Nick's Hoots

Looks Are Everything and Nothing

2014-01-21T15:38:00.002-05:00

Picture this.

3 grueling hours of bravado, emotional intensity, and testosterone fueled competition leading to a hold your breath, last second play in which Richard Sherman deflects the ball from Michael Crabtree for an interception propelling his team to the Super Bowl.

A loud, black male with dreadlocks, then takes to the microphone a mere 45 seconds later after his Super Bowl catapulting play, calls a receiver "sorry" and coins himself "the best cornerback in the game" and people label him a classless thug.

To the world, looks are still everything.

Lets look at the entire picture.

Sherman and Crabtree have had a volatile relationship since a meeting at a charity camp (hosted by Larry Fitzgearld) the two attended over the summer. At which,

"Crabtree tried to start a fight with Sherman after the star cornerback attempted to shake hands with the receiver, Sherman's brother told the Times. " Via ESPN.

Fast forward to the NFC Championship game. Sherman is tasked with defending the best 49ers receiver, who just so happens to be Crabtree. Crabtree had 4 catches on 8 targets for 52 yards.

On what ends up to be the game-sealing play, Sherman is mano a mano with Crabtree and gets the best of him by deflecting the ball to be intercepted clinching the game.

After which, Sherman proceeds to pat Crabtree, say good game, and extend for a handshake (similar to the off-season camp incident). The frustrated receiver face mushes Sherman.

Erin Andrews, a reporter from Fox then , seconds later, goes in for an interview with the adrenaline charged Sherman.

“I’m the best corner in the game! When you try me with a sorry receiver like Crabtree, that’s the result you’re going to get. Don’t you ever talk about me.” When Andrews asked who was talking about him, he replied, “Crabtree. Don’t you open your mouth about the best, or I’ll shut it for you real quick. LOB [Legion of Boom]!”

Via ESPN.

Ok, it's loud, hostile, far from family oriented but what we all really want!

We constantly complain when the athletes or coaches give the politically correct, prepared, recycled speeches at the podiums (I.E. Bill Bellichek). But when we finally get a taste of that insider moment, that uncensored, brutally honest answer to our questions, we ridicule and cast him as a thug.

Hypocritical nonsense. This is the business of ENTERTAINMENT. What do you expect from an athlete in a moment like that to say to a reporter only seconds after? He's still in warrior mode. He hasn't had the time to let the adrenaline wear off and reflect on the game. It's raw emotion. It's Sports.

I fore one thought Sherman's outburst was extremely entertaining. It was refreshing to hear what a player feels "in the moment" if you will.

Alright, lets go picture in picture and break down his raging, violent, thuggish rant.

He said "I'm the best corner in the Game!"

Well, lead the league in interceptions with 8 and had 16 pass defenses. And plays almost exclusively to the left side of the field, which is targeted more because of the prevalence of right-handed QB's. Targeted a total of 3 times in the game resulting in a penalty , a catch, and a deflection which lead to the game winning interception.

"sorry receiver like Crabtree"

Hmm. Crabtree is the 49ers most dynamic play maker. but Sherman made him look like a "Mediocre" wide-out. 4 catches, 50 yards in 60 mins of football. He may not be a "Sorry" wide receiver but his performance was greatly diminished when pitted against Sherman. Call it what you may, sorry, mediocre, lackluster, average, but sure doesn't help Crabtree's cause.

"Don't open your mouth about the best, or I'll shut it for you real quick! LOB"

He is obviously referring to the in game conversation between the two. Could also be in reference to the distasteful exchange at the camp over the summer. Either or, Sherman pretty much erased any relevance of trash-talk coming from Crabtree's side with that performance. Couldn't have asked for any better proof to back up his statement than the final play.

One on one for a chance to go to the super-bowl, Sherman made the play. Sherman gets to talk.

Did he really say anything thuggish, malicious, demonstrative? Stop it.

Thug defined on dictionary.com is a "a cruel or vicious ruffian, robber, or murder"

Classless is defined as "describing a person or thing as "dirty," "filthy," as being outside the norms of society, or as lacking in any sort of decorum whatsoever.

So if his actions and words didn't warrant any of these labels, looks did.

Look at him!

A loud black man with dreads yelling at a camera. Lets face it. People aren't comfortable with that.

People will deny race has anything to do with it. Just check out Sherman's twitter feed after the game.

Sherman's eloquent response to these truly "classless" people.

Those are the racists.

There is another underlying factor fueling the outrage of Sherman's unorthodox behavior.

White america is terrified of it. Some are old fashioned and hold on to stereotypes that used to fly back in the day but are out dated. Let go of stereotypes people! Move forward. We as a society judge way to much by pure appearance.

Labeled as thug because he falls in accordance to a popular black stereotype. Unbelievable.

When things like this occur it provides a glimpse into the pockets of society that still feel uncomfortable and dislike towards any minority.

Look at the background

Richard Sherman was raised in Compton, California notorious for it's criminal demographic. He received a 1400 SAT score, became the valedictorian runner up by less than a tenth of a grade-point, and earned admission into one the elite academic schools in America in Stanford University. Eventually earning a bachelors degree while flourishing as an NCAA student athlete. Ultimately to be picked as a 5th round pick in the NFL draft.

Accomplishing all this without a blemish in his personal life.

That's right. Even black males with dreads can be intelligent, earn degrees, and stay out trouble with the law.

David Shaw, part of the former coaching staff at Stanford where Sherman played, had a few words to say defending his former player from being labeled a thug.

“Richard was the first to raise his hand [to volunteer for community events. He was there at the beginning [of an event for people with Down syndrome], and he stayed past the end,” Shaw said (via the San Jose Mercury News). “He is the farthest thing from a thug you can imagine. Thugs don’t volunteer to help out at Special Olympics when they’re in high school. But the flip side is a guy who’s ultra-competitive. You put him in that environment, where the game is very personal, and when the gauntlet’s thrown down. He’s ready.”

Via "The Washington Post"

What I see

Toughness, attitude, character, a football player, a good human being.

I see a 5th round pick, an underdog, an intelligent, undervalued player that has transformed into a top player at his secondary position, (Played wide out in college). He walks with a swagger, a high degree of confidence that is required to make it from his upbringing, to make it to a prestigious university, to make it to the coveted National Football League, to make it as one of the 11 starters on defense, to being the "best corner in the game". He has the mental make up to make it, to succeed.

Looks are nothing.

TNF Spotlight Preview: (3-2) Bears Vs (0-5) Giants

2013-10-08T14:30:00.000-04:00

Big blue, who have been black and blued all this season, are set to square off at Soldier Field in the Prime-time spotlight of Thursday Night Football against the ferocious Bears who are looking to restore their growl after back to back losses.

The Giants are now looking out from the bottom of that grimy, filth ridden gutter of the NFL at an 0-5 start. It was six years prior to my conception the last time it was this bad. 1987, the year of the replacements, in which they started with 5 straight losses, marks the last instance of horrid performance from this otherwise wildly successful organization.

Dating back to 1986, the year before the replacements, the Giants have accumulated four super bowl championships, (86,90,07,11) two of them coming in the last six seasons. Losing, and especially losing in this fashion is an anomaly for this franchise.

Plaguing the Giants this year is turnovers. Their all pro, 2x Superbowl winning Quarterback has racked up 13 interceptions and a fumble contributing to their 20 total giveaways in just 5 games so far this season resulting in a league worst -13 turnover differential.

Eli, even though having not been the gleam of my eye over the years can't be entirely to blame for this malfunctioning mess in New York (as much as it would joy me if that were the case). Injuries to starting corner-backs, Ross and Webster, starting lineman, Diehl and Snee and with the neck injury to David Wilson (Starting RB) have left the Giants depleted, needing more than a band-aid to heal their season.

Heading into a hostile and always tough to play environment at Soldier Field, I can guarantee they won't be greeted with warm smiles and hot coffee.

The Bears are 3-2 on the season and are looking to let their pent up frustration of back to back defeats out on the next opponent. Unfortunately for Tom Coughlin it will be his G-Men.

Coming into Thursday's game, the Bears are number two in the league when it comes to taking the football away with 14 takeaways. Taking candy from a baby will be the story of Thursday night. The role of the clueless adolescent that loves to give will be played by the Giants, and the big bully who will be willingly taking all of the Giants possessions will be the big bad Bears.

The Giants have allowed a dismal league high 36.4 points per game. The Bears are hungry and this is a prime time recipe to feast upon especially with the emergence of the highly talented 2nd year receiver Alshon Jeffrey (15 catches, 325 yards, and 2 TDs in just the last two games) and this explosive bears offense led by Jay Cutler.

The match-up seems to be clearly one sided.

THE PREDICTION

The Giants will be digging up the last bit of dirt as they lay the final touches on their Giant early season grave Thursday night as they tank to a abysmal 0-6 start. The Bears will experience an easy mop up and will be shutting the lights off early as they create turnovers early and often and put up points in a flurry.

Vegas has Chicago -7.5.

Easy pick. Bears 37 Giants 17

Kickoff at 8:25 P.M. on NFL Network

But you guys know I have my readers at heart, so spend your night the right way.

Big bang theory anyone?

Big Bang airs at 8:00 P.M. Eastern standard time on CBS.

Hip Hop is in the State of 911

2013-05-29T16:16:00.000-04:00

"Lets get down to business"

Starting from the bottom and popping molly's to having gold in your chain with the bitches loving you because you're different is the modern fairy tale depicting the overarching theme of the hip hop community and the outlook of those that sit atop its ear bleeding, god awful hierarchy. Have you had the chance to flip on the radio and actually tune in to what is being played on public airways? Utter non-sense is being spilled through the medium of radio and is facing not resistance but a full fledged, intimate embrace.

This ass-backwards habit of not questioning the stupidity and arrogance of these artists and their songs but accepting them as the genre leaders and billboard superstars is the main problem. We as the people control the music industry and what we want to hear. If we decide not to fund these no talent, heinous, rap mongols our ears will regain respect back from our brainless en devours. Not to mention a significant drop in brain cell loss. It is really a simple formula to follow.

Based on the duration of this recent movement of club banging, beat dominated, lyrical famine, my faith is equally drained and I foresee a dim future for the once bearable industry. It will get a lot worse before any signs of it getting better.

"I don't have the time to play around what is this?"

The art of hip hop was always thought to be an evolved form of poetry. An intelligent discussion of social commentary mastered with a beat and a audible rhyme scheme to create a beautiful sound. The melody spoke with emotion. It gave us an introspective look at other forms of life and served as a creative collection of short stories.

Now, it has been demeaned to serve as an excuse to party and do drugs too. Not only has it been devalued but it also has been glorifying violence, the rampant use of illegal substances, and condoning vagrant delinquent behavior. What would the legends think?

To see an art form be corrupted and made a mockery of to this extent is disgraceful.

While there are the few that stand out and are keeping the true artistic form of this genre maintaining a heart beat, you have to think when is enough enough.

"All these clowns..."

Modern day Hip Hop artists and their popular, chart topping prowess:

Drake: "Started From the Bottom", "Love Me", "No New Friends"

2 Chainz: "Birthday Song", "I'm different", Do I really have to go on? You know his pedigree.

"She got a big booty so I call her big booty"

Trinidad James: "All Gold Everything"

"Gold all in my chain, gold all in my ring Gold all in my watch Don't believe me, just watch Nigga nigga nigga"

Waka Flocka Flame...

YMCMB, who might be the biggest embarrassment among those mentioned. Especially with the recent signing of Paris Hilton as a recording artist. Does this not bother anyone else?

Chief Keef? Seriously.

"Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300"

These comments coming from his twitter account directed at Lupe's song "Bitch Bad" where Lupe eloquently points out the negative message the word bitch sends.

Rick Ross:

"Put Molly all in her champagne, she ain’t even know it, I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain't even know it"

This clever little lyric got Mr. Ross dropped from Reebok. You would think an Ex correctional officer would hold himself to higher standard.

Take a look and thoroughly examine the lyrical content of these artists recent music and I dare you to convince me that it's a testament to the historical fortitude of which hip hop was founded. Good luck.

These are the hand selected artists that we as the public have decided to devote our invaluable time to listen and open our pockets too. People, we control the market. The artist caters to the listener's ear. So if you connect the dots, music is really a representation of our current culture. Is this really what we are America?

We are letting these quick buck millionaires abuse the system currently in place. Quantity over quality doesn't even scratch the surface on what is being done here.

First degree homicide is taking place, "Can I get a witness? HELL YEA!"

Learn how three FAU players perform their extraordinary skills

2012-11-12T14:58:00.001-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/11/learn-how-three-fau-players-perform-their-extraordinary-skills-2/

Former Owls running back Alfred Morris scores two TDs as Redskins starter in NFL debut

2012-11-12T14:57:00.001-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/09/football-former-owls-running-back-alfred-morris-scores-two-tds-as-redskins-starter-in-nfl-debut/

FAU escapes with a 7-3 victory over Div. I-AA Wagner

2012-11-12T14:56:00.002-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/09/football-fau-escapes-with-a-7-3-victory-over-div-i-aa-wagner/

OwlGating: The FAU Tailgating Experience

2012-11-12T14:53:00.000-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/08/owlgating/

FAU to play in EA Sports Maui Invitational

2012-11-12T14:51:00.001-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/07/fau-to-play-in-ea-sports-maui-invitational/

Owls drop opener 80-56 to Tar Heels in Maui Invitational

2012-11-11T19:30:00.001-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/11/mens-basketball-owls-drop-opener-80-56-to-tar-heels-in-maui-invitational/

Men’s basketball: FAU defeats Lynn 87-80

2012-11-11T18:44:00.001-05:00

http://upressonline.com/2012/11/mens-basketball-fau-defeats-lynn-87-80/

Into the Scrum!

2012-10-10T13:32:00.003-04:00

My First Hand Account of the Sport of Rugby at FAU

http://upressonline.com/2012/10/a-up-reporter-practices-gets-down-and-dirty-with-the-fau-rugby-team/

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me"

2012-10-04T12:56:00.003-04:00

With the New York Jets season only being 4 games in, injuries and a pitiful excuse for an offense, has them looking into the light. There is only one man who can save them...

The 2012 season started ripe with hope. The defense looked to be at that elite level once again, and the offense was expected to excel with the Sanchize stepping up, in his fourth year as a starter. The Jets also added a new wrinkle by acquiring Tim Tebow, and new O.C. Tony Sparano.

Same old Jets.

Inconsistency at the QB position contributes to the offensive woes that have been going on for years. Wide open receivers sprinting down the field, the ball, no where to be found.

The only people catching passes seem to be sideline coaches/players, fireman Ed up in the end-zone seats, and... I swear, I just saw Tim Tebow run a pass pattern.

It's at the point where I root for the defense to get back on the field, because they seem like the only unit capable of scoring points.

This circus of unorganized, mayhem is a disgrace to the entire New York Jets franchise.

A 34-0 blowout, at home? Are you kidding me, Rex? And you let Tim Tebow sit on the bench for the majority of the game?

Jeremiah 26:14As for me, I am in your hands; do with me whatever you think is good and right.

Wait, I'm sorry, you may have taken this quote to seriously. You are not God. You are taking advantage of the humility of this great individual and demeaning him as a football player.

I think you may have a misconstrued conception of what the job of a quarterback actually calls for. You put him in running gadget plays: making him cut block defensive line men, block on punts, and run routes. You know, the normal job routine of a back-up quarterback.

It blows my mind.

Revis goes down, season ending injury; Holmes goes down, season ending injury. The best offensive and defensive players out for the remainder of the year, before week 5 even begins.

But our playoff chances, they go up.

This scenario played out just as Tebow wanted all along. The Tebow chants will echo across met-life stadium; Fireman Ed will start a new chant, for, it is not about the Jets any longer, it's about the savior, Timothy Tebow. Teeee-Bowww, Whoaaaaa-Whoaaa

He has mastered the skill of making the most out of very little. What a perfect situation that presently stares Tebow in the eyes.

Innocently, Tebow awaits for his #15 to be called in, permanently, to relieve Sanchez of his nightmare of a predicament he has thrown himself into, quite literally and figuratively.

Rex, unleash the powerful figure of football artistry that is, Tim Tebow. You're all out of options. This is your job on the line, maybe a lot of others as well. Give the people what they want. Hope.

Believe in Tebow. Unleash Tebow. Start Tebow.

When you drop to 2-5 on your flight back to New York, the decision will be cast. Tebow will be named the starter. Mark my words. Just be patient.

Philippians 4:6-7Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

It Was The Best of Times, It Was The Worst of Times. Starring: Clint Eastwood.

2012-09-27T16:28:00.000-04:00

"The Replacements" Translated to Reality

The Best of Times:

One thing I feel that is undoubtedly without question; the NFL has provided us the feeling of unpredictability that not even the Pacquiao-Braddley judges can compete with.

Gamblers are in their glory, betting on the underdogs almost religiously since week 1.

Blown pass interference calls, extra timeouts granted to teams, an extension of the uprights to the home team, and even throwing hats on the field to slip up receivers going for a touch down. Its a no hold barred ladies and gentlemen, and as much as America complains, they will still tune in.

Proof is in last Monday's game in Seattle. Us NFL fans couldn't care less about the outcome of that game, I know I only tuned in to see what egregious calls they were going to make. We all knew it was inevitable.

Being a pretty calm game until the 4th quarter, from the officiating standpoint, I started to lose my confidence in the refs and their innate ability to screw up a good football game. I saw some minor bad officiating, but that 4th quarter, that was one for the ages.

They saved the best for last, they hit the triple crown, the trifecta. With a hail mary as time expired, they managed to miss a block in the back, a blatantly, obvious push off by Golden Tate, and the mother of them all, an interception that was ruled a touchdown, resulting in a Seattle Seahawks victory as time expired. It was the hat trick of all hat tricks. Gretzky's with me on that one.

We have "The Catch", "The Drive", "The Emaculent Reception" and now, another had been born;

The Touchception.

An interception and a touchdown, proof is in the image below.

With only three weeks that these fake refs were gifted, they proceeded to garner attention from every place with a cable connection and a TV, making an impact on the game we all know and love.

As week 3 drew to a close Monday night, they made sure they went out with a bang. They successfully transformed the NFL into the wild, wild west. Clint Eastwood was even brought in to establish the theme.

"Do you feel lucky, punk? Do ya?"

Well, Clint, the NFL did feel lucky; Deciding that the direction you and the rest of the replacement officials were taking the league needed to be subsequently changed. The regulars will be back tonight, officiating the Browns Ravens contest.

The Worst of Times:

As entertaining as it may have seemed, the NFL took a huge PR hit comparable to the BP oil spill.

An elite league, full of elite players, coaches, and executive staff, decided to cut the elite refs out of the picture. Apparently there wasn't enough money to go around to pay these guys.

(The NFL generates roughly, 10+ billion dollars annually.)

Goodell and company had to put their foot down to halt the malicious nature of these referees, with their outrageous requests for pensions and raises. How dare you try and defy the NFL and ask for a retirement plan! Goodell was playfully amused by the resistance of the NFL regulars to assimilate into his regime.

It would be Hoculi and the refs getting the last laugh.

With the NFL coming in close resemblance with professional wrestling after the debacle Monday night, Goodell was poised to take action.

Late Wednesday night, Goodell swallowed his pride and resolved the dispute between the referees and the league.

It is incredible how easily and often, greed can supersede common sense.

The mood around the country: We are saved!

But what are we really saving ourselves from? ENTERTAINMENT! Isn't that what the whole existence of the NFL is founded upon? I'm telling you guys, you will miss Clint and the gang. This may be good, but we secretly enjoyed the bad and the ugly.

This Isn't the NFL I Used to Know

2012-09-17T14:39:00.000-04:00

Break Down of Week:2

In anticipation of my prolonged separation from my one true love (NFL), I set my fantasy line-ups, picked the victors of Sunday's games, and I was off to work.

Boy, did I pick the wrong day to not call in sick.

You didn't have to cut me off.

Hearing only whispers of the day's NFL action through customers, I was in the dark, both literally and figuratively, arriving home close to midnight. I flipped on S.C. and there I sat, for the next 20 minutes, jaw open, in complete and utter disbelief.

Projections, research, talk shows, analysis; Flush IT.

Week 2 turned out to be a different realm of reality.

The team that scored the most points in week 1 (Jets), were held to 10 points by Pittsburgh in 27-10 loss. That's right, the Messiah and the Sanchize were silenced for nearly 3 quarters.

I thought America's Team, the Dallas Cowboys were back and relevant in the contender talk again, after they beat up on the defending Super Bowl Champion Giants. Wrong. They were dismantled by the 12th man in Seattle. Same old inconsistent Cowboys.

It would be inconcievable to have the preseason superbowl faviorite, New England Patriots to lose IN Foxborough right? Wrong again. With a wild ending on a 41 yard missed field goal by the almost automatic Gostkowski, the Cardinals pulled it out.

You have to be kidding me.

The Eagles, who seem to give the ball to the other team more than their own, (8 turnovers in two games) managed to win another 1 point game over the very formidable Ravens. (At least in comparison with the Browns)

A high completion percentage equals W's. Vick has taken that to heart. Doing everything in his ability to make sure that ball doesn't hit the ground; even if that means throwing the other team a few. 2-0 right? You tell em Mike.

Saints off to an 0-2 start following bounty gate, while Cam silences all of that sophomore slump chatter.

The rebuilding Miami Dolphins managed to crush the up and coming (or at least we thought) Raiders.

We did have one model of consistency. The NFL world always seems to place faith in the Chiefs; and they continue to dissapoint, with blow out after blow out.

For that I applaud you. You made some sense of this weekend.

By the way, what are the Bucs trying to do on that kneel down with 5 seconds left? You honestly thought you were going to jar the ball free and create a reverse Miracle at the Meadow-lands. No, you didn't think that. I know the real incentive behind your madness Coach Schiano.

You have that same pent up rage that I do towards the Giants and their lucky victory methods. Putting myself in your shoes, you being the most recent victim, I understand the rationale.

But, no, you didn't have to stoop so low.

Don't you see the trend guys? Everything you thought was going to happen, think the opposite. But which week was the fluke? No one is safe. At this point, there is ZERO reliability with week in, week out affairs.

My ESPN Insider, my fantasy research, statistical analysis all wronged me.

I guess that I don't need that though.

I just don't know this league anymore...

Now, you're just the league that I used to know.

Not Ground and Pound, We Are Jet-Stream!

2012-09-10T02:30:00.000-04:00

The Jets have lift-off in week 1

48 points, 384 total yards, 70% completion percentage, 6 total touchdowns. That's right America, the New York Jets, that one team that failed to produce any touchdowns through 3 preseason games racked up those week 1 numbers.

It feels so wrong but it is oh so right.

That preached ground and pound mantra instilled on the Jets squad over the past few years was thrown out the window. Sirens were sounding, an Air Raid took place.

The messiah, Tim Tebow was booed, Sanchez was celebrated, Holmes actually participated in the entirety of the contest, and Stephen Hill CAUGHT the ball. Just a surreal opening Sunday for the Jets.

As for a QB battle, Sanchez made that laughable. I apologize, the Sanchize made that laughable. That is what he shall be referred to after that stellar performance, knocking me flat off my Tebow high horse. Shows what can happen if you actually have a starting caliber player as a backup, not senior citizen Mr. AARP himself, Mark Bum-nell.

Sanchez's expected growth spurt was last season, when Rex Ryan absurdly placed more emphasis on the passing portion of the offense. What was Rex thinking ; A QB being able to throw with out color coded cards dictating the length of the passes, impossible. Throwing Sanchez into the wild, untamed animal that was the slants, drags, curls, and flys he's been exposed to his entire career, proved to be a disastrously steep learning curve.

Sanchez expressed his immaturity as a passer by throwing the ball to everyone but those in green and white all season until he effectively led the team out of the playoffs. Concluding with a final temper tantrum, throwing three picks in season finale against the division rival Dolphins.

That being said, Tebow was brought in. Like putting scotch tape over the hole that's sinking the ship while simultaneously punching another hole in the ship.

Bringing in a fix, to fix the fix. The logic here is a step away from Freudism.

Despite the flawed logic, Sanchez came to the realization that his job was in jeopardy and consequently, played like it; Just like the franchise guy should. This long awaiting investment may be possibly starting to pay off. The ironic thing is, most likely, it will all be for naught.

Don't be fooled Jets fans, history repeats itself. Life-long fans of Jets Nation know what to expect with high expectations or following success...

How often do you think Sanchez is going to go out there and play like a perennial pro bowler? Odds say, not as much as Jets fans hope.

What happens when those boos aren't aimed at Timmy but both QB's? I'll pay to see that. A collapse is inevitable.

We might be only a week away to see that blockbuster. Lucky Pittsburgh, they get front row seats.

The Bridge of Dreams, Built by Tom Coughlin

2012-09-06T14:29:00.000-04:00

The New York Giants Coughin up the Home Opener.

The Banner was raised, the trophy was held, the air was filled with anticipation and excitement. Met Life stadium was juiced with the electric crowd.

Then those all too familiar "Regular Season" New York football Giants took the field.

The G-Men going down at home last night 24-17 just supports my argument: Rumble and tumble through the regular season with mediocre finishes, backing into the playoffs, followed by LUCKY playoff runs in which every possible thing falls into their favor.

All well and good since it gift wrapped you 2 Super Bowls. But come on Coach. Did you really expect your luck to carry over months later. Filling your guys with this false hope that you might actually act like a Super Bowl team in SEPTEMBER?! You did build a bridge, a bridge of dreams Coughlin.

Luck always runs out.

It wasn't surprising at all that the Giants came out and dropped a division home opener. They just dropped the ball, literally and figuratively. Maybe the Ghosts of Green Bay's receivers were exercising their demons from the playoff loss a year before were it seemed as if "stick em" couldn't help their lost cause.

Luck will expose you.

As expected, the Giants were nothing special. They weren't in the front pages of the New York Times all off-season for a reason. Celebrating yet another accidental Super Bowl victory got to their head. Just maybe, they thought, they could be a Super Bowl contending squad all year round.

Ask Cruz (3 drops) how it's turning out.

And Victor let me ask you something. Out of all the off-season moves, you managed to over shadow the ludicrous acquisition of Tim Tebow by writing an auto-biography. Is this not mind-blowing to anyone else?

Undrafted out of U Mass, lucky to even grace the field as a starter for the Giants (Do we see the trend yet guys?), had a great season, followed by an average post season.

Now you deem yourself worthy of an auto-biography? Well after your performance last night I can see why you put it out so early; your career might be on the downfall. It is truly incredible how a ring can distort a man's sanity to this magnitude.

It is safe to say your ignorance has coined you a nick name that will be hard to drop, even for you.

All Aboard Boca Raton's QB Carousel

2012-09-01T19:29:00.001-04:00

FAU Limps by Wagner 7-3

FAU Head Coach Carl Pelini implemented new systems, established a new culture, and decided to put in a green QB in to start the 2012 season, but with the same old disastrous results from a year before. (1-11)

Going against a Division 1-AA squad in Wagner, FAU was favored by 17.5 points. It took them 49 minutes to get any points what so ever.

A new culture was said to be the main focus during this coaching regime shift from the laid back Schnellenberger staff to the hands on Pelini staff. Ball protection and football IQ took the back seat I guess judging by the 4 fumbles, poor special teams judgments, and a missed field goal last night.

As the condensation fogged up the bottom of the press box window I felt a sense of relief, considering I was on the verge of bashing my head against my laptop if were to see any more of that poor excuse of a football game.

The defense seemed to be the only silver lining, only allowing 3 points for the entirety of the game and on 6 straight drives spanning the first 3 quarters that intruded into FAU territory. A good chunk of those drives were the fault of the offense and S/T. None the less, it was an adequate night for the D. Although the run defense could use a little improvement (121 yards to HB Dominique Williams).

The dispersed crowd of around 14,000, frustrated, chanted for QB Melvin German as the Owls headed off the field. To appease the few fans in attendance a change was made. Only #14 would be the one to save Pelini's future. Losing to Wagner would pretty much have been a death sentence to the new coaching order.

Wilbert looked to be much improved compared to last season leading the offense up and down the field with his legs and arm. The up-tempo style was apparent with Wilbert behind center. With the help of Martese Jackson exploding at running back (99 yards) the Owls found a way to exploit the defense once... to score a 39 yard TD on a blown coverage early in the forth.

Breaking it down, if the Owls look to be a decent team this year (5-6 wins), turnovers need to be cut down and Wilbert needs to start. The Middle Tennessee game next week will have a judgement day atmosphere, a forecast of the Owls 2012-2013 season.

Would be a shame for the forecast to be raining bad luck all year in Boca. I would hate to see that beautiful new stadium be a 30,000 seat rain collector. Well, we would be helping the environment. Pelini can use that in his recruiting pitch.

The Drought Is Over! Welcome Back NFL, We Missed You!

2012-07-26T02:13:00.000-04:00

Starved...itching for that all so powerful addiction... our sporting fortitude being pushed to its greatest limits...The "Drought" seeped in...but wait..

Welcome Back The National Football League!

There is a few weeks in the summer time that I refer to as the "Drought" period in which sports fans have to endure a time span with only baseball being aired on SC. Not taking a shot at baseball but um, lets call it what it is, it isn't football.

But what an incredible feeling, a true blessing from the sporting Gods, it was to flip on the t.v. and see an endless stream of NFL highlights, interviews, and training camp footage.

So who's ready for this 2012 season!?!?!

Story lines are running rampant this season. Let's take it division by division.

NFC East

Newcomer RG3 or as some veterans call him "Bob" is drafted to revitalize the Redskins franchise .
"America's Dysfunctional Team" as I coin them, look to finally deliver on playoff aspirations as Jerry puts the pressure on.
The "Dream Team"? and no folks not the 92' basketball team, the 2012 Eagles. Vick and those boys seem to invite the pressure by claiming they have "potential to be a dynasty". We can see if they can edge out of this powerhouse packed division.
Finally the Defending, World Champion G-Men seek to defend their coveted title. Quiet in the headlines, under the radar, just how they like it.

NFC North

B-Marshall and Cutler get to hook up again in Chi-town. With the nice contract given to Forte, look for the bears to put up big numbers this year.
Up and coming Detroit looks to capitalize on spurts of success that they experienced last year and maybe make a playoff push. The Lions ARE relevant again.
Vikings are headed towards a rebuilding year not posing much of a threat to their division with their still unpredictable 2nd year QB Christian Ponder and a defense that ranked 22nd. They will go as far as A.P. takes them.
The defending NFC North Champion Green Bay Packers will be back just as good as last year. If not for some dropped passes against the Giants last postseason they may have been celebrating another super bowl title. They will be out seeking revenge.

NFC South

Tampa Bay, coming off a dismal, disappointing season is out to prove that that was a fluke. Josh Freeman, in matter of fact, I'm addressing the entire team when I say we need to see some consistency.
Ryan Kalil and the "Super Panthers" are coming to PLAY this season. Promising a Superbowl will get a lot of eyeballs looking at you and just maybe there is something to look at. Rookie sensation, Cam the Man, dual threat at RB that combined for over 1,600 yards and 12 Td's last season, and a talented receiving core headed by Steve Smith. Keep your eyes open.
Matt Ryan will be looked upon to show up this season and take the Falcons on a deep playoff run. The pieces are in place, young, explosive receiving core, and a great RB. A lot has been expected of Matt in the post Michael Vick era. Let's see if he can fill those shoes and separate himself from the pack.
"Bounty Gate" took an enormous hit on the Saints with coaches being suspended (Payton for the year)and multiple defensive players sitting out a considerable amount of time (Vilma out for the year). But a 100 million dollar man can still "Throw" them to the promised land. Coming off a record setting year, I see Brees and Saints playing on into the late winter months.

NFC West

The Cardinals, if they can get solid QB play this season, in my opinion can contend for the the division. Drafting an incredible talent in Floyd and lining him up across from Fitz has the potential to be a lethal combo. Combine this with a rising star in Patrick Peterson and an improved D. Don't sleep on these guys.
The 49ers may have acquired Randy Moss but unless you can get him the ball he won't be much help to your football team. Alex Smith is still the end all be all when it comes to San Fran. He could easily take them to the Bowl if he plays at an pro bowl level. Inconsistency has plagued Alex, if he improves this year, expect them representing the NFC in the Big game.
Well, lets be honest here, the Rams and Seahawks? I'll save the wear and tear on your eyes.

On to the AFC

AFC North

Ravens and Steelers still both top this division and it will shape up to be another bloody, trench fought battle between the two. With daunting Defenses and timely scoring on offense for both teams, the AFC North will crown whoever can get back up after the 15 round slug fest.
Cincinnati, having a surprisingly dominant win % against the division, will look to seize the reigns from the two star studded super powers by means of their own studs in Dalton and A.J.
The "Dog Pound" is where you go when you're lost. And clearly that's where the Browns will be staying in the foreseeable future.

AFC South

If that squad in Houston can stay healthy they will be a favorite to win this weak division. Explosive offense with Andre Johnson, Arian Foster, and Matt Schaub, coupled by a dominating D.
The Indy rebuilding project starts with the establishment of the "Manning Replica" Andrew Luck era. Rebuilding season, don't expect much.
Jacksonville and Tennessee will ride or die with their respective RB's. Not much help will come from anywhere else. CJ2k and MJ32 carrying the load to losing seasons.

AFC West

Carson Palmer is set to return as his vintage Bengal self and make these Raiders competitive.
The KC Chiefs will be average at best, nothing significant going on there.
Philip Rivers coming off a shockingly horrific season posting career low marks in a plethora of passing categories. Will be looking to avenge his poor season. As a preseason super bowl pick for the last 3 or 4 years, this year my be make it or break it before they clean house.
The post Tim Tebow era is upon us people. Peyton is here to deliver. Fresh off neck surgery will it hold up? Will he carry them deep into the playoffs? Will he even be able to fill the footprints of the great Timmothy Tebow and what he did for this organization? We have questions but I'm sure the 4 time League MVP, super bowl MVP and world champion will have the answers.

And Last but certainly not least, My Beloved AFC EAST

As long as Belichick and Brady remain in Foxborough expect nothing less than 12 wins and a playoff run. Some are starting to go as far as to say that a ANOTHER perfect season is completely feasible with the easiest schedule in the league.
The Bills, the middle child of New York. Not much media attention but slowly becoming a formidable opponent with improvements on Defense and finding gems such as Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson. If Fitzpatrick can remain consistent and not tail off at the end of the season they could be some what of a threat in this stacked division.
The Miami Dolphins may all need a nice vacation at this point. The QB situation is disgruntled and has remained this way...SINCE 2000. 16 starting QB's later after Marino retiring, Tannehill hopes to be the franchise guy. With a collegiate equivalent receiving core, at best, Tannehill looks to be in for a long season.
By far the most compelling (or downright annoying depending on which side of the fence you're on) story line has to be Tim Tebow. After going 8-5 as a starter, 7 4th quarter comebacks, including a TD pass in overtime against the #1 ranked Pittsburgh Steelers, Tebow took his talents to the Big Apple and the spotlight couldn't be bigger. Is the fix in? Or does Sanchez actually have a shot at keeping his job? Wins and Pro bowl numbers might not even be enough to derail this monster called "Tebow Mania". Let a few of those passes hit the ground and rack up a loss or two in those early games and those fans will make sure those QB reigns are handed over to #15.

With all that said, in the words of the excitable Tim Tebow, "I'm very excited".

I hereby declare the start of another fantastic, heartbreaking, adrenaline fueled, year of the world's greatest athletic competition. The National Football League.

15 Yard Penalty, Mark Emmert. Excessive Roughness.

2012-07-23T23:28:00.000-04:00

The old cliche says one call doesn't effect the outcome of a game,well, Let's take a look at the facts shall we?

Paterno and other authority figures were aware of Sandusky crime
Reluctant to turn him in, covered it up
"Inaction"
Sandusky Convicted and sentenced
Authority figures either step down or are forced out (Paterno Firing)
Paterno passes. (RIP Joe Pa)

Here comes the Hammer!

Paterno Statue taken down
60M dollar fine on Penn St.
4 year post season band
Scholarships taken away

Then comes the foul

Wins from the 1998 through the 2011 season are all vacated (111 in total).

Ousting the legendary all time wining-est coach in collegiate football history not to 2, or out of the top 5 but the top 10...

Now, I understand the heinous crime that Joe Pa helped cover up but that does not and should not reflect on his innate ability to coach great football. There is always a gray line, but these are two separate entities that I think Mark Emmert's bravado smeared together.

Mark, the NCAA is suppose to govern programs who gain an unfair advantage, you brought down the wrath of the collegiate football gods with what some may say makes the death penalty look like the common cold, but taking the wins away from Paterno, that my friend, is a late hit.

Let me make it clear that in no way do I condone the behavior of Paterno and his lack of action when it came to reporting the disgusting acts of Sandusky. His legacy is tarnished, statue gone, public perception distorted and confused, the program he brought to glory, decimated. His WINS, the only thing he had left, the only legitimate aspect of his storied career that remained, have now been forcefully erased.

You can say Mark Emmert didn't issue the "Death Penalty" to Penn St. but to the man who WAS Penn St.

RIP Joe Pa

Ray Allen again from Downtown...Miami!

2012-07-06T22:33:00.001-04:00

Imagine ordering a number 1 from Micky D's. They load you up with the mouth- watering Big Mac and a delicious Vanilla milkshake. That will hit the spot. But you're missing the perfect complement to that meal. The trademark fries!

Ray Allen is the Heat's Fries. An all-time great catch and pop 3 point shooter? I don't think the basketball God's could have gifted a better player to the reigning NBA Champs if they had a fantasy draft with the first 5 picks.

While the offense is predicated on LBJ and Wade driving to create plays, Allen will be hanging out on the perimeter knocking down dagger three's on his way to his second world championship.

In the brilliant words of the great Stephen A. Smith "You can BOOK IT, IT'S OVER!"

Unless, of course my Nets snatch up superman.

The difference between the Heat and the Nets you ask? The Heat have the complete Num.1 meal with the acquisition of Allen. We left our Big Mac (Howard) at the drive through...For Now.

The "Move" To Become a Champion.

2012-07-03T14:21:00.000-04:00

The Tale of Two Cities

The streets of Newark, NJ have always been corroded with turmoil, violence, and the all to familiar scene of failure. This seemed to resonate with the team in recent years with losing season after losing season, bad draft pick after bad draft pick, joke after joke.

"The Nets could go 0 for 82.." in the wise words of Jay-Z (Part owner of the Nets). Wise, because they were close to accomplishing that a few times.

The grass just might be greener on the other side, other side of the Hudson.

Since establishing Brooklyn as the team's new location, All Stars have been pouring in; Wallace, Joe Johnson and the likely signing of D-Will and the coveted Superman. The possibility of 4 All Stars filling in 4 starter slots may seem as unfathomable dream for long time loyal net's fans, but is on the verge of being a dream-like reality.

Trends of big 3's are apparent in the history of the league. The Nets look to be a trend setter. You heard it here first...

Fantastic Four!

Nothing but NETS.

2012-07-02T01:23:00.000-04:00

The Nets Making a Run at Being a Contender

With a simple change of scenery the newly coined Brooklyn Nets may change their recent trend of losing to the unthinkable; Competing for a title with the highly touted "Superman" demanding a trade to the now "relevant" franchise.

Reaching terms with SF Wallace on a 40 million 4yr contract is another key to the ultimate puzzle of enticing D-Will, the cornerstone "top 5 Pg" to stay in the Big Apple.

With these three pieces, the Nets pose a serious threat to giving the Heat a run for their money come next may. Still, there is a long off season ahead for things to... get off track.

The organization should find it a less troubling task recruiting the Super Stars of the game with their move to one of the, if not the most marketable city in the nation, NYC.

Where NBA teams have had their greatest success is acquiring talents in 3's; (Parish, McHale, Bird) (Garnett, Pierce, Allen) (Wade, Bosh, and Lebron) just to name a few. If this all goes as planned, we may have to include D-Will, Howard, and Wallace in a few years.