Here's what people need to understand about the Plaxico Burress situation, and it's very simple. New York State, as well as New Jersey, do not recognize gun permits from other states- they require you to get one from their state. Also, unlawful carrying of a concealed weapon in NYS warrants a MINIMUM sentence of 3 and 1/2 years in prison. Burress has a permit from Florida, but like I said that is not recognized in New York, or Jersey where he lives. So If Plax got a permit from NYS, this will all be over and nothing will happen except a talking to from the NFL and the Giants about being smarter. IF he does not have a permit from NYS, he will be in for a bad, bad situation.
-Mike Tramontozzi
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Plaxico Burress suffers accidental gunshot wound
New York Giants star wide receiver Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg Friday, according to multiple media reports.
Burress was hospitalized with gunshot injuries Friday night that were not believed to be life-threatening, FOX Sports.com reported Saturday.
A spokesman for the Giants on Saturday told PA SportsTicker that the team had no comment, although they acknowledged they are aware there was an incident.
Burress has not practice all week due to an ailing hamstring and already had been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins.
Citing sources familiar with the situation, the New York Daily News reported that Burress was shot late Friday night, but no further details of the incident are available.
Source: PA Sports Ticker
Wow.
As if this season couldn't get any worse for Plaxico. I wonder if he will be repimanded by the Giants.
At least they know that thay can win without him. The Giants receiving core is a strong phalanx.
Max Caster
Burress was hospitalized with gunshot injuries Friday night that were not believed to be life-threatening, FOX Sports.com reported Saturday.
A spokesman for the Giants on Saturday told PA SportsTicker that the team had no comment, although they acknowledged they are aware there was an incident.
Burress has not practice all week due to an ailing hamstring and already had been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins.
Citing sources familiar with the situation, the New York Daily News reported that Burress was shot late Friday night, but no further details of the incident are available.
Source: PA Sports Ticker
Wow.
As if this season couldn't get any worse for Plaxico. I wonder if he will be repimanded by the Giants.
At least they know that thay can win without him. The Giants receiving core is a strong phalanx.
Max Caster
Cause and Effect
Friday night's incident in which Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg is 100% a direct effect from past experiences involving other NFL players such as the late Sean Taylor and Richard Collier. Taylor was murdered in his home last year when intruders barged into his home. Collier was left paralyzed in the summer when someone rolled up to the side of his car and opened fire. Nowadays NFL players are among the many athletes who fear for their security.
That is why you can't fault Plaxico Burress. I don't fault the man for being at a club with a couple of his teammates. Hey with the way this season has gone for Plax, I am encouraged by the sign that even though he isn't playing this Sunday, he is still being a part of them. I don't fault for Plax for carrying a gun with him. It may sound strange but let's be real, he was possessing it legally. There was no altercation among him or his teammates that led to the shooting. The gun just happened to discharge while being kept in his pants.
So why not an outrage from me? I've sounded off on Adam 'Pacman' Jones time and time again but his situation compared to Burress' is not comparable. Jones puts himself in strip clubs and finds himself in altercations with other people that lead to unfortunate events. Just ask the man he left paralyzed in Las Vegas.
Plaxico Burress was simply responding to the type of environment that him and his peers are exposed to. As professional athletes, they have all the things that screams for attention. Money, fame, wealth, nice cars, jewelry, all items that make them targets. It is extremely unfortunate that Burress own security fired back on him.
I do not know where this leaves the Giants as a team. The extent of his injuries are not yet known and we are unaware of how much time he will miss. Regardless, the Giants will not be the same team because no one can command the double teams #17 draws. However, this is bigger than the Giants and bigger than their run for a repeat in the Super Bowl. It's about every single player who in the past has had a gun pulled on them or been beat up because of their name, now has players fearing for their lives which means possessing guns when they go out at night. Hopefully Plax can heal up ASAP and once again leave defenders fearing him and not himself fearing others.
-Matt Soldano
Plaxico Burress shoots self in leg
According to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg Friday Night at a club. The injury is not considered life or career threatening. That is a good thing. Now what this does enforce however, is the now current life of being an athlete in the 21st century.
Last Nov 27, Sean Taylor of the Redskins was shot and killed in his home during a botched robbery. He was 24 years old, and left a girlfriend and little daughter. With the death of Taylor, it became painfully apparent once again that athletes are targets.
Even before Taylor, Antoine Walker and Eddy Curry, NBA Players, were both robbed and tied up in seperate home invasions in the Summer of 2007 in Chicago.
Also remember the death of Broncos corner Darrent Williams, who was shot in his limo on New Year's Day 2007. Just recently, Oakland receiver Javon Walker was robbed and beaten unconcious in Las Vegas this past summer.
Also Jaguars lineman Richard Collier was shot 14 times, paralyzed and had to have his left leg amputated at the knee to survive.
Now more than ever security is important. Players like Clinton Portis and Fred Taylor have high-tech security systems. Texans corner Dunta Robinson now owns a gun. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had a gun waved in his face and now has bodyguards.
It's gotten to the point where I personally do not look down at an athlete carrying a gun- as long as they do legally with a permit. Athletes have to now constantly be on the alert when they go to bars or clubs, because whos to say that there won't be someone there who wants what they have?
While the Burress situation is one that is a shame because it takes him away from the team for however long, it's one that can be understood. Guns can accidentally go off at any time, it happens.
But everything has changed nowadays- nobody wants to end up like Sean Taylor or Darrent Williams. It's a sad thing, but it's what has become the life of an athlete- they have to protect themselves at all costs.
FYI: I was helped a ton by David Fleming's piece in ESPN the Magazine about how NFL players are dealing with their safety a year after Taylor's death. Read it here:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3711336
- Mike Tramontozzi
Last Nov 27, Sean Taylor of the Redskins was shot and killed in his home during a botched robbery. He was 24 years old, and left a girlfriend and little daughter. With the death of Taylor, it became painfully apparent once again that athletes are targets.
Even before Taylor, Antoine Walker and Eddy Curry, NBA Players, were both robbed and tied up in seperate home invasions in the Summer of 2007 in Chicago.
Also remember the death of Broncos corner Darrent Williams, who was shot in his limo on New Year's Day 2007. Just recently, Oakland receiver Javon Walker was robbed and beaten unconcious in Las Vegas this past summer.
Also Jaguars lineman Richard Collier was shot 14 times, paralyzed and had to have his left leg amputated at the knee to survive.
Now more than ever security is important. Players like Clinton Portis and Fred Taylor have high-tech security systems. Texans corner Dunta Robinson now owns a gun. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had a gun waved in his face and now has bodyguards.
It's gotten to the point where I personally do not look down at an athlete carrying a gun- as long as they do legally with a permit. Athletes have to now constantly be on the alert when they go to bars or clubs, because whos to say that there won't be someone there who wants what they have?
While the Burress situation is one that is a shame because it takes him away from the team for however long, it's one that can be understood. Guns can accidentally go off at any time, it happens.
But everything has changed nowadays- nobody wants to end up like Sean Taylor or Darrent Williams. It's a sad thing, but it's what has become the life of an athlete- they have to protect themselves at all costs.
FYI: I was helped a ton by David Fleming's piece in ESPN the Magazine about how NFL players are dealing with their safety a year after Taylor's death. Read it here:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?id=3711336
- Mike Tramontozzi
A Public Sevice Message from Jordan Lauterbach
Dear NFL Players,
Last night, Plaxico Burress shot himself. No not with a fine or suspension- but with a gun. His own gun. Now I hope that last sentence doesn't sound sarcastic or "snarky" because believe me, that is not my intention. My giant-hatred aside, this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
You guys should stop going to clubs.
Think about it. What good has ever come from clubbing? The first Adam Jones incident happened at a club. This not only found Adam fighting for his career, but his free-man status as well. The Tank Johnson incident also happened at a club. This could easily have been you.
Countless of others have gotten into incidents at clubs. How often do you go to a club and a fight breaks out? Like it or not, you are a target. As a target, you have to treat yourself as such. That means not putting yourself in situations where your health, career, or worse, your life is in danger. People will be gunning for you because you have money and fame. You have things that they don't. Things that they want. They know nothing of danger and what you have to loose. All these people want is a good time and any cut of your influence that they can get.
How dangerous have these clubs become that players have to be armed when they hit the dance floor? When you have to pack heat, as well as kickin dance moves, I think that's a signal to get out of the scene.
Buress's injuries are reportedly not life-threatening and that's good, but some are not as lucky. Darrent Williams was one of the unlucky ones. He went to a night club to celebrate New Years Eve 2007. It would be his last New Years Eve. Due to an altercation between members of the Crips gang and others, there was a drive-by shooting. Williams, through no fault of his own, was caught in the middle of it and didn't make it out. Yet another example of how even the innicent can experience trouble in the club.
I know that leaving an activity you have loved for years will be difficult, but it may be imperative. You all have lucrative contracts. You all have budding careers. Many of you have wives and/or children. Is it worth putting all this is jeopardy for a night of drinking and dancing with your "boys." All that you have worked so hard for could be gone in a flash. Your career could be over before Lil' Jon hits his third verse. It doesn't seam worth it to me. For those who do have family's, go spend time with them. Play a board game with your kids. Monopoly is always fun (theres even an NFL version). For those who don't have families, go see a movie or something. Is "getting "crunk" worth your life? Worth your career?
I don't think so. Do you?
Sincerley,
Jordan Lauterbach
"Host of The Edge on WCWP"
Last night, Plaxico Burress shot himself. No not with a fine or suspension- but with a gun. His own gun. Now I hope that last sentence doesn't sound sarcastic or "snarky" because believe me, that is not my intention. My giant-hatred aside, this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
You guys should stop going to clubs.
Think about it. What good has ever come from clubbing? The first Adam Jones incident happened at a club. This not only found Adam fighting for his career, but his free-man status as well. The Tank Johnson incident also happened at a club. This could easily have been you.
Countless of others have gotten into incidents at clubs. How often do you go to a club and a fight breaks out? Like it or not, you are a target. As a target, you have to treat yourself as such. That means not putting yourself in situations where your health, career, or worse, your life is in danger. People will be gunning for you because you have money and fame. You have things that they don't. Things that they want. They know nothing of danger and what you have to loose. All these people want is a good time and any cut of your influence that they can get.
How dangerous have these clubs become that players have to be armed when they hit the dance floor? When you have to pack heat, as well as kickin dance moves, I think that's a signal to get out of the scene.
Buress's injuries are reportedly not life-threatening and that's good, but some are not as lucky. Darrent Williams was one of the unlucky ones. He went to a night club to celebrate New Years Eve 2007. It would be his last New Years Eve. Due to an altercation between members of the Crips gang and others, there was a drive-by shooting. Williams, through no fault of his own, was caught in the middle of it and didn't make it out. Yet another example of how even the innicent can experience trouble in the club.
I know that leaving an activity you have loved for years will be difficult, but it may be imperative. You all have lucrative contracts. You all have budding careers. Many of you have wives and/or children. Is it worth putting all this is jeopardy for a night of drinking and dancing with your "boys." All that you have worked so hard for could be gone in a flash. Your career could be over before Lil' Jon hits his third verse. It doesn't seam worth it to me. For those who do have family's, go spend time with them. Play a board game with your kids. Monopoly is always fun (theres even an NFL version). For those who don't have families, go see a movie or something. Is "getting "crunk" worth your life? Worth your career?
I don't think so. Do you?
Sincerley,
Jordan Lauterbach
"Host of The Edge on WCWP"
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Steph Infection
First things first: Mike, you should add The Cure to your list of performers. Or possibly Will Smith. His nice clean rap is a big hit with the kids.
Now, down to business.
This whole Stephon Marbury situation has gotten way out of hand. After declining an opportunity to play against the Pistons, when a depleted Knicks team was down to eight active players and was in need of Marbury's services. This particular instance seems to be the one that sent Mike D'Antoni and Donnie Walsh over the edge, as there are reports stating that the Knicks could send Marbury home.
I know he is getting paid 22 million dollars - enough to satisfy an American for life, much less for one year - and he has been sitting on the bench while collecting his money, but I have to side with Marbury in this case.
As the team's best point guard (arguably their best player), he should be extremely upset if his team inexplicably signed someone to take his place. On top of that, he has been listed as inactive for the majority of the season even though he is participating in full, at practice. He has basically been verbally exiled by his coach; making him a point of controversy in the New York and, now, national media.
If the team shows no loyalty to Stephon Marbury, why should he be loyal to them?
I know that the Knicks organization has a great amount theorethical of leverage against Marbury. In traditionalist history, the company should have the most control possible over a worker in order to increase efficiency. But when the organization begins to undermine a worker in several different public and probably private instances, the worker should be able to fight back within his boundaries.
That's why Marbury has turned down offers to play.
From what I've heard, Marbury was told that he does not make dictate how much playing time he will get, if any.
So when he is told that he does not have the power to decide who plays, Marbury can decline playing time when it is offered to him by repeating what was said to him by management.
Technically, he isn't doing anything illegal. He's just following the rules.
Quentin Richardson may not consider him a teammate, but he can't deny that Stephon Marbury is a man of principles.
All of that aside, it is definately best for both parties if Marbury is sent home. That would take the spotlight off of him and the media's focus would move on to the sudden lack of talent on the team and LeBron pipe dreams.
-Max Caster
Now, down to business.
This whole Stephon Marbury situation has gotten way out of hand. After declining an opportunity to play against the Pistons, when a depleted Knicks team was down to eight active players and was in need of Marbury's services. This particular instance seems to be the one that sent Mike D'Antoni and Donnie Walsh over the edge, as there are reports stating that the Knicks could send Marbury home.
I know he is getting paid 22 million dollars - enough to satisfy an American for life, much less for one year - and he has been sitting on the bench while collecting his money, but I have to side with Marbury in this case.
As the team's best point guard (arguably their best player), he should be extremely upset if his team inexplicably signed someone to take his place. On top of that, he has been listed as inactive for the majority of the season even though he is participating in full, at practice. He has basically been verbally exiled by his coach; making him a point of controversy in the New York and, now, national media.
If the team shows no loyalty to Stephon Marbury, why should he be loyal to them?
I know that the Knicks organization has a great amount theorethical of leverage against Marbury. In traditionalist history, the company should have the most control possible over a worker in order to increase efficiency. But when the organization begins to undermine a worker in several different public and probably private instances, the worker should be able to fight back within his boundaries.
That's why Marbury has turned down offers to play.
From what I've heard, Marbury was told that he does not make dictate how much playing time he will get, if any.
So when he is told that he does not have the power to decide who plays, Marbury can decline playing time when it is offered to him by repeating what was said to him by management.
Technically, he isn't doing anything illegal. He's just following the rules.
Quentin Richardson may not consider him a teammate, but he can't deny that Stephon Marbury is a man of principles.
All of that aside, it is definately best for both parties if Marbury is sent home. That would take the spotlight off of him and the media's focus would move on to the sudden lack of talent on the team and LeBron pipe dreams.
-Max Caster
Thanksgiving Football is awful
So as the NFL's Thanksgiving day games come to an end, let me say something about them- THEY SUCK. Really bad.
So bad that at my cousin's house today we watched the Georgetown/ Wichita St basketball game over the second half of Titans/Lions. Yea, college basketball- and the game was 1,000 times more interesting. I cant take two games of awful, uninteresting football- and than another game on the NFL Network that I wont even get to see.
But changes have to be made to this- Roger Goodell has to fix these games up and make them interesting. And I have some ideas:
1. Dont schedule teams that have a crap-shoot of being good, like Seattle or Atlanta or even the Jets. Go with teams that have a proven track record- the Pats, Colts, Steelers, Giants, you catch my drift. Hell even the Chargers have talent and are exciting. One last thing on this- this is for Dallas alone, which then means that rivalries like the Eagles and Redskins are also in play here.
2. The Lions must play either the Bears or Packers every year. It's the only reason why they get to keep the game at this point- make them play an old-school rival.
3. If the best game out of the three happens to be on the NFL Network, then the Sunday before the game, a coin flip will be done between CBS and Fox to see who gets to cover the game, and the winner's game will be switched to the NFL Network. I mean why not give everyone a chance to watch the best game? It only makes sense.
4. Fix the damn halftime shows. Today CBS had Jesse McCartney on the halftime show, and FOX had the Jonas Brothers. THE JONAS BROTHERS!!!! AT HALFTIME OF AN NFL FOOTBALL GAME?
Since when did the NFL cater to 12 year old girls? Actually, with some of the calls made this year they might think 12 year old girls are playing...Nevermind, thats for another time.
I demand that we pick from a pool of musicians and bands each year and get them, because we should play music that football fans like/listen to/atleast repsect. Among my choices:
-Rolling Stones (even though theyre all corpses)
-Paul McCartney (a legend- nuff said)
-Metallica (new CD out this yr, songs fit for football- too easy of a choice)
-Foo Fighters
-John Mayer
-Red Hot Chili Peppers
-Pearl Jam
-Bruce Springsteen
-Prince
-Black Keys
-Raconteurs
-White Stripes
and the list can go on and on. Again, catching my drift, no more Jonas Brothers or anything Top 40 at a football game again.
Ever.
Im serious here NFL, dont try it.
5. If a certain team isnt flashy (yea you Tennessee), find a player who is a star that can bring the casual fan in. A Brett Favre, or a Randy Moss, a Michael Vick (when he was playing) are prime examples. Still wondering why LaDainian Tomlinson hasnt been on Thanksgiving yet.
If all these are done according to the dotted line- I think the NFL can save people from the boredom of their Thanksgiving games. If not, we're all in for more of like we had today (not counting the NFL Network game):
Winning teams: 91 Losing teams: 19 Bad Halftime Shows: 2
I think im going to be sick.
-Mike Tramontozzi
So bad that at my cousin's house today we watched the Georgetown/ Wichita St basketball game over the second half of Titans/Lions. Yea, college basketball- and the game was 1,000 times more interesting. I cant take two games of awful, uninteresting football- and than another game on the NFL Network that I wont even get to see.
But changes have to be made to this- Roger Goodell has to fix these games up and make them interesting. And I have some ideas:
1. Dont schedule teams that have a crap-shoot of being good, like Seattle or Atlanta or even the Jets. Go with teams that have a proven track record- the Pats, Colts, Steelers, Giants, you catch my drift. Hell even the Chargers have talent and are exciting. One last thing on this- this is for Dallas alone, which then means that rivalries like the Eagles and Redskins are also in play here.
2. The Lions must play either the Bears or Packers every year. It's the only reason why they get to keep the game at this point- make them play an old-school rival.
3. If the best game out of the three happens to be on the NFL Network, then the Sunday before the game, a coin flip will be done between CBS and Fox to see who gets to cover the game, and the winner's game will be switched to the NFL Network. I mean why not give everyone a chance to watch the best game? It only makes sense.
4. Fix the damn halftime shows. Today CBS had Jesse McCartney on the halftime show, and FOX had the Jonas Brothers. THE JONAS BROTHERS!!!! AT HALFTIME OF AN NFL FOOTBALL GAME?
Since when did the NFL cater to 12 year old girls? Actually, with some of the calls made this year they might think 12 year old girls are playing...Nevermind, thats for another time.
I demand that we pick from a pool of musicians and bands each year and get them, because we should play music that football fans like/listen to/atleast repsect. Among my choices:
-Rolling Stones (even though theyre all corpses)
-Paul McCartney (a legend- nuff said)
-Metallica (new CD out this yr, songs fit for football- too easy of a choice)
-Foo Fighters
-John Mayer
-Red Hot Chili Peppers
-Pearl Jam
-Bruce Springsteen
-Prince
-Black Keys
-Raconteurs
-White Stripes
and the list can go on and on. Again, catching my drift, no more Jonas Brothers or anything Top 40 at a football game again.
Ever.
Im serious here NFL, dont try it.
5. If a certain team isnt flashy (yea you Tennessee), find a player who is a star that can bring the casual fan in. A Brett Favre, or a Randy Moss, a Michael Vick (when he was playing) are prime examples. Still wondering why LaDainian Tomlinson hasnt been on Thanksgiving yet.
If all these are done according to the dotted line- I think the NFL can save people from the boredom of their Thanksgiving games. If not, we're all in for more of like we had today (not counting the NFL Network game):
Winning teams: 91 Losing teams: 19 Bad Halftime Shows: 2
I think im going to be sick.
-Mike Tramontozzi
Food Critic's Corner 2008
by Max Caster.
This past CW Post Pioneers football season, I received the privilege of travelling to most of the games as a member of the WCWP football staff. With the honor of journeying with friends, watching an exciting, yet disappointing, CW Post football team and getting a great experience on many levels, comes the benefit of receiving free lunch in the press box.
Eating free food is one of life’s greatest pleasures and I got the opportunity to do it several times this past fall. Some meals were good. Others… not so much. So I thought I would give you a chronological breakdown of the free meals given out to the media at NCAA Division II football games.
Game 1: American International College @ CW Post
This was my first time in the booth and I was completely unaware that I would be given free food. As I was being entertained by the play of AIC Wide Receiver Travis Poole’s spectacular catches and coverage busting speed (he finished with 10 catches, 253 yards and 3 touchdowns), the lunch arrived, and that’s when I realized ‘So have I.’
The good old-fashioned Italian and American subs were presented. I would automatically steer towards the Italian sandwiches because of my disdain towards American cheese. The Italian came complete with 3 kinds of meat, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion. A combination so delectable, the vat of mustard offered at the food table was not necessary to consume this work of beauty.
Needless to say, I was extremely happy.
Game 2: #16 Indiana University of Pennsylvania @ CW Post
Ah, September 6th, 2008. That day will forever be noted for two major moments in sports. In 1995, Cal Ripken Jr. played his 2,131st consecutive game; breaking the all-time record. And in 2008, Jason Gwaltney made his debut for the CW Post Pioneers.
Not even the Italian sub sandwich and Gwaltney’s impressive running style could make up for the Pioneers getting blown out 41-0.
Game 3: Edinboro University of Pennsylvania @ CW Post
Italian and American subs…. I see a pattern forming here.
Game 4: CW Post @ Cheyney University
We arrived on the day before the game, in the late afternoon. Some things were going well. Others definitely were not (that’s another blog). Little did I know, things were about to get much worse. The mediocre Applebee’s burger I had for dinner could not prepare me for the disappointment that I would face the next day.
As halftime approached, my mind was not on producing the game nor was it on the game itself. My mind was solely focused on the spread that would be laid out for us media types in the press box.
Cheyney University had the nicest, cleanest, most spacious press box out of every school we trekked to, in 2008. But with all of that space, you would expect that they would go all out with their food options. If you thought that, you were dead wrong.
The spread consisted of a small helping of appetizers (which were all gone by the time I was able to get there) and plain corn chips. With no time left to try and locate a concession stand, I made do with what was accessible.
Disappointed and defeated, I slumped myself in my chair, with my Styrofoam cup of chips, wallowing in my sorrow.
Game 5: #10 Bloomsburg University @ CW Post
The reliable Italian sub…
After the incident in the previous week, the Italian subs tasted as delicious as a bowl of Golden Grahams. In addition to the full belly, I was treated to a competitive game from the Pioneers against the powerhouse, Bloomsburg. In this contest, Gwaltney rushed for 133 yards and Quarterback Nick Georgetti came off the bench and rallied the team in the second half.
Unfortunately, his efforts were for naught and CW Post fell short. But more importantly, I ate a stable meal.
Game 6: CW post @ Shippensburg University
This was one of the worst trips of the year, mainly due to the unnecessarily long car ride to Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. Over four hours in a car with no IPod or reading material and with Nick Malone sleeping uncomfortably close to me in the back seat, I was left with only my thoughts; many of them centering on the lunch we would be given at the stadium.
With my expectations for a free, substantial lunch at road games at an all-time low, I was greeted with a box. Inside said box was a feast fit for a king.
A bag of potato chips, two chocolate chip cookies, a Turkey, Bacon & Cheddar sandwich on a roll and condiments. I didn’t use the condiments (though I appreciated the effort) because the sandwich itself was moist and flavorful enough.
This display of consideration blew me out of the water. Up until Shippensburg, I did not know what a free press box lunch was.
I hope to be going back to Shippensburg very soon… no matter how long it takes to drive there.
Game 7: CW Post @ West Chester University of Pennsylvania
An aside: Why does CW Post – a Long Island school – play in a conference that exclusively consists of schools in Pennsylvania? The conference has the word Pennsylvania in it (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference).
Anyway, we arrived in the booth early. It seemed quite roomy and accommodating. That was the case until more and more people began to show up. Rather quickly, the press box was congested with people… noisy people.
Since there were so many people, I could not locate the area where food and drinks were kept. So instead of navigating through the sea of inhabitants, I spotted a young woman handing out free bags of pretzels, in the stands. I retrieve the pretzels and give a bag to Mike Tramontozzi. As I was eating them, I tell Mike, “Boy, these pretzels are making me thirsty.”
My thirst had given me the will to get up and scavenge for drinks. As I was about to head to a concession booth, I spotted a small refrigerator stocked with food and beverages. I promptly took two wraps & two sodas and brought them back to our seats.
I read the labels on the sandwiches. One read ‘Ham’ and the other one was ‘Rib’. As a common, American man, like Dusty Rhodes, the first thing I thought of when I saw the word ‘Rib’ was barbeque. I was excited to dig into the barbeque banquet until I realized that the rib being referred to was not what I thought it was. Instead of barbeque, I was stuck with prime rib – dry prime rib, at that.
Another school, another letdown.
Game 8: Millersville @ CW Post [Homecoming]
I was not supposed to reside in the press box during this game due to the several cameos from WCWP alumni on the broadcast. Instead, I was cast as a ‘runner’. In other words, I had to stay at the WCWP Studios and be there in case they forgot something at the field. Not the most admirable task, but in classic Max Caster manner, I did not complain. Being stuck in a building without food is torture.
Eventually, my time came to transport an item down to Hickox Field. With the help of Matt Soldano, I arrived in the booth with the goods. I wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible because everybody looked distressed. Many technical problems had rapidly curbed the excitement of WCWP Sports Director Jordan Lauterbach as the day moved on.
I was about to leave the press box when I saw the wonder of the Italian sub. As Jordan was telling me to head back to WCWP to fill time during halftime, I calmly grabbed three pieces of the sandwich and brought them back to my lair.
Essentially stealing the food made my meal a lot better.
Game 9: East Stroudsburg @ CW Post
If CW Post is famous for one thing it wouldn’t be the excessive landscaping, Frank Catalanotto, or even me (just wait a few years). CW post is most famous for the delicious yet stagnant feast that gets laid out in the press box.
Yes. Once again, the Italian sub was laid out. This was the last home game of the season and I got emotional while eating my sandwiches.
But at least I know what will be for lunch at next year’s home games.
Now that I knew there were no more home games left, I was looking forward to these last two games.
Game 10: CW Post @ Kutztown University
Our lunch that day was similar to the one we got in Shippensburg. Each meal was in a separate bag for convenience during manual transportation. In the bag was a large chocolate chip cookie, a bag of chips, a small portion of cold pasta and a turkey & cheese sandwich. The variety was excellent but it did not taste as phenomenal as Shippensburg’s or even CW Post’s lunches. As the old saying goes, ‘Quality over quantity.’
Game 11: CW Post @ Lock Haven
The final game of the season. The culmination of nearly three months of work. This is the end. And the only way to go out is with a bang.
Right off the bat, our equipment was not cooperating with us. After an hour or so of trial & error and troubleshooting, we were forced to move to our backup plan: The Zercom. As described to me by Jordan Lauterbach, the Zercom is basically a really big cell phone. How big? Is a 17" wide, 5" high, and 13-1/4" deep monstrosity big enough?
As this loud piece of machinery drew the attention of almost everyone in the press box, I could only think of the delicacies that awaited me. So we made lemonade (as the kids say) and I waited for halftime to arrive.
When the time of reckoning came upon us, I soon realized that there would be no free meal. Obviously, I was enraged. I was already a bit upset because I had to purchase my own beverages from the concession stand, amongst the commoners. I didn’t think I would face a situation as bad as the one in Cheyney, but clearly, I was wrong.
Lock Haven was, by far, the worst school we travelled to, mostly because of the dearth of hospitality. I hope and pray every day that I will never have to return to Lock Haven, PA and face that kind of absurdity again.
In conclusion, here is my ranking of all of the free food given out to me this past CW Post football season.
1. Shippensburg – Turkey, Bacon & Cheddar on a roll
2. CW Post – Italian Sub
3. Kutztown – Turkey & Cheese
4. West Chester – Prime Rib Wrap
5. Cheyney – Corn chips
6. Lock Haven – NOTHING!
I can’t wait for next season!
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com
This past CW Post Pioneers football season, I received the privilege of travelling to most of the games as a member of the WCWP football staff. With the honor of journeying with friends, watching an exciting, yet disappointing, CW Post football team and getting a great experience on many levels, comes the benefit of receiving free lunch in the press box.
Eating free food is one of life’s greatest pleasures and I got the opportunity to do it several times this past fall. Some meals were good. Others… not so much. So I thought I would give you a chronological breakdown of the free meals given out to the media at NCAA Division II football games.
Game 1: American International College @ CW Post
This was my first time in the booth and I was completely unaware that I would be given free food. As I was being entertained by the play of AIC Wide Receiver Travis Poole’s spectacular catches and coverage busting speed (he finished with 10 catches, 253 yards and 3 touchdowns), the lunch arrived, and that’s when I realized ‘So have I.’
The good old-fashioned Italian and American subs were presented. I would automatically steer towards the Italian sandwiches because of my disdain towards American cheese. The Italian came complete with 3 kinds of meat, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion. A combination so delectable, the vat of mustard offered at the food table was not necessary to consume this work of beauty.
Needless to say, I was extremely happy.
Game 2: #16 Indiana University of Pennsylvania @ CW Post
Ah, September 6th, 2008. That day will forever be noted for two major moments in sports. In 1995, Cal Ripken Jr. played his 2,131st consecutive game; breaking the all-time record. And in 2008, Jason Gwaltney made his debut for the CW Post Pioneers.
Not even the Italian sub sandwich and Gwaltney’s impressive running style could make up for the Pioneers getting blown out 41-0.
Game 3: Edinboro University of Pennsylvania @ CW Post
Italian and American subs…. I see a pattern forming here.
Game 4: CW Post @ Cheyney University
We arrived on the day before the game, in the late afternoon. Some things were going well. Others definitely were not (that’s another blog). Little did I know, things were about to get much worse. The mediocre Applebee’s burger I had for dinner could not prepare me for the disappointment that I would face the next day.
As halftime approached, my mind was not on producing the game nor was it on the game itself. My mind was solely focused on the spread that would be laid out for us media types in the press box.
Cheyney University had the nicest, cleanest, most spacious press box out of every school we trekked to, in 2008. But with all of that space, you would expect that they would go all out with their food options. If you thought that, you were dead wrong.
The spread consisted of a small helping of appetizers (which were all gone by the time I was able to get there) and plain corn chips. With no time left to try and locate a concession stand, I made do with what was accessible.
Disappointed and defeated, I slumped myself in my chair, with my Styrofoam cup of chips, wallowing in my sorrow.
Game 5: #10 Bloomsburg University @ CW Post
The reliable Italian sub…
After the incident in the previous week, the Italian subs tasted as delicious as a bowl of Golden Grahams. In addition to the full belly, I was treated to a competitive game from the Pioneers against the powerhouse, Bloomsburg. In this contest, Gwaltney rushed for 133 yards and Quarterback Nick Georgetti came off the bench and rallied the team in the second half.
Unfortunately, his efforts were for naught and CW Post fell short. But more importantly, I ate a stable meal.
Game 6: CW post @ Shippensburg University
This was one of the worst trips of the year, mainly due to the unnecessarily long car ride to Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. Over four hours in a car with no IPod or reading material and with Nick Malone sleeping uncomfortably close to me in the back seat, I was left with only my thoughts; many of them centering on the lunch we would be given at the stadium.
With my expectations for a free, substantial lunch at road games at an all-time low, I was greeted with a box. Inside said box was a feast fit for a king.
A bag of potato chips, two chocolate chip cookies, a Turkey, Bacon & Cheddar sandwich on a roll and condiments. I didn’t use the condiments (though I appreciated the effort) because the sandwich itself was moist and flavorful enough.
This display of consideration blew me out of the water. Up until Shippensburg, I did not know what a free press box lunch was.
I hope to be going back to Shippensburg very soon… no matter how long it takes to drive there.
Game 7: CW Post @ West Chester University of Pennsylvania
An aside: Why does CW Post – a Long Island school – play in a conference that exclusively consists of schools in Pennsylvania? The conference has the word Pennsylvania in it (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference).
Anyway, we arrived in the booth early. It seemed quite roomy and accommodating. That was the case until more and more people began to show up. Rather quickly, the press box was congested with people… noisy people.
Since there were so many people, I could not locate the area where food and drinks were kept. So instead of navigating through the sea of inhabitants, I spotted a young woman handing out free bags of pretzels, in the stands. I retrieve the pretzels and give a bag to Mike Tramontozzi. As I was eating them, I tell Mike, “Boy, these pretzels are making me thirsty.”
My thirst had given me the will to get up and scavenge for drinks. As I was about to head to a concession booth, I spotted a small refrigerator stocked with food and beverages. I promptly took two wraps & two sodas and brought them back to our seats.
I read the labels on the sandwiches. One read ‘Ham’ and the other one was ‘Rib’. As a common, American man, like Dusty Rhodes, the first thing I thought of when I saw the word ‘Rib’ was barbeque. I was excited to dig into the barbeque banquet until I realized that the rib being referred to was not what I thought it was. Instead of barbeque, I was stuck with prime rib – dry prime rib, at that.
Another school, another letdown.
Game 8: Millersville @ CW Post [Homecoming]
I was not supposed to reside in the press box during this game due to the several cameos from WCWP alumni on the broadcast. Instead, I was cast as a ‘runner’. In other words, I had to stay at the WCWP Studios and be there in case they forgot something at the field. Not the most admirable task, but in classic Max Caster manner, I did not complain. Being stuck in a building without food is torture.
Eventually, my time came to transport an item down to Hickox Field. With the help of Matt Soldano, I arrived in the booth with the goods. I wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible because everybody looked distressed. Many technical problems had rapidly curbed the excitement of WCWP Sports Director Jordan Lauterbach as the day moved on.
I was about to leave the press box when I saw the wonder of the Italian sub. As Jordan was telling me to head back to WCWP to fill time during halftime, I calmly grabbed three pieces of the sandwich and brought them back to my lair.
Essentially stealing the food made my meal a lot better.
Game 9: East Stroudsburg @ CW Post
If CW Post is famous for one thing it wouldn’t be the excessive landscaping, Frank Catalanotto, or even me (just wait a few years). CW post is most famous for the delicious yet stagnant feast that gets laid out in the press box.
Yes. Once again, the Italian sub was laid out. This was the last home game of the season and I got emotional while eating my sandwiches.
But at least I know what will be for lunch at next year’s home games.
Now that I knew there were no more home games left, I was looking forward to these last two games.
Game 10: CW Post @ Kutztown University
Our lunch that day was similar to the one we got in Shippensburg. Each meal was in a separate bag for convenience during manual transportation. In the bag was a large chocolate chip cookie, a bag of chips, a small portion of cold pasta and a turkey & cheese sandwich. The variety was excellent but it did not taste as phenomenal as Shippensburg’s or even CW Post’s lunches. As the old saying goes, ‘Quality over quantity.’
Game 11: CW Post @ Lock Haven
The final game of the season. The culmination of nearly three months of work. This is the end. And the only way to go out is with a bang.
Right off the bat, our equipment was not cooperating with us. After an hour or so of trial & error and troubleshooting, we were forced to move to our backup plan: The Zercom. As described to me by Jordan Lauterbach, the Zercom is basically a really big cell phone. How big? Is a 17" wide, 5" high, and 13-1/4" deep monstrosity big enough?
As this loud piece of machinery drew the attention of almost everyone in the press box, I could only think of the delicacies that awaited me. So we made lemonade (as the kids say) and I waited for halftime to arrive.
When the time of reckoning came upon us, I soon realized that there would be no free meal. Obviously, I was enraged. I was already a bit upset because I had to purchase my own beverages from the concession stand, amongst the commoners. I didn’t think I would face a situation as bad as the one in Cheyney, but clearly, I was wrong.
Lock Haven was, by far, the worst school we travelled to, mostly because of the dearth of hospitality. I hope and pray every day that I will never have to return to Lock Haven, PA and face that kind of absurdity again.
In conclusion, here is my ranking of all of the free food given out to me this past CW Post football season.
1. Shippensburg – Turkey, Bacon & Cheddar on a roll
2. CW Post – Italian Sub
3. Kutztown – Turkey & Cheese
4. West Chester – Prime Rib Wrap
5. Cheyney – Corn chips
6. Lock Haven – NOTHING!
I can’t wait for next season!
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
NFL Picks Week 13
Tennessee Titans @ Detroit Lions - Tennessee
Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys - Dallas
Arizona Cardinals @ Philadelphia Eagles - Arizona
San Francisco 49ers @ Buffalo Bills - Buffalo
Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals - Baltimore
Carolina Panthers @ Green Bay Packers - Green Bay
New York Giants @ Washington Redskins - New York
New Orleans Saints @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - New Orleans
Indianapolis Colts @ Cleveland Browns - Indianapolis
Miami Dolphins @ St. Louis Rams - Miami
Atlanta Falcons @ San Diego Chargers - Atlanta
Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders - Oakland
Pittsburgh Steelers @ New England Patriots - Pittsburgh
Denver Broncos @New York Jets - New York
Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings - Minnesota
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans - Jacksonville
Week of the Road Teams as 10 out of 16 will win!!
Last Week: 12-4
Overall: 101-74
-Matt Soldano
Notre Dame still plays football?
Before Jordan keels over- Im Joking. I know Notre Dame still plays football. That being said, there is one major reason why Urban Meyer didnt come to South Bend the first time, and the same reason why he wont come to the rescue this time: the academic standards.
Meyer was told by Bob Davie that the only way to compete nowadays with the other schools is to get the Administration to lower their academic standards to get some of the top athetes who might not have the grades to get into Notre Dame. Meyer agreed, but the School didnt, hence Meyer left for Florida, where one person once said "you could get a plant enrolled at Florida."
Now I understand the stuck up people at Notre Dame who refuse to lower it, but here's the statement they dont want to hear: YOU GUYS ARE NOT GOING TO GET PEOPLE ON NAME ALONE.
Notre Dame was once able to recruit anyone because they were "Notre Dame". Same thing for Michigan, who has to rebuild now under Rich Rodriguez.
But now, the Irish are having to face the stark reality that the top recruits wont go there because of the tough schooling, and because they haven't been relevant this decade. They've been passed by teams like Virginia Tech, Miami, Oklahoma, LSU, Florida and Alabama in terms of national identity. Not to mention that Boise St has more BCS wins than the Irish do and you see why things look bleak.
The answer though is simple: Lower the standards. How stuck up do you have to be to see that? Who cares if you lower the standards to get a kid in who could turn the program around? We all know that College Football is all about money- those kids would win games, get Notre Dame to a better bowl game, and get Notre Dame more money- and who doesnt like money?
But the people at Notre Dame all feel that they would be breaking some code to all students that they allow athletes special treatment, well I hate to inform these people, but athletes always get special treatment. It's a way of the world nowadays.
So the answer is simple for Notre Dame if they fire Charlie Weiss: lower them and he will come. "He" being Urban Meyer. But if you keep to your stubborn ways and keep the standards because you're "Notre Dame", then Meyer will stay in sunny Florida and keep winning National Titles, and all Notre Dame fans will be pining for the days of Lou Holtz and Tim Brown.
As a Michigan fan, I could care less about the Irish. But it sure is funny.
- Mike Tramontozzi
Meyer was told by Bob Davie that the only way to compete nowadays with the other schools is to get the Administration to lower their academic standards to get some of the top athetes who might not have the grades to get into Notre Dame. Meyer agreed, but the School didnt, hence Meyer left for Florida, where one person once said "you could get a plant enrolled at Florida."
Now I understand the stuck up people at Notre Dame who refuse to lower it, but here's the statement they dont want to hear: YOU GUYS ARE NOT GOING TO GET PEOPLE ON NAME ALONE.
Notre Dame was once able to recruit anyone because they were "Notre Dame". Same thing for Michigan, who has to rebuild now under Rich Rodriguez.
But now, the Irish are having to face the stark reality that the top recruits wont go there because of the tough schooling, and because they haven't been relevant this decade. They've been passed by teams like Virginia Tech, Miami, Oklahoma, LSU, Florida and Alabama in terms of national identity. Not to mention that Boise St has more BCS wins than the Irish do and you see why things look bleak.
The answer though is simple: Lower the standards. How stuck up do you have to be to see that? Who cares if you lower the standards to get a kid in who could turn the program around? We all know that College Football is all about money- those kids would win games, get Notre Dame to a better bowl game, and get Notre Dame more money- and who doesnt like money?
But the people at Notre Dame all feel that they would be breaking some code to all students that they allow athletes special treatment, well I hate to inform these people, but athletes always get special treatment. It's a way of the world nowadays.
So the answer is simple for Notre Dame if they fire Charlie Weiss: lower them and he will come. "He" being Urban Meyer. But if you keep to your stubborn ways and keep the standards because you're "Notre Dame", then Meyer will stay in sunny Florida and keep winning National Titles, and all Notre Dame fans will be pining for the days of Lou Holtz and Tim Brown.
As a Michigan fan, I could care less about the Irish. But it sure is funny.
- Mike Tramontozzi
The Story Continues in South Bend
I kind of get the feeling that Charlie Weis is a dead man walking. According to ESPN.com, Weis's buyout will not be a factor when making the decision on whether or not to keep the coach. The buyout is "considerably less" then was first reported. But then again, when has Notre Dame ever cared about money? Common logic appears to be that ND football is slowly fading into irrelevance. This is a dirty word in South Bend, one that not even Touchdown Jesus could have foreseen. If the powers at be believe that buying out Weis is what's best for the program, then they will do it. They have to. That appears to be the direction the situation is heading.
I get teased about this all time, but am begining to see the merit in the "who cares about Notre Dame anymore" argument. The only press they get is how the program has been a shell of itself. In todays world of parity in college football, I don't know if Notre Dame can survive a long dip in relevence. However, I have a solution for this:
Urban Myer
This is the guy ND really wanted when they fired Ty Willingham. He ended up going to Florida and won a national championship in his first year. If Meyer and Florida win another national championship this season, what more would he have to accomplish at FLA? Enough money and the prospect of rebuilding a legandary, but dead, program might be enough to lore him away. ND has tons of young offensive talent and a junior quarterback that Myer could do quick work with.If I was the ND administration, I would go hard after Meyer. Unlike last time, I think he would come.
Jordan Lauterbach
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Lets not get crazy here
Sure, Notre Dame has been bad in recent weeks, awful even- but a mention of them as among the worst teams in college football is uterly unbelievable. However, thats just what ESPN.com today in their weekly "bottom ten" column. They are ranked fifth, behind the likes of Michigan, Tulane, Iowa State and Miami of Ohio. ND is the only team of this group who will be playing during bowl season. If you've watched this team all year like I have, you know that the team is not this bad. This is nowhere close to where we were (as Notre Dame followers) last year. Saturday was bad, horrific even, but in no way does it make ND a bottom ten team.
Heres some more ND links: Pat Forde
Gene Wojociechowski
Jordan Lauterbach
Heres some more ND links: Pat Forde
Gene Wojociechowski
Jordan Lauterbach
Randolph Trade Could be in Jeopardy
Zach Randolph was in the Los Angeles Clippers' locker room Tuesday night. He just wasn't in a Clippers' uniform, as the trade between Los Angeles and the New York Knicks was held up by what a source said were concerns about Cuttino Mobley's heart.
Mobley and Tim Thomas were sent to New York in exchange for Randolph and Mardy Collins on Friday in a deal that gives the Clippers a low post presence in Randolph and gives the Knicks more cap space for the 2010 free-agent market.
The source said Mobley would see a heart specialist on Tuesday. Normally players have 48 hours to report to their new teams and take a physical examination, followed by another 24 hours for all the test results to come in. Because this trade was completed after business hours on Friday, the teams agreed to an additional 24-hour period, which ends at 6:30 p.m. ET Tuesday.
Source: ESPN.com
As an opponent of this trade, I would love to see Randolph come back to New York. But at this point, will he want to come back? Will he play 100%? Will he feel welcomed and wanted on a team that just traded him?
Knowing Zach's personality and history of spats with management in Portland, it would not be a good idea to bring him back, at this point.
Imagine having to work in an enviornment where you know for a fact that the organization tried to get rid of you. Or in a place where there is an extremely good possibility that you will uprooted and sent elsewhere. Those thoughts would be in the back of Zach's head if he returned to the Knicks.
Hopefully Mobley's heart is fine so everyone can just move on.
UPDATE: From what I've heard/read so far today, there is a very small chance that this trade will not go through. According to Newsday's Alan Hahn, "Donnie Walsh can simply waive the physical to complete the trade". He would most likely do that in order to avoid any uncomfortable situations and to stay in position to be under the cap in 2010.
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
Mobley and Tim Thomas were sent to New York in exchange for Randolph and Mardy Collins on Friday in a deal that gives the Clippers a low post presence in Randolph and gives the Knicks more cap space for the 2010 free-agent market.
The source said Mobley would see a heart specialist on Tuesday. Normally players have 48 hours to report to their new teams and take a physical examination, followed by another 24 hours for all the test results to come in. Because this trade was completed after business hours on Friday, the teams agreed to an additional 24-hour period, which ends at 6:30 p.m. ET Tuesday.
Source: ESPN.com
As an opponent of this trade, I would love to see Randolph come back to New York. But at this point, will he want to come back? Will he play 100%? Will he feel welcomed and wanted on a team that just traded him?
Knowing Zach's personality and history of spats with management in Portland, it would not be a good idea to bring him back, at this point.
Imagine having to work in an enviornment where you know for a fact that the organization tried to get rid of you. Or in a place where there is an extremely good possibility that you will uprooted and sent elsewhere. Those thoughts would be in the back of Zach's head if he returned to the Knicks.
Hopefully Mobley's heart is fine so everyone can just move on.
UPDATE: From what I've heard/read so far today, there is a very small chance that this trade will not go through. According to Newsday's Alan Hahn, "Donnie Walsh can simply waive the physical to complete the trade". He would most likely do that in order to avoid any uncomfortable situations and to stay in position to be under the cap in 2010.
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
Monday, November 24, 2008
Apparently I'm Not The Only One
As a Notre Dame junkie, I hate the fact that the only press they seem to get nowadays is how much of a laughing-stock they have become.
Dan Weitzel of Yahoo! Sports wrote a solid column about Weis on Monday. Needless to say, I compleatly agree. The column is worth a read. Here it is.
Jordan Lauterbach
Dan Weitzel of Yahoo! Sports wrote a solid column about Weis on Monday. Needless to say, I compleatly agree. The column is worth a read. Here it is.
Jordan Lauterbach
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Giants win in Desert en route to Super Bowl Title
Now, that could have been the Headline following Super Bowl 42 (so what if it was your 4th best idea? its still one), but actually it's the headline Im using for today, Nov. 23, 2008. The Giants went into Arizona and beat a Cardinals team that was looking for a statement win- and beat them handidly. The 37-29 score would indicate a close game, but the Giants 3 times kicked field goals inside the Arizona 30 yard line. They would have blown them out if they could put one of those field goals into a TD.
They also put Arizona into a complete one dimensional state- something they put themselves into every week anyway. Kurt Warner threw for over 300 yards for the fifth straight game, but only threw 1 touchdown and had 2 turnovers- an INT and a fumble. Both resulted in Giant touchdowns.
So anyway, the Giants now have a 2 game lead on Tampa Bay for best record in the division at 10-1, in my eyes soldifying themselves as the team to beat in the NFC. No team is going to want to come into Giants Stadium in January to play the Giants.
In a way, the football season might be over as well, because right here I will state my claim in writing that i've said for weeks- THE NEW YORK GIANTS WILL REPEAT AS SUPER BOWL CHAMPS.
The team is so much better than last year it's unfair. Plaxico Burress leaves the game with a hamstring injury, and Domenik Hixon goes in and plays fantastic. The offense was held to 87 yards rushing- the first time all reason they've been held under 100 yards. So without that, Eli Manning throws for 240 yards and 3 Touchdowns.
There is no team that can match the Giants- you have to play perfect- literally perfect- to beat them. Cleveland did and won. Noone else has. The Giants will go 15-1, 14-2 at the worst. They will breeze through that second round playoff game, and win in the NFC title game at home.
Then in Tampa, the Giants will once again hoist the Super Bowl trophy, staking their claim to a dynasty. I look at this as the 49ers of 1988 and 1989- that team won their blowout Super Bowl title in 1988 against the Broncos, and in 1989 had to score at the end to beat the Bengals.
This Giants team had their close title last year against the Pats- now I feel it's time for the blowout kind. Don't be surprised if in the 4th quarter we're looking at alot of Al Michaels and John Madden small talk with the Giants up something big like 41-12.
Dont say you werent warned.
- Mike Tramontozzi
They also put Arizona into a complete one dimensional state- something they put themselves into every week anyway. Kurt Warner threw for over 300 yards for the fifth straight game, but only threw 1 touchdown and had 2 turnovers- an INT and a fumble. Both resulted in Giant touchdowns.
So anyway, the Giants now have a 2 game lead on Tampa Bay for best record in the division at 10-1, in my eyes soldifying themselves as the team to beat in the NFC. No team is going to want to come into Giants Stadium in January to play the Giants.
In a way, the football season might be over as well, because right here I will state my claim in writing that i've said for weeks- THE NEW YORK GIANTS WILL REPEAT AS SUPER BOWL CHAMPS.
The team is so much better than last year it's unfair. Plaxico Burress leaves the game with a hamstring injury, and Domenik Hixon goes in and plays fantastic. The offense was held to 87 yards rushing- the first time all reason they've been held under 100 yards. So without that, Eli Manning throws for 240 yards and 3 Touchdowns.
There is no team that can match the Giants- you have to play perfect- literally perfect- to beat them. Cleveland did and won. Noone else has. The Giants will go 15-1, 14-2 at the worst. They will breeze through that second round playoff game, and win in the NFC title game at home.
Then in Tampa, the Giants will once again hoist the Super Bowl trophy, staking their claim to a dynasty. I look at this as the 49ers of 1988 and 1989- that team won their blowout Super Bowl title in 1988 against the Broncos, and in 1989 had to score at the end to beat the Bengals.
This Giants team had their close title last year against the Pats- now I feel it's time for the blowout kind. Don't be surprised if in the 4th quarter we're looking at alot of Al Michaels and John Madden small talk with the Giants up something big like 41-12.
Dont say you werent warned.
- Mike Tramontozzi
Maybe It's Time After All
I feel weird writing this right now but after a few hours of deliberation, I have made a very important decision regarding the Notre Dame football program: Charlie Weis should be fired.
After the Boston College loss two weeks ago, a report surfaced that Weis may be on the hot seat. I immediately dismissed the report as being next to blasphemy and said so on The Edge. But now I'm not so sure. It began last week in Maryland. The Irish had a 24-7 lead on Navy entering the fourth quarter. All seemed secure. A bowl birth guaranteed and a bit of redemption against a team that dealt you one of your worst losses ever seemed imminent. Fourteen points and two botched onside kicks later and the Irish were staring a miracle comeback and a legendary defeat squarely in the face. It was 27-21 and Navy had the ball in Notre Dame territory. It was at this moment when the thought first popped in my head, "maybe he should be fired". Ironically at half-time of that game, the Notre Dame Athletic Director was interviewed and gave a very unconvincing decry that Weis' job was safe. The Navy game ended with joy and jubilation in South Bend. After one long year, the Irish were headed to a bowl once again. All the heartburn of the final quarter in Maryland was forgotten.
That all ended yesterday. A senior day against Syracuse was supposed to be a joyful occasion. Syracuse was coming into a cold, snowy South Bend (remember, the Orange are a dome team) having a typically awful season. Greg Robinson was coaching as a lame duck and the Orange were obviously looking towards the future. After a lack luster first half (one in which they trailed for most), the Irish jumped to a 23-10 lead to enter the fourth. It seemed pretty secure. Not so fast. The Irish collapsed on defense and missed two fourth quarter field goals. Being pelted with snow balls, the stunned Irish walked off the field a 24-23 loser and a 6-5 football team.
On the surface, 6-5 is fine. As I wrote repeatedly during the summer, the goal this year was to get to a bowl. Next season was the year that should have been the make it or break it year for Weis. But for a few reasons, that make or break year has turned into a make or break next two games. The reasons for this are quite simple. Here are five-
1) Second half collapses: Call me crazy, but you could make a case that this team should be a one loss squad playing for a possible national championship birth. Four out of their five losses have come in gut wrenching fashion. ND has had second half leads at North Carolina and at home against Pittsburgh and Syracuse. They led 17-9 in NC and 17-3 against Pitt. The Irish choked both these games away. The Michigan State loss was also incredably winnable. This was a 4-1 team that is now 6-5. That falls squarely on the coaching staff.
2) The team gave up after the Pittsburgh game: I know that's a harsh thing to say, but if you watch this team like I do, its absolutely true. The effort just hasn't been there in the last three weeks. There is no reason why Navy and Syracuse should come back and give you a game after seemingly putting them away. Message to ND: these are not good teams! Multiple score second half leads should be the safest thing in the book. But that's precisely the problem. The team plays safe in the second half. There is no killer instinct. The team plays like they don't care. The effort in the last three weeks has looked more like the 2007 team that won three games then the 2008 team that looked like it might win 9 in late September. There is no reason why a week nine loss to a ranked team, albeit gut-wrenching, should end your season. It appears like it did. Even in their two wins since then, the Irish just haven't been the same. That falls on Weis.
3) Weis is panicking: Gone is the unflappable, cool as a cucumber reputation for Mr. Weis. I don't want to hear it because its just not true. He is clearly panicking and its painfully obvious. After the Pittsburgh loss, Weis though it a wise idea to completely change the teams mid-week routine. Clearly a good idea because if there is one thing we know it's that athletes are not creatchers of habit. And Weis's genius plan worked wonders. ND lost the followed week at Boston College 17-0. It was only one the worst performance of the season. Oh, and it was Weis' return to play-calling. He decided that because his Boston College game plan worked so well, he would take over play calling duties for the rest of the season. Since he took over, the offense has looked dead and unimaginative. Great job Charlie!
4) Jimmy Clausen had regressed in the second half of the season: This is not the pros. Their is no second half rookie wall. Jimmy Clausen is not a freshman. There is no freshman wall. Jimmy Clausen played the majority of last season. There is no first year starter wall. Explaining his magical transformation into an interception prone game manager (not the good kind) after a great start is hard to do. Before the Navy game, Weis went on record as saying that Clausen would not throw an interception that day. He threw two. Against Boston College, he threw four. Against 'cuse he was better, but still a bit unspectacular. I could deal with the interceptions if he was making plays and showing off his immense skill set, but he hasn't really done that since the three touchdown day against Pitt. In the next two games he threw no interceptions against six picks. In both these games, Weis was calling plays. Its a weird coincidence, but one that can not be overlooked.
5) What exactly has Weis done besides coach Tom Brady and write an awful book?: Not much. Bring up the two BCS games if you want, but may I remind you that these teams were not Weis'. They were Ty Willingham's and they had a ton of offensive talent. I'm not taking anything away from Weis, but when your quarterback is Brady Quinn, you will win some games. Now, Willingham may have mismanaged the talent and was a pretty awful coach at times, but he did pick the players. Also, ND was smacked in those two games. In the 2006 Fiesta bowl, I think A.J Hawk ate Brady Quinn. It was utterly laughable. The 2007 Suger Bowl was even worse. JaMarcus Russell had his final practice as a LSU Tiger on national TV...and got a trophy because of it. How many people can say that! Weis then orchestrated the worst season in Notre Dame football season. He never had a chance either. His starting quarterback left before Halloween and he threw a wide eyed freshman kid onto a team with one of the worst offensive lines in history. In two season, Weis has lost to both Navy and Syracuse. Weis' shining moment is also arguably a loss. The "Bush Push" USC loss in 2006 was the closest this team has been to the relevance it once enjoyed. He was brought in here to change the culture and reputation of a team that hasn't won a bowl since the 1994 Cotton Bowl. He has done the exact opposite. With Willingham, Notre Dame was a non-factor. With Weis, its a laughing stock.
There are two things Weis MUST do to save his job-
1: The game next week at USC has to be within reach in the fourth quarter. What is within reach? 2 scores to tie. A blowout in Southern Cal was the final nail for Willingham, it could be the same for Weis.
2: Win the Bowl game: I think this is infinitely more important than the USC game. The program has been stuck on the fact that team hasn't won a bowl since '94. It won't be a big bowl. Don't be surprised if the bowl is something like a 10pm start on ESPN2 on Decmber 27th. This will probably be the case, but it almost doesn't matter when it is or who they play. A bowl win would be a bowl win. All would be forgiven.
If Weis does one of the next two, he probably won't be canned. I'd keep him around if he gave me one. However, if he looses both, there is no reason why he should be back.
No doubt about it, Charlie Weis is coaching for his job in the next two games. And unlike two weeks ago, I believe he deserves that fate.
Jordan Lauterbach
After the Boston College loss two weeks ago, a report surfaced that Weis may be on the hot seat. I immediately dismissed the report as being next to blasphemy and said so on The Edge. But now I'm not so sure. It began last week in Maryland. The Irish had a 24-7 lead on Navy entering the fourth quarter. All seemed secure. A bowl birth guaranteed and a bit of redemption against a team that dealt you one of your worst losses ever seemed imminent. Fourteen points and two botched onside kicks later and the Irish were staring a miracle comeback and a legendary defeat squarely in the face. It was 27-21 and Navy had the ball in Notre Dame territory. It was at this moment when the thought first popped in my head, "maybe he should be fired". Ironically at half-time of that game, the Notre Dame Athletic Director was interviewed and gave a very unconvincing decry that Weis' job was safe. The Navy game ended with joy and jubilation in South Bend. After one long year, the Irish were headed to a bowl once again. All the heartburn of the final quarter in Maryland was forgotten.
That all ended yesterday. A senior day against Syracuse was supposed to be a joyful occasion. Syracuse was coming into a cold, snowy South Bend (remember, the Orange are a dome team) having a typically awful season. Greg Robinson was coaching as a lame duck and the Orange were obviously looking towards the future. After a lack luster first half (one in which they trailed for most), the Irish jumped to a 23-10 lead to enter the fourth. It seemed pretty secure. Not so fast. The Irish collapsed on defense and missed two fourth quarter field goals. Being pelted with snow balls, the stunned Irish walked off the field a 24-23 loser and a 6-5 football team.
On the surface, 6-5 is fine. As I wrote repeatedly during the summer, the goal this year was to get to a bowl. Next season was the year that should have been the make it or break it year for Weis. But for a few reasons, that make or break year has turned into a make or break next two games. The reasons for this are quite simple. Here are five-
1) Second half collapses: Call me crazy, but you could make a case that this team should be a one loss squad playing for a possible national championship birth. Four out of their five losses have come in gut wrenching fashion. ND has had second half leads at North Carolina and at home against Pittsburgh and Syracuse. They led 17-9 in NC and 17-3 against Pitt. The Irish choked both these games away. The Michigan State loss was also incredably winnable. This was a 4-1 team that is now 6-5. That falls squarely on the coaching staff.
2) The team gave up after the Pittsburgh game: I know that's a harsh thing to say, but if you watch this team like I do, its absolutely true. The effort just hasn't been there in the last three weeks. There is no reason why Navy and Syracuse should come back and give you a game after seemingly putting them away. Message to ND: these are not good teams! Multiple score second half leads should be the safest thing in the book. But that's precisely the problem. The team plays safe in the second half. There is no killer instinct. The team plays like they don't care. The effort in the last three weeks has looked more like the 2007 team that won three games then the 2008 team that looked like it might win 9 in late September. There is no reason why a week nine loss to a ranked team, albeit gut-wrenching, should end your season. It appears like it did. Even in their two wins since then, the Irish just haven't been the same. That falls on Weis.
3) Weis is panicking: Gone is the unflappable, cool as a cucumber reputation for Mr. Weis. I don't want to hear it because its just not true. He is clearly panicking and its painfully obvious. After the Pittsburgh loss, Weis though it a wise idea to completely change the teams mid-week routine. Clearly a good idea because if there is one thing we know it's that athletes are not creatchers of habit. And Weis's genius plan worked wonders. ND lost the followed week at Boston College 17-0. It was only one the worst performance of the season. Oh, and it was Weis' return to play-calling. He decided that because his Boston College game plan worked so well, he would take over play calling duties for the rest of the season. Since he took over, the offense has looked dead and unimaginative. Great job Charlie!
4) Jimmy Clausen had regressed in the second half of the season: This is not the pros. Their is no second half rookie wall. Jimmy Clausen is not a freshman. There is no freshman wall. Jimmy Clausen played the majority of last season. There is no first year starter wall. Explaining his magical transformation into an interception prone game manager (not the good kind) after a great start is hard to do. Before the Navy game, Weis went on record as saying that Clausen would not throw an interception that day. He threw two. Against Boston College, he threw four. Against 'cuse he was better, but still a bit unspectacular. I could deal with the interceptions if he was making plays and showing off his immense skill set, but he hasn't really done that since the three touchdown day against Pitt. In the next two games he threw no interceptions against six picks. In both these games, Weis was calling plays. Its a weird coincidence, but one that can not be overlooked.
5) What exactly has Weis done besides coach Tom Brady and write an awful book?: Not much. Bring up the two BCS games if you want, but may I remind you that these teams were not Weis'. They were Ty Willingham's and they had a ton of offensive talent. I'm not taking anything away from Weis, but when your quarterback is Brady Quinn, you will win some games. Now, Willingham may have mismanaged the talent and was a pretty awful coach at times, but he did pick the players. Also, ND was smacked in those two games. In the 2006 Fiesta bowl, I think A.J Hawk ate Brady Quinn. It was utterly laughable. The 2007 Suger Bowl was even worse. JaMarcus Russell had his final practice as a LSU Tiger on national TV...and got a trophy because of it. How many people can say that! Weis then orchestrated the worst season in Notre Dame football season. He never had a chance either. His starting quarterback left before Halloween and he threw a wide eyed freshman kid onto a team with one of the worst offensive lines in history. In two season, Weis has lost to both Navy and Syracuse. Weis' shining moment is also arguably a loss. The "Bush Push" USC loss in 2006 was the closest this team has been to the relevance it once enjoyed. He was brought in here to change the culture and reputation of a team that hasn't won a bowl since the 1994 Cotton Bowl. He has done the exact opposite. With Willingham, Notre Dame was a non-factor. With Weis, its a laughing stock.
There are two things Weis MUST do to save his job-
1: The game next week at USC has to be within reach in the fourth quarter. What is within reach? 2 scores to tie. A blowout in Southern Cal was the final nail for Willingham, it could be the same for Weis.
2: Win the Bowl game: I think this is infinitely more important than the USC game. The program has been stuck on the fact that team hasn't won a bowl since '94. It won't be a big bowl. Don't be surprised if the bowl is something like a 10pm start on ESPN2 on Decmber 27th. This will probably be the case, but it almost doesn't matter when it is or who they play. A bowl win would be a bowl win. All would be forgiven.
If Weis does one of the next two, he probably won't be canned. I'd keep him around if he gave me one. However, if he looses both, there is no reason why he should be back.
No doubt about it, Charlie Weis is coaching for his job in the next two games. And unlike two weeks ago, I believe he deserves that fate.
Jordan Lauterbach
Friday, November 21, 2008
First Jamal, now Zach?
How is Donnie Walsh being praised when he traded away his two top scorers for mediocre, over-the-hill, journeymen, in the same day?
Cuttino Mobley has seen better days. These are Tim Thomas' better days but even that is nowhere near impressive. And I've already broken down why Al Harrington is a bigger mistake than the US invading Iraq.
I had a feeling Randolph would be traded sometime during the year, but didn't expect him to average over 20 points and 12 rebounds a game. New York will not get that kind of production from either Harrington (12.4ppg, 5.6rpg) or Thomas (9.5ppg, 4.6rpg). Randolph also averaged more offensive rebounds than both men combined. The Knicks lose a great deal of extra possessions by shipping Zach and bringing in these two knuckleheads.
Crawford, the Knicks second leading scorer before the trade, will essentially be replaced by Cuttino Mobley. Mobley is a 33-year old with a poor outside shot; shooting 34% from behind the arc. Crawford, however, is makes 45% of his three-pointers and is still only 28 years old. Crawford also offers 4.4 assists per game, whereas Mobley only averages 1.1.
I may be mistaken, but I'm pretty sure Donnie Walsh does not own a crystal ball.
How can he put so much stock on a possible - not definite - future event? For all he knows, in 2010, LeBron could have gone to Greece, Dwayne Wade could have Bernard King-like knee problems, Chris Bosh could become a missionary, and Amare Stoudemire could fall into a black hole.
You cannot rely on what may happen. It's plain idiotic and naive to do so.
One of my philosiphies is to always put yourself in a situation where you have the worst chance of failing - and Donnie Walsh has not put this team that type of position.
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday night at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
Cuttino Mobley has seen better days. These are Tim Thomas' better days but even that is nowhere near impressive. And I've already broken down why Al Harrington is a bigger mistake than the US invading Iraq.
I had a feeling Randolph would be traded sometime during the year, but didn't expect him to average over 20 points and 12 rebounds a game. New York will not get that kind of production from either Harrington (12.4ppg, 5.6rpg) or Thomas (9.5ppg, 4.6rpg). Randolph also averaged more offensive rebounds than both men combined. The Knicks lose a great deal of extra possessions by shipping Zach and bringing in these two knuckleheads.
Crawford, the Knicks second leading scorer before the trade, will essentially be replaced by Cuttino Mobley. Mobley is a 33-year old with a poor outside shot; shooting 34% from behind the arc. Crawford, however, is makes 45% of his three-pointers and is still only 28 years old. Crawford also offers 4.4 assists per game, whereas Mobley only averages 1.1.
I may be mistaken, but I'm pretty sure Donnie Walsh does not own a crystal ball.
How can he put so much stock on a possible - not definite - future event? For all he knows, in 2010, LeBron could have gone to Greece, Dwayne Wade could have Bernard King-like knee problems, Chris Bosh could become a missionary, and Amare Stoudemire could fall into a black hole.
You cannot rely on what may happen. It's plain idiotic and naive to do so.
One of my philosiphies is to always put yourself in a situation where you have the worst chance of failing - and Donnie Walsh has not put this team that type of position.
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday night at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
All Hail Donnie Walsh...
Ladies and Gentlemen, Your 2008-09 NBA Executive of the Year...
Donnie Walsh. Right now. Write it down this second on November 21st.
What Donnie Walsh did today was nothing short of fantastic. He got rid of the horrid contracts of Zach Randolph and Jamal Crawford in order to get under the cap for the now famous "summer of 2010", where the likes of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson and Amare Stoudemire will all be free agents.
And the best part- if the salary cap jumps to $60 million (as its expected to), the Knicks will now have around $40 million in free space for that summer. So that means not only a shot at LeBron- but another superstar as well.
Imagine LeBron and Dwyane Wade, or Amare Stoudemire and LeBron, or Chris Bosh and Amare...The possiblities are endless.
Now as you see below this post, my friend Max Caster feels this to be dumb. I could not dis-agree more. These moves will be fantastic for the team now and in the future. Not so much now, but a little bit now. The Knicks will not make the playoffs this year, unless they find some magic. But they werent supposed to this year anyway. These were moves that would have been praised in the offseason, but now Walsh isnt supposed to make the deals because the team might fight for the 8th seed in the East?
Mike D'Antoni got these players (Crawford and Randolph) to both average over 20 points a game, enhancing their value across the league. Now the Knicks got more than they ever could have gotten in the offseason.
All three will be very good in this system- and with all 3 being in their contract years next yr, whos to say they dont become expendable next year after playing for D'Antoni?
Now I am on record as saying the Knicks will challenge for the 8th spot, and Im willing to admit to that. But as a die-hard (to say the least) Knicks fan, I am in full support of these moves.
My whole theory was that whatever happens these next 2 years is gravy because this team was supposed to look to the summer of 2010. Now they are- big time.
So come on up and accept your award Donnie- you've put the Knicks back on the map. 2010 cannot come fast enough.
What a day to be a Knicks fan.
- Mike Tramontozzi
Donnie Walsh. Right now. Write it down this second on November 21st.
What Donnie Walsh did today was nothing short of fantastic. He got rid of the horrid contracts of Zach Randolph and Jamal Crawford in order to get under the cap for the now famous "summer of 2010", where the likes of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson and Amare Stoudemire will all be free agents.
And the best part- if the salary cap jumps to $60 million (as its expected to), the Knicks will now have around $40 million in free space for that summer. So that means not only a shot at LeBron- but another superstar as well.
Imagine LeBron and Dwyane Wade, or Amare Stoudemire and LeBron, or Chris Bosh and Amare...The possiblities are endless.
Now as you see below this post, my friend Max Caster feels this to be dumb. I could not dis-agree more. These moves will be fantastic for the team now and in the future. Not so much now, but a little bit now. The Knicks will not make the playoffs this year, unless they find some magic. But they werent supposed to this year anyway. These were moves that would have been praised in the offseason, but now Walsh isnt supposed to make the deals because the team might fight for the 8th seed in the East?
Mike D'Antoni got these players (Crawford and Randolph) to both average over 20 points a game, enhancing their value across the league. Now the Knicks got more than they ever could have gotten in the offseason.
All three will be very good in this system- and with all 3 being in their contract years next yr, whos to say they dont become expendable next year after playing for D'Antoni?
Now I am on record as saying the Knicks will challenge for the 8th spot, and Im willing to admit to that. But as a die-hard (to say the least) Knicks fan, I am in full support of these moves.
My whole theory was that whatever happens these next 2 years is gravy because this team was supposed to look to the summer of 2010. Now they are- big time.
So come on up and accept your award Donnie- you've put the Knicks back on the map. 2010 cannot come fast enough.
What a day to be a Knicks fan.
- Mike Tramontozzi
Worst trade ever.
Why did the Knicks send Jamal Crawford to the Warriors? Wait! Here's an even better question: Why did the Knicks trade for Al Harrington?
Harrington is a troublemaker, inconsistant player and a detriment to any team. He's 6'10" but cannot rebound and refuses to get physical on the court. All he does is shoot 3-pointers but he is not good at selecting shots.
And why trade for him now? He has sat out for most of the games this season due to a back injury. A back injury! Doesn't Donnie Walsh remember the last guy they brought in with a back injury? He's still on the team and has played less than 10 minutes this season.
Harrington is known to defy authority. He was in the middle of a disagreement with Golden State in which he demanded a trade. Well, he got his druthers and now he has been dumped onto the Knicks roster.
The Knicks do not need any more forwards on the team. They had a solid rotation of Lee, Randolph and Chandler. Harrington makes that position cluttered (unless they are going to trade Lee and Randolph. At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if that happened.)
Al Harrington is often viewed as an overlooked player but in reality, he is overrated.
Sending Crawford away removes the team's second leading scorer. Al Harrington cannot approximate Crawford's 19.6 points a game or 4.4 assists.
Crawford could play point guard as well as acting as the Knicks' main scorer. Without Crawford, the Knicks lose a tremendous amount of flexibility in a spot where they have little depth.
I've heard some people say that this move is to ensure cap space in 2010 when LeBron James and a slew of other stars will be free agents. But why would you comprimise a potentially good first two years under D'Antoni for a chance to sign free agents you may not get?
Before this trade, the Knicks had a good chance to make the postseason.
Now, they will be another team that doesn't live up to its potential.
-Max Caster
Harrington is a troublemaker, inconsistant player and a detriment to any team. He's 6'10" but cannot rebound and refuses to get physical on the court. All he does is shoot 3-pointers but he is not good at selecting shots.
And why trade for him now? He has sat out for most of the games this season due to a back injury. A back injury! Doesn't Donnie Walsh remember the last guy they brought in with a back injury? He's still on the team and has played less than 10 minutes this season.
Harrington is known to defy authority. He was in the middle of a disagreement with Golden State in which he demanded a trade. Well, he got his druthers and now he has been dumped onto the Knicks roster.
The Knicks do not need any more forwards on the team. They had a solid rotation of Lee, Randolph and Chandler. Harrington makes that position cluttered (unless they are going to trade Lee and Randolph. At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if that happened.)
Al Harrington is often viewed as an overlooked player but in reality, he is overrated.
Sending Crawford away removes the team's second leading scorer. Al Harrington cannot approximate Crawford's 19.6 points a game or 4.4 assists.
Crawford could play point guard as well as acting as the Knicks' main scorer. Without Crawford, the Knicks lose a tremendous amount of flexibility in a spot where they have little depth.
I've heard some people say that this move is to ensure cap space in 2010 when LeBron James and a slew of other stars will be free agents. But why would you comprimise a potentially good first two years under D'Antoni for a chance to sign free agents you may not get?
Before this trade, the Knicks had a good chance to make the postseason.
Now, they will be another team that doesn't live up to its potential.
-Max Caster
Gilbert Arenas: Genetic Engineer?
Washington Wizards Guard Gilbert Arenas is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the NBA. Since 2002, he has been heralded as one of the best players in the league. But despite his elite status, injuries always seem to derail his career right when things are taking off.
At the end of the 2006-2007 season, Arenas suffered his most debilitating and crushing injury yet. Arenas tore his Medial Collateral Ligament when Charlotte Bobcats forward Gerarld Wallace fell into his leg. Since then, Arenas' knee has never been the same on the court. The lingering effects caused him to play just 13 games in the 2007-2008 season.
But what hurt him physically did not affect Gilbert Arenas' will to play and to help his team.
With a lot of time on his hands and 111 million dollars, Arenas put his University of Arizona education to good use. He began to study the science of genetic engeneering; focusing mainly on cloning. In a few short months, Arenas had developed an equation to clone himself and a few days later he had begun the process.
After several weeks, Gilbert Arenas had created an exact replica of himself through the wonders of science. His clone has the same mental capacity, memories and physical ability as the original Gilbert.
When Arenas was finished developing his clone, he delivered the specimen to Wizards practice. The clone began practicing with the team immediately; performing as if he had played with Caron Butler and Darius Songaila before.
After a relatively quick deliberation with NBA Commissioner David Stern, Arenas will have his clone play in place of him for the remainder of the 2008-2009 season.
UPDATE: The Gilbert Arenas clone tore his ACL in practice. He will be out until early 2009.
-Max Caster
The Sportswire
Thursdays at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
At the end of the 2006-2007 season, Arenas suffered his most debilitating and crushing injury yet. Arenas tore his Medial Collateral Ligament when Charlotte Bobcats forward Gerarld Wallace fell into his leg. Since then, Arenas' knee has never been the same on the court. The lingering effects caused him to play just 13 games in the 2007-2008 season.
But what hurt him physically did not affect Gilbert Arenas' will to play and to help his team.
With a lot of time on his hands and 111 million dollars, Arenas put his University of Arizona education to good use. He began to study the science of genetic engeneering; focusing mainly on cloning. In a few short months, Arenas had developed an equation to clone himself and a few days later he had begun the process.
After several weeks, Gilbert Arenas had created an exact replica of himself through the wonders of science. His clone has the same mental capacity, memories and physical ability as the original Gilbert.
When Arenas was finished developing his clone, he delivered the specimen to Wizards practice. The clone began practicing with the team immediately; performing as if he had played with Caron Butler and Darius Songaila before.
After a relatively quick deliberation with NBA Commissioner David Stern, Arenas will have his clone play in place of him for the remainder of the 2008-2009 season.
UPDATE: The Gilbert Arenas clone tore his ACL in practice. He will be out until early 2009.
-Max Caster
The Sportswire
Thursdays at 9pm EST on http://mywcwp.com/
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
NFL Picks Week 12
Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Pittsburgh
New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins - Miami
Philadelphia Eagles @ Baltimore Ravens - Baltimore
Houston Texans @ Cleveland Browns - Houston
San Francisco 49ers @ Dallas Cowboys - Dallas
New York Jets @ Tennessee Titans - Tennessee
Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs - Buffalo
Chicago Bears @ St. Louis Rams - Chicago
Minnesota Vikings @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Jacksonville
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Detroit Lions - Tampa Bay
Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos - Denver
Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons - Atlanta
Washington Redskins @ Seattle Seahawks - Washington
New York Giants @ Arizona Cardinals - New York
Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers - Indianapolis
Green Bay Packers @ New Orleans Saints - New Orleans
-Matt Soldano
Last Week: 10-5
Overall: 89-70
New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins - Miami
Philadelphia Eagles @ Baltimore Ravens - Baltimore
Houston Texans @ Cleveland Browns - Houston
San Francisco 49ers @ Dallas Cowboys - Dallas
New York Jets @ Tennessee Titans - Tennessee
Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs - Buffalo
Chicago Bears @ St. Louis Rams - Chicago
Minnesota Vikings @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Jacksonville
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Detroit Lions - Tampa Bay
Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos - Denver
Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons - Atlanta
Washington Redskins @ Seattle Seahawks - Washington
New York Giants @ Arizona Cardinals - New York
Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers - Indianapolis
Green Bay Packers @ New Orleans Saints - New Orleans
-Matt Soldano
Last Week: 10-5
Overall: 89-70
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Off The Glass Standings
Off the Glass Standings:
1. Matt "Joe Flacco is STILL Better Than Your Quarterback" Soldano: 16-2
2. Nick "Stone" Malone: 14-4
3. Mike "I Love Everyone Except #5 on the Ravens" Tramontozzi: 11-7
Check back next week for new standings!
-Matt Soldano
1. Matt "Joe Flacco is STILL Better Than Your Quarterback" Soldano: 16-2
2. Nick "Stone" Malone: 14-4
3. Mike "I Love Everyone Except #5 on the Ravens" Tramontozzi: 11-7
Check back next week for new standings!
-Matt Soldano
Friday, November 14, 2008
Go NY Go NY Go...
In my triumphant return to the blog, I figured I would give you my thoughts on the Knicks and their 5-3 record (6-3 if they win Fri Night at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder.)
Coming into the season the Knicks were pegged by many, myself included, for between 25-30 wins. Even with Mike D'Antoni bringing his up and down, "7 seconds or less" offense to NY, the roster relatively stayed the same from the 23-59 distaster of last year.
However, something crazy happened: The Knicks are not following the plan.
It took the team 15 games last year to get their 4th win of the year. They got their 4th win on Sunday against the Jazz in their 6th game.
The team is scoring 104 points a game, and while they are giving up 103, they lead the Eastern Conference in scoring. The team is also forcing 17 turnovers a game while commiting only 14.
But the real reason for the exciting early season play is the way certain players have stepped up their game. Zach Randolph, who still might find himself on another team by the end of the year, is averaging 19 points and 12 rebounds a game. Jamal Crawford is the leader of the team, averaging 22 points a game and has the ability to shoot lights out from downtown on any given night.
But the best play has to be from Nate Robinson and Wilson Chandler. Coming into the year, it was thought that Robinson would play better in D'Antoni's free-flowing system, but his season has been nothing short of phenominal so far: 15 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals a game in 29 minutes per. Write Nate in for sixth man of the year, thats how good he has been.
The other guy is Chandler. An after-thought in Isiah Thomas' regime, even though Thomas drafted him 23rd overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, Chandler has blossomed into a very good all around player- and could get even better.
Chandler comes into Fri Nights game against the Thunder averaging 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists a game. Here is where Chandler shows signs of becoming special: Wednesday Night he shot 11/12 from the field, 4/4 from three point range and scored a career high 27 points a game. If his jumpshot can become consistent, the sky is the limit for this kid, still just 21 years old. I see multiple all star games in his future.
Even without Danilo Gallinari, who will probably be lost for awhile with a bulging disc in his back, the team was not going to rely heavily on the 20 year old Italian anyway this year. D'Antoni admits that this was a transition year for the kid, so if he transitions on the bench thats fine.
Even with Stephon Marbury and Eddy Curry not seeing one minute of action yet this year, the Knicks dont need them. I would rather see minutes go to guys like Anthony Roberson, or Chandler, or Gallinari if he comes back- then to guys like Marbury and Curry who are not a part of the solution for the Knicks.
And another word on Marbury: he will be bought out, its almost a certainty. He does not fit in D'Antonis offense because of the wondeful surprise that has been Chris Duhon this year (8pts, 3 rebs, 7 asssits a game.) Marbury is not a catch and shoot player, he is a penetrator. The problem is that every other guard outside of Roberson (who is a pure catch and shoot player), Crawford, Nate and Duhon can do both. It's better for Marbury to sit on the bench because clearly the team is playing well without him.
All in all, I feel like I might be gladly wrong on my pre-season projection of 28 wins. Playoffs? I say lets not get too far ahead of ourselves and just enjoy the ride and see where it goes.
- Mike T
Coming into the season the Knicks were pegged by many, myself included, for between 25-30 wins. Even with Mike D'Antoni bringing his up and down, "7 seconds or less" offense to NY, the roster relatively stayed the same from the 23-59 distaster of last year.
However, something crazy happened: The Knicks are not following the plan.
It took the team 15 games last year to get their 4th win of the year. They got their 4th win on Sunday against the Jazz in their 6th game.
The team is scoring 104 points a game, and while they are giving up 103, they lead the Eastern Conference in scoring. The team is also forcing 17 turnovers a game while commiting only 14.
But the real reason for the exciting early season play is the way certain players have stepped up their game. Zach Randolph, who still might find himself on another team by the end of the year, is averaging 19 points and 12 rebounds a game. Jamal Crawford is the leader of the team, averaging 22 points a game and has the ability to shoot lights out from downtown on any given night.
But the best play has to be from Nate Robinson and Wilson Chandler. Coming into the year, it was thought that Robinson would play better in D'Antoni's free-flowing system, but his season has been nothing short of phenominal so far: 15 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals a game in 29 minutes per. Write Nate in for sixth man of the year, thats how good he has been.
The other guy is Chandler. An after-thought in Isiah Thomas' regime, even though Thomas drafted him 23rd overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, Chandler has blossomed into a very good all around player- and could get even better.
Chandler comes into Fri Nights game against the Thunder averaging 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists a game. Here is where Chandler shows signs of becoming special: Wednesday Night he shot 11/12 from the field, 4/4 from three point range and scored a career high 27 points a game. If his jumpshot can become consistent, the sky is the limit for this kid, still just 21 years old. I see multiple all star games in his future.
Even without Danilo Gallinari, who will probably be lost for awhile with a bulging disc in his back, the team was not going to rely heavily on the 20 year old Italian anyway this year. D'Antoni admits that this was a transition year for the kid, so if he transitions on the bench thats fine.
Even with Stephon Marbury and Eddy Curry not seeing one minute of action yet this year, the Knicks dont need them. I would rather see minutes go to guys like Anthony Roberson, or Chandler, or Gallinari if he comes back- then to guys like Marbury and Curry who are not a part of the solution for the Knicks.
And another word on Marbury: he will be bought out, its almost a certainty. He does not fit in D'Antonis offense because of the wondeful surprise that has been Chris Duhon this year (8pts, 3 rebs, 7 asssits a game.) Marbury is not a catch and shoot player, he is a penetrator. The problem is that every other guard outside of Roberson (who is a pure catch and shoot player), Crawford, Nate and Duhon can do both. It's better for Marbury to sit on the bench because clearly the team is playing well without him.
All in all, I feel like I might be gladly wrong on my pre-season projection of 28 wins. Playoffs? I say lets not get too far ahead of ourselves and just enjoy the ride and see where it goes.
- Mike T
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Top 10 Storylines After Week 10
1. 16-0 down in Nashville??? - If you told me the Titans were going to be the team in the AFC South that would be undefeated last, I would have told you that you were an idiot. Hell, I picked the Titans to finish dead last in their division. Joke's on me as the Titans are 9-0 on the season. Despite their franchise quarterback being injured in the first game of the season and then reports of him having serious emotional problems, head coach Jeff Fisher has managed to keep this team on track. Replacement Kerry Collins hasn't blown opponent away but he has done everything the team has asked of him. Collins has completed 60% of his passes and has thrown 5 TD's and just 3 interceptions. How has the team done it this season? Running the ball and defense. Rookie running back Chris Johnson has been great (more on him later) and LenDale White is the king of killing Fantasy Owners with his theft of touchdowns. The two have combined for 16 touchdowns on the season. The defense is letting up just 13 points per game (best in the NFL) and are tied for 2nd in the league in picks.
2. Repeat in the Big Apple??? - The New York Giants have continued their success after their memorable Super Bowl run and have dropped just one game this season, a complete dud in Cleveland. The rushing attack has been phenominal with Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, and Ahmad Bradshaw. Plaxico has cooled off this season but others have stepped up including Steve Smith and Kevin Boss. The offensive line has been the best in the league in protecting Eli Manning which has led to Manning passing for 14 TD's and 5 Int's. When Osi went down and Strahan joined FOX, the pass rush was supposed to be non-existent. Guess not because the Giants are 1st in the NFC in sacks have gotten constant pressure on QB's. At this point, it seems like no one in the NFC can challenge them.
3. How bout them Cowboys??? - Boy the mighty have fallen. For the second year in a row, the Cowboys were thought by everyone to be going to the Super Bowl. At 5-4 and in complete dissaray those aspirations seem to be long-gone. There were plenty of question marks before Romo's injury but after he went down, everything just sank. Brad Johnson was terrible, Brooks Bollinger was a little better (if that's even possible) and the defense is decimated. Romo comes back Sunday night against the Redskins in what is a must win for the Boys of Dallas. T.O. seems to be boiling up and Pacman seems to be packing his things up because he will not be reinstated again this year. If they do not make the playoffs, considering the talent, they might be the most disappointing team in the history of the NFL.
4. The New England Patriots Without #12 - When Brady went down for the season in the first half of opening weekend, everyone thought the Pats were done. 8 weeks later, the Pats remain one of the AFC's elite and still in serious contention. They have inserted a quarterback in Matt Cassell who hadn't started a game since high school. He has completed 67% of his passes and has thrown for 7 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. Not only have the Pats had to deal with Brady's injury, they have overcome injuries to Rodney Harrison, Adaulis Thomas, Laurence Maroney, Sammy Morris, and Ben Watson. Their featured back nowadays is now my favorite player, BenJarvus Green-Ellis. I am not sure how long they can keep this up because one game they can play terrible against San Diego while the next they can destroy the Broncos. However, you can't question the man with the hoody. Never.
5. Talk about NFL Parody: Underachievers - Let's list the teams first who in my opinion, have laid complete duds this season. Cleveland, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, San Diego, Dallas, Minnesota, New Orleans. Let's see, I picked Cleveland to win the North, Jacksonville to win the Super Bowl, New Orleans to get to the Super Bowl, Dallas to get to the NFC Championship game, San Diego to get to the AFC Championship game, Minnesota to win the NFC North, and Indianapolis to win 11 games. What has the world come to?!?! The inconsistency of these teams is just mind boggling and has really made the NFL great to watch. Which leads me to my next point...
6. Talk about NFL Parody: Overachievers - New England, Miami, Baltimore, Washington, Atlanta, Arizona. When Brady went down, I didn't think the Patriots would be in first with 7 games left to play. I thought Miami would win 5 games all year but now they are 1 game out of 1st. Baltimore is a team I love and I think can do serious damage down the road. I picked Washington to finish last in the NFC East. I thought Atlanta would be better but not 6 wins better and I picked Seattle to win the West. God I'm such an idiot.
7. The Detroit Lions Still Suck - 0-9??? You guys fired Matt Millen. I thought that was going to be the straw that is the breakthrough for this franchise?!?! Now, your only weapon on the team and only player worth noting is Calvin Johnson. You traded Roy Williams. You are starting Daunte Culpepper at quarterback because the quota for safety dance's in a season is 1 (Orlovosky...) and your defense is extremely permeable. They are scoring 17 points a game and giving up 31...not getting it done.
8. The Not-So Wild Wild West - It's not just one conference it's both. I did some mental math and let me show you my results. As a combination of the AFC and NFC West the record is 24-48. Compare that to the East: 46-26. North: 30-42. South: 44-28. As you can see the West is just dreadful. Denver you can't figure out. Sometimes they look great and other times just beatable by any team, I mean Kansas City beat them. San Diego has been the most inconsistent team in the NFL and the Raiders and Chiefs are just awful. The Cardinals can print their playoff tickets already because there is no way they are not making the playoffs. That division is soooo incredibly weak it is really a shame.
9. Coaches getting the Pink Card - Lane Kiffin, Scott Linehan, Mike Nolan. Although it is just three Marvin Lewis, Rob Marinelli, and Herm Edwards could all be shown the door any day now. WIth the teams struggling the way they are it is always a possibility. I have never been one to agree with NFL coaches getting fired mid-season but I agree with all of them except Kiffin. Kiffin obviously got the raw end of the deal and had no chance of succeeding with Al Davis calling the shots. His Raiders are much more competitive than Tom Cable's Raiders.
10. Welcome to the NFL Rook! - Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, Chris Johnson, Matt Forte are all guys who are in ROY candidates. They have made contributions to their team that have succeeded expectations. Flacco gave Baltimore an offense, Ryan made the Falcons forget about Vick, Chris Johnson led the AFC in rushing up until last week and Matt Forte gives the Bears a rushing offense that they hadn't had in years. Donnie Avery has also contributed for the Rams. Felix Jones has had a nice couple of games for the Cowboys as has Ray Rice for the Ravens.
-Matt Soldano
2. Repeat in the Big Apple??? - The New York Giants have continued their success after their memorable Super Bowl run and have dropped just one game this season, a complete dud in Cleveland. The rushing attack has been phenominal with Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, and Ahmad Bradshaw. Plaxico has cooled off this season but others have stepped up including Steve Smith and Kevin Boss. The offensive line has been the best in the league in protecting Eli Manning which has led to Manning passing for 14 TD's and 5 Int's. When Osi went down and Strahan joined FOX, the pass rush was supposed to be non-existent. Guess not because the Giants are 1st in the NFC in sacks have gotten constant pressure on QB's. At this point, it seems like no one in the NFC can challenge them.
3. How bout them Cowboys??? - Boy the mighty have fallen. For the second year in a row, the Cowboys were thought by everyone to be going to the Super Bowl. At 5-4 and in complete dissaray those aspirations seem to be long-gone. There were plenty of question marks before Romo's injury but after he went down, everything just sank. Brad Johnson was terrible, Brooks Bollinger was a little better (if that's even possible) and the defense is decimated. Romo comes back Sunday night against the Redskins in what is a must win for the Boys of Dallas. T.O. seems to be boiling up and Pacman seems to be packing his things up because he will not be reinstated again this year. If they do not make the playoffs, considering the talent, they might be the most disappointing team in the history of the NFL.
4. The New England Patriots Without #12 - When Brady went down for the season in the first half of opening weekend, everyone thought the Pats were done. 8 weeks later, the Pats remain one of the AFC's elite and still in serious contention. They have inserted a quarterback in Matt Cassell who hadn't started a game since high school. He has completed 67% of his passes and has thrown for 7 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. Not only have the Pats had to deal with Brady's injury, they have overcome injuries to Rodney Harrison, Adaulis Thomas, Laurence Maroney, Sammy Morris, and Ben Watson. Their featured back nowadays is now my favorite player, BenJarvus Green-Ellis. I am not sure how long they can keep this up because one game they can play terrible against San Diego while the next they can destroy the Broncos. However, you can't question the man with the hoody. Never.
5. Talk about NFL Parody: Underachievers - Let's list the teams first who in my opinion, have laid complete duds this season. Cleveland, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, San Diego, Dallas, Minnesota, New Orleans. Let's see, I picked Cleveland to win the North, Jacksonville to win the Super Bowl, New Orleans to get to the Super Bowl, Dallas to get to the NFC Championship game, San Diego to get to the AFC Championship game, Minnesota to win the NFC North, and Indianapolis to win 11 games. What has the world come to?!?! The inconsistency of these teams is just mind boggling and has really made the NFL great to watch. Which leads me to my next point...
6. Talk about NFL Parody: Overachievers - New England, Miami, Baltimore, Washington, Atlanta, Arizona. When Brady went down, I didn't think the Patriots would be in first with 7 games left to play. I thought Miami would win 5 games all year but now they are 1 game out of 1st. Baltimore is a team I love and I think can do serious damage down the road. I picked Washington to finish last in the NFC East. I thought Atlanta would be better but not 6 wins better and I picked Seattle to win the West. God I'm such an idiot.
7. The Detroit Lions Still Suck - 0-9??? You guys fired Matt Millen. I thought that was going to be the straw that is the breakthrough for this franchise?!?! Now, your only weapon on the team and only player worth noting is Calvin Johnson. You traded Roy Williams. You are starting Daunte Culpepper at quarterback because the quota for safety dance's in a season is 1 (Orlovosky...) and your defense is extremely permeable. They are scoring 17 points a game and giving up 31...not getting it done.
8. The Not-So Wild Wild West - It's not just one conference it's both. I did some mental math and let me show you my results. As a combination of the AFC and NFC West the record is 24-48. Compare that to the East: 46-26. North: 30-42. South: 44-28. As you can see the West is just dreadful. Denver you can't figure out. Sometimes they look great and other times just beatable by any team, I mean Kansas City beat them. San Diego has been the most inconsistent team in the NFL and the Raiders and Chiefs are just awful. The Cardinals can print their playoff tickets already because there is no way they are not making the playoffs. That division is soooo incredibly weak it is really a shame.
9. Coaches getting the Pink Card - Lane Kiffin, Scott Linehan, Mike Nolan. Although it is just three Marvin Lewis, Rob Marinelli, and Herm Edwards could all be shown the door any day now. WIth the teams struggling the way they are it is always a possibility. I have never been one to agree with NFL coaches getting fired mid-season but I agree with all of them except Kiffin. Kiffin obviously got the raw end of the deal and had no chance of succeeding with Al Davis calling the shots. His Raiders are much more competitive than Tom Cable's Raiders.
10. Welcome to the NFL Rook! - Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, Chris Johnson, Matt Forte are all guys who are in ROY candidates. They have made contributions to their team that have succeeded expectations. Flacco gave Baltimore an offense, Ryan made the Falcons forget about Vick, Chris Johnson led the AFC in rushing up until last week and Matt Forte gives the Bears a rushing offense that they hadn't had in years. Donnie Avery has also contributed for the Rams. Felix Jones has had a nice couple of games for the Cowboys as has Ray Rice for the Ravens.
-Matt Soldano
NFL Picks Week 11
One game behind Mike Tramontozzi who has been smoking me all season...The epic comeback continues.
New York Jets @ New England Patriots - New York Jets
Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins - Miami
Detroit Lions @ Carolina Panthers - Carolina
Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers - Green Bay
New Orleans Saints @ Kansas City Chiefs - New Orleans
Baltimore Ravens @ New York Giants - New York Giants (under 10 of course)
Philadelphia Eagles @ Cincinnati Bengals - Philadelphia
Minnesota Vikings @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Minnesota
Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts - Indianapolis
Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons - Atlanta
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers - San Francisco
Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks - Arizona
Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Jacksonville
San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers - San Diego
Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins - Washington
Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills - Cleveland
Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 79-65
-Matt Soldano
New York Jets @ New England Patriots - New York Jets
Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins - Miami
Detroit Lions @ Carolina Panthers - Carolina
Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers - Green Bay
New Orleans Saints @ Kansas City Chiefs - New Orleans
Baltimore Ravens @ New York Giants - New York Giants (under 10 of course)
Philadelphia Eagles @ Cincinnati Bengals - Philadelphia
Minnesota Vikings @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Minnesota
Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts - Indianapolis
Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons - Atlanta
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers - San Francisco
Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks - Arizona
Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Jacksonville
San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers - San Diego
Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins - Washington
Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills - Cleveland
Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 79-65
-Matt Soldano
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Off the Glass Picks Standings - Week 2
Here is the updated standings in the official Off the Glass Pick'em Challenge. Winner gets something courtesy of the two losers.
1. Matt "Joe Flacco is Better Than Your Quarterback" Soldano: 11-1
2. Nick "Stone" Malone: 9-3
3. Mike "Leader of the Anti-Copizzle Movement" Tramontozzi: 8-4
Check back next Tuesday for updated standings and of course listen to the show on Tuesday nights from 9-10pm only on www.mywcwp.com
-Matt Soldano
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The 200th Post of this Bad Boy (NFL Picks Week 10)
Another great week for Matt Soldano, this is getting too easy...
Denver Broncos @ Cleveland Browns - Cleveland
New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons - New Orleans
Tennessee Titans @ Chicago Bears - Tennessee
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Detroit Lions - Jacksonville....they can't let two teams get their first win in consecutive weeks, can they?
Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins - Miami
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots - Buffalo
St. Louis Rams @ New York Jets - St. Louis
Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings - Minnesota
Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans - Baltimore
Carolina Panthers @ Oakland Raiders - Carolina
Indianapolis Colts @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Pittsburgh
Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers - San Diego
New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles - New York
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals - Arizona
Last Week: 10-4
Overall: 70-60
-Matt Soldano
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Raiders cut Hall - Looking towards 2010.
Pro Bowl cornerback DeAngelo Hall was cut by the Oakland Raiders on Wednesday. Hall, who has had his share of disagreements with coaches and management, was traded to Oakland, from the Atlanta Falcons, on March 20th, 2008. The Raiders gave up a 2nd round pick for Hall and signed him to a 7-year, $70 million dollar contract.
So why would Al Davis release a 24-year old, 2-time Pro Bowler just seven months after signing him to a lucrative deal?
The most popular answer is that the 79-year old Davis is losing his marbles. He's going off the deep end. Punching the ceiling fan. Whatever other euphemism you can think of for 'going senile'.
When I hear a so-called "expert" use that reason to explain Davis' actions, I have
to chuckle - snicker, perhaps - because that couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, cutting DeAngelo Hall and his massive contract is a stroke of genius.
This move makes it absolutely clear that Al Davis is looking to dump as much cap space as possible by 2010; giving himself enough flexibility to sign LeBron James.
James, who can opt out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers after the 2009-2010 NBA season, is a target of several US and international organizations. These associations have already made preliminary transactions to sure up enough money to sign James - Oakland is just the latest example.
Like the many other organizations that have put themselves in the same boat, the Raiders are struggling, but have a good core to build around.
Quarterback JaMarcus Russell the strongest arm in football and has a great amount of potential. Darren McFadden and Michael Bush are great young running backs. And the defense is supported by defensive back Nnamdi Asomugha and former New York Giants first round pick, William Joseph. A team with so much upside could be extremely appealing to LeBron James.
Also, Al Davis and LeBron James have something in common. They both want to win a championship. The closest James ever came to tasting a championship was when his Cavaliers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA finals. Al Davis hasn't come close to winning it all since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jon Gruden scowled their way past the Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. The two would undoubtedly work together to achieve that goal.
Although one championship would be nice, Davis would not be satisfied. He has stated that he will step down from the Raiders organization when Oakland wins two more Super Bowls. That would make LeBron James work even harder, in hopes of sending Davis into retirement. In the process, James would put up outstanding numbers; making him a lock for the Hall of Fame.
As a stand out high school wide receiver, James would surely assume the same position with the Raiders. LeBron has proven to be a scoring machine; a valuable asset for any wide receiver. Over his career, James has averaged 27.3 points a game.
If the Raiders are guaranteed over 25 points a game, then they would most certainly win the majority of their games, and it would be an immense upgrade from their 13.4 points a game in 2008. If LeBron was on the Raiders now, the team would be in the top six in points per game, instead of 32nd.
At 6'8", 250 lbs. with a 7-foot wingspan and a 44-inch vertical leap, James could outmatch any defensive player. His rebounding numbers support this claim, as he has averaged 6.9 boards over the first four years of his professional career.
He would perform famously with JaMarcus Russell throwing him the ball. Russell, who nearly can throw a football 100 yards, would have a high success rate on long passes, especially with a freak of nature like James to aim for.
The Raiders' playbook would have one main play: a 50+ yard pass to LeBron James, a.k.a. 'The LeBromb'. Once the ball is snapped, James would run to any point past 50 yards and wait. Russell would throw a high strike in James' general vecinity; allowing the 4-time all star to use his physical stature to come away with the pass.
The only thing the Raiders would need to pull off that play with such frequency would be a vastly improved offensive line.
If only they could sign Eddy Curry to play left tackle...
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday night at 9pm on mywcwp.com
So why would Al Davis release a 24-year old, 2-time Pro Bowler just seven months after signing him to a lucrative deal?
The most popular answer is that the 79-year old Davis is losing his marbles. He's going off the deep end. Punching the ceiling fan. Whatever other euphemism you can think of for 'going senile'.
When I hear a so-called "expert" use that reason to explain Davis' actions, I have
to chuckle - snicker, perhaps - because that couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, cutting DeAngelo Hall and his massive contract is a stroke of genius.This move makes it absolutely clear that Al Davis is looking to dump as much cap space as possible by 2010; giving himself enough flexibility to sign LeBron James.
James, who can opt out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers after the 2009-2010 NBA season, is a target of several US and international organizations. These associations have already made preliminary transactions to sure up enough money to sign James - Oakland is just the latest example.
Like the many other organizations that have put themselves in the same boat, the Raiders are struggling, but have a good core to build around.
Quarterback JaMarcus Russell the strongest arm in football and has a great amount of potential. Darren McFadden and Michael Bush are great young running backs. And the defense is supported by defensive back Nnamdi Asomugha and former New York Giants first round pick, William Joseph. A team with so much upside could be extremely appealing to LeBron James.
Also, Al Davis and LeBron James have something in common. They both want to win a championship. The closest James ever came to tasting a championship was when his Cavaliers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA finals. Al Davis hasn't come close to winning it all since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jon Gruden scowled their way past the Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. The two would undoubtedly work together to achieve that goal.
Although one championship would be nice, Davis would not be satisfied. He has stated that he will step down from the Raiders organization when Oakland wins two more Super Bowls. That would make LeBron James work even harder, in hopes of sending Davis into retirement. In the process, James would put up outstanding numbers; making him a lock for the Hall of Fame.
As a stand out high school wide receiver, James would surely assume the same position with the Raiders. LeBron has proven to be a scoring machine; a valuable asset for any wide receiver. Over his career, James has averaged 27.3 points a game.
If the Raiders are guaranteed over 25 points a game, then they would most certainly win the majority of their games, and it would be an immense upgrade from their 13.4 points a game in 2008. If LeBron was on the Raiders now, the team would be in the top six in points per game, instead of 32nd.
At 6'8", 250 lbs. with a 7-foot wingspan and a 44-inch vertical leap, James could outmatch any defensive player. His rebounding numbers support this claim, as he has averaged 6.9 boards over the first four years of his professional career.
He would perform famously with JaMarcus Russell throwing him the ball. Russell, who nearly can throw a football 100 yards, would have a high success rate on long passes, especially with a freak of nature like James to aim for.
The Raiders' playbook would have one main play: a 50+ yard pass to LeBron James, a.k.a. 'The LeBromb'. Once the ball is snapped, James would run to any point past 50 yards and wait. Russell would throw a high strike in James' general vecinity; allowing the 4-time all star to use his physical stature to come away with the pass.
The only thing the Raiders would need to pull off that play with such frequency would be a vastly improved offensive line.
If only they could sign Eddy Curry to play left tackle...
-Max Caster
Listen to The Sportswire every Thursday night at 9pm on mywcwp.com
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