? Blondie? The Cars? They are American right? Does Punk Rock count? If so, there are more great British Punk Rock bands aren't there?
What do you guys think?
Thursday, March 27, 2008
NBA Finals Preview???
As I watch ESPN Sportscenter I keep hearing the Suns v. Celtics matchup last night refered to as a "NBA Finals Preview." It makes sense to hype that game in this way since both teams are among the best in their respective conferences but they overlooked another game played that same night that could easily be the same.
The Cavs played the West leading New Orleans Hornets in an exciting game with two shots in the final 8 seconds that seemed to be game winners although ultimately only one was the clincher. This game also featured MVP caliber players in LeBron James and Chris Paul. It had big time performances from supporting players such as Peja Stoyakovich and Zydrunas Ilgauskas. The game winning shot was made by David West.
I continue to stand by my earlier post that the Cavs are a legitimate contender in the East. Boston and Detroit remain a foregone conclusion to represent the East by most NBA fans around the league but let's not forget the Cavs have LeBron James. In addition, they did beat Detroit in 6 games last year. They could have easily swept them as well. Detroit hasn't added anybody significant to that squad and the Cavs have added important pieces. The Cavs just beat Detroit and beat them pretty bad with this new squad. A new squad that is still developing an identity together.
If I recall correctly, the Cavs and Celtics have split their season series. They haven't exactly run our Cavs out of the building yet. We were even missing LeBron in two of the games. Speaking of injuries, if you want to throw the Cavs record in our face, don't forget this team has made it this far riddled with injuries form James to Gibson to Andy to Sasha to Wallace to Z and the list goes on. All key components. At one point in the season four of the top 7 guys were out at the SAME TIME! Also, the trip to China early in the year with the holdouts of Sasha and Andy led to a slow start. The Cavs record is misleading.
With all of that said, the real crime here is the fact that the opposition and the winner of this possible "Finals Preview" has been overlooked all year for some unforgiving reason. The Hornets are currently leading the intense Western Conference by two games in the loss column. Please understand how amazing this is! The West consists of powerhouse team after powerhouse team. It makes the East look like JV for crying out loud. The defending champ Spurs are not even the best in this conference. Four teams have 49 wins. The Rockets rolled off over 20 wins in a row and still don't lead the conference. The Hornets do. But nobody is talking about them as a possible Finals representative!!!
The Hornets just keep on winning proving Byron Scott is the real deal. They have Paul who is a legitimate MVP candidate. They have a nice inside-outside game with Tyson Chandler and Peja. West is good player. Their role players get it done. Bottom line, the proof is in the record. 49-21 in the West. Wow.
I blog on and on about my beloved Cavs because they are the team I have pledged my allegiance to in the NBA but the Hornets are getting shafted. I like teams that fly under the radar though. Here's to the Cavs v. Hornets in the Finals. THAT would be fun to watch.
But what do I know?
The Cavs played the West leading New Orleans Hornets in an exciting game with two shots in the final 8 seconds that seemed to be game winners although ultimately only one was the clincher. This game also featured MVP caliber players in LeBron James and Chris Paul. It had big time performances from supporting players such as Peja Stoyakovich and Zydrunas Ilgauskas. The game winning shot was made by David West.
I continue to stand by my earlier post that the Cavs are a legitimate contender in the East. Boston and Detroit remain a foregone conclusion to represent the East by most NBA fans around the league but let's not forget the Cavs have LeBron James. In addition, they did beat Detroit in 6 games last year. They could have easily swept them as well. Detroit hasn't added anybody significant to that squad and the Cavs have added important pieces. The Cavs just beat Detroit and beat them pretty bad with this new squad. A new squad that is still developing an identity together.
If I recall correctly, the Cavs and Celtics have split their season series. They haven't exactly run our Cavs out of the building yet. We were even missing LeBron in two of the games. Speaking of injuries, if you want to throw the Cavs record in our face, don't forget this team has made it this far riddled with injuries form James to Gibson to Andy to Sasha to Wallace to Z and the list goes on. All key components. At one point in the season four of the top 7 guys were out at the SAME TIME! Also, the trip to China early in the year with the holdouts of Sasha and Andy led to a slow start. The Cavs record is misleading.
With all of that said, the real crime here is the fact that the opposition and the winner of this possible "Finals Preview" has been overlooked all year for some unforgiving reason. The Hornets are currently leading the intense Western Conference by two games in the loss column. Please understand how amazing this is! The West consists of powerhouse team after powerhouse team. It makes the East look like JV for crying out loud. The defending champ Spurs are not even the best in this conference. Four teams have 49 wins. The Rockets rolled off over 20 wins in a row and still don't lead the conference. The Hornets do. But nobody is talking about them as a possible Finals representative!!!
The Hornets just keep on winning proving Byron Scott is the real deal. They have Paul who is a legitimate MVP candidate. They have a nice inside-outside game with Tyson Chandler and Peja. West is good player. Their role players get it done. Bottom line, the proof is in the record. 49-21 in the West. Wow.
I blog on and on about my beloved Cavs because they are the team I have pledged my allegiance to in the NBA but the Hornets are getting shafted. I like teams that fly under the radar though. Here's to the Cavs v. Hornets in the Finals. THAT would be fun to watch.
But what do I know?
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
LeBron on Vogue Cover
LeBron has found himself in the center of some controversey recently for his picture on the cover of the April 2008 edition of Vogue magazine with Gisele Bundchen, the girlfriend of golden boy Tom Brady. Fortunately this controversey is not of the legal variety or anything that seriously questions LeBron's integrity in my mind. This questions Vogue's integrity before James'.
The problem some people are having with this cover shot is that it has racist overtones. There have been various references to "King Kong." One could see the questionable tone of this picture. You do not have to look hard to get the feel that it is an angry, scary black man victimizing a beautiful, pure white woman. He is screaming and holding her in his arm. He is big and strong. She is beautiful and somewhat fragile in fancy clothes. But I'll be honest, that is not what I thought when I saw the picture.
What I saw was LeBron dribbling a basketball in one hand because that is what he is known for doing. The look is a common one he gives after dunks or big plays. Gisele seems to be along for the ride and enjoying it. She didn't seemed scared or worried. I figured it was what models do. I assumed she was running which made sense if she was with an athlete in a photo shoot.
With that said, I do understand the point of view of those people seeing it in a different light. I wonder if this is a case of hypersensitivity or over-the-top political correctness or really something to worry about. I highly doubt the photographers were going for a King Kongesque cover but one would think somebody in the hallways of Vogue would have picked up on the possibility of the "racist pic" point of view.
I mean I am not any sort of expert. I watch all these reality contest shows with my wife regarding fashion and models and have no clue what is "good" and "bad" and why. They say certain outfits or runway walks or poses are too "this" or too "that" and show a certain feeling or attitude that I don't get at all. When I think something looks well done, I hear how bad it is. I am the same way with art period. So my opinion can't be close to right in this case either since I am "art challenged."
I read an article on MSN.com regarding this cover shot that had a quote saying through the years we always see black men depicted as mean, angry criminals. They picked out several examples. I see where they are going with this and I do notice this throughout the media but we could back and find examples of angry, white rockers on the cover of various magazines looking scary as well. And I bet there are plenty of positive cover shots of black men as well. In fact, LeBron himself has been depicted in pleasant shots numerous times.
Let's be careful of how we show the world different images, but let's not go overboard. I'm eager for opinions on this.
The problem some people are having with this cover shot is that it has racist overtones. There have been various references to "King Kong." One could see the questionable tone of this picture. You do not have to look hard to get the feel that it is an angry, scary black man victimizing a beautiful, pure white woman. He is screaming and holding her in his arm. He is big and strong. She is beautiful and somewhat fragile in fancy clothes. But I'll be honest, that is not what I thought when I saw the picture.
What I saw was LeBron dribbling a basketball in one hand because that is what he is known for doing. The look is a common one he gives after dunks or big plays. Gisele seems to be along for the ride and enjoying it. She didn't seemed scared or worried. I figured it was what models do. I assumed she was running which made sense if she was with an athlete in a photo shoot.
With that said, I do understand the point of view of those people seeing it in a different light. I wonder if this is a case of hypersensitivity or over-the-top political correctness or really something to worry about. I highly doubt the photographers were going for a King Kongesque cover but one would think somebody in the hallways of Vogue would have picked up on the possibility of the "racist pic" point of view.
I mean I am not any sort of expert. I watch all these reality contest shows with my wife regarding fashion and models and have no clue what is "good" and "bad" and why. They say certain outfits or runway walks or poses are too "this" or too "that" and show a certain feeling or attitude that I don't get at all. When I think something looks well done, I hear how bad it is. I am the same way with art period. So my opinion can't be close to right in this case either since I am "art challenged."
I read an article on MSN.com regarding this cover shot that had a quote saying through the years we always see black men depicted as mean, angry criminals. They picked out several examples. I see where they are going with this and I do notice this throughout the media but we could back and find examples of angry, white rockers on the cover of various magazines looking scary as well. And I bet there are plenty of positive cover shots of black men as well. In fact, LeBron himself has been depicted in pleasant shots numerous times.
Let's be careful of how we show the world different images, but let's not go overboard. I'm eager for opinions on this.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Terrelle Pryor
The Buckeyes got their recruit. Snatched him away from our bitter rival Wolverines. The QB sensation from PA who looks to be more of a Vince Young type than Troy Smith type, is coming in with a ton of hype. He also comes in with some baggage.
Now it is time to see if Jim Tressel can work his magic once again as he did with Troy Smith who also had some baggage when he entered the OSU program. He was a great example of what Tressel can do with a young man if he listens just as Maurice Clarett was the antithesis.
On paper Pryor looks to be bigger, faster and have a stronger arm than Columbus' favorite son, Troy Smith. We know OSU has an offense that will fit his game as long as he allows Tressel to work with him as a passer like Smith did. It would be worth it as he got Smith a Heisman trophy for playing in the pocket first, running second.
I am happy we got Mr. Pryor but I worry he won't be worth the hype. I remember a certain point guard from the same state of PA that was supposed to be awesome and take the reigns from Scoonie Penn. His name? Brandon Fuss-Cheatham. Who? Yeah, thought so. Or what about Lydell Ross? Super tailback from Florida (or was it California?) The list goes on. Troy wasn't so hyped. Eddie George...not so hyped. But these guys got it done.
I also worry about the history of Pryor and how the hype may have gone to his head at such a young age. He can be humbled REAL fast. Ask Lydell Ross, Jaja Riley, Fuss-Cheatham, and more.
Bottom line, regardless of his success or lackthereof, Michigan and "I wanna be" Rich Rodriquez did NOT get him. And in his style of offense, Pryor would have fit nicely. He could have been the next Pat White. But that won't happen now. So this may work out just fine in the end no matter what.
I had to make my opinion public because I am still kicking myself for not having any proof that I called the Kidd to Dallas trade as a bad one before it happened. I know we all wanted him in Cleveland, but giving up half the team wouldn't have been worth it in my mind. Ask Dallas how they feel about the trade now. Or wait a couple weeks when they don't make the playoffs. I still feel good about the trade Fery DID make. Joe Smith has been great and I am eager to see West grow with LeBron.
Now it is time to see if Jim Tressel can work his magic once again as he did with Troy Smith who also had some baggage when he entered the OSU program. He was a great example of what Tressel can do with a young man if he listens just as Maurice Clarett was the antithesis.
On paper Pryor looks to be bigger, faster and have a stronger arm than Columbus' favorite son, Troy Smith. We know OSU has an offense that will fit his game as long as he allows Tressel to work with him as a passer like Smith did. It would be worth it as he got Smith a Heisman trophy for playing in the pocket first, running second.
I am happy we got Mr. Pryor but I worry he won't be worth the hype. I remember a certain point guard from the same state of PA that was supposed to be awesome and take the reigns from Scoonie Penn. His name? Brandon Fuss-Cheatham. Who? Yeah, thought so. Or what about Lydell Ross? Super tailback from Florida (or was it California?) The list goes on. Troy wasn't so hyped. Eddie George...not so hyped. But these guys got it done.
I also worry about the history of Pryor and how the hype may have gone to his head at such a young age. He can be humbled REAL fast. Ask Lydell Ross, Jaja Riley, Fuss-Cheatham, and more.
Bottom line, regardless of his success or lackthereof, Michigan and "I wanna be" Rich Rodriquez did NOT get him. And in his style of offense, Pryor would have fit nicely. He could have been the next Pat White. But that won't happen now. So this may work out just fine in the end no matter what.
I had to make my opinion public because I am still kicking myself for not having any proof that I called the Kidd to Dallas trade as a bad one before it happened. I know we all wanted him in Cleveland, but giving up half the team wouldn't have been worth it in my mind. Ask Dallas how they feel about the trade now. Or wait a couple weeks when they don't make the playoffs. I still feel good about the trade Fery DID make. Joe Smith has been great and I am eager to see West grow with LeBron.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Good Friday
Today Christians around the world celebrated Good Friday although "celebrated" may not be the correct word. Good Friday represents the crucification of Jesus Christ. Therefore, I am not so sure it is something one celebrates although the purpose was to free us from sin so I suppose that would be something worth celebrating.
I have blogged my feelings on Christianity and personal experience with it as I was raised Catholic. And I have been open with my questioning of this experience and how I am proceeding through my journey of spirituality.
I find myself thinking about the story of Jesus' resurrection each year about this time though. It is a story that I appreciate and respect. I take alot from it. I usually recall a movie I saw several decades ago as a child when we first got cable. My visions of what it all looked like come from that movie. I would like to share with you my thoughts regarding this beautiful and powerful story.
There are three things I take from the story. They are: faith, strength and fortitude, and leading by example. These are three lessons I have tried to apply to my life. At times I am more successful than others but I maintain the goal to live by these.
FAITH.....After Jesus was buried it is well known that he rose from his grave in three days. I believe it was Mary Magdeline (if not another of the woman apostles that are never recognized as apostles) who found the empty grave. She ran back to report to the others who traveled with Jesus and followed his teachings but only two believed her and ran back. I may be off on some details and apologize to Christians who may be particular about these things. But to be honest, since most of you pick and choose what details you are "on" or "off" with in the Bible, I can do the same. So I am not THAT sorry. My point is how difficult yet important it is to have faith in what you believe. Think of how difficult it was during those three days for that group of persecuted people who had their leader and inspiration killed waiting for this claim of resurrection to occur.
STRENGTH AND FORTITUDE....We all deal with our "crosses to bear" in life. And this story is exactly where that saying came from. I remember the scene of Jesus being convicted and receiving the crown of thorns followed by the long walk through the city streets carrying the cross as crowds of people taunted him. All as he knew he was walking to his painful death. Throughout this whole ordeal he stayed the course. He knew the importance of what he was doing. At the cross he was stabbed, spit on, nailed to wood and left to die a slow death. He showed unbelieveable strength and fortitude. How bad is what we go through in comparison to this? I understand he is God but this is still a lesson for us to learn. We need to maintain our focus and strength no matter how bad things are. I really have a hard, hard time with this in my life.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE.......Through these series of events and his life as a whole, Jesus gave us a model of how to handle ourselves. he was a perfect example of strength, class, intelligence, patience, goodness, love, care and much more. There is something behind those WWJD things as silly as they seem some times. As a teacher and a father and an adult, it is critical that I lead by example. I need to "be the better person." I need to rise above my human emotions and do the right thing. We all do. I have tried really, really hard to do this in my interaction with my daughter's mother (my baby's mama). There have been many times I have been extremely frustrated and bit my lip for what I thought was the greater good for my daughter and myself. But it is not easy.
I find myself taking shots a radical Bible thumpers. I am not comfortable limiting my spirituality to particular dogmas or theologies. I prefer finding my way to the truth without limitations or exclusion. But this doesn't mean I am anti-Bible or Christianity or any other particular belief system. There are plenty of beautiful stories and lessons that can be taken and I try to take them.
I have blogged my feelings on Christianity and personal experience with it as I was raised Catholic. And I have been open with my questioning of this experience and how I am proceeding through my journey of spirituality.
I find myself thinking about the story of Jesus' resurrection each year about this time though. It is a story that I appreciate and respect. I take alot from it. I usually recall a movie I saw several decades ago as a child when we first got cable. My visions of what it all looked like come from that movie. I would like to share with you my thoughts regarding this beautiful and powerful story.
There are three things I take from the story. They are: faith, strength and fortitude, and leading by example. These are three lessons I have tried to apply to my life. At times I am more successful than others but I maintain the goal to live by these.
FAITH.....After Jesus was buried it is well known that he rose from his grave in three days. I believe it was Mary Magdeline (if not another of the woman apostles that are never recognized as apostles) who found the empty grave. She ran back to report to the others who traveled with Jesus and followed his teachings but only two believed her and ran back. I may be off on some details and apologize to Christians who may be particular about these things. But to be honest, since most of you pick and choose what details you are "on" or "off" with in the Bible, I can do the same. So I am not THAT sorry. My point is how difficult yet important it is to have faith in what you believe. Think of how difficult it was during those three days for that group of persecuted people who had their leader and inspiration killed waiting for this claim of resurrection to occur.
STRENGTH AND FORTITUDE....We all deal with our "crosses to bear" in life. And this story is exactly where that saying came from. I remember the scene of Jesus being convicted and receiving the crown of thorns followed by the long walk through the city streets carrying the cross as crowds of people taunted him. All as he knew he was walking to his painful death. Throughout this whole ordeal he stayed the course. He knew the importance of what he was doing. At the cross he was stabbed, spit on, nailed to wood and left to die a slow death. He showed unbelieveable strength and fortitude. How bad is what we go through in comparison to this? I understand he is God but this is still a lesson for us to learn. We need to maintain our focus and strength no matter how bad things are. I really have a hard, hard time with this in my life.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE.......Through these series of events and his life as a whole, Jesus gave us a model of how to handle ourselves. he was a perfect example of strength, class, intelligence, patience, goodness, love, care and much more. There is something behind those WWJD things as silly as they seem some times. As a teacher and a father and an adult, it is critical that I lead by example. I need to "be the better person." I need to rise above my human emotions and do the right thing. We all do. I have tried really, really hard to do this in my interaction with my daughter's mother (my baby's mama). There have been many times I have been extremely frustrated and bit my lip for what I thought was the greater good for my daughter and myself. But it is not easy.
I find myself taking shots a radical Bible thumpers. I am not comfortable limiting my spirituality to particular dogmas or theologies. I prefer finding my way to the truth without limitations or exclusion. But this doesn't mean I am anti-Bible or Christianity or any other particular belief system. There are plenty of beautiful stories and lessons that can be taken and I try to take them.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
A Great Analogy for ME!
I was thinking about the upcoming softball season here in Central Ohio. I thought about how I will most likely end up pitching for one of the teams I plan to play with this summer. Apparently one member of the team thinks I "want" to pitch. Not sure how that got in his head since that is not the case but it's cool. I keep saying I'll play anywhere and I will so whatever. I just like playing. Some positions are more fun than others but I try to be a team player (another thing this particular teammate seems to disagree with).
To my point, I do not mind pitching and therefore find myself doing just that...pitching. I don't ask to be the pitcher, I just end up doing it. (Unless of course that is my way on the team) The reason is not because I am any good at it. There are much better pitchers than I. Let's face it, pitching in softball is not a thing of great skill or athleticism. You just lob the ball over the plate. And I have neither of the aforementioned traits.
But I think it is very difficult to be a good softball pitcher. We had a guy, Eddie, who was a good softball pitcher but physical limitations have gotten the best of the poor guy. On the other hand, it is very easy to be a bad pitcher. For example, you cannot strike guys out in softball really, but you sure can walk a ton of guys. There is nothing much worse for a fielder than to sit out there helpless to the endless parade of opponents walking around the diamond scoring run after run with no chance to get an out. Trust me. I have been there. And it is worse when they are bunch of "softball guys" that look like jackasses in the dugout talking about it with their Oakley's on and barbed wire tats and four wristbands up and down their arms.
My point to this post is that I fit right in the middle. Not skillful and tricky like Steady Eddie, the wiley ol' vet, but not the merry-go-round pitcher from my first years in Hilliard. Not the hockey goalie Jeremy from our champion year, but not the boring walk-a-thon that led to mercy after mercy. This seems to mirror me in real life. I can't claim to be good at anything. No trophies, awards, accomplishments or stories to brag about, but for the most part I have been good enough to belong on the field. Or at least in the team picture as they say nowadays.
King of Mediocrity I suppose. Doesn't sound too flattering does it? Well, as long as I get to keep playing, I'm good. People and experiences. That is what it's all about my friends. People and experiences.
To my point, I do not mind pitching and therefore find myself doing just that...pitching. I don't ask to be the pitcher, I just end up doing it. (Unless of course that is my way on the team) The reason is not because I am any good at it. There are much better pitchers than I. Let's face it, pitching in softball is not a thing of great skill or athleticism. You just lob the ball over the plate. And I have neither of the aforementioned traits.
But I think it is very difficult to be a good softball pitcher. We had a guy, Eddie, who was a good softball pitcher but physical limitations have gotten the best of the poor guy. On the other hand, it is very easy to be a bad pitcher. For example, you cannot strike guys out in softball really, but you sure can walk a ton of guys. There is nothing much worse for a fielder than to sit out there helpless to the endless parade of opponents walking around the diamond scoring run after run with no chance to get an out. Trust me. I have been there. And it is worse when they are bunch of "softball guys" that look like jackasses in the dugout talking about it with their Oakley's on and barbed wire tats and four wristbands up and down their arms.
My point to this post is that I fit right in the middle. Not skillful and tricky like Steady Eddie, the wiley ol' vet, but not the merry-go-round pitcher from my first years in Hilliard. Not the hockey goalie Jeremy from our champion year, but not the boring walk-a-thon that led to mercy after mercy. This seems to mirror me in real life. I can't claim to be good at anything. No trophies, awards, accomplishments or stories to brag about, but for the most part I have been good enough to belong on the field. Or at least in the team picture as they say nowadays.
King of Mediocrity I suppose. Doesn't sound too flattering does it? Well, as long as I get to keep playing, I'm good. People and experiences. That is what it's all about my friends. People and experiences.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
This one is for Nathan IV
I don't know you very well Nathan, but I know you have a passion for much that I do. One of those things would be sports.
MVP? Kobe? LeBron? Garnett? Paul? Who am I missing?
Let's discuss why James is a runaway MVP.
First, he is an all round stat stuffer. A triple double machine. This year in particular his triple double games have significantly increased.
Second, he is scoring close to 30 points a game. (I am too tired to validate my claims with actual stats tonight so I am going to stick to general statements) Many of these points in critical, clutch situations either at the end of games or to stop runs or start runs by the Cavs.
Third, he is the best during money time...that being the fourth quarter. He flat out owns the last 12 minutes. The Cavs as a team lead the league or darn near close to it in 4th quarter comebacks and it is due to LeBron's domination during that time.
Also, he is the obvious leader of the team and carries them on his shoulders on a nightly basis.
In addition, he plays much better defense than he gets credit for. Granted, he isn't all world, I get that, but he plays the passing lanes as good as anyone and is improving each year.
It's LeBron's turn this year. He is MVP.
MVP? Kobe? LeBron? Garnett? Paul? Who am I missing?
Let's discuss why James is a runaway MVP.
First, he is an all round stat stuffer. A triple double machine. This year in particular his triple double games have significantly increased.
Second, he is scoring close to 30 points a game. (I am too tired to validate my claims with actual stats tonight so I am going to stick to general statements) Many of these points in critical, clutch situations either at the end of games or to stop runs or start runs by the Cavs.
Third, he is the best during money time...that being the fourth quarter. He flat out owns the last 12 minutes. The Cavs as a team lead the league or darn near close to it in 4th quarter comebacks and it is due to LeBron's domination during that time.
Also, he is the obvious leader of the team and carries them on his shoulders on a nightly basis.
In addition, he plays much better defense than he gets credit for. Granted, he isn't all world, I get that, but he plays the passing lanes as good as anyone and is improving each year.
It's LeBron's turn this year. He is MVP.
This one if for Mike T
Looks like MY Ohio St. Buckeyes may get another shot at YOUR Cleveland ST. Vikings in the NIT. What do you think about that?
I am not much of a follower of the NIT even when the Buckeyes have been in it in the past but I don't recall CSU playing too often in the post season tourney. Is that correct? Does that make it a big deal for the CSU basketball program?
It is a disappointment for the Bucks obviously. As a Buckeye fan yourself, I don't need to tell you that. It is interesting watching the game and cheering for my team to win but not realy having the same fire in the belly. It is alot like watching OSU Women's basketball. I cheer for my team but just can't get that worked up for it.
I am not much of a follower of the NIT even when the Buckeyes have been in it in the past but I don't recall CSU playing too often in the post season tourney. Is that correct? Does that make it a big deal for the CSU basketball program?
It is a disappointment for the Bucks obviously. As a Buckeye fan yourself, I don't need to tell you that. It is interesting watching the game and cheering for my team to win but not realy having the same fire in the belly. It is alot like watching OSU Women's basketball. I cheer for my team but just can't get that worked up for it.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Stop Complaining!
Once again the AM sportstalk radio airwaves are filled with talk of how the 65 team basketball tournament isn't right. This happens every year with numerous suggestions of how to fix it. I have heard ideas ranging from letting more teams in to eliminating the conference tournaments.
Mike and Mike In the Morning on ESPN Radio discussed whether teams should be selected based upon who is the best 65 teams versus rewarding those teams who had the best seasons.
All of this is fine. I enjoy the debate and let's face it, this is what 24 hour sportstalk radio is all about. This is fun banter. Where my frustration lies is when we have people jump up on their soapboxes in December and trash the BCS as college football's system for determing a championship. They then refer to the hallowed system of a playoff where the championship is decided on the field or in this case court as the proper way to annoint a champion. Now we are at the doorstep of just such a system and they claim that this system is flawed because there is too much subjectivity in determing the participant. Well......if it is flawed then maybe it isn't so great after all! I thought the tournament was the ultimate way of solving the great mystery of who is #1! So which is it? BCS or Playoff?
In all fairness I may be taking opinions from different people and attaching them to others forming a contradiction that isn't there. Obvsiously making generalizations is a bad idea.
But seriously, you know what I am talking about. The inundation of anti-BCS/pro-playoff talk during the Bowl season followed in the spring by the problems with the tourney talk. If this playoff system is so much better then we should quiting complaining about it when we actually get it.
I like both. I think we should have both the way they are. I am not complaining. If my Buckeyes are left out I'll be upset but I won't feel the system is flawed. They didn't do enough in the regular season to get in. Point blank...bottom line.
Who am I to complain after watching my team in the BCS championship two years in a row get blasted, obviously not deserving to be there (at least this year with the loss to Illinois and weak schedule)?
Mike and Mike In the Morning on ESPN Radio discussed whether teams should be selected based upon who is the best 65 teams versus rewarding those teams who had the best seasons.
All of this is fine. I enjoy the debate and let's face it, this is what 24 hour sportstalk radio is all about. This is fun banter. Where my frustration lies is when we have people jump up on their soapboxes in December and trash the BCS as college football's system for determing a championship. They then refer to the hallowed system of a playoff where the championship is decided on the field or in this case court as the proper way to annoint a champion. Now we are at the doorstep of just such a system and they claim that this system is flawed because there is too much subjectivity in determing the participant. Well......if it is flawed then maybe it isn't so great after all! I thought the tournament was the ultimate way of solving the great mystery of who is #1! So which is it? BCS or Playoff?
In all fairness I may be taking opinions from different people and attaching them to others forming a contradiction that isn't there. Obvsiously making generalizations is a bad idea.
But seriously, you know what I am talking about. The inundation of anti-BCS/pro-playoff talk during the Bowl season followed in the spring by the problems with the tourney talk. If this playoff system is so much better then we should quiting complaining about it when we actually get it.
I like both. I think we should have both the way they are. I am not complaining. If my Buckeyes are left out I'll be upset but I won't feel the system is flawed. They didn't do enough in the regular season to get in. Point blank...bottom line.
Who am I to complain after watching my team in the BCS championship two years in a row get blasted, obviously not deserving to be there (at least this year with the loss to Illinois and weak schedule)?
Huh?
Question: How do you have bangs?
Answer: You cut them.
Ok....how do you get something from nothing? How does one cut something that they do not have to "get" it?
Question: Where does your lap go when you are standing?
Answer: Please tell me. It can't just vanish right?
Answer: You cut them.
Ok....how do you get something from nothing? How does one cut something that they do not have to "get" it?
Question: Where does your lap go when you are standing?
Answer: Please tell me. It can't just vanish right?
Sunday, March 9, 2008
March Madness
Oh yeah, I am happy to write that my beloved Buckeyes won two very big games against ranked opponents this week. And thus begins one of my favorite times of year even as I look out to walls of snow outlining my driveway.
The end of this week will mean the start of the Big Ten tourney an my Buckeyes in an opening round rematch with today's opponent, the Michigan St. Spartans. This time the game will be on a neutral court and mean more to the Buckeyes' chances of making the big dance. I am not sipping the Kool-Aid enough to think the Bucks will make it quite yet. Nor do I think they will last too long in the NCAAs. But that doesn't mean I don't want them to play in the tournament anyway. I am thinking a win against the Spartans is required. After that, I would feel much better with one more win to follow it up. Obviously, I'd prefer winning the whole Big Ten Tournament, but two good wins should get them in.
Here is my argument as to why OSU only needs 2 more wins: They played a legitimate schedule unlike their football counterparts. They played every one of those good teams tough. They beat two ranked teams (Purdue and Michigan St.) and two "bubble" teams (Syracuse and Florida). If they get the two wins I am looking for next weekend, they will add at least one more ranked victory and 20 wins. Also, they have a winning conference record. I really would have like to see one or two of those close games to have ended in the left hand column (W column) whether it was Texas A&M, UNC, Indiana or Wisconsin.
Either way, this time of year is fun because we can discuss who deserves to go to March Madness and who doesn't. We can make our projections and argue why. We get to watch the action of the conference tourneys and the teams that need wins to make a run at the dance with the inevitable desperation and excitement that follows. It is always magical. It is nice that OSU is in the hunt enough to have a vested interest beyond the pure enjoyment of watching. We got a team that is part of the equation...for now. This is most likely just another example of the Huey Karma getting my hopes up high just to crush them into pain and agony this Friday evening.
Then, Sunday night will bring the Selection Show with the immediate bracket drafts and revisions and pools and more debate about who was left out and who should not be there. Even the marginal fans get in on the action. The following weeks of games during work and weekends satiated with basketball from noon to midnight are a dream come true for basketball fans like myself.
Ah yes, by the end of the tournament Spring will be here with the improved weather and weekly softball games and cookouts all around the corner. Life is good this time of year my friends, life is goooooooooood.
The end of this week will mean the start of the Big Ten tourney an my Buckeyes in an opening round rematch with today's opponent, the Michigan St. Spartans. This time the game will be on a neutral court and mean more to the Buckeyes' chances of making the big dance. I am not sipping the Kool-Aid enough to think the Bucks will make it quite yet. Nor do I think they will last too long in the NCAAs. But that doesn't mean I don't want them to play in the tournament anyway. I am thinking a win against the Spartans is required. After that, I would feel much better with one more win to follow it up. Obviously, I'd prefer winning the whole Big Ten Tournament, but two good wins should get them in.
Here is my argument as to why OSU only needs 2 more wins: They played a legitimate schedule unlike their football counterparts. They played every one of those good teams tough. They beat two ranked teams (Purdue and Michigan St.) and two "bubble" teams (Syracuse and Florida). If they get the two wins I am looking for next weekend, they will add at least one more ranked victory and 20 wins. Also, they have a winning conference record. I really would have like to see one or two of those close games to have ended in the left hand column (W column) whether it was Texas A&M, UNC, Indiana or Wisconsin.
Either way, this time of year is fun because we can discuss who deserves to go to March Madness and who doesn't. We can make our projections and argue why. We get to watch the action of the conference tourneys and the teams that need wins to make a run at the dance with the inevitable desperation and excitement that follows. It is always magical. It is nice that OSU is in the hunt enough to have a vested interest beyond the pure enjoyment of watching. We got a team that is part of the equation...for now. This is most likely just another example of the Huey Karma getting my hopes up high just to crush them into pain and agony this Friday evening.
Then, Sunday night will bring the Selection Show with the immediate bracket drafts and revisions and pools and more debate about who was left out and who should not be there. Even the marginal fans get in on the action. The following weeks of games during work and weekends satiated with basketball from noon to midnight are a dream come true for basketball fans like myself.
Ah yes, by the end of the tournament Spring will be here with the improved weather and weekly softball games and cookouts all around the corner. Life is good this time of year my friends, life is goooooooooood.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Moral Framework
In an earlier post I blogged about what makes something wrong. I tried to focus on the role of harm. I posed the question, "Is there anything wrong that doesn't include harm?"
I would like to revisit the idea of morality. What makes things right or wrong? More specifically, how much of a role do specific circumstances play in our personal definition of morality? Are we rigid with our standards or do our moral principles vary widely depending on particular factors? Also, what factors are these principles dependent on? How wide do our principles vary as well?
In Do You Think What You Think You Think? by Julian Baggini and Jeremy Stangroom, four factors are presented including: "Geographical Distance," "Family Relatedness," "Acts and Omissions" and "Scale." I found it interesting to play their "Morality Play" and see which factors I was more rigid within or displayed a wider variance. It was not about being right or wrong, but measuring your framework and consistency.
"Geographical Distance" provided several examples in which proximity would play a role in their choice. Are you more morally obligated to help a homeless man in your town or one in another country? I tend to believe if I am going to help the homeless, I would probably help the one in my hometown only due to ease not to a higher moral responsibility. In my mind the guy in India deserves just as much help from me, I just can't do it as easily. I am more rigid here as I would determine the morality separate from distance. One's closeness to me in proximity terms means very little. Of course, this is with the assumption you would consider yourself morally obligated to help in the first place. Many people may feel you have no particular obligation other than to yourself and your children or partner.
"Family Relatedness" refers to a situation where you would be more morally obligated to help someone in your family over a stranger. They provided numerous examples but basically I find myself feeling like family does matter. This is where I find more variance. I could see myself modifying my moral framework in favor of a family member based on blood loyalty.
"Acts and Omissions" is in regard to the difference between committing an immoral act versus not doing something to avoid the same negative outcome even if you didn't create the outcome yourself and assuming you had the power to avoid it. Baggini and Stangroom use the example of poisoning a drink versus not stopping someone from drinking a poisoned drink when you could have. Are omissions just as bad as the acts? Are you just as much to blame as the one who poisoned it because you did not stop it? And does the severity of the act matter to you? In the case of poison I have to think it is immoral to not say something. But what if it was just somebody getting teased without any fatal or debilitating results?
Finally, "Scale" refers to situation of number. Is it more moral or more immoral if more people are involved? Is 100 lives more important than 10 or 1? Every life is important right? But if you could save 1000 people as a result of sacraficing 1 or 10 or 100, is it moral? Or is it immoral to NOT save those 1000 in order to avoid sacarficing the innocent 1, 10 or 100? That is a tough one isn't it?
Once again, morality is not a black and white discussion. Everybody has their own judgements and reasoning for their framework and principles. As Baggini and Stangroom state in Do You Think What You Think You Think, "On the one hand, we can't just go around making ad hoc adjustments to moral principles to suit ourselves. On the other hand, we cannot fail to take into account the differing circumstances in which moral judgements come into play." (Baggini and Stangroom, 120)
I plan to be more specific in the future with my "morality" blogs using particular topics to discuss these questions such as euthanasia, abortion, homosexuality, killing in war, beating up bullies, etc. Touchy stuff and a slippery slope I may decide to pass on by the time I get there.
I would like to revisit the idea of morality. What makes things right or wrong? More specifically, how much of a role do specific circumstances play in our personal definition of morality? Are we rigid with our standards or do our moral principles vary widely depending on particular factors? Also, what factors are these principles dependent on? How wide do our principles vary as well?
In Do You Think What You Think You Think? by Julian Baggini and Jeremy Stangroom, four factors are presented including: "Geographical Distance," "Family Relatedness," "Acts and Omissions" and "Scale." I found it interesting to play their "Morality Play" and see which factors I was more rigid within or displayed a wider variance. It was not about being right or wrong, but measuring your framework and consistency.
"Geographical Distance" provided several examples in which proximity would play a role in their choice. Are you more morally obligated to help a homeless man in your town or one in another country? I tend to believe if I am going to help the homeless, I would probably help the one in my hometown only due to ease not to a higher moral responsibility. In my mind the guy in India deserves just as much help from me, I just can't do it as easily. I am more rigid here as I would determine the morality separate from distance. One's closeness to me in proximity terms means very little. Of course, this is with the assumption you would consider yourself morally obligated to help in the first place. Many people may feel you have no particular obligation other than to yourself and your children or partner.
"Family Relatedness" refers to a situation where you would be more morally obligated to help someone in your family over a stranger. They provided numerous examples but basically I find myself feeling like family does matter. This is where I find more variance. I could see myself modifying my moral framework in favor of a family member based on blood loyalty.
"Acts and Omissions" is in regard to the difference between committing an immoral act versus not doing something to avoid the same negative outcome even if you didn't create the outcome yourself and assuming you had the power to avoid it. Baggini and Stangroom use the example of poisoning a drink versus not stopping someone from drinking a poisoned drink when you could have. Are omissions just as bad as the acts? Are you just as much to blame as the one who poisoned it because you did not stop it? And does the severity of the act matter to you? In the case of poison I have to think it is immoral to not say something. But what if it was just somebody getting teased without any fatal or debilitating results?
Finally, "Scale" refers to situation of number. Is it more moral or more immoral if more people are involved? Is 100 lives more important than 10 or 1? Every life is important right? But if you could save 1000 people as a result of sacraficing 1 or 10 or 100, is it moral? Or is it immoral to NOT save those 1000 in order to avoid sacarficing the innocent 1, 10 or 100? That is a tough one isn't it?
Once again, morality is not a black and white discussion. Everybody has their own judgements and reasoning for their framework and principles. As Baggini and Stangroom state in Do You Think What You Think You Think, "On the one hand, we can't just go around making ad hoc adjustments to moral principles to suit ourselves. On the other hand, we cannot fail to take into account the differing circumstances in which moral judgements come into play." (Baggini and Stangroom, 120)
I plan to be more specific in the future with my "morality" blogs using particular topics to discuss these questions such as euthanasia, abortion, homosexuality, killing in war, beating up bullies, etc. Touchy stuff and a slippery slope I may decide to pass on by the time I get there.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
As I watch the Cavs...
This post is being written during the Cavs vs. Bulls game 3/6/08. Currently the game is in the 4th quarter and the Cavs are down 7. I thought it would be interesting to record my thoughts and feelings as they happen to see how my opinion changes based on the flow of the game. I cannot count how many times I will think the Cavs are awesome and unstoppable and then later on in the same game I feel they suck and are doomed. I realize this is completely irrational and illogical but I feel 100% percent sincere in both cases. For the record, this does not count the times I force myself to be pessimistic to fight the karma.
Well, in the time I inserted that link back there, the Bulls went on yet another big run to eliminate the Cavs push back into the game and Chicago is now up 18. There is only 6 minutes or so left. Right now I am feeling very negative. It has been extremely frustrating this half watching the Bulls go on these runs, sometimes double digits (17-0 at one point). It seems like we fight and scratch and kick to get the lead back under 10 and they immediately answer with a 3 or offensive rebound and more second chance points after we held them for 20 seconds of the 24 second clock.
I was getting very excited when Damon Jones hit the 3 with a foul and actually converted the free throw. Make the deficit 20 now. Worst of the game. LeBron has had a great game...again after dropping half a c-note on NY last night. Bulls just hit another three at the shot clock buzzer. This is absolutely ridiculous. Back to the point, LeBron is having another game possibly droppping 40+ before it's over tonight. But I am not thinking about the post I was going to write tonight about how lucky we are to have this phenomenon we call The King on our team in Cleveland and how nathan iv is 1000000% correct when he routinely states the LeBron is the beginning and the end of this team, the alph and the omega. And can Wally hit a stinking shot for once!!!!! Come on!!!! I mean seriously...the wine and gold is kryptonite for shooters not named James or Price. Geez!
Again, back to the point despite my intentional meandering tonight. You all are witnessing part of what goes on in my mind each night I watch my beloved Cavaliers. I am concerned James' success is causing the team to go into "watch LeBron " mode once again and quickly end up in a rut. It seemed like he was forcing long shots early in the shot clock. I hate that. Soon after he was making an obvious effort to drive to the hoop and was successful. That was encouraging (like Thad Matta's thinking in my other post), but I worry it will hurt more than help in the long term.
And why can't Wally make it through a bleepin' game without getting picked on by the refs? It seems he is getting shortchanged on and ones or getting called for bogus off the ball fouls. What is going on there? I don't blame him for that. Must be the luck of the wine and gold again. The game is 107-88 with 1:44 left. Done. AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
This is a second of a road back to back. I can't fault the Cavs too much. I really was hoping for nice long win streak. We had a little string going there. I really want to reach the 50 win mark too. After tonight that means we can only lose 5 more games. That will not be easy. Look...the NBDL guys are getting minutes and hitting threes. Too little too late. Shannon Brown still playing like the Shannon Brown I remember in Cleveland. He turned it over and committed a foul in garbage minutes. Hey! Wally has 14 points. How in the world? Oh yeah and Brown has a hair cut. I wonder if he is still dunking Chicken McNuggets in Chicago now?
Ballgame. Not sure of the final because I quit looking at the tv. 107-96 I 'm guessing but does it matter? I just noticed Smith and Wallace joking with their former teammates in Chicago. I'm glad they are cool like that. Same with James talking to Hughes. I should be ticked they are not bothered by losing tonight, but in the greater scheme of things friendships are more important than a game right? I am in a more pleasant mood than normal. Maybe I need to blog during every game to help ease my hypertension from this mess. Basketball maybe, but football would only result in me throwing this laptop through the window behind me.
Well, there you have it. My mind during a blowout I was hoping would be a comeback. Hope you enjoyed it and made it through the whole post.
Well, in the time I inserted that link back there, the Bulls went on yet another big run to eliminate the Cavs push back into the game and Chicago is now up 18. There is only 6 minutes or so left. Right now I am feeling very negative. It has been extremely frustrating this half watching the Bulls go on these runs, sometimes double digits (17-0 at one point). It seems like we fight and scratch and kick to get the lead back under 10 and they immediately answer with a 3 or offensive rebound and more second chance points after we held them for 20 seconds of the 24 second clock.
I was getting very excited when Damon Jones hit the 3 with a foul and actually converted the free throw. Make the deficit 20 now. Worst of the game. LeBron has had a great game...again after dropping half a c-note on NY last night. Bulls just hit another three at the shot clock buzzer. This is absolutely ridiculous. Back to the point, LeBron is having another game possibly droppping 40+ before it's over tonight. But I am not thinking about the post I was going to write tonight about how lucky we are to have this phenomenon we call The King on our team in Cleveland and how nathan iv is 1000000% correct when he routinely states the LeBron is the beginning and the end of this team, the alph and the omega. And can Wally hit a stinking shot for once!!!!! Come on!!!! I mean seriously...the wine and gold is kryptonite for shooters not named James or Price. Geez!
Again, back to the point despite my intentional meandering tonight. You all are witnessing part of what goes on in my mind each night I watch my beloved Cavaliers. I am concerned James' success is causing the team to go into "watch LeBron " mode once again and quickly end up in a rut. It seemed like he was forcing long shots early in the shot clock. I hate that. Soon after he was making an obvious effort to drive to the hoop and was successful. That was encouraging (like Thad Matta's thinking in my other post), but I worry it will hurt more than help in the long term.
And why can't Wally make it through a bleepin' game without getting picked on by the refs? It seems he is getting shortchanged on and ones or getting called for bogus off the ball fouls. What is going on there? I don't blame him for that. Must be the luck of the wine and gold again. The game is 107-88 with 1:44 left. Done. AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
This is a second of a road back to back. I can't fault the Cavs too much. I really was hoping for nice long win streak. We had a little string going there. I really want to reach the 50 win mark too. After tonight that means we can only lose 5 more games. That will not be easy. Look...the NBDL guys are getting minutes and hitting threes. Too little too late. Shannon Brown still playing like the Shannon Brown I remember in Cleveland. He turned it over and committed a foul in garbage minutes. Hey! Wally has 14 points. How in the world? Oh yeah and Brown has a hair cut. I wonder if he is still dunking Chicken McNuggets in Chicago now?
Ballgame. Not sure of the final because I quit looking at the tv. 107-96 I 'm guessing but does it matter? I just noticed Smith and Wallace joking with their former teammates in Chicago. I'm glad they are cool like that. Same with James talking to Hughes. I should be ticked they are not bothered by losing tonight, but in the greater scheme of things friendships are more important than a game right? I am in a more pleasant mood than normal. Maybe I need to blog during every game to help ease my hypertension from this mess. Basketball maybe, but football would only result in me throwing this laptop through the window behind me.
Well, there you have it. My mind during a blowout I was hoping would be a comeback. Hope you enjoyed it and made it through the whole post.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
This is Turning Into a Sports Blog
Since I seem to be blogging more and more about sports, I am worried this is becoming a "sports blog." I worry I am becoming one of those people you hear about that gets blamed for the oversaturation of sports. You know....the 24 hour sports talk radio, ESPN and those blasted bloggers with their rumors and "fire the coach" tirades.
So be it. Here are some random thoughts I have regarding the sports world. Hal Lebovitz style. In my mind he was one of the greatest sports writers. I fondly remember reading his articles in the New Herald as I grew up dreaming of being a sports journalist myself.
Buckeye Hoops.....I am very disappointed the high hopes we had for Deibler and Koufos have fallen greatly short of expectations. Koufos needs to learn to play with more authority and aggressiveness. Deibler has just lost his shot. I also was worried about Thad Matta. I have had no doubt he is a great coach and recruiter (i.e. Conley Jr., Oden, Lighty, Cook, Deibler and Koufos...all blue chippers), but I see a negative trend in his teams. The offensive system relies heavily on long distance shooting. As they say, "You live by the three, you die by the three." Late in the year his teams seem to shoot worse. I believe it has to do with fatique. Without Oden down low to rely on, what do we have left? I wanted to see more variety to the offense. As I watched the big win against Purdue (or Purdon't in some circles), I noticed and heard some encouraging things including the need for the players to move more and execute the offense he has installed and the need for Koufos to be more aggressive. I am relieved to hear we are on the same page. After all, I have won a ton of Division I basketball games, so I would know a thing or two.
Brett Favre..Here's to a great and memorable career to the gunslinger who we all loved in the Packers uniform. He was a man's man. I just wonder why so many people consider his announcement a surprise. We knew this was coming. And we shouldn't continue to fall into his "will I or won't I?" game he takes us though on an annual basis. But I am glad he is going out on top so to speak. Not with a ring, but with a good season and a good taste in his mouth.
My beloved Cavs....So the return of Larry and Drew ended with a win for the Cavs. PHEW!!! Didn't look good with eight minutes to go in the game but "the King do what the King do....don't he?" (The horrible grammar was intentional for the affect) That dunk over Deng was absolutely sick!
3-2 since the trade in case you were counting.
Browns' Offseason...Right now I like signing Anderson. I think you need two good quarterbacks. Quinn is still the QB of the future, I do not doubt that for one minute. Injuries and the rapid pace of changes in the NFL may lead to an earlier entrance than people are expecting right now for Quinn. Let's just see how well Anderson this year against a tougher schedule after a subpar second half to the season and teams game planning more for him. Of course, he has a full offseason preparing as the starting QB. He has a year of experience behind him. Finally, he can game plan better with experience to draw upon. Jamal Lewis is back and a key contributor. I'd like to sign the Browns acquire a young RB to grow int he system to replace Lewis. The additions to the defensive line will be very beneficial adding a pass rush which will help the defense as a whole.
Tribe Prediction...You will have to wait for that. I feel the team will be solid. I need some time to go through the roster moves and get a feel for the team as whole before I state my claim. This much is true. The Tigers will not live up to their preseason hype. You heard it here first.
So be it. Here are some random thoughts I have regarding the sports world. Hal Lebovitz style. In my mind he was one of the greatest sports writers. I fondly remember reading his articles in the New Herald as I grew up dreaming of being a sports journalist myself.
Buckeye Hoops.....I am very disappointed the high hopes we had for Deibler and Koufos have fallen greatly short of expectations. Koufos needs to learn to play with more authority and aggressiveness. Deibler has just lost his shot. I also was worried about Thad Matta. I have had no doubt he is a great coach and recruiter (i.e. Conley Jr., Oden, Lighty, Cook, Deibler and Koufos...all blue chippers), but I see a negative trend in his teams. The offensive system relies heavily on long distance shooting. As they say, "You live by the three, you die by the three." Late in the year his teams seem to shoot worse. I believe it has to do with fatique. Without Oden down low to rely on, what do we have left? I wanted to see more variety to the offense. As I watched the big win against Purdue (or Purdon't in some circles), I noticed and heard some encouraging things including the need for the players to move more and execute the offense he has installed and the need for Koufos to be more aggressive. I am relieved to hear we are on the same page. After all, I have won a ton of Division I basketball games, so I would know a thing or two.
Brett Favre..Here's to a great and memorable career to the gunslinger who we all loved in the Packers uniform. He was a man's man. I just wonder why so many people consider his announcement a surprise. We knew this was coming. And we shouldn't continue to fall into his "will I or won't I?" game he takes us though on an annual basis. But I am glad he is going out on top so to speak. Not with a ring, but with a good season and a good taste in his mouth.
My beloved Cavs....So the return of Larry and Drew ended with a win for the Cavs. PHEW!!! Didn't look good with eight minutes to go in the game but "the King do what the King do....don't he?" (The horrible grammar was intentional for the affect) That dunk over Deng was absolutely sick!
3-2 since the trade in case you were counting.
Browns' Offseason...Right now I like signing Anderson. I think you need two good quarterbacks. Quinn is still the QB of the future, I do not doubt that for one minute. Injuries and the rapid pace of changes in the NFL may lead to an earlier entrance than people are expecting right now for Quinn. Let's just see how well Anderson this year against a tougher schedule after a subpar second half to the season and teams game planning more for him. Of course, he has a full offseason preparing as the starting QB. He has a year of experience behind him. Finally, he can game plan better with experience to draw upon. Jamal Lewis is back and a key contributor. I'd like to sign the Browns acquire a young RB to grow int he system to replace Lewis. The additions to the defensive line will be very beneficial adding a pass rush which will help the defense as a whole.
Tribe Prediction...You will have to wait for that. I feel the team will be solid. I need some time to go through the roster moves and get a feel for the team as whole before I state my claim. This much is true. The Tigers will not live up to their preseason hype. You heard it here first.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Mommy's Little Monster
I have to express my love for this album. Social Distortion's Mommy's Little Monster is a classic album that I have recently immersed myself in 1000 percent. I have been in a Social D bender for about two years now for some reason. Why it has taken me so long I do not know, but every album I listen to...I love. Mommy's Little Monster has to be the best overall.
Going in, I knew I would like several of the songs including, "The Creeps," "Another State of Mind," "Telling Them" and of course the title track, "Mommy's Little Monster." With this many songs already in my back pocket and knowing how much I enjoyed their live shows, I was very confident I would enjoy the album as a whole. My confidence was confirmed. "It Wasn't a Pretty Picture" jumped out at me with its driving bass line. "Moral Threat" is a track I find myself going back to time and time again.
This is an album I consider top five. I am ashamed that is has taken 26 years for me to finally realize it. Then again, I am rather pleased. It gives me hope. It is nice to know that I have not found all the music that I will love. Since it is difficult to count on new music to hit home like this album has for me, it is exciting to think that I still have older, established bands and albums and songs to explore.
Going in, I knew I would like several of the songs including, "The Creeps," "Another State of Mind," "Telling Them" and of course the title track, "Mommy's Little Monster." With this many songs already in my back pocket and knowing how much I enjoyed their live shows, I was very confident I would enjoy the album as a whole. My confidence was confirmed. "It Wasn't a Pretty Picture" jumped out at me with its driving bass line. "Moral Threat" is a track I find myself going back to time and time again.
This is an album I consider top five. I am ashamed that is has taken 26 years for me to finally realize it. Then again, I am rather pleased. It gives me hope. It is nice to know that I have not found all the music that I will love. Since it is difficult to count on new music to hit home like this album has for me, it is exciting to think that I still have older, established bands and albums and songs to explore.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Ode to the OG
Oh Olive Garden
How I love thee
With thy creamy alfredo sauce
And nice thick fettucine
Your warm sliced chicken breast
All mixed in
It makes such a wondeful dinner experience
My wonderful Olive Garden.
The endless supply of breadsticks
The yummy salad appetizer
The Italian Olive decor
The serenading Italian musac
I just can't get enough
I just can't get enough
My sweet, sweet tasty Olive Garden.
(And now it's off to Chipotle for lunch!)
How I love thee
With thy creamy alfredo sauce
And nice thick fettucine
Your warm sliced chicken breast
All mixed in
It makes such a wondeful dinner experience
My wonderful Olive Garden.
The endless supply of breadsticks
The yummy salad appetizer
The Italian Olive decor
The serenading Italian musac
I just can't get enough
I just can't get enough
My sweet, sweet tasty Olive Garden.
(And now it's off to Chipotle for lunch!)
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