tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9837145499495255692012-01-23T23:20:17.151-05:00This is a sports blog with author opinion and reader input.Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-71619140955778730682011-04-13T18:10:00.000-04:002011-04-13T18:10:32.451-04:002011-04-13T18:10:32.451-04:00Yesterday, I covered the Eastern Conference of the NHL playoffs. Mind you, I am no prognosticator but I will make an attempt to handicap the opening round of the Western Conference.<br /> <br /> Here goes!<br /> <br /> (1)Vancouver Canucks vs (8) Chicago Blackhawks<br /> <br /> Is there any wonder why Vancouver was the NHL's best team during the regular season? The Canucks won 54 games, score goals by the boatload, defend solidly, and have superb goaltending.<br /> <br /> Offensively, Vancouver is lead by the Sedin twins Daniel and Henrik. Daniel scored 41 times this past season while Henrik had a whopping 75 assists. On top of that, Ryan Kessler also had 41 markers for the Canucks and Alexandre Burrows had 26 to boot. Defenseman Christian Ehrhoff is a threat from the blue line tallying 14 goals.<br /> <br /> Asides from Ehrhoff, back liners Kevin Bieska and Dan Hamhuis were +32 and +29 respectively.<br /> <br /> Roberto Luongo once again had a stellar season minding the net for Vancouver. The Vezina Trophy candidate was victorious in 38 of 60 starts sporting a fantastic 2.11 Goals Against Average and a sparkling .928 save percentage. Luongo is truly one of the league's best.<br /> <br /> Defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago had turned over a significant portion of it's roster during the off-season and struggled just to qualify for this post-season. <br /> <br /> The Blackhawks still have firepower from forwards Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Jonathan Toews, and Marian Hossa. However, Chicago is not as good defensively as star defenseman Duncan Keith had an off year by his standards.<br /> <br /> This season, the netminding will rest on the shoulders of young Corey Crawford. Crawford did a respectable job taking over for veteran Marty Turco by winning 33 games and posting a respectable 2.30 GAA. That being said, this is a question mark for the defending champs.<br /> <br /> Dick Says: As hard as this is to believe, it appears as though the defending champion Blackhawks have little chance in beating Vancouver in a best-of-seven scenario. Too many weapons and superior in goal, Vancouver could make this easy.<br /> <br /> Vancouver --- 5 Games<br /> <br /> (2)San Jose Sharks vs. (7) Los Angeles Kings<br /> <br /> San Jose has the gunslingers to match Vancouver as seven Sharks scored 20 or more goals led by All-Star Patrick Marleau's 37 and Logan Couture's 32 tallies. Three lines of offense is hard to stop unless hot goaltending comes along.<br /> <br /> Antti Niemi defected from Stanley Cup champion Chicago to play in net for San Jose this season and didn't disappoint. With 35 victories, a 2.38 GAA and a .920 Save percentage, Niemi has the experience to help send the Sharks deep into the post-season.<br /> <br /> Los Angeles will have a difficult time offensively without center Anze Kopitar who broke his ankle in late March and is out of commission. Dustin Brown, Justin Williams, and veteran Ryan Smyth are all capable but this may be too much to ask to replace the puck skills Kopitar possesses.<br /> <br /> Jonathan Quick will again man the goal for the Kings. A winner of 35 games with a 2.24 GAA, Quick is more than capable of handling the pressure San Jose will apply.<br /> <br /> I believe: San Jose will prove far too powerful for the undermanned Kings. Pure and simple.<br /> <br /> San Jose --- 5 Games<br /> <br /> (3)Detroit Red Wings vs. (6) Phoenix Coyotes<br /> <br /> Detroit has plenty of goal scorers to go around as 13 players scored at least 10 goals during the regular season with Johan Franzen and Danny Cleary leading the way. Of course there always Henrik Zetterberg who will shoot the puck at any time.<br /> <br /> While goalie Jimmy Howard won 37 games, he didn't play particularly well for most of the season. He must step up if the Wings are to make another run at Lord Stanley's Cup.<br /> <br /> Phoenix has no one player that will scare the Wings offensively. Shane Doan was the only player with 20 goals and that an even 20 at that. Defenseman Keith Yandle provides a spark from the blue line but he needs help from the forwards.<br /> <br /> The Coyotes have Ilya Bryzgalov holding down the fort in net. While Bryzgalov had a somewhat high 2.48 GAA, his .921 save percentage is a testament to his outstanding play as Phoenix gives up a ton of shots. <br /> <br /> I Think: Detroit has many weapons that can score but Howard is questionable in goal. Phoenix lacks goal scoring capabilities but had an outstanding goalie. Who knows?<br /> <br /> Detroit --- 7 Games<br /> <br /> (4)Anaheim Ducks vs. (5) Nashville Predators<br /> <br /> Anaheim has three players that can tickle the twine. Corey Perry was the NHL's leading goal scorer with 50 on the season. Perry also lead the league with 11 game winners and was 5th with 14 power play goals. Bobby Ryan had 34 shots go to the back of the net and the ageless Finn Teemu Selanne still showed his scoring touch potting 31 goals, including 16 on the power play, good for 3rd in the NHL. To boot, blue liner Lubomir Visnovsky had 18 markers to help the forwards.<br /> <br /> With starting goalie Jonas Hiller still suffering the effects of vertigo, it will be up to Dan Ellis to guard the net for the Ducks. Should Ellis falter, Ray Emery will fill in but Anaheim is hoping Hiller can play if need be.<br /> <br /> Nashville is playing tremendous hockey entering the playoffs. While not loaded on offense, goalie Pekka Rinne has been nothing short of fabulous of late.<br /> <br /> Rinne posted 33 wins with a fantastic 2.12 GAA and a .930 save percentage, second only to Boston's Tim Thomas.<br /> <br /> Dick Chimes: While Anaheim clearly is better offensively, the questions in goal could haunt them. Nashville could win this series if Rinne plays as advertised.<br /> <br /> Nashville --- 7 Games<br /> <br /> There is my view of the opening round in the Western Conference.<br /> <br /> Enjoy the games!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-7161914095577873068?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/IlG99EngiJ0dxdonAxq1-ArTOmk/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/IlG99EngiJ0dxdonAxq1-ArTOmk/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/IlG99EngiJ0dxdonAxq1-ArTOmk/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/IlG99EngiJ0dxdonAxq1-ArTOmk/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/qdHZMT-Ecq8" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/04/nhl-playoffs-western-conference.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-62799506379648538042011-04-12T22:05:00.000-04:002011-04-12T22:05:57.985-04:002011-04-12T22:05:57.985-04:00Hello to my readers. I know it's been two months since my last post and I apologize for that. Many events have happened to me in that time period and I was unable to avoid any of it...as a good friend of mine used to say “Feces occurs!”<br /> <br /> But now I'm back and things have settled down. I'm ready to return to “My Thoughts on the World of Sports” in a better way.<br /> <br /> Now on to the NHL playoffs!<br /> <br /> Tonight, I begin my playoff preview with the Eastern Conference pairings which could produce exciting action. Now comes my time to spout off my feelings about the East.<br /> <br /> (1)Washington Capitals vs. (8) New York Rangers<br /> <br /> Washington's scoring punch was down a bit this season mainly due to Alex Ovechkin's off year as he scored “only” 32 goals. Alexander Semin had 28 tallies for the Caps and old reliable Mike Knuble chimed in with 24 goals. <br /> <br /> Injuries have also hampered the Capitals and none was worse than defenseman Mike Green's concussion suffered on February 25th versus the Rangers. Green could be ready for game one as he has been skating regularly with the team. <br /> <br /> Goaltending was much improved this season as Michal Neuvirth has taken the reins in net. Neuvirth finished the regular season with 27 wins, a 2.45 Goals Against Average and a .914 Save Percentage.<br /> <br /> The Rangers had balanced scoring this season led by center Brandon Dubinsky's 24 goals Followed closely by Ryan Callahan with 23 twine ticklers. Marian Gaborik, Derek Stepan, and Brian Boyle also were 20 goal scorers for the “Blue Shirts”. <br /> <br /> New York has been bitten by the injury bug as well. The aforementioned Ryan Callahan is till in a walking boot after breaking his right ankle. Without Callahan, the Rangers will lack some of the physical play needed to slow Washington's speed.<br /> <br /> If there's one area where the Rangers are superior it's the play of goalie Henrik Lundqvist. “King Henrik” won 36 games, enjoyed a sparkling 2.28 GAA, a .923 Save Percentage, and 11 Shutouts. Lundqvist is very capable of stealing games in the series and is the main reason the Rangers won a playoff berth.<br /> <br /> My Prediction: While Lundqvist can steal the series, Washington has too much firepower for the Rangers.<br /> <br /> Washington --- 6 Games<br /> <br /> (2)Philadelphia Flyers vs. (7) Buffalo Sabres<br /> <br /> Let there be no argument, the Flyers can score as seven players scored more than 20 goals. Center Jeff Carter had 36 goals for the season while Danny Briere tallied 34 for Philly.<br /> <br /> One key injury the Flyers must deal with is ageless defenseman Chris Pronger's right hand injury. While hopeful to play, he's doubtful for game 1 of the series.<br /> <br /> Goaltending is a huge question mark for the Flyers. Twenty-two year old Sergei Bobrovsky will get the call for Philadelphia in game 1 versus Buffalo. We'll see how young Sergei will handle Stanley Cup playoff pressure for the first time. Should he fail, veteran Brian Boucher will fill the void in goal.<br /> <br /> The Sabres are entering the playoffs playing their best hockey of the year. Buffalo has been scoring of late and goalie Ryan Miller has been playing his best hockey recently.<br /> <br /> Offensively, Buffalo is led by Thomas Vanek and Drew Stafford with 32 and 31 goals respectively while the rest of the scoring is well balanced.<br /> <br /> The key to the Sabres playoff run rests on the shoulders of net minder Ryan Miller. Miller, a perennial all-star, is capable of winning a playoff series by himself and we all know that history often repeats itself.<br /> <br /> I Say: It will come down to goaltending --- the experience of Miller versus the youth of Bobrovsky even with the Flyers firepower, I see an upset. <br /> <br /> Buffalo --- 6 Games.<br /> <br /> (3)Boston Bruins vs. (6) Montreal Canadiens<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> The Bruins style of play begins with defense and goaltending. Norris trophy candidate Zdeno Chara was a plus 33 while youngster Adam McQuaid was at plus 30 from the blue line. In goal, Vezina Trophy favorite Tim Thomas had a season to remember. Thomas had 35 victories, an even 2.00 GAA, 9 shutouts, and an NHL record .938 save percentage. If Thomas should fail, Boston would still be in good shape with backup goalie Tuukka Rask. <br /> <br /> While the Bruins don't score a ton of goals, six players scored at least 18 goals. Milan Lucic led the way with 30 goals while Nathan Horton ended the regular season with 26 tallies.<br /> <br /> While Montreal won't scare anyone with their offense, they did have three players with 20+ goals with Brian Gionta leading the way with 29 to the back of the net.<br /> <br /> Carey Price will handle the load in goal for the Habs. Price had 38 wins this season, a 2.35 GAA,a .923 save percentage, and 8 shutouts. <br /> <br /> What I Think: This rivalry will be fiercely played as both teams feel they have to prove themselves. The Bruins must play physical hockey to neutralize Montreal's skating ability While Carey Price must be superb to keep the Habs in the series.<br /> <br /> Boston --- 7 games<br /> <br /> (4)Pittsburgh Penguins vs (5) Tampa Bay Lightning<br /> <br /> <br /> We know what the Penguins will probably struggle scoring goals without mega-stars Sydney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. So where will the scoring come from? Pittsburgh hopes that Chris Kunitz, Tyler Kennedy, and James Neal can pick up the slack.<br /> <br /> Also, goalie Marc-Andre Fleury must be at the top of his game if the Pens' are to survive. Fleury has played well this season as his 36 wins and 2.32 GAA suggests. <br /> <br /> Tampa Bay has plenty of goal scoring capabilities to win any playoff series. Led by Steven Stamkos (45 Goals), Martin St. Louis (31), and Vincent Lecavalier (25), The Lightning are ready to prove that the regular season was no fluke.<br /> <br /> Keeping pucks out of the net could be a problem for Tampa Bay. The Lightning will depend on veteran Dwayne Roloson to man the net. If Roloson isn't at peak performance, the Lightning would be in serious trouble.<br /> <br /> My Opinion: Pittsburgh has found a way to win without Crosby and Malkin while Tampa Bay wins with offense as well. It comes down to the men between the pipes.<br /> <br /> Pittsburgh --- 6 Games.<br /> <br /> That's a breakdown of the Eastern Conference of the NHL. <br /> <br /> Enjoy and thanks for reading!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-6279950637964853804?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/wHJ5WI7QLtyobS2IwI5qCRFMi8I/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/wHJ5WI7QLtyobS2IwI5qCRFMi8I/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/wHJ5WI7QLtyobS2IwI5qCRFMi8I/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/wHJ5WI7QLtyobS2IwI5qCRFMi8I/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/5IqCc57uymY" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/04/apology-then-nhl-playoff-preview.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-2341633508708055292011-02-12T19:27:00.000-05:002011-02-12T19:27:08.627-05:002011-02-12T19:27:08.627-05:00As the Boston Bruins make a run for a top three in the NHL's Eastern Conference, I thought this would be an appropriate time to revisit The Bruins Prayer. <br /> <br /> <br /> The Bruins Prayer<br /> <br /> <br /> "Our father who art in Boston. Hockey be thy name. Thy will be done. The cup will be won. On ice, as well as in the stands. Give us this day our hockey sticks. And forgive us our penalties, as we forgive those who cross-check against us, Lead us not into elimination. But deliver us to victory. In the name of the fans, Lord Stanley, and in the name of the Bruins. Amen."<br /> <br /> I am going to add two little statements:<br /> <br /> May "The Force" be with the Boston Bruins. <br /> <br /> Beware The Bear!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-234163350870805529?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/gnT6BlJqVP9nFAx59LGn78V2QlU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/gnT6BlJqVP9nFAx59LGn78V2QlU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/gnT6BlJqVP9nFAx59LGn78V2QlU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/gnT6BlJqVP9nFAx59LGn78V2QlU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/WTABEcT3QI0" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/02/bruins-prayer-revisited.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-91900589653401141322011-01-30T16:58:00.001-05:002011-01-30T19:46:07.554-05:002011-01-30T19:46:07.554-05:00With the National Hockey League season at the All-Star break, teams are positioning themselves for the final push towards the Stanley Cup playoffs.<br /> <br /> As the standings are as of this moment, the Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings and Dallas Stars are topping the Western Conference while defending champion Chicago Blackhawks are struggling a bit after making sweeping changes to their roster. <br /> <br /> The Eastern Conference is a bit jumbled as the Philadelphia Flyers are in the top spot while the Tampa Bay Lightning continue to shock the NHL by leading the Southeast division by four points over the powerhouse Washington Capitals. The Pittsburgh Penguins are holding their own despite major injuries but perennial power New Jersey Devils are floundering in the NHL cellar.<br /> <br /> The team I will focus on has been solid all season and seems to be poised to make a run at not only capturing their division but could make a deep run in the playoffs.<br /> <br /> The team?<br /> <br /> The Boston Bruins<br /> <br /> At the break, the Bruins are the Northeast division leaders with a record of 28-15-7 for 63 points, four points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens and the number three seed in the Eastern Conference. By winning 7 of 10, Boston has shown the defensive prowess head coach Claude Julien's teams are noted for. In that stretch, the Bruins have increased their goal production which has been a sore spot for a few seasons.<br /> <br /> Let's briefly break down the Bruins season to this point.<br /> <br /> The core of this seasons' team is the defense and goal tending. In fact, the Bruins are the NHL's top defensive team yielding a mere 112 goals in 50 games, with a league leading 8 shutouts and an NHL best .939 save percentage. The defensive corps is lead by leading Norris Trophy candidate Zdeno Chara. The man with the leagues hardest shot leads Boston with a +22 plus/minus rating and has 10 goals from the blue line including 6 on the power play.<br /> <br /> Also helping Chara are veteran defensemen Dennis Seidenberg, Andrew Ferrence, and surprising rookie Steven Kampfer. All are on the plus side of the plus/minus ledger and can play the physical game when necessary.<br /> <br /> Goalie Tim Thomas is certainly at the top of his game. His 1.81 Goals Against Average is by far and away tops in the league as well as his .950 Save Percentage.... that's point NINE FIFTY! Just think, the Bruins were willing to peddle him away after off-season hip surgery.<br /> <br /> Though challenged offensively, Boston has been scoring goals of late. Milan Lucic leads the B's with 20 goals, while Patrice Bergeron has 16 tallies within his team leading 40 points. More is expected from veterans Michael Ryder (14 goals), Nathan Horton (12), Blake Wheeler (10), and David Krejci (7). Youngster Brad Marchand has surprised by potting 13 goals and plays the defensive end superbly with a +21 rating.<br /> <br /> Also, the Bruins don't lack for toughness. Resident tough guy Shawn Thornton backs away from nobody for a fight and Lucic, Gregory Campbell, and young blue liner Adam McQuaid will mix it up as well.<br /> <br /> As I see it, the Boston Bruins are one goal scorer away from being a serious contender for Lord Stanley's Cup. Boston General Manager Peter Chiarelli isn't afraid to pull the trigger on such a deal and it would be both shocking and disappointing should he not add a sniper.<br /> <br /> Beware the Bear!!!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-9190058965340114132?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XlnRWLSu0jiNUq-RaA_RroRpJXo/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XlnRWLSu0jiNUq-RaA_RroRpJXo/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XlnRWLSu0jiNUq-RaA_RroRpJXo/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XlnRWLSu0jiNUq-RaA_RroRpJXo/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/mB0TNBzEoBE" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/01/beware-bear-boston-bruins-are-coming.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-67044469901579231722011-01-22T20:06:00.000-05:002011-01-22T20:06:26.293-05:002011-01-22T20:06:26.293-05:00I've had this conversation many times in the past and I had it again today. Fighting in professional hockey...is it necessary?<br /> <br /> Instead of making a new post, I will re-post what I wrote nearly 11 months ago about my feelings towards fighting.<br /> <br /> Enjoy!<br /> <br /> In my last post I mentioned that the Men's Ice Hockey Tournament was the best ever in Olympic history. We saw outstanding play but we also saw outstanding sportsmanship as well. Sure, there was pushing and shoving after whistles --- that's to be expected. However, there is one “aspect” of hockey that was not seen. <br /> <br /> No fighting. It's not allowed in the international game nor is it permissible in college or high school. Should there be fights during those games, an automatic one game suspension is mandatory, without exception. Yet, in professional hockey and in juniors, fighting is very much allowed and considered by some a staple of the game. <br /> <br /> My intention here is to briefly weigh the pros and cons of fighting and I will give my opinion on whether hockey should or should not be banned on all levels.<br /> <br /> Pros ---<br /> <br /> Traditionalists believe that fighting is a necessary evil in hockey. Fights are to inspire a team playing lethargically, show opponents that they will not be pushed around, or sometimes players fight just for the sake of fighting. It does happen. Many fans ( In this instance, I use “fans” loosely) go to games merely to see a fight. At one time, if the game was played with elbows, knees, and sticks were used as weapons, fights and the occasional bench clearing brawl would erupt as a way to control the game. In effect, players were policing themselves. Yes, there were times where brawls got out of hand and that was alright with many teams. That was a part of hockey years ago.<br /> <br /> Cons ---<br /> <br /> Fighting, according to many, disrupts the flow of hockey for no reason whatsoever. Two grown men dropping the gloves and removing helmets from their own heads just to see who is tougher is just plain stupid. Fisticuffs do nothing for the game and is just a sideshow with most fights involving players with little or no hockey talent. Fighting promotes violence in hockey and therefore must be banned.<br /> <br /> Now that I have giving some examples as to why fighting is either necessary or unnecessary, my opinion is... <br /> <br /> Fighting should NOT be banned. As a hockey fan since the late 1960's, I feel that there are benefits to fighting. I believe that fights can and do inspire teams playing poorly in a particular game. Although the National Hockey League, has done a very good job in limiting the number of fights by imposing the instigator rule, banning it would lead to more dangerous play especially an increase in the stick fouls of slashing and high sticking. Also, players would be more apt to take a run at players with reckless abandon, thus leading to more major injuries. <br /> <br /> That's just one hockey fans opinion...what's yours?<br /> <br /> Dick <br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-6704446990157923172?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/DZSABG7Q2WRRwhXNvKwjpv1C1JA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/DZSABG7Q2WRRwhXNvKwjpv1C1JA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/DZSABG7Q2WRRwhXNvKwjpv1C1JA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/DZSABG7Q2WRRwhXNvKwjpv1C1JA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/DcEX9DKSLcI" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/01/re-post-professional-hockey-to-fight-or.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-55384715883843396962011-01-13T19:21:00.000-05:002011-01-13T19:21:31.655-05:002011-01-13T19:21:31.655-05:00The last week or so has produced three interesting stories that have changed the landscapes of major college football, the NFL, and a sports columnist from Boston breaking free.<br /> <br /> So without fanfare, I will present these stories along with my random thoughts.<br /> <br /> Andrew Luck stays at Stanford ---<br /> <br /> Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck has decided to return to school and forgo his eligibility for the 2011 NFL Draft. The red shirt sophomore wasted no time announcing his decision after the Cardinal routed Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl.<br /> <br /> My thoughts:<br /> <br /> I believe Luck made the proper decision to stay at Stanford for a number of reasons. By staying in school, Luck has a chance to win a national championship for the Cardinal next season. Also, Luck becomes the prohibitive favorite for the Heisman Trophy. Finally, why would Andrew want to play for the Carolina Panthers, a team that is in total disarray?<br /> <br /> Some argue that Luck will miss out on being the number one overall draft choice and the money that goes with that distinction. Let's not for get that there is no Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and when one is hammered out, the rookie salary cap will be far less than the expiring CBA.<br /> <br /> Jim Harbaugh accepts San Francisco 49'ers head coaching position ---<br /> <br /> While young Mr. Luck stays at Stanford, His former head coach Jim Harbaugh will coach the 49'ers next season. Harbaugh's deal is reportedly for five seasons for $25 million.<br /> <br /> My feeling?<br /> <br /> This is a tremendous opportunity for both Jim Harbaugh and the 49'ers. Coach Harbaugh gets to stay home in the San Francisco Bay area and the team gets a man who is fiercely competitive. I believe Harbaugh can get San Francisco back to the playoffs soon rather than later once he can groom a quarterback to run the West Coast offense.<br /> <br /> Boston Herald sports columnist Steve Buckley announces he's gay ---<br /> <br /> Steve Buckley, a very well respected and longtime sports columnist of the Boston Herald wrote an article <a href="http://www.bostonherald.com/news/columnists/view.bg?articleid=1307703&format&page=1&listingType=col" target=_blank>“Welcome to my coming-out party”</a> about his disclosure of being gay. <br /> <br /> What do I think?<br /> <br /> While I don't read the Boston Herald, I do watch “The Baseball Show”, a Saturday morning call-in show about the Boston Red Sox during baseball season which Buckley is one of the hosts. Buckley's decades of journalism is a welcome addition to the program as he speaks of the team with candor and wit.<br /> <br /> You know what? Had Buckley not written his article, I would have never known of his sexual preference. Or in other words...So what if Steve Buckley is gay? Doesn't matter one iota to this sports nut and amateur blogger. The man is a good writer --- PERIOD!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-5538471588384339696?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0IoGPu30TGhMNfRjb9pW3q25y9g/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0IoGPu30TGhMNfRjb9pW3q25y9g/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0IoGPu30TGhMNfRjb9pW3q25y9g/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0IoGPu30TGhMNfRjb9pW3q25y9g/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/2dmq5t_PEs0" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2011/01/luck-stays-harbaugh-goes-and-buckley.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-63224417554902985222010-12-24T12:42:00.002-05:002010-12-24T12:42:48.430-05:002010-12-24T12:42:48.430-05:00Wishing all of my readers a Merry Christmas and I will post soon!<br /> <br /> Dick<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-6322441755490298522?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/u-IICIa76XQ0-HEtOGjTr7xJfQs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/u-IICIa76XQ0-HEtOGjTr7xJfQs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/u-IICIa76XQ0-HEtOGjTr7xJfQs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/u-IICIa76XQ0-HEtOGjTr7xJfQs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/hVhOwpmK0zg" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/merry-christmas.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-21880583348245041032010-12-18T19:48:00.000-05:002010-12-18T19:48:47.333-05:002010-12-18T19:48:47.333-05:00This winter's “Hot Stove” season has produced some of most major dealings in many a year. As mentioned in my last post, <a href="http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/major-league-baseballs-major-free-agent.html" target=_blank>Major League Baseball's Major Free Agent Signings</a>, teams have positioned themselves for a run at the 2011 post season.<br /> <br /> The Chicago White Sox brought in Adam Dunn and maintained Paul Konerko to have power in the lineup while the Atlanta Braves acquired Dan Uggla from the Florida Marlins to fill their 2nd base void. The New York Yankees shored up their catching by signing Russell Martin and the Philadelphia Phillies landed the top prize by signing pitcher Cliff Lee.<br /> <br /> But no major league team has done more in an attempt to win the 2011 World Series than the Boston Red Sox. <br /> <br /> Here's a rundown of the more significant acquisitions.<br /> <br /> Boston's major trade was to gain the services of left-handed slugging 1st baseman Adrian Gonzalez from the San Diego Padres in exchange for three top prospects and Eric Patterson. <br /> <br /> The Red Sox have been interested in Gonzalez for the past two seasons but haven't been able to satisfy the Padres needs until now. Yes, it took prize prospects in pitcher Casey Kelly and 1st sacker Anthony Rizzo to pull the deal off, but the Sox desperately needed another bomber in the lineup knowing they wouldn't re-sign 3rd baseman Adrian Beltre and having lost catcher Victor Martinez to the Detroit Tigers. With this move, Boston moves Kevin Youkilis to the hot corner and now have a lineup that rivals the New York Yankees.<br /> <br /> On the heels of the Gonzalez trade, Boston stunned the baseball world by signing free agent left fielder Carl Crawford to a seven year, $142 million deal when it appeared that Crawford was going to sign with either the Yankees or the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. <br /> <br /> The signing of Crawford will improve the outfield defense in time (Crawford must learn to play the “Green Monster”)and will add speed and even more production to an already potent lineup. Manager Terry Francona has the pleasant problem of making a lineup card depending on the opposing pitcher and Crawford can bat anywhere from lead off to fifth in the batting order du jour.<br /> <br /> In 2010, the bullpen was a major sore spot as there wasn't a reliable arm for innings six and seven to get to set up man Daniel Bard and closer Jonathan Papelbon. The Red Sox made three free agent signings this week to shore the bullpen up.<br /> <br /> First, Bobby Jenks was added for two years worth $12 million. The former Chicago White Sox closer may have lost a little on his fastball, but is still quite capable of getting the important out in the later innings.<br /> <br /> Then Boston signed former Tampa Bay Rays reliever Dan Wheeler for a couple of seasons. Red Sox fans should remember Wheeler as a innings eater from the pen that can pitch day after day as proven by being at or near the top of relief appearances yearly.<br /> <br /> It was also announced that Matt Albers, formerly of the Baltimore Orioles, has been added to the Boston bullpen. Albers would be used if starting pitchers get yanked prior to inning six and can pitch multiple innings in a game.<br /> <br /> These acquisitions may be only the beginning of more movement by Boston. As of now, there is no lefty relief pitcher for the bullpen, and there are six starting pitchers on the staff. It has been rumored that the Red Sox could trade Papelbon, starter Daisuke Matsuzaka, or even center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury for a catcher or an outfielder. <br /> <br /> What about knuckleballer Tim Wakefield? He's signed on for one last season and now he has nowhere to go. Is Jarrod Saltalamacchia the answer behind the plate? I'm not sure about him back there.<br /> <br /> Believe me, the Bostonians are far from done making deals this winter. <br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-2188058334824504103?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ob5rSnhxSEy3NtFYN4r97wUkqMI/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ob5rSnhxSEy3NtFYN4r97wUkqMI/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ob5rSnhxSEy3NtFYN4r97wUkqMI/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ob5rSnhxSEy3NtFYN4r97wUkqMI/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/aR8o1i2bsWk" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/major-makeover-2011-boston-red-sox.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-63487236035843368052010-12-11T20:01:00.000-05:002010-12-11T20:01:56.277-05:002010-12-11T20:01:56.277-05:00With Major League Baseball's “Hot Stove” season well under way, we have seen a number of free agent signings. Some signings are one year deals and some are multi-year dealings and two of those multi-year signings are above the $100 million dollar mark.<br /> <br /> I will recap some of the more significant deals and offer opinions as to why or why not these transactions are for the good of the teams acquiring these players.<br /> <br /> Scott Downs - Relief Pitcher, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - $15 million for the three years, not including incentives.<br /> <br /> The Angels certainly needed a set-up man in front of closer Fernando Rodney. With long time eighth inning reliever Scot Shields in rapid decline and former closer Brian Fuentes dealt to Minnesota late last season, Downs is the perfect man for the set-up role. Also, Downs has the ability to close games should Rodney falter, as he often does.<br /> <br /> Dick says: <br /> <br /> This is a good marriage for both Downs and the Angels and the investment is well worth it.<br /> <br /> Adam Dunn and Paul Konerko - First Base/Designated Hitters, Chicago White Sox --- Dunn - four years at $56 million ; Konerko - three-year at $36 million.<br /> <br /> The Pale Hose not only kept an aging but still very productive Paul Konerko, they garnered the services of left-handed slugging mammoth Adam Dunn to essentially split the first base and DH duties. Not only do these mashers have tremendous power and run producing abilities, they will spell each other in the field to stay fresh and still garner plenty of plate appearances. Also, opposing pitchers will have to decide which hitter to pitch around to get to the other bomber. Pick your poison!<br /> <br /> Dick's Opinion: <br /> <br /> Tremendous signings for the White Sox. I believe between the two, 70 to 80 homers and over 200 RBI is well within reach and the team should see a significant increase in runs scored.<br /> <br /> Carlos Pena – First Base, Chicago Cubs - one-year, $10 million contract.<br /> <br /> With essentially nobody to play first base, the Cubs are taking a chance that the left-handed power hitting Pena can find his stroke after hitting a paltry .196 albeit with 28 dingers. He will definitely be heavily counted on for major production.<br /> <br /> Dick's Thoughts:<br /> <br /> Although I have no problem with the signing of Pena, I feel the Cubs could have paid significantly less for his services --- maybe $6 million as opposed to $10 million.<br /> <br /> Mariano Rivera – Closer and Derek Jeter – Shortstop, New York Yankees --- Rivera, two-year, $30 million and Jeter, $51 million over the three years.<br /> <br /> These signings will insure that the two future Hall Of Famers will retire as members of the Yankees. Rivera, arguably the game's greatest closer, is still considered by many to be the best in the business and Jeter, although showing signs of decline both at the plate and in the field, is still a great influence for the clubhouse and typifies the the Yankee tradition of class. As usual, both will be critical to future Yankee success.<br /> <br /> Dick Opines:<br /> <br /> I'm split on these to dealings. I have no problem with Rivera getting his money. I firmly believe he's still the best closer in baseball.<br /> <br /> While Jeter deserves to be a Yankee for life, paying a player an average of $17 million for three seasons is far too much for a player who may be declining at the plate and is certainly declining in the field with his lack of range. Argue fielding percentage if you like, he simply does not get to balls as he once did.<br /> <br /> Jayson Werth – Outfield, Washington Nationals --- Seven-year deal worth a reported $126 million.<br /> <br /> Washington obviously feels that Werth was the prime hitter in this year's free agent class. Werth hits for power, is productive, can run, and is a good defensive outfielder. Supposedly, he replaces Adam Dunn in the Nats lineup and will have to be all that Dunn was.<br /> <br /> What Dick Has To Say: <br /> <br /> Has Jim Bowden been re-hired as the Nationals General Manager? This is a ridiculous signing! While Werth is a good player, in no way is he an $18 million a season player. Heck, he's not even Washington's best player! That's reserved for third baseman Ryan Zimmerman. Here's throwing away!<br /> <br /> Carl Crawford – Left Field, Boston Red Sox --- Seven-year, $142 million deal.<br /> <br /> Red Sox Nation feared the ownership group led by John Henry would not spend money because of the $500 million spent to buy a European soccer team. <br /> <br /> Wrong!<br /> <br /> The BoSox aggressively went to Crawford at his home in Houston and grilled him on what his goals were in baseball. Obviously, Boston was so impressed that they paved the way to sign their first ever $100 free agent in Crawford. Patrolling left field and batting anywhere from third to sixth in the batting order, Crawford will be more productive without having to steal oodles of bases. Along with the acquisition of left-handed strong man Adrian Gonzalez, Boston could be the big league's highest scoring team.<br /> <br /> Red Sox Fan Dick Says: <br /> <br /> This is a wonderful time to be a Red Sox fan! Crawford will add speed in the outfield, hit 15 to 20 homers and will drive in at least 80 runs while scoring more than 80 runs to boot. He won't have to steal as many bags which should keep him fresh throughout the regular season.<br /> <br /> That's the more note worthy signings thus far this winter. Very active this off season of 2010-2011 and much more will transpire.<br /> <br /> Cliff Lee signs with...?<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-6348723603584336805?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/YY1G4UUKxQYRH2z4TlBzRrmB1T0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/YY1G4UUKxQYRH2z4TlBzRrmB1T0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/YY1G4UUKxQYRH2z4TlBzRrmB1T0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/YY1G4UUKxQYRH2z4TlBzRrmB1T0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/4n8YXm_JbuA" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/major-league-baseballs-major-free-agent.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-15283818534856444542010-12-08T19:47:00.000-05:002010-12-08T19:47:21.233-05:002010-12-08T19:47:21.233-05:00The 2010 National Football League season has gone through thirteen weeks and nothing has been decided in the playoff picture in either conference. Every division is up for grabs and there are still plenty of divisional games remaining on the schedule.<br /> <br /> So, where do we stand? Let's have a look shall we?<br /> <br /> In the AFC East, the New England Patriots at 10-2 hold a one game lead over the New York Jets by virtue of the 45-3 thrashing on Monday night. Tom Brady, arguably the greatest quarterback of this generation, is perhaps having his finest season in his career. Sure, he won't put up the numbers he had in 2007, but he is spreading the wealth by throwing passes to all available receivers and the hot dog vendor. Without question, Brady is the NFL MVP to this point and I believe the Patriots are the best team in football. <br /> <br /> The Pats travel to Chicago to play the Bears while the Jets are home to play Miami.<br /> <br /> The AFC North should go down to the wire. The 9-3 Pittsburgh Steelers took a one game advantage over the Baltimore Ravens via a come from behind 13-10 win against the Ravens Sunday night. The Pittsburgh defense is staunch as usual and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is playing well yet again. <br /> <br /> Pittsburgh faces the lowly Cincinnati Bengals at home Sunday while Baltimore plays the Texans in Houston come Monday night.<br /> <br /> Does any team want to win the AFC South? The Jacksonville Jaguars lead the division at 7-5 followed by perennial power Indianapolis Colts at 6-6 while both the Houston Texans and the Tennessee Titans have 5-7 marks. None of the four squads are very good and all have tough games this weekend. <br /> <br /> Indy travels to Tennessee on Thursday night, Jacksonville plays at home to an improved Oakland Raiders team while Houston is home to Baltimore. <br /> <br /> The Kansas City Chiefs have a 2 game game cushion over both the Raiders and the San Diego Chargers. At 8-4, the Chiefs run the ball well and signal caller Matt Cassel has played better than expected.<br /> <br /> This is a huge week for these three teams as Kansas goes to San Diego and as previously mentioned, the Raiders go to Florida to face the Jaguars.<br /> <br /> Turning to the NFC East, The New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles sit atop the division with identical 8-4 records. The Giants are doing it with a balanced offense and a ferocious pass rush while quarterback Michael Vick has spearheaded has led the Philly resurgence.<br /> <br /> On Sunday, both teams hit the road as the G-Men play at Minnesota to face the disappointing Vikings while the Eagles go to face the Dallas Cowboys.<br /> <br /> The Chicago Bears, with a 9-3 mark, lead the Green Bay Packers by a single game in the NFC North. The Bears defense is considered by many to be the NFL's best but it's the packers that have allowed the fewest points this season.<br /> <br /> Things could change this week as Green Bay travels to Detroit to face the hapless Lions and Chicago has that aforementioned home game versus the Patriots.<br /> <br /> It appears as though the NFC South division will be a fight to the finish. The Atlanta Falcons at 10-2 hold a slim one game advantage over the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints. Both teams are very balanced offensively at this point and both defenses have been solid.<br /> <br /> The weekend schedule should favor both teams as Atlanta travels to Carolina to face the woeful Panthers and the Saints have home cooking against the mediocre but improving St. Louis Rams.<br /> <br /> Then there's the NFC West. Both the St. Louis Rams and Seattle Seahawks lead the division with paltry 6-6 records. Admittedly, Pete Carroll had done a decent job in his first season as head coach of Seattle while rookie quarterback and overall #1 pick Sam Bradford has done a fantastic job spearheading the Rams offense. <br /> <br /> On the weekend, The Rams go to New Orleans to face the Saints and Seattle goes South to play the San Francisco 49'ers. Interesting developments could be in store.<br /> <br /> The playoff run will be interesting to say the least. I think we all look forward to what will transpire in the final four weeks of the 2010 edition of the NFL regular season.<br /> <br /> Are you ready for some football?<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-1528381853485644454?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CNKzIEUG9ERqnuU4Ohfxo8dLIwU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CNKzIEUG9ERqnuU4Ohfxo8dLIwU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CNKzIEUG9ERqnuU4Ohfxo8dLIwU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CNKzIEUG9ERqnuU4Ohfxo8dLIwU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/q6tdE-h7V3I" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/headed-for-home-nfls-final-month-is-at.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-6738987598962577172010-12-02T19:43:00.000-05:002010-12-02T19:43:12.016-05:002010-12-02T19:43:12.016-05:00The BCS standings changed over the weekend with some great games and a few upsets.<br /> <br /> Here's a recap.<br /> <br /> Auburn, by way of a come from behind win over arch rival Alabama, became the new #1 ranked team in the BCS standings on Sunday. Down 24-0 in the second quarter, Auburn quarterback Cam Newton once again resurrected a stagnant offense to life by accounting for all 4 of the Tigers touchdowns. Defensively, All-American defensive tackle Nick Fairley overpowered the Crimson Tide interior linemen and wreaked havoc on quarterback Greg McElroy and shut down the pass offense completely. <br /> <br /> Auburn now faces South Carolina for the SEC championship. A victory by the Tigers will give them a birth in the BCS title game.<br /> <br /> Although Oregon defeated Arizona 48-29 over the weekend, the Ducks are now ranked 2nd in the latest rankings. The PAC-10 champs now must play rival Oregon State to end the regular season at 12-0 and gain a birth in the BCS title game.<br /> <br /> TCU remains the #3 ranked team this week after finishing off a perfect regular season campaign. The only chance the Horned Frogs receive a title shot is for either Auburn or Oregon to lose.<br /> <br /> At #4, Stanford finishes with an 11-1 mark and is in line to play in the Rose Bowl. The Cardinal have the slimmest of hopes of playing in the BCS title tilt by way of both Auburn and Oregon losing. Even at that, Stanford may be too far behind to get to the 2nd spot in the BCS.<br /> <br /> At #5 this week are the Wisconsin Badgers. The Badgers wound up in a three way tie for the Big Ten title with Ohio State and Michigan State, but essentially were crowned conference champions by finishing the highest in the BCS standings. Wisconsin, along with Stanford, is playing the best football in the country and is worthy of its BCS bid.<br /> <br /> Of course the one major upset was Nevada upsetting then #4 Boise State, dashing any hopes the Broncos had of playing for the national championship.<br /> <br /> Now that the final weekend of the season is at hand, and some conferences to be decided, we will have a clear picture of which teams will play for the BCS title and which others will play in BCS bowl games.<br /> <br /> I can't wait!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-673898759896257717?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/x6TwKpaN_WciByISgSO00CjZUl0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/x6TwKpaN_WciByISgSO00CjZUl0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/x6TwKpaN_WciByISgSO00CjZUl0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/x6TwKpaN_WciByISgSO00CjZUl0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/riArFtsm8tE" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/12/bcs-shakeup.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-28460991768035953902010-11-22T19:24:00.000-05:002010-11-22T19:24:37.886-05:002010-11-22T19:24:37.886-05:00With the college football season in its final two weeks of the season, there is still much to be determined in conference races and the BCS final standings. In fact, all we know about the standings in the six automatic qualifying BCS conferences is that the SEC championship game will feature East kingpin South Carolina versus West champs and #2 Auburn and Virginia Tech has won the ACC Coastal Division.<br /> <br /> Let's now examine where things stand in conference races, including the non – automatic qualifying Mountain West and WAC conferences.<br /> <br /> Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC):<br /> <br /> As previously mentioned, Virginia Tech has won the Coastal division and await either Atlantic Coast division champion Florida State or North Carolina State for the ACC title. The Hokies have been solid on offense and play their normal stifling defense.<br /> <br /> Big East:<br /> <br /> The University of Pittsburgh lead the Big East by one game over both Connecticut and West Virginia with two games remaining and control their own destiny. Pitt plays West Virginia at home on Friday and travels to Cincinnati to finish the conference schedule. Two wins and they're the champs.<br /> <br /> The Mountaineers can lay claim to the title by beating the Panthers then defeating Rutgers in its finale along with a Connecticut loss.<br /> <br /> U Conn has a shot at the title by winning its two remaining games at home versus Cincinnati and at South Florida. The Huskies need a little help and will get some as the loser of the West Virginia/Pittsburgh will fall behind Conn. It also helps that Connecticut has beaten both teams this season.<br /> <br /> Big Ten:<br /> <br /> The most exciting conference race remaining as three teams vie for the Big Ten title as #7 Wisconsin, #8 Ohio State, and #10 Michigan State have just one loss in conference. Wisconsin has beaten Ohio State but has lost to Michigan State while the Spartans lone defeat came at the hands of Iowa. On top of that, Ohio State and Michigan State go not meet this season.<br /> <br /> How will the Big Ten title be determined?<br /> <br /> In the event of a three way tie for the lead, the team with the highest BCS ranking will be crowned Big Ten champion in which Wisconsin leads for the time being.<br /> <br /> Should Wisconsin and Ohio State tie for first, the Badgers will claim the with the aforementioned victory over Ohio State.<br /> <br /> Should Wisconsin and Michigan State top the conference standings, the Spartans will win the crown by having beaten the Badgers.<br /> <br /> In the event that Ohio State and Michigan State lead the pack, the squad with the higher BCS rank will prevail with the Buckeyes leading the way at the moment.<br /> <br /> The schedule for the weekend has Wisconsin at home versus Northwestern, Ohio State staying home to play rival Michigan, and Michigan State traveling to Happy Valley to go against Penn State.<br /> <br /> Good stuff, you think?<br /> <br /> Big 12:<br /> <br /> Nebraska controls its own destiny in the North Division and can claim its place in the Big 12 title game with a win against Colorado on Saturday. However, should the Cornhuskers lose and Missouri wins its game at Kansas, the Tigers will win the North.<br /> <br /> The South Division will be decided Saturday as the Oklahoma Sooners travel to Stillwater to play the Oklahoma State Cowboys with the winner playing in the Big 12 title game.<br /> <br /> Pacific 10:<br /> <br /> The BCS #1 Oregon Ducks have two games remaining --- at home against #21 Arizona and at Corvallis to play arch rival Oregon State. One win will clinch the PAC 10 title and winning out will put the Ducks in the BCS title tilt.<br /> <br /> Stanford, at #5, holds out slim hopes of being the conference champ by winning its remaining game against Oregon State and Oregon losing both of its games.<br /> <br /> Southeastern Conference:<br /> <br /> As previously mentioned, #2 Auburn and # 18 South Carolina will vie for the SEC title in 2 weeks.<br /> <br /> Mountain West:<br /> <br /> The #3 TCU Horned Frogs have already laid claim to the Mountain West title and look to finish a perfect regular season with a defeat of lowly New Mexico.<br /> <br /> Western Athletic Conference (WAC):<br /> <br /> The WAC title will be decided this weekend as the Boise State Broncos, ranked 4th in the current BCS standings, travel to Reno to square off against the #19 Wolfpack. Both teams have explosive offenses, but BSU has a stifling defense to boot.<br /> <br /> This looks to be an exciting weekend for college football and the BCS standings could be jumbled. The key tilt will be #2 Auburn playing #11 Alabama with national championship implications for Auburn.<br /> <br /> Enjoy the games! <br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-2846099176803595390?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SDyR0zWVFkmy293ACru5v8Z5PiA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SDyR0zWVFkmy293ACru5v8Z5PiA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SDyR0zWVFkmy293ACru5v8Z5PiA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SDyR0zWVFkmy293ACru5v8Z5PiA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/USx2DuuRBpw" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/11/down-to-wire-in-college-football.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-49754951086825609772010-11-15T19:27:00.001-05:002010-11-15T19:31:07.407-05:002010-11-15T19:31:07.407-05:00In my last post, I stated my opinions on the top four AFC and NFC teams respectively. I mentioned that Baltimore, Pittsburgh, New England, and the New York Jets were the cream of the AFC while the New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, and New Orleans Saints were the NFC front runners.<br /> <br /> Going into the 10th week of the season, I would have thought that very little would change although there were 2 marquee match-ups that could flip my opinions ( Baltimore @ Atlanta and New England @ Pittsburgh). After what happened Sunday, much carnage remained on the fields and things changed in a blink of an eye. This proves the old adage “On any given Sunday...”<br /> <br /> Only In The NFL.<br /> <br /> So what happened? For starters, the Ravens went to Atlanta on Thursday night and seemingly had the Falcons beaten until Matt Ryan led Atlanta on a last minute march to upend Baltimore 26-21. Then Sunday,the Jets managed to stay tied atop the East with a less than convincing 26-20 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns, whom had pounded the Patriots the week prior. On Sunday night, the Patriots went to Pittsburgh and whipped the Steelers 39-26 in a that wasn't as close as the score indicated. The win kept the Pats even with the Jets for the AFC East lead with identical 7-2 marks. With that, it appears that the Jets and Patriots are seemingly a bit better than the rest of the AFC contenders. <br /> <br /> With Atlanta winning and with both Green Bay and New Orleans on a bye week, the Giants had their opportunity to keep pace by playing the underwhelming Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium. After coming out flatter than a pancake and two power outages later, New York was dealt an embarrassing 33-20 loss to fall behind Atlanta for home field advantage. <br /> <br /> I'm not convinced that Atlanta is the NFC's best team, but they have the look of a team coning together at the right time. Let's not forget that the Saints are seemingly gathering momentum and the Packers look as though they are rolling. It's wide open in the NFC.<br /> <br /> Then again, “Only In The NFL.”<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-4975495108682560977?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/iZ2T4w0pBC5He0mQsDcbv6x_LTc/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/iZ2T4w0pBC5He0mQsDcbv6x_LTc/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/iZ2T4w0pBC5He0mQsDcbv6x_LTc/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/iZ2T4w0pBC5He0mQsDcbv6x_LTc/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/bQNR7Jrxiak" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/11/only-in-nfl.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-79017779619941104422010-11-09T19:31:00.001-05:002010-11-09T19:46:50.035-05:002010-11-09T19:46:50.035-05:00The NFL season is officially halfway through the regular season now that all thirty two teams have played at least eight games. Now that we've gotten there, I'll take a peek at where some teams stand as to playoff positioning and some potential pitfalls to the finish.<br /> <br /> Let's go!<br /> <br /> The AFC's best team is...?<br /> <br /> Well, the New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens, and Pittsburgh Steelers all stand at 6-2 and are seemingly going to qualify for post-season play. <br /> <br /> The Jets have a grinding style of offense and have improved the passing game some under quarterback Mark Sanchez . The tremendous defense limits opposing teams from moving the ball with any consistency.<br /> <br /> The Pats are still dangerous on offense with Tom Brady at the helm but the youth on defense can and has proven to be problematic at times. <br /> <br /> The Ravens offense is improving under quarterback Joe Flacco to go with a strong running game. Of course, defensively Baltimore is as good as ever.<br /> <br /> The Steelers overcame the four game suspension of signal caller Ben Roethlisberger by playing lights out defense and running the ball effectively. However, Pittsburgh now has a rash of injuries in the trenches on both sides of the ball that could slow both units.<br /> <br /> I would pick the Steelers as the top dog in the AFC if not for the aforementioned injuries. Therefore, my vote goes to the Baltimore Ravens.<br /> <br /> The NFC's best team is...?<br /> <br /> Four teams stand out as front runners --- The Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants at 6-2 while the Green Bay Packers and defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints stand at 6-3.<br /> <br /> The Falcons have a punishing ground game led by Michael Turner, a young quarterback in Matt Ryan who makes few mistakes, and a defense that is unheralded yet stout.<br /> <br /> The Giants have probably the best balance of all NFL offenses. The two-headed monster in the backfield of Ahmad Bradshaw and Jacobs are hard to stop and quarterback Eli Manning can sling the football with the NFL's top signal callers. Injuries on the offensive line could hamper the Giants however. The defense has been the big story as the G-men get to the opposing passer better than any team in the league. <br /> <br /> The Packers, while deficient running the ball, move the ball with ease through the air thanks to top flight quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Defensively, the Packers have been terrific led by Clay Matthews who is having an All-Pro caliber season.<br /> <br /> The Saints have come to life on offense after being dormant in September. Quarterback Drew Brees has regained his swagger and the running game has been pieced together with running backs Christopher Ivory, Ladell Betts, and Julius Jones. The defense has played quite well and the return of safety Darren Sharper can only help.<br /> <br /> I cast my vote for the NFC's best team to the New York Giants although it is wide open and as previously mentioned, the Giants have injury woes on the offensive line.<br /> <br /> Those are my thoughts. Yours are?<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-7901777961994110442?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/yI9vq2Mk7d8Hn7IOT0uTw-IXujs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/yI9vq2Mk7d8Hn7IOT0uTw-IXujs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/yI9vq2Mk7d8Hn7IOT0uTw-IXujs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/yI9vq2Mk7d8Hn7IOT0uTw-IXujs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/XJaUMuEeP6o" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/11/nfl-halfway-through-regular-season.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-87608173897500999572010-11-04T19:36:00.002-04:002010-11-05T07:35:42.411-04:002010-11-05T07:35:42.411-04:00In another week filled with sports stories ranging from sublime to bizarre, three events of note caught my eye that has inspired me to write yet another post of multiple subjects. <br /> <br /> Baseball season is now over, a mercurial wide receiver makes headlines yet again, and college football's landscape goes through more turnover. <br /> <br /> Let's get this show on the road!<br /> <br /> San Francisco Giants End Long World Series Drought.<br /> <br /> The San Francisco Giants ended a 56 drought between World Series titles by defeating the Texas Rangers in 5 games to become the 2010 World Champions. The Giants rode the arms of starting pitchers Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, 21 year-old Madison Bumgarner, and closer Brian Wilson to what was to be easy pickings against the Rangers vaunting hitting attack. <br /> <br /> But the surprise star was aging shortstop and World Series MVP Edgar Renteria. Renteria hit 2 homers and knocked in 6 teammates including the series clinching 3 run shot in game five. Edgar is now contemplating retirement after a very good major league career that included 2 World Series titles.<br /> <br /> Congratulations to both the Giants and Renteria!<br /> <br /> Randy Moss Moving Again.<br /> <br /> In what I thought was a stunning development, The Minnesota Vikings suddenly waived wide receiver Randy Moss just a month after acquiring his services from the New England Patriots for a third round draft choice in the 2011 NFL draft.<br /> <br /> Moss did little to revitalize the Vikings passing game and reportedly got upset over bad food from a catering service. Whatever the case, it was Randy's attitude that bit his butt yet again and Vikes' coach Brad Childress has publicly regretted making that trade.<br /> <br /> Moss has been claimed on waivers by the Tennessee Titans to bolster their passing game which surprised me as I thought the St. Louis Rams would claim him ahead of the Titans. We'll see what happens.<br /> <br /> The Ever Changing Landscape Of College Football.<br /> <br /> More upsets last weekend led to more changes to the headache that is the BCS standings. Previously unbeaten Michigan State and Missouri got thrashed by Iowa and Nebraska respectively and Oregon leapfrogged Auburn as the nation's new top dog (or duck).<br /> <br /> Two key games to keep an eye on this weekend as #3 TCU travels to #5 Utah for what should be the Mountain West title and #6 Alabama plays #10 LSU in what should be a defensive struggle for positioning in the SEC West.<br /> <br /> Then we can watch the BCS show at 8:15 PM Sunday to see the new standings...Or not.<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" style="width: 133px;"><tbody> <tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="hit counter" border="0" src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><span style="color: #330006; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/" style="color: #555556; font-family: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 9px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </span></td></tr> </tbody></table><!-- Start WhoLinksToMe Code 1f43b830a8ede39ea46141ad7afdc52d --><br /> <a href="http://wholinkstome.com/url/dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com"><br /> <img src="http://wholinkstome.com/images/wltm_3.png" border="0"/></a><br /> <!-- End WhoLinksToMe Code --><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-8760817389750099957?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/jfr-l41xGwTvbSAioma6yXnCLgU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/jfr-l41xGwTvbSAioma6yXnCLgU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/jfr-l41xGwTvbSAioma6yXnCLgU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/jfr-l41xGwTvbSAioma6yXnCLgU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/qbK8ZEhs3RY" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/11/world-series-randy-moss-and-college.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-59371775606061282122010-10-26T20:34:00.000-04:002010-10-26T20:34:34.726-04:002010-10-26T20:34:34.726-04:00Much has happened this past weekend in the wonderful world of sports. We have witnessed Major League Baseball crowning league champions, the #1 ranked team in college football's BCS getting hammered, and the emergence (or re-emergence) of a potential NFC power. <br /> <br /> One by one, I will briefly recap these events and give opinions on the future of upcoming events as pertains to these subjects.<br /> <br /> Here we go!<br /> <br /> The 2010 World Series ---<br /> <br /> This season's World Series pits the National League champion San Francisco Giants versus the Texas Rangers, champion of the American League. The Giants feature a strong pitching staff, as witnessed in the NLCS by defeating defending champion Philadelphia Phillies, while the Rangers have a potent batting attack as the defending world champion New York Yankees encountered. San Francisco has not won the Series since 1954 while Texas is playing in its first ever fall classic.<br /> <br /> It has been stated and proven that good pitching beats good hitting most of the time, but I feel that the Ranger bats and aggressiveness will be too much for 'Frisco's call to arms.<br /> <br /> I like Texas in six games and bring home their first world title.<br /> <br /> Game 1, to be played Wednesday evening in San Francisco, will feature Giants ace Tim Lincecum against Texas stopper Cliff Lee, one of the all time post season's best hurlers.<br /> <br /> It's NOT Good To Be The King ---<br /> <br /> Being #1 in major college football has not been to the liking of three teams in the last three weeks. Alabama was knocked off the AP's top rung by being upset by South Carolina three weeks ago. The following Saturday, newly anointed #1 Ohio State gets bounced by Wisconsin and then this past Saturday night, initial BCS #1 Oklahoma got shelled by Missouri. The one thing in common is that all three top dogs lost on the road and this week the new BCS leader Auburn plays Mississippi … yup, at Mississippi.<br /> <br /> I believe the string gets broken this week as Auburn overpowers “Ole Miss” and retains its lofty perch.<br /> <br /> The New York Giants Becoming An NFC Power ---<br /> <br /> If someone had told me that after seven weeks into the NFL season that the New York “Football” Giants would be tied for the best record in the NFC, my response would have been, “You're crazy!”. But yet,the Giants --- my Giants are in that position. After a bumbling start, including an embarrassing 29-10 loss at home to Tennessee, the G-Men have ripped off four consecutive victories, including a 41-35 victory in Dallas against the Cowboys. The offense is well balanced with a very good offensive line that opens holes for both Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs and protects quarterback Eli Manning sufficiently.<br /> <br /> Speaking of Eli, he has what is the best young receiving corps in the NFL with possession slot man Steve Smith, deep threat Mario Manningham, and budding superstar Hakeem Nicks. <br /> <br /> Defensively, New York has regained it's vaunted pass rush, added run stopping ability, and improved its pass coverage under new defensive coordinator Perry Fewell. Truly, the defense has been sparkling this month and is among one of the better units in the NFL.<br /> <br /> The Giants hope to continue playing well after this weeks bye as the meat of their schedule is upcoming as they must face the Cowboys again and have divisional foes Philadelphia and Washington for a pair each.<br /> <br /> Now if Eli can stop throwing needless interceptions...<br /> <br /> Enjoy! <br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-5937177560606128212?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SwjJql5k3uIrB_zQXTS0GKROH0U/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SwjJql5k3uIrB_zQXTS0GKROH0U/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SwjJql5k3uIrB_zQXTS0GKROH0U/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SwjJql5k3uIrB_zQXTS0GKROH0U/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/1jKpoAyuK3g" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/10/world-series-bcs-1-and-new-york.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-14744736975963587772010-10-19T19:43:00.000-04:002010-10-19T19:43:10.669-04:002010-10-19T19:43:10.669-04:00The initial Bowl Championship Series (BCS) standings were released on Sunday evening with the Oklahoma Sooners ranked #1 followed by the Oregon Ducks, Boise State Broncos, Auburn Tigers, and the TCU Horned Frogs rounding out the top five.<br /> <br /> As we know, the BCS formula is derived by the the AP poll, USA Today Coaches poll, the Harris Interactive poll, and a series of computer rankings in which strength of schedule is a key component. More information can be obtained at the official <a href="http://www.bcsfootball.org/" target=_blank>BCS</a> Website.<br /> <br /> Of course, the first BCS standings means nothing to how the final standings will be. Every week until the conference championship games are played, the standings will change and there are a number of huge games this weekend.<br /> <br /> The top ranked and undefeated Sooners face a stiff road test Saturday at Columbia, Missouri to play the undefeated and #11 Missouri Tigers. In another battle of unbeaten teams, #4 Auburn plays host to #6 LSU Tigers in a huge SEC war while #5 TCU plays an always tough Air Force squad at home. <br /> <br /> Other games with BCS importance include the #13 Wisconsin Badgers, fresh off defeating former #1 Ohio State Buckeyes, traveling to Iowa City, to face the #15 Iowa Hawkeyes in a huge Big Ten match up. Another key Big Ten game has the #8 and 7-0 Michigan State Spartans traveling to Evanston, Illinois to face a formidable Northwestern Wildcats team losing only once in six tries. Finally, in a key Big 12 showdown, the undefeated #14 Oklahoma State Cowboys is at home against the #16 Nebraska Cornhuskers, who were upset at home by the Texas Longhorns last weekend.<br /> <br /> Say what you will about the BCS. I personally feel a playoff system is best but for now this is what we have. So let's enjoy the games this weekend and may your favorite team win! <br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-1474473697596358777?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WLday2MN18Gmnxmks9pe1PTgwxs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WLday2MN18Gmnxmks9pe1PTgwxs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WLday2MN18Gmnxmks9pe1PTgwxs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WLday2MN18Gmnxmks9pe1PTgwxs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/8dt7eKOWhiE" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/10/oklahoma-leads-initial-bcs-standings.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-79964460251928280022010-10-13T19:51:00.000-04:002010-10-13T19:51:26.479-04:002010-10-13T19:51:26.479-04:00The NFL season has concluded five weeks of play and all teams have played a minimum of four games. We've seen amazing plays, total blunders, and even three trades occurring in the last seven days. On top of that, we have no undefeated teams remaining this early in the season!<br /> <br /> We've also seen concussions to big name players and major injuries have already hampered some teams. Some teams have pleasantly surprised, some have hugely disappointed, and yet some just leave fans scratching their heads.<br /> <br /> This is why we love the National Football League. Each week gives us something to talk about and we never know what will happen from play to play, let alone week to week.<br /> <br /> Here is what I've seen after five weeks of play from team perspectives of the 2010 season.<br /> <br /> Teams doing as expected, both good and bad:<br /> <br /> I figured that the New England Patriots, New York Jets, Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Atlanta Falcons would play well to this point. Each team has lost just once and all have played decent competition while playing different styles of football.<br /> <br /> The Patriots do it strictly with Tom Brady and an improved running game while not playing great defense. The offense may suffer a bit with the trade of Randy Moss to Minnesota but I don't believe it will be as much as most pundits are leading us to believe.<br /> <br /> The Jets, Ravens, Steelers, and Falcons all have very good running games and defenses with Pittsburgh's defense being the NFL's best. The quarterbacks for New York (Mark Sanchez), Baltimore (Joe Flacco), and Atlanta (Matt Ryan) are all improving while Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger returns from suspension.<br /> <br /> Personally. I think Pittsburgh is the best of this fantastic lot.<br /> <br /> I had a pretty good idea that the Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, and Carolina Panthers would not be very good. Buffalo, Cleveland and Carolina are total messes while Detroit may be building a decent future, but not for a couple of seasons yet. Enough of those teams.<br /> <br /> The surprise teams, both pleasant and disappointing:<br /> <br /> I'm pleasantly surprised by the Kansas City Chiefs, Chicago Bears, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Chiefs and Bears play tremendous defense and can run the ball. The Bears also have great yet enigmatic talent at quarterback in Jay Cutler returning from being concussed by the New York Giants two games ago. How the Buccaneers are winning is something I have yet to comprehend. The offense nor defense makes me go “Wow!” but they have made key plays in key moments as witnessed by the Cincinnati Bengals last Sunday.<br /> <br /> I think Chicago has the best chance of sustaining their good play providing Cutler plays to his ability.<br /> <br /> What team can be more disappointing than the Dallas Cowboys? The sexy pick to play the Super Bowl at their home stadium has been absolutely horrible in three areas --- head coach, quarterback, and discipline.<br /> <br /> Head Coach Wade Phillips looks the part of the village idiot in Cowboy games I watch. I have never bought into the hype of quarterback Tony Romo. His numbers look great but he makes critical mistakes at moments when Dallas needs him most. Yeah, I think he's overrated. The discipline is the inordinate amount of penalties this teams takes and many are downright stupid! That brings us back to Wade Phillips...enough said.<br /> <br /> Other disappointing teams are the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers. With the Vikings, bringing back Brett Favre looks like a bad decision at this time and at 1-4, they could be in deep trouble. I find it hard to believe that the 49ers are winless in five tries and seem undisciplined, which goes against what head coach Mike Singletary stands for. <br /> <br /> The teams that leave us scratching our heads:<br /> <br /> The Cincinnati Bengals, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, San Diego Chargers, New York Giants, Green Bay Packers, and New Orleans Saints are teams that make me wonder what their identity really is.<br /> <br /> The Bengals at 2-3 run the ball pretty well, but quarterback Carson Palmer has not been as sharp as anticipated with two great receivers in Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. The supposed vaunted defense hasn't played that well either.<br /> <br /> The Colts have the most prolific passing game in the NFL with Peyton Manning being...well, Peyton Manning. But the usual problems show up game in and game out --- lack of a running attack and poor pass defense. Indianapolis will only go as far as Manning takes them.<br /> <br /> Speaking of a Manning, kid brother Eli's Giants have the making of being a very good team. The offense is well balanced and the defense has seemingly improved under defensive coordinator Perry Fewell, but can they hold up? We'll see as the Giants have a home game with Detroit and a divisional contest with Dallas in two weeks.<br /> <br /> The Packers are a team decimated by injuries at the moment on both sides of the ball. Gone are super tight end Jermichael Finley, top notch running back Ryan Grant and linebacker Nick Barnett. To go with all that, Pro Bowl quarterback Aaron Rogers was concussed in a loss at Washington and his status for this coming week is uncertain. This could be a tough row to hoe for the Pack.<br /> <br /> What is it with the Texans? Great offensive balance but inconsistent and a defense that has shown no improvement at all. I haven't a clue as to what team will show each week.<br /> <br /> The Chargers are off to their usual slow start. Philip Rivers is a great quarterback, Antonio Gates is perhaps the leagues premier tight end and rookie runner Ryan Matthews looks as though he can carry the load. The defense is so-so at best, so Rivers and company will shoulder the load nearly every game. Also, this team cannot win on the road as witnessed by their 0-3 record.<br /> <br /> Then there's the defending Super Bowl champion Saints. It's hard to believe the offense is stagnant, but with both Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas out with injuries, this can be somewhat expected. I'll tell you though, the offense will have to pick up the pace to support a suspect defense. I think New Orleans will get back on track quickly.<br /> <br /> Well, that's how I see the NFL after five weeks of play. Agree or not, this has been a different start to the season and we can expect more wild and wacky events each week.<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-7996446025192828002?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/-Rz2MxXSUgcmFSx0WugjDwsRqSg/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/-Rz2MxXSUgcmFSx0WugjDwsRqSg/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/-Rz2MxXSUgcmFSx0WugjDwsRqSg/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/-Rz2MxXSUgcmFSx0WugjDwsRqSg/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/jaeyt0Q0wdg" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/10/nfl-after-five-weeks.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-87143376564142364152010-09-28T19:48:00.002-04:002010-09-28T20:01:38.862-04:002010-09-28T20:01:38.862-04:00I heard on a Sporting News Flash segment that NFL Hall of Fame quarterback/place kicker George Blanda passed away Monday at age 83. <br /> <br /> Blanda was a legendary player from 1949 through 1975 playing for the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Colts, Houston Oilers, and Oakland Raiders. In those 26 seasons, the longest playing career in pro football history, Blanda threw 236 touchdown passes and scored 2002 points, a pro football record at the time.<br /> <br /> George's best season as a quarterback came in 1961 playing for the Houston Oilers of the American Football League (AFL) throwing 36 TD passes and named AFL Player of the Year.<br /> <br /> But what I remember about Blanda was he was clutch as both the place kicker and backup quarterback for the Oakland Raiders. I also remember a stretch of games in the early 1970's in which he either threw game tying or winning touchdown passes and some winning field goals along the way.<br /> <br /> I honestly didn't remember what season it was or the exact way these games were decided, so I did some research to get the information that I will present to you.<br /> <br /> The season was 1970 and the streak of games that Blanda either led Oakland to victory, or in one game a tie, was five.<br /> <br /> The first game was a three-touchdown passing and a field goal to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. On the heels of defeating Pittsburgh, Blanda kicked a game tying field goal versus arch rival Kansas City Chiefs followed by throwing a touchdown pass and kicking a 52-yard field goal with 1:36 remaining to beat the Cleveland Browns. The streak reached four games as Blanda beat the Denver Broncos with a late TD pass and culminated with George kicking a late game winning field goal against the San Diego Chargers.<br /> <br /> That is one amazing run for a player who was age 43 at the time!<br /> <br /> Blanda retired just prior to then 1976 season after being waived by Oakland a month short of his 49th birthday and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981. <br /> <br /> Truly an amazing career from an amazing athlete. With that may we pay homage to a man that truly loved what he did --- play football for a living.<br /> <br /> May George Blanda rest in peace.<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to <a href="mailto:dlafrance2@207me.com">dlafrance2@207me.com</a><br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-8714337656414236415?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/krjoFZcfA4yi1OdmHzk2VTrA5lo/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/krjoFZcfA4yi1OdmHzk2VTrA5lo/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/krjoFZcfA4yi1OdmHzk2VTrA5lo/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/krjoFZcfA4yi1OdmHzk2VTrA5lo/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/4Tqoxe8oYDs" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/remembering-george-blanda.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-91931144866021596372010-09-23T20:03:00.000-04:002010-09-23T20:03:25.799-04:002010-09-23T20:03:25.799-04:00The chase for the FedEx Cup, the holy grail of the PGA Tour, culminates this weekend with the playing of The Tour Championship at the demanding East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta. The top thirty of the 2010 FedEx point standings have qualified for the prestigious title of FedEx Cup champion and the top five are in position to win it all by way of victory in The Tour Championship.<br /> <br /> Here's a quick rundown of the top five in FedEx Cup points in reverse order.<br /> <br /> 5th – Paul Casey<br /> <br /> Casey has played the fewest events of the top five (16) and has yet to record a victory this season. However, he has finished in the top 10 six times including a runner-up finish at The Open Championship in St. Andrews, Scotland. Paul hits it a long way but recently has been somewhat wild off the tee. He'll need to be accurate to conquer East Lake.<br /> <br /> 4th – Steve Stricker<br /> <br /> Stricker has had a very good season in 2010 which includes two victories amongst his nine top 10 results. Not the longest off the tee, Stricker is known for his ball striking abilities and is always one the best putters on tour. East Lake Golf Club should suit him well.<br /> <br /> 3rd – Charley Hoffman<br /> <br /> The short, stout Hoffman with the long blond hair and Popeye arms vaulted himself into the top five by winning The Deutsche Bank Open, the 2nd leg of the FedEx Cup playoffs. Charley is a bomber off the tee, but he'll need accuracy if he wants to be FedEx champ.<br /> <br /> 2nd – Dustin Johnson<br /> <br /> The unbelievably long Johnson has had an...well, unbelievable season. He has won twice this season including the BMW title just 2 weeks ago, the 3rd leg of the playoffs. We know of his meltdown during the final round of the U.S. Open and was penalized 2 strokes for grounding his club in a bunker on the 72nd hole during the PGA Championship, costing him a spot in the playoff. Johnson is not only long, but has a delicate touch around the greens. He must keep his wits about him this weekend.<br /> <br /> 1st – Matt Kuchar<br /> <br /> Easily the most consistent player on tour in 2010, Kuchar has eleven top 10 finishes with a lone victory to his credit in 24 events. This season, there has been no glaring weaknesses in Matt's game and he is poised to win his first FedEx Cup title. He definitely has the game and mindset to win at Atlanta.<br /> <br /> There you have it in a nutshell. Of course, there are other players of note that can win The Tour Championship and the FedEx Cup championship should the top five stumble. Jim Furyk, Ernie Els, and defending champion Phil Mickelson are all ready to pounce and steal the FedEx Cup.<br /> <br /> This should be a great weekend of golf. <br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-9193114486602159637?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ISRSuIRGqzD1At6lBYsEDi6Oa4k/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ISRSuIRGqzD1At6lBYsEDi6Oa4k/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ISRSuIRGqzD1At6lBYsEDi6Oa4k/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ISRSuIRGqzD1At6lBYsEDi6Oa4k/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/HyTul120Rx8" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com1http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/pga-tour-fedex-cup-to-be-decided-this.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-78434991959121832182010-09-22T20:15:00.000-04:002010-09-22T20:15:28.259-04:002010-09-22T20:15:28.259-04:00It appears that Michael Vick will be at the helm for the Philadelphia Eagles in their quest to make the NFL playoffs in 2010. This news comes on the heels of long tenured head coach Andy Reid emphatically stating on Monday that Kevin Kolb was the Philly quarterback of the present and future.<br /> <br /> Why the change of heart? There are several possibilities for the change...let's explore them.<br /> <br /> Vick is endorsed by the team. <br /> <br /> It's no secret in the NFL that the other 52 players are behind the quarterback if he plays well and the team wins. Number 7 was fantastic in the 2nd half versus Green Bay and was brilliant in a 35-32 win over Detroit. The Eagles are confident knowing that Vick has the potential to make a big play on every down.<br /> <br /> Kevin Kolb isn't ready.<br /> <br /> When coach Andy Reid unloaded long time quarterback Donovan McNabb to Washington, he proclaimed that Kolb was ready to lead the Eagles west coast offense to new heights. It became evident in the pre season and the season opener against the Packers that Kolb was not ready to be the offensive leader before he was concussed near the end of the 1st half. <br /> <br /> Vick is simply a better quarterback.<br /> <br /> If there is one thing we know about Michael Vick, he can play football at a very high level while Kevin Kolb inexperienced. Vick is a 3 time Pro Bowler and has lead the Atlanta Falcons to the playoffs on a few occasions. We know he is a great runner as a quarterback and seemingly has improved as a pocket passer, albeit with a very small sample. In essence, Michael Vick is a proven commodity.<br /> <br /> Andy Reid is on the hot seat.<br /> <br /> While I personally don't subscribe to this theory, it is within the realm of possibility that Eagle head coach Andy Reid's job may be in jeopardy. While he has had tremendous success coaching Philadelphia, Reid has led the Eagles to just one Super Bowl appearance, losing to the New England Patriots. There is a golden opportunity to win the NFC East this season as no team has gotten off to a great start and Eagles ownership has told Reid to insert Vick as the quarterback to lead the team. <br /> <br /> <br /> These are the possible scenarios as to why Andy Reid has decided to go with Michael Vick as the Eagles quarterback for this season. I personally believe that Kevin Kolb can be an effective leader and win football games but I also know that Michael Vick is a proven leader of offense and has the Philly locker room in his corner. <br /> <br /> Now it's time to find out if Vick can lead the Eagles to winning football games or if he makes Andy seem like a fool. Only time will tell.<br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-7843499195912183218?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FiBLfePoyQqM7ableNItYNrl2yI/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FiBLfePoyQqM7ableNItYNrl2yI/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FiBLfePoyQqM7ableNItYNrl2yI/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FiBLfePoyQqM7ableNItYNrl2yI/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/IM65ajGdNQA" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/michael-vick-to-lead-eagles.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-10880302282107391592010-09-21T21:37:00.000-04:002010-09-21T21:37:23.293-04:002010-09-21T21:37:23.293-04:00Week 2 of the 2010 NFL season has just been completed and there are a plethora of quarterback changes and controversies. I realize there have been changes so early in the season in the past, but this many after just 2 games? I can't remember anything like this happening.<br /> <br /> Let's check out what's up with teams changing quarterbacks and those teams with controversies.<br /> <br /> The teams with quarterback changes:<br /> <br /> Buffalo Bills<br /> <br /> It's taken Head Coach Chan Gailey just 2 weeks to figure out what everyone else already knew. Trent Edwards is not an NFL starting quarterback. Edwards has been given more than ample opportunity the last 3 seasons to establish himself as a serviceable NFL starting quarterback and at each turn he has either failed miserably or been injured. <br /> <br /> With Edwards now riding the pine, career backup Ryan Fitzpatrick takes the reins of the floundering Buffalo offense.<br /> <br /> Carolina Panthers<br /> <br /> Quarterback Matt Moore played very well in the stead of now departed Jake Delhomme late last season and earned himself the starting nod heading into 2010. After playing poorly in the first 2 games this season (pulled both games),highly touted rookie signal caller Jimmy Clausen takes the helm for the Panthers.<br /> <br /> While Clausen struggled in both relief appearances, Carolina boss John Fox will give him every opportunity to succeed. Carolina's strong running game should help Clausen settle into the job.<br /> <br /> Teams with quarterback controversies:<br /> <br /> Oakland Raiders<br /> <br /> The Raiders brought in Jason Campbell, a former 1st Round pick of the Washington Redskins, to fill the quarterback position when it was finally realized that Jamarcus Russell was deemed a bust. Campbell, while not playing awful, was unable to move the Raider offense consistently. In Week 2, Campbell was benched in favor of veteran Bruce Gradkowski, who lead Oakland to a touchdown in a win over the St. Louis Rams.<br /> <br /> As of this post, both Campbell and Gradkowski have split time with the 1st team in practice. Stay tuned.<br /> <br /> Tennessee Titans<br /> <br /> Vince Young was pulled from Sunday's game against the vaunted Pittsburgh Steelers' defense for throwing 2 interceptions, one killing a drive at the Pittsburgh goal line. <br /> <br /> Kerry Collins did manage a scoring drive late in the game to pull the Titans close, but otherwise was not much more effective than Young.<br /> <br /> Longtime Tennessee Head Coach Jeff Fisher maintains that Young is the starter for the Titans but the question is has VY's confidence been shattered permanently? We'll have to see next week.<br /> <br /> My opinion is that Young should not have been yanked by Fisher. Pittsburgh's defense will make any quarterback look bad on any Sunday. I truly believe that Vince Young gives the Titans the best chance at winning football games...he has proven that in the past. I'm rooting for Vince.<br /> <br /> Philadelphia Eagles<br /> <br /> The Eagles shuffled longtime starter Donovan McNabb to Washington in favor of youngster Kevin Kolb to run the potent Eagle attack. Kolb did not play well in pre-season nor did he fare well in the Eagles opener, throwing for only 25 first half yards before being concussed and replaced by Michael Vick. <br /> <br /> Vick moved the team effectively and efficiently in the 2nd half against the Green Bay Packers in a loss and was brilliant in the defeat of the Detroit Lions.<br /> <br /> Long tenured Philly coach Andy Reid has named Kolb the starter for this coming Sunday, although he has stated that the Eagles have a great situation to have 2 quarterbacks that can win games.<br /> <br /> How long a leash will Kolb have? I think Reid will allow Kolb at least 2 weeks to show that he has the game to lead the Eagles to victory. Should Kolb fail, Vick will lead the way for the remainder of the season.<br /> <br /> Injuries have forced teams to change gears at quarterback. Detroit Lions young gun Matthew Stafford injured a shoulder in the season opener to open the door for journeyman Shawn Hill while the Cleveland Browns have had to replace veteran starter Jake Delhomme with Seneca Wallace due to a foot injury.<br /> <br /> Then there's the saga of Ben Roethlisberger, and his 4 game suspension. Dennis Dixon started the first 2 games, became injured and was replaced by retread Charlie Batch. In the interim, The Steelers re-signed Byron Leftwich for insurance until “Big Ben” returns.<br /> <br /> * NEWS FLASH* --- Michael Vick has been named the starting quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles this coming Sunday versus the Jacksonville Jaguars.<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-1088030228210739159?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SS1pecP5CdtLCECHWhfrxFpGw70/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SS1pecP5CdtLCECHWhfrxFpGw70/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SS1pecP5CdtLCECHWhfrxFpGw70/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/SS1pecP5CdtLCECHWhfrxFpGw70/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/ZgTbPVt3bj0" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com0http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/quarterback-changes-and-controversies.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-87203358567289085062010-09-16T19:49:00.000-04:002010-09-16T19:49:15.966-04:002010-09-16T19:49:15.966-04:00As a college football fanatic, I love watching young men play a game that has more weekly twists and turns than a Formula-1 auto race. I see more big plays per game in college football than the NFL by a long shot and many are just jaw dropping.<br /> <br /> But how often do you see a relative unknown player make play after play from the quarterback position that either make you exclaim “Wow!” or leave you speechless? I'll bet not often, but after 2 weekends of play, there has been one such player that has gone from anonymity to household name to potential Heisman Trophy candidate.<br /> <br /> Let's meet Denard Robinson, University of Michigan quarterback.<br /> <br /> According to Bleacher Report, Robinson was highly recruited out of Florida high school football by such schools as Florida, Georgia, Kansas State, and Michigan. The sophomore signal caller was the backup to incumbent Tate Forcier last season before wresting the job this season.<br /> <br /> Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez recruited Robinson because he believed he could run the spread option offense much like his former star quarterback Pat White when he was the head man at the University of West Virginia.<br /> <br /> Why have coaches, opponents, teammates, and fans alike gone gaga over this young man? Let's look at the first 2 weeks.<br /> <br /> In the Wolverines season opener at home versus Connecticut, Denard completed 19 of 22 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 197 yards on 29 carries for a total of 383 yards of total offense. Michigan defeated Uconn 30-10.<br /> <br /> Last week at Notre Dame, Robinson broke the single game total offense record by toting the ball another 29 times for 258 yards and completing 24 of 40 passes for 244 yards. That's 502 yards of total offense...Five hundred and two! That's also believed to be a single game record in FBS history.<br /> <br /> In a <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/bigten/2010-09-13-denard-robinson-michigan_N.htm" target=_blank">USA Today</a> article written by Nicole Auerbach, Florida head coach Urban Meyer proclaimed Robinson as the best player in the country, or one of them. Said Meyer, "I haven't seen everybody play, but I watched that one. That was ridiculous. We recruited him hard, too. We knew he was a dynamic player and a good person." <br /> <br /> After Connecticut's loss to Michigan, Huskies' boss Randy Edsall quipped, "Denard Robinson is going to make people look bad." <br /> <br /> Wolverine coach Rich Rodriguez was asked about Robinson's heavy workload. His response was, "Everybody says you can't run your quarterback 20-something times a game." Then Rodriguez fired, "Well, do they say that when you hand it off to Barry Sanders? 'You can't run Barry Sanders 20-something times a game.' If you can handle it, you can handle it." <br /> <br /> What do I think of Denard Robinson? I believe that he is a dynamic runner and a good field general. Like many spread option quarterbacks, he could improve his passing accuracy, although his numbers tell a different story. My greatest concern is that he could wear down under the rigors of such Big Ten defenses, particularly Iowa, Penn State, Wisconsin, and arch rival Ohio State.<br /> <br /> As far as the Heisman Trophy? I would think not this season, but in 2011, he will definitely be a top candidate<br /> for the award.<br /> <br /> Enjoy!<br /> <br /> Dick<br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-8720335856728908506?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TlPgfHhv04Cw4imylbQ7yEuGgx8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TlPgfHhv04Cw4imylbQ7yEuGgx8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TlPgfHhv04Cw4imylbQ7yEuGgx8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TlPgfHhv04Cw4imylbQ7yEuGgx8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/E2KIUZSJLsQ" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com2http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/university-of-michigan-quarterback.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-15877043566286609222010-09-11T20:25:00.001-04:002010-09-11T20:27:15.989-04:002010-09-11T20:27:15.989-04:00What time is it?!?! <br /> <br /> It's time for the NFL regular season! We've seen the defending Super Bowl champions New Orleans Saints begin their campaign by beating the Minnesota Vikings 14-9 in a rematch of last season's NFC Championship Game. While the game wasn't terribly exciting, There was the drama of Viking quarterback Brett Favre starting his 286th consecutive game and Drew Brees again attempting to assault the record books. <br /> <br /> This is an important season for the NFL as there the threat of no competition for next season with the current contract expiring and differences between management and the players union seems to be as wide as the Grand Canyon.<br /> <br /> But for now, do we care? I think, probably not.<br /> <br /> As a full slate of Sunday games approach,there are some intriguing matchups including, Cincinnati at New England, Atlanta traveling to Pittsburgh as Dennis Dixon gets the call at quarterback for suspended Ben Roethlisberger and Philadelphia playing host to Green Bay with Kevin Kolb now calling signals for the Eagles.<br /> <br /> The Sunday night game features NFC east rivals Dallas going to our nation's capital to face Washington and new quarterback Donovan McNabb, while on Monday night, New York Jets boss man Rex Ryan plays host the Baltimore Ravens, the team that “Sexy Rexy” was once defensive coordinator.<br /> <br /> I think this a decent way to start the 2010 NFL regular season. As the season progresses, I will give opinions and occasionally some facts about teams and players alike. I am also not much of a prognosticator because...well frankly, I stink. Oh well.<br /> <br /> Let's just enjoy every Sunday from now to February with a cold beverage of our choice and whatever we want to eat. We're ready for some football are we not?<br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-1587704356628660922?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XXPpn78iEqVPWCeYJAk2DXvP7Pw/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XXPpn78iEqVPWCeYJAk2DXvP7Pw/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XXPpn78iEqVPWCeYJAk2DXvP7Pw/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XXPpn78iEqVPWCeYJAk2DXvP7Pw/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/qqgguXCD_fk" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com2http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/09/nfl-is-on.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-983714549949525569.post-47775988288338484282010-08-31T19:42:00.000-04:002010-08-31T19:42:53.171-04:002010-08-31T19:42:53.171-04:00That time of year has arrived --- Labor Day weekend barbecues, autumn around the corner, baseball pennant races going down the stretch, the NFL season draws neigh, and for many this is the beginning of the college football season.<br /> <br /> Starting Thursday night September 2nd, the chase for the BCS title commences with eighteen games, including two involving teams with National Championship hopes as Ohio State, the #2 ranked team in the Associated Press poll plays host to Marshall and The University of Miami, #13 playing a home game versus Florida A&M. While the home teams should win handily, these games will set up a battle between the two powerhouses in week two.<br /> <br /> Another couple of tilts with significance are The 15th ranked University of Pittsburgh Panthers traveling to Utah to face the The University of Utah Utes and the 14th ranked USC Trojans traveling to face Hawaii.<br /> <br /> The reason why I bring up the Trojans is that there is a possibility, albeit remote, that USC could win all their games and finish as the AP National Champions. Remember that USC is ineligible to play in the BCS title game under NCAA sanctions for knowingly allowing boosters and others to aid players, namely Reggie Bush, and other transgressions under former Athletic Director Mike Garrett. A split championship? That is what the BCS is suppose to negate. <br /> <br /> Over the weekend there are two huge games with BCS title implications. The #24 Oregon State Beavers hit the road on Saturday night to face 2009 BCS party crashers TCU Horned Frogs, the 6th ranked AP team. Then Sunday evening, The other non BCS power Boise State Broncos, the AP's 3rd ranked squad, go to Blacksburg, Virginia to face perennial powerhouse and 10th rated Virginia Tech Hokies.<br /> <br /> To think this is week one of the college season! That's not a bad group of opening games!<br /> <br /> Whether you have a favorite squad, be it Ohio State, Notre Dame, Texas, defending champion Alabama, or any other team, I think this season will be as exciting as any we've seen in recent memory. Let's sit back, relax, and enjoy opening weekend.<br /> <br /> Time for kickoff! <br /> <br /> Send email to dlafrance2@207me.com<br /> <br /> <table width="133" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.website-hit-counters.com/cgi-bin/image.pl?URL=255219-4002" alt="hit counter" border="0" ></a></td></tr> <tr><td align="center"><font style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #330006; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="http://www.website-hit-counters.com" target="_blank" style="font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 9px; color: #555556; text-decoration: none;" title="hit counter">hit counter</a> </font></td></tr> </table><br /> <a href="http://www.digeus.com/products/snapit/snapit_screen_capture_3_5.html">Screen Capture Software</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/983714549949525569-4777598828833848428?l=dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTBPu1sFi3S3EHhdRR-9BwF_BYE/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTBPu1sFi3S3EHhdRR-9BwF_BYE/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTBPu1sFi3S3EHhdRR-9BwF_BYE/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTBPu1sFi3S3EHhdRR-9BwF_BYE/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/MyThoughtsOnTheWorldOfSports/~4/JDGAEtiDmI8" height="1" width="1"/>Dickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02991817520056359448noreply@blogger.com5http://dicklafrancesports.blogspot.com/2010/08/its-that-time-again-college-football.html