In just about 45 minutes, the 2012 NASCAR season will kick-off with the Great American Race down in Daytona Beach, Florida. As much as I want to debate everyone on whether or not this is a sport, what with is highly competitive atmosphere, requirements of team strategy and cohesion, playoff system which rewards a team/players consistency throughout the season; I unfortunately don't have enough time.
Today will also mark the Sprint Cup debut of Auto-Racing pinup model Danica Patrick, who has chosen to make the move to NASCAR after years in the IRL. Danica is a great racer, as evidenced by her furthering the sport among women drivers. But, does she have the chops to race with some of the roughest dudes around? Especially since she is in a backup car after two wrecks in three days of practice. Having Tony Stewart as her team owner and racing buddy will help, but her story will be the talk of the season.
Speaking of Smoke, the defending Cup Champion is still just as dangerous as he was going into the Chase last season. I'm not a big fan of him personally, but watching him drive is a lot like watching Kevin Durant play basketball. You know at any given moment he can do something that will separate him from the pack.
The Daytona 500 is also the return of "pack racing" in NASCAR. What this essentially does is allow for groups of racers to join together with strategy instead of the "tandem racing" we saw last year where you are limited to just one partner to draft off of. It puts a bigger emphasis on the individual driver and brings a much higher risk of the big crash. If you enjoy the excitement of watching paint scrape off, this year will be the year for you.
Sure there are other talking points for this year, when will Jr. win again? Can JJ get back to the top? How much juice does Edwards have left after last seasons playoffs? But all of those will be sorted out in the coming 36 races.
Before we go, here are my predictions for today's top five finishers:
5. Dale Jr. - NASCAR's most popular driver can still put it together, and he always races well here.
4. Carl Edwards - He has a lot fire in his belly the way last year ended and of course I'll pick a guy who races for Rousch Fenway.
3. Kevin Harvick - One of the most underrated drivers in the sport, Harvick has the ability to win at any venue.
2. Kyle Busch - I really hate this man but he is a high level racer and will most certainly bring it, if he doesn't wreck.
1. Tony Stewart - The guy OWNS Daytona the last few years on the Nationwide Circuit and with his finish last year, that will only carry over to today.
So enjoy the race folks and then go the complete opposite direction by watching the Oscars or NBA All-Star Game. Either way, they won't be as exciting as 500 miles of racing.
.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Friday, February 17, 2012
One Summer With The Kid
The news last night of Gary Carter's death shocked and pained me, like it did so many. For the majority of baseball fans in New York, Carter was the epitome of a fan favorite. He was a gritty, hard-nosed player who gave it 120% for all nine innings.
His career stats spoke for themselves as he was inducted into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003. An 11 time All-Star, a 3 time Gold Glover and five Silver Slugger Awards to go along with the 1986 World Series Championship over my beloved Red Sox.
For everyone my age, Carter was the guy your dad (if he was a Mets fan) told stories about. Pure, unalduterated joy came from his body when his years of hard work paid off. It would continue throughout his career, in his return to Montreal where he was drafted, and to the bench where he became a manager in his later years.
That was the Gary Carter I knew. A man who used his passion for the game to teach and mold younger players. In 2009, Radio Hofstra University (where I was a rising junior), became a media outlet for the Long Island Ducks of the Independent Atlantic League. As a true baseball fan, covering a semi-pro team was a dream. Covering one managed by a Hall of Famer, was a fantasy.
The first time I met Carter, he was busy leading a few of players in prayer prior to the game. Devout in his religion, the then 55 year old was gracious with his time and allowed a kid by nature, not name, to pick his brain about the sport he loved and wanted as long and illustrious career as the man in front of him had. He remembered your name the next time you saw him, whether it was one day or one week later.
Little did I know that for three months I'd come to watch an exciting brand of baseball with a passionate man leading the helm. 2009 was his only season with the Ducks. And his reason for leaving only deepend the affection I have for him.
Carter's daughter just had a child and was living in California. Instead of chasing a dream to get back to the majors, he went west to be with the next generation of his young family. Something I admired tremendously. When I heard of his disease, and his death, a part of me cried. Not the part that cries for someone so transcendent of a thing as trivial as sports. The part that cries for a family member you rarely got to be with.
Gary Carter made you feel like part of his family. And yesterday, we all lost our favorite Kid. Rest in Peace, Gary. Thanks for one helluva summer.
.
His career stats spoke for themselves as he was inducted into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003. An 11 time All-Star, a 3 time Gold Glover and five Silver Slugger Awards to go along with the 1986 World Series Championship over my beloved Red Sox.
For everyone my age, Carter was the guy your dad (if he was a Mets fan) told stories about. Pure, unalduterated joy came from his body when his years of hard work paid off. It would continue throughout his career, in his return to Montreal where he was drafted, and to the bench where he became a manager in his later years.
That was the Gary Carter I knew. A man who used his passion for the game to teach and mold younger players. In 2009, Radio Hofstra University (where I was a rising junior), became a media outlet for the Long Island Ducks of the Independent Atlantic League. As a true baseball fan, covering a semi-pro team was a dream. Covering one managed by a Hall of Famer, was a fantasy.
The first time I met Carter, he was busy leading a few of players in prayer prior to the game. Devout in his religion, the then 55 year old was gracious with his time and allowed a kid by nature, not name, to pick his brain about the sport he loved and wanted as long and illustrious career as the man in front of him had. He remembered your name the next time you saw him, whether it was one day or one week later.
Little did I know that for three months I'd come to watch an exciting brand of baseball with a passionate man leading the helm. 2009 was his only season with the Ducks. And his reason for leaving only deepend the affection I have for him.
Carter's daughter just had a child and was living in California. Instead of chasing a dream to get back to the majors, he went west to be with the next generation of his young family. Something I admired tremendously. When I heard of his disease, and his death, a part of me cried. Not the part that cries for someone so transcendent of a thing as trivial as sports. The part that cries for a family member you rarely got to be with.
Gary Carter made you feel like part of his family. And yesterday, we all lost our favorite Kid. Rest in Peace, Gary. Thanks for one helluva summer.
.
Monday, February 13, 2012
My Rebuttal to Forbes - Top 10 Most Disliked Athletes
On Friday I gave my own personal thoughts on the Forbes "Top 10 Most Disliked Athletes" poll. Turns out that poll was based on actual American voters. Today, I've decided to share with you my personal list. I feel like I should preface this by saying it probably is a bit biased based on personal preferences of human character and sports team. However, all 10 of these athletes were placed on her for two of if not all three of these reasons: 1) Relevance in their sport, 2) a general discontent by those in their sport, and 3) some act outside of their game (off the field/track/court/whatever) that creates discontent. Without further ado:
#10 - Orlando Magic Guard, J.J. Redick
This one is probably the most bias because he played at Duke. The Blue Devils are either extremely hated or extremely loved, there is no gray area in college basketball. Aside from the numerous times he buried the Terps in college, he always seems to have this smug "privileged white boy" grin on his face and that just pisses me off.
i#9 - New York Jets Receiver, Santonio Holmes
Holmes is on this list because simply for his relevance. I would have loved to have put someone else here, but the guy just won't shut up. As his team was squabbling away another chance at the playoffs, his lasting impression of the 2011 NFL season was shouting at his teammates in the huddle then sitting alone on the bench cause no one wanted to be near a whiny captain. Instead of leading his team, he was left out. Not to mention, he tweets his QB Mark Sanchez asking if he's excited about the upcoming year the day of the Super Bowl. Shut the hell up and go play football, like you did in Pittsburgh. Ya know, Like a winner?
#8 - NASCAR Driver, Tony Stewart
Again, some small bias here but I really am not a fan of Stewart personally. The reigning Sprint Cup Champion is just about as cutthroat as they come in this business, at least earlier in his career. The guy isn't called "Smoke" because of how fast he drives. It's because of how much of a hot-head he can be. Stewart was one of those who got mad when a guy hit him on the track or bitched as his crew if the slightest thing was wrong. It's NASCAR, bro. The elements will never be solely in your favor, quit whining and race. You're good at that.
#7 - New England Patriots Receiver, Chad Johnson
Please note that I used his REAL name, the one his mother gave him at birth. I truly despise people who try to make themselves larger than the game with what they do off the field. You want to play at an intensely high level? Great. You want to showboat after a really awesome play? Fine. You want to run your mouth every week simply to get on camera and then CHANGE YOUR NAME TO SPANISH NUMBERS!? Not cool. You haven't had an All-Pro season since 2006. The smartest thing you can do is change your name back. Wait? He's doing that? Ok, just shut up and play football. Like Randy Moss did the year he lost the Super Bowl to the Giants.
#6 - NHL Forward, Sean Avery
I really do not like this guy. Maybe it's cause I'm a Devils fan, but it seems like unless you are a Rangers fan, you HATE Mr. Avery. The guy makes a living not on scoring (like a forward is paid to do) but on pissing off goaltenders by swiping at them any chance he gets. New York cuts him at least four times a year only to bring him back when they want to get fans back cause their waiting to see which goalie he knocks on his ass next. There's a difference between playing the game and playing it right.
#5 - Detroit Lions Defensive End, Ndomakong Suh
Once again, relevance lends a hand here. An unknown commodity until the BIG12 title game his senior year, Suh was projected to be the next "big thing" at the defensive end position. Instead, over the last two seasons, he has become "the dirtiest player in the game". Never more prevalent then his stomping of a Green Bay Packers lineman on National TV, claiming he was trying to "catch his footing" and then saying he didn't really know the rules. You want to be considered among the likes of Strahan, Reggie White and Bruce Smith by the end of your career? Go out and dominate the headlines the right way.
#4 - NASCAR Driver, Kurt Busch
As mentioned on Friday, America go this one right. The dude is an ass. He creates conflict no matter where he is and couldn't really care less who he creates it with. He also goes about it the wrong way. Someone who invests millions in to you as a driver and gives you every chance in the world, doesn't deserve to have their name dragged through the mud before you callously leave his team in shambles.
#3 - Los Angeles Lakers Forward, Ron Artest
Again, notice the use of his correct name. What the hell are you trying to do by changing your name? First off, is "World Peace" one word or do we need to hyphenate that? Secondly, are you trying to make us forget that you PUNCHED a fan in the stands and then later on the court?!?! People don't forget, Ron! People don't forget. You will always be the thug in Indianapolis who needed therapy before winning a title in LA.
#2 - New York Yankees Third Baseman, Alex Rodriguez
I said it on Friday, I really detest this person. What he has done as an athlete, with/without 'roids, is commendable. But the guy denies his use of it first, then bitches and moans about his contract to opt out before groveling at the Yankees feet to come back for more money. The way he reacted the first few years in New York before winning a title was worse than any child in America ever could act. Not to mention, I hate the fact that he won the Gold Glove over Baltimore's Mike Bordick. That being said, it takes a lot for me not to put a Yankee at number one...
#1 - Boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
I've blogged about "Money" before and how he is ruining boxing. But he's taking it to a different level. Floyd is a known headcase both in and out of the ring. Whether he is blatantly disrespecting boxing icons directly after what was a very conterversial decision, to his public disputes with media members, and now his calling out of Manny Pacquiao when it was Mayweather running from the fight for the last couple years. I've never wanted anyone to get "Ivan Drago-ed" in the ring so bad. But I hope Pacman does it when Floyd gets the balls to step up.
So there they are, my most disliked athletes at this moment. Truthfully it was a difficult list to compile because I try not to hate a lot of people but some of them are just too annoying and disrespectful to be fond of. So let the debate begin. If you disagree, please share. If you have others, that's amongst you and the rest of the world to discuss.
.
#10 - Orlando Magic Guard, J.J. Redick
This one is probably the most bias because he played at Duke. The Blue Devils are either extremely hated or extremely loved, there is no gray area in college basketball. Aside from the numerous times he buried the Terps in college, he always seems to have this smug "privileged white boy" grin on his face and that just pisses me off.
i#9 - New York Jets Receiver, Santonio Holmes
Holmes is on this list because simply for his relevance. I would have loved to have put someone else here, but the guy just won't shut up. As his team was squabbling away another chance at the playoffs, his lasting impression of the 2011 NFL season was shouting at his teammates in the huddle then sitting alone on the bench cause no one wanted to be near a whiny captain. Instead of leading his team, he was left out. Not to mention, he tweets his QB Mark Sanchez asking if he's excited about the upcoming year the day of the Super Bowl. Shut the hell up and go play football, like you did in Pittsburgh. Ya know, Like a winner?
#8 - NASCAR Driver, Tony Stewart
Again, some small bias here but I really am not a fan of Stewart personally. The reigning Sprint Cup Champion is just about as cutthroat as they come in this business, at least earlier in his career. The guy isn't called "Smoke" because of how fast he drives. It's because of how much of a hot-head he can be. Stewart was one of those who got mad when a guy hit him on the track or bitched as his crew if the slightest thing was wrong. It's NASCAR, bro. The elements will never be solely in your favor, quit whining and race. You're good at that.
#7 - New England Patriots Receiver, Chad Johnson
Please note that I used his REAL name, the one his mother gave him at birth. I truly despise people who try to make themselves larger than the game with what they do off the field. You want to play at an intensely high level? Great. You want to showboat after a really awesome play? Fine. You want to run your mouth every week simply to get on camera and then CHANGE YOUR NAME TO SPANISH NUMBERS!? Not cool. You haven't had an All-Pro season since 2006. The smartest thing you can do is change your name back. Wait? He's doing that? Ok, just shut up and play football. Like Randy Moss did the year he lost the Super Bowl to the Giants.
#6 - NHL Forward, Sean Avery
I really do not like this guy. Maybe it's cause I'm a Devils fan, but it seems like unless you are a Rangers fan, you HATE Mr. Avery. The guy makes a living not on scoring (like a forward is paid to do) but on pissing off goaltenders by swiping at them any chance he gets. New York cuts him at least four times a year only to bring him back when they want to get fans back cause their waiting to see which goalie he knocks on his ass next. There's a difference between playing the game and playing it right.
#5 - Detroit Lions Defensive End, Ndomakong Suh
Once again, relevance lends a hand here. An unknown commodity until the BIG12 title game his senior year, Suh was projected to be the next "big thing" at the defensive end position. Instead, over the last two seasons, he has become "the dirtiest player in the game". Never more prevalent then his stomping of a Green Bay Packers lineman on National TV, claiming he was trying to "catch his footing" and then saying he didn't really know the rules. You want to be considered among the likes of Strahan, Reggie White and Bruce Smith by the end of your career? Go out and dominate the headlines the right way.
#4 - NASCAR Driver, Kurt Busch
As mentioned on Friday, America go this one right. The dude is an ass. He creates conflict no matter where he is and couldn't really care less who he creates it with. He also goes about it the wrong way. Someone who invests millions in to you as a driver and gives you every chance in the world, doesn't deserve to have their name dragged through the mud before you callously leave his team in shambles.
#3 - Los Angeles Lakers Forward, Ron Artest
Again, notice the use of his correct name. What the hell are you trying to do by changing your name? First off, is "World Peace" one word or do we need to hyphenate that? Secondly, are you trying to make us forget that you PUNCHED a fan in the stands and then later on the court?!?! People don't forget, Ron! People don't forget. You will always be the thug in Indianapolis who needed therapy before winning a title in LA.
#2 - New York Yankees Third Baseman, Alex Rodriguez
I said it on Friday, I really detest this person. What he has done as an athlete, with/without 'roids, is commendable. But the guy denies his use of it first, then bitches and moans about his contract to opt out before groveling at the Yankees feet to come back for more money. The way he reacted the first few years in New York before winning a title was worse than any child in America ever could act. Not to mention, I hate the fact that he won the Gold Glove over Baltimore's Mike Bordick. That being said, it takes a lot for me not to put a Yankee at number one...
#1 - Boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
I've blogged about "Money" before and how he is ruining boxing. But he's taking it to a different level. Floyd is a known headcase both in and out of the ring. Whether he is blatantly disrespecting boxing icons directly after what was a very conterversial decision, to his public disputes with media members, and now his calling out of Manny Pacquiao when it was Mayweather running from the fight for the last couple years. I've never wanted anyone to get "Ivan Drago-ed" in the ring so bad. But I hope Pacman does it when Floyd gets the balls to step up.
So there they are, my most disliked athletes at this moment. Truthfully it was a difficult list to compile because I try not to hate a lot of people but some of them are just too annoying and disrespectful to be fond of. So let the debate begin. If you disagree, please share. If you have others, that's amongst you and the rest of the world to discuss.
.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Top 10 Disliked Athletes....Why, Forbes? Why?
So I love lists, like really love lists. I make lists for just about any conversational topic. There is one that I don't truly get though, and that is the Forbes Top 10 Disliked Athletes released this week. Today will be part one of my Disliked Athletes list: the evaluation of said list. Let's start from the bottom shall we?
#10 - NASCAR Driver Kurt Busch
Ok, so I don't really have an issue with this one. The guy is, by all definitions, an ass. He constantly attempts to find a reason to whine. Any and all controversies in the sport will undoubtedly get a bitch and a moan from Busch. Not to mention he just dissed his entire race team like the kid who didn't get picked and decided just to never play anyway.
#9 - New York Yankee Third Baseman Alex Rodriguez
Again, not gonna get a great debate from me on this one. The guy is another whiny cry-baby of an athlete who not only cheated, but blamed everyone else for his reasoning (not unlike a majority of MLB players in the steroid era). More so, he basically broke up with Cameron Diaz because she was "flat-chested". Dude, seriously?
#8 - NFL Wide Receiver, Terrell Owens
So TO didn't even catch a pass in the league this year but he can still catch some flak. I think this is still carry over from he departure with the 49ers...or was it the Eagles...or the Ravens? I don't know I'm confused. either way, he's out of our hair now, let's keep him out of our minds too.
#7 - Los Angeles Lakers Forward, Kobe Bryant
Yes, I really hate the Lakers, but Kobe is an insane talent. Not to mention, he has some really funny commercials. Much like Owens, the reason most dislike Kobe is because of an accusation from years ago. And if that's the case, I'll allow it. But if not, respect talent and don't hate one of the *this is gonna hurt to say* greatest ever.
#6 - Miami Heat Forward, LeBron James
Are there really that many people in Cleveland that he made this list? I get it, "The Decision" was an embarrassment and he has since apologized. But once again, respect talent when you see it. Should LBJ be on the Top 10 Most Annoying Athletes? He should be #1. But disliked? I love him as a player, and I've gotten over him dissing Cleveland like a scorned girlfriend. Everyone outside of Cleveland should too.
#5 - New Jersey Nets Forward, Kris Humpries
This is the most egregious of all those on this list! HOW IS HE A DISLIKED ATHLETE?!?! Nobody knew who he was until he was found with Kim Kardashian on a reality show!!! Now because she treated him like dirt and made millions of a televised wedding, and subsequent divorce, he is the one we hate?!?!? That's like being pissed at the driver in your car after a douche-bag cuts them off in four lane traffic.
#4 - Detroit Lions Defensive End, Ndomakong Suh
Suh is probably a little low on the list for this point in time. The guy has essentially taken over for Rodney Harrison as "the dirtiest player in the game" after multiple viscous after-the-play hits or knockdowns on players, culminating with his blatant stomp of a Packers lineman on Thanksgiving day. Dude, you have insane talent, do the right thing and let that overshadow anything else you do.
#3 - New York Jets Wide Receiver, Plaxico Burress
Get over it society! How does a man who accidentally SHOT HIMSELF become disliked?!? Is it because he had a gun in public? News flash, more people do that than you expect. The man served his time, hasn't run his mouth and went out and performed after missing two NFL season and apologizing for the incident. It's not like he cheated on his wife. Which reminds me....
#2 PGA Golfer, Tiger Woods
Yeah, this sounds about right. Tiger was a total scumbag to his wife. It wasn't like he had an affair with one woman while secretly fathering a son, or while she was suffering from breast cancer, like some politicians; but he slept with DOZENS of whores (to probably put it nicely). This was a 100% blatant case of using your celebrity to get what you want from women. Shame on the girls for going through with it, but more on you Tiger. The bigger you are, the harder you fall.
#1 Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback, Michael Vick
I revert your eyes back to #3. Get over it America. Yes, it was wrong what he did. Hell, it was downright disgusting. The man deserved to spend time in jail and that is what he did. Have you heard anything wrong that he has done since returning to society and the NFL? No. All you've heard about is him performing in a sport at a high level. He's fun to watch, a great athlete, but sometimes the past must stay there.
Tune in Monday when I reveal my personal Top 10 Disliked athletes at this moment. Meaning I will spare the likes of Tie Domi, Jeff Gordon, and others who would make an all-time list.
.
#10 - NASCAR Driver Kurt Busch
Ok, so I don't really have an issue with this one. The guy is, by all definitions, an ass. He constantly attempts to find a reason to whine. Any and all controversies in the sport will undoubtedly get a bitch and a moan from Busch. Not to mention he just dissed his entire race team like the kid who didn't get picked and decided just to never play anyway.
#9 - New York Yankee Third Baseman Alex Rodriguez
Again, not gonna get a great debate from me on this one. The guy is another whiny cry-baby of an athlete who not only cheated, but blamed everyone else for his reasoning (not unlike a majority of MLB players in the steroid era). More so, he basically broke up with Cameron Diaz because she was "flat-chested". Dude, seriously?
#8 - NFL Wide Receiver, Terrell Owens
So TO didn't even catch a pass in the league this year but he can still catch some flak. I think this is still carry over from he departure with the 49ers...or was it the Eagles...or the Ravens? I don't know I'm confused. either way, he's out of our hair now, let's keep him out of our minds too.
#7 - Los Angeles Lakers Forward, Kobe Bryant
Yes, I really hate the Lakers, but Kobe is an insane talent. Not to mention, he has some really funny commercials. Much like Owens, the reason most dislike Kobe is because of an accusation from years ago. And if that's the case, I'll allow it. But if not, respect talent and don't hate one of the *this is gonna hurt to say* greatest ever.
#6 - Miami Heat Forward, LeBron James
Are there really that many people in Cleveland that he made this list? I get it, "The Decision" was an embarrassment and he has since apologized. But once again, respect talent when you see it. Should LBJ be on the Top 10 Most Annoying Athletes? He should be #1. But disliked? I love him as a player, and I've gotten over him dissing Cleveland like a scorned girlfriend. Everyone outside of Cleveland should too.
#5 - New Jersey Nets Forward, Kris Humpries
This is the most egregious of all those on this list! HOW IS HE A DISLIKED ATHLETE?!?! Nobody knew who he was until he was found with Kim Kardashian on a reality show!!! Now because she treated him like dirt and made millions of a televised wedding, and subsequent divorce, he is the one we hate?!?!? That's like being pissed at the driver in your car after a douche-bag cuts them off in four lane traffic.
#4 - Detroit Lions Defensive End, Ndomakong Suh
Suh is probably a little low on the list for this point in time. The guy has essentially taken over for Rodney Harrison as "the dirtiest player in the game" after multiple viscous after-the-play hits or knockdowns on players, culminating with his blatant stomp of a Packers lineman on Thanksgiving day. Dude, you have insane talent, do the right thing and let that overshadow anything else you do.
#3 - New York Jets Wide Receiver, Plaxico Burress
Get over it society! How does a man who accidentally SHOT HIMSELF become disliked?!? Is it because he had a gun in public? News flash, more people do that than you expect. The man served his time, hasn't run his mouth and went out and performed after missing two NFL season and apologizing for the incident. It's not like he cheated on his wife. Which reminds me....
#2 PGA Golfer, Tiger Woods
Yeah, this sounds about right. Tiger was a total scumbag to his wife. It wasn't like he had an affair with one woman while secretly fathering a son, or while she was suffering from breast cancer, like some politicians; but he slept with DOZENS of whores (to probably put it nicely). This was a 100% blatant case of using your celebrity to get what you want from women. Shame on the girls for going through with it, but more on you Tiger. The bigger you are, the harder you fall.
#1 Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback, Michael Vick
I revert your eyes back to #3. Get over it America. Yes, it was wrong what he did. Hell, it was downright disgusting. The man deserved to spend time in jail and that is what he did. Have you heard anything wrong that he has done since returning to society and the NFL? No. All you've heard about is him performing in a sport at a high level. He's fun to watch, a great athlete, but sometimes the past must stay there.
Tune in Monday when I reveal my personal Top 10 Disliked athletes at this moment. Meaning I will spare the likes of Tie Domi, Jeff Gordon, and others who would make an all-time list.
.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Super Bowl 46: Another For The Ages
So after a full day to recover from the exhilaration of another Big Blue Championship, and another to take in my first ever title parade, it's time to keep my promise of only posting should the Giants win their fourth Super Bowl.
First thing is first, WOW! That is easily one of the greatest Super Bowls we've ever seen. Incredibly competitive and fundamentally sound. Things you did not expect and a final quarter that woke up just about every inebriated on-looker like a spring chicken. Truthfully, the game was so exciting losing on a Hail Mary pass wouldn't have made me mad. I'd be impressed.
The game was won on one of the more impressive fourth quarter drives seen and the uncharacteristic folly of a tremendous offensive talent. Notice, I did not say "by". Super Bowl 46 will be remembered by Ahmad Bradshaw's hesitant touchdown run with 57 seconds left, and Wes Welker's freak loss of hand-eye coordination. However, let's not overlook the impressive punting skills (that's right, PUNTING HELPED WIN A SUPER BOWL) of Steve Weatherford. The man was deadly with his right foot and led to the first points of the game by pinning Tom Brady and the Pats inside their own five on their first possession. Also not to be overshadowed was the great play of rookie fullback Henry Hynoski. This kid blocked beautifully, caught two passes for 19 yards, and kept Eli Manning on his feet for a majority of the game.
While many Giants fans will remember the final drive and miracle pass-and-catch performed by Eli and a wide out who seemed forgotten the rest of the season (for the second straight SB), many New Englanders will remember the inability of their usually sure-handed receivers/tight ends to do their job in the final minute. Is there a place to throw blame? Many. Aaron Hernandez, Tom Brady, Welker, Gronk's ankle. But let's be honest here, the most telling stat for the Patriots on Sunday was Brady going 0-5 in pass attempts longer than 20 yards including an interception and an intentional grounding that led to a safety. Should the majority of angst be spewed at #12? Probably. One of the greatest to ever play the game, didn't do what many have expected of him at this point in his career. Yet, need we recall that great teams are balanced on offense and have a "go-to" guy. The Patriots have not been a running team since they had Corey Dillon (and won the title that year, mind you) and their big target hobbled his way on to the field and was mainly a decoy. Oh, and by the way Gisele, shut up. Maybe if your husband completed a bomb, didn't throw a pick, get a penalty in the end zone that cause a safety, or threw passes a little easier for wide open Welker to catch, you may have a Super Bowl ring. It's his mother's job to blame everyone else. Yours is to look hot for the camera and be there behind the scenes when he's pissed off. Not create some off-season fodder for Boston talk radio.
Does this loss dilute the accomplishments or stature of the Brady-Belichick dynasty in New England? God no, and anyone who argues that probably thinks Elvis is still alive. What those two have done for the Patriots franchise is legendary. Both will be in the Hall of Fame and both will be in the discussion of Greatest Of All Time (which neither will win, most likely). Belichick has really only had one constant in his tenure, Brady. Brady has put up video game numbers in real life. The two have been in more championship games than almost any QB-HC tandem in history and they yearly are title contenders. Tom Brady is 3-2 all-time in the Super Bowl (and the Giants are 4-0 in the big game with Belichick on the sidelines, had to get that in there). How many guys get to one Super Bowl let alone with three?!?! They are still a tremendous team and organization. They just didn't have the tools to do it this year.
What does this win do for the Giants and their leaders? Quote me when I say this: I will allow a Day of Slapsgiving to any and all participants if I ever denounce Tom Coughlin or Eli Manning again. Honestly. Two Super Bowls in four years, two Super Bowl MVP's and two dramatic fourth quarter, game-winning drives. Not to mention what he did from December 24th on. Eli has now put himself in the discussion for a trip to Canton. As for Coughlin, the guy who was supposed to be fired six weeks ago is once again on top of the football universe. The man somehow finds a way to get the best out of his players when it truly matters. Coach, I plan on making the trip to Ohio when you go to the Hall. I just pray you don't go in before Parcells. Now, fellow Big Blue Believers; please, please, please, SHUT THE HELL UP ABOUT THESE TWO! Whether it's the "Elite Status" or the "he should be fired" chants, they have brought you two titles and proved the Giants are Kings of the City. Let's just let them play and enjoy the product every week.
All-in-all, this was one of the more amazing performances ever. I truly believe it will go down as one of the top 10 (at least) Super Bowls in history, commercials and awkward halftime aside. That being said, a football season that we were afraid wouldn't happen, was incredible. And now it's gone. We are all 0-0 (there's hope, Cleveland!). Baseball season is around the corner and that means, as mentioned in a previous post, this guy's heart lies with the broken from Sunday. Well, maybe I'll enjoy this win a little bit longer. GO BIG BLUE!!!!
(Pitchers & Catchers report in 12 days, GO SOX!)
First thing is first, WOW! That is easily one of the greatest Super Bowls we've ever seen. Incredibly competitive and fundamentally sound. Things you did not expect and a final quarter that woke up just about every inebriated on-looker like a spring chicken. Truthfully, the game was so exciting losing on a Hail Mary pass wouldn't have made me mad. I'd be impressed.
The game was won on one of the more impressive fourth quarter drives seen and the uncharacteristic folly of a tremendous offensive talent. Notice, I did not say "by". Super Bowl 46 will be remembered by Ahmad Bradshaw's hesitant touchdown run with 57 seconds left, and Wes Welker's freak loss of hand-eye coordination. However, let's not overlook the impressive punting skills (that's right, PUNTING HELPED WIN A SUPER BOWL) of Steve Weatherford. The man was deadly with his right foot and led to the first points of the game by pinning Tom Brady and the Pats inside their own five on their first possession. Also not to be overshadowed was the great play of rookie fullback Henry Hynoski. This kid blocked beautifully, caught two passes for 19 yards, and kept Eli Manning on his feet for a majority of the game.
While many Giants fans will remember the final drive and miracle pass-and-catch performed by Eli and a wide out who seemed forgotten the rest of the season (for the second straight SB), many New Englanders will remember the inability of their usually sure-handed receivers/tight ends to do their job in the final minute. Is there a place to throw blame? Many. Aaron Hernandez, Tom Brady, Welker, Gronk's ankle. But let's be honest here, the most telling stat for the Patriots on Sunday was Brady going 0-5 in pass attempts longer than 20 yards including an interception and an intentional grounding that led to a safety. Should the majority of angst be spewed at #12? Probably. One of the greatest to ever play the game, didn't do what many have expected of him at this point in his career. Yet, need we recall that great teams are balanced on offense and have a "go-to" guy. The Patriots have not been a running team since they had Corey Dillon (and won the title that year, mind you) and their big target hobbled his way on to the field and was mainly a decoy. Oh, and by the way Gisele, shut up. Maybe if your husband completed a bomb, didn't throw a pick, get a penalty in the end zone that cause a safety, or threw passes a little easier for wide open Welker to catch, you may have a Super Bowl ring. It's his mother's job to blame everyone else. Yours is to look hot for the camera and be there behind the scenes when he's pissed off. Not create some off-season fodder for Boston talk radio.
Does this loss dilute the accomplishments or stature of the Brady-Belichick dynasty in New England? God no, and anyone who argues that probably thinks Elvis is still alive. What those two have done for the Patriots franchise is legendary. Both will be in the Hall of Fame and both will be in the discussion of Greatest Of All Time (which neither will win, most likely). Belichick has really only had one constant in his tenure, Brady. Brady has put up video game numbers in real life. The two have been in more championship games than almost any QB-HC tandem in history and they yearly are title contenders. Tom Brady is 3-2 all-time in the Super Bowl (and the Giants are 4-0 in the big game with Belichick on the sidelines, had to get that in there). How many guys get to one Super Bowl let alone with three?!?! They are still a tremendous team and organization. They just didn't have the tools to do it this year.
What does this win do for the Giants and their leaders? Quote me when I say this: I will allow a Day of Slapsgiving to any and all participants if I ever denounce Tom Coughlin or Eli Manning again. Honestly. Two Super Bowls in four years, two Super Bowl MVP's and two dramatic fourth quarter, game-winning drives. Not to mention what he did from December 24th on. Eli has now put himself in the discussion for a trip to Canton. As for Coughlin, the guy who was supposed to be fired six weeks ago is once again on top of the football universe. The man somehow finds a way to get the best out of his players when it truly matters. Coach, I plan on making the trip to Ohio when you go to the Hall. I just pray you don't go in before Parcells. Now, fellow Big Blue Believers; please, please, please, SHUT THE HELL UP ABOUT THESE TWO! Whether it's the "Elite Status" or the "he should be fired" chants, they have brought you two titles and proved the Giants are Kings of the City. Let's just let them play and enjoy the product every week.
All-in-all, this was one of the more amazing performances ever. I truly believe it will go down as one of the top 10 (at least) Super Bowls in history, commercials and awkward halftime aside. That being said, a football season that we were afraid wouldn't happen, was incredible. And now it's gone. We are all 0-0 (there's hope, Cleveland!). Baseball season is around the corner and that means, as mentioned in a previous post, this guy's heart lies with the broken from Sunday. Well, maybe I'll enjoy this win a little bit longer. GO BIG BLUE!!!!
(Pitchers & Catchers report in 12 days, GO SOX!)
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Understanding the New York-New England Rivalry
As we all know, tomorrow is "Super Bowl Sunday" and the New York Football Giants will meet the New England Patriots in the 46th installment of the most watched (and most paid to be watched) game of the calendar year.
For the last two weeks, people have been nauseated with Super Bowl coverage as every possible story line has been exhausted. One of them has been the rivalry between Boston and New York. To be honest, I don't understand how it works in this situation.
I am the fortunate curse of being the product of two regionally diverse parents. My mother and her family from New England, my father and his from New Jersey. This created a divide in my rooting interests for each of the Big Four sports, something that has gotten me ridiculed by many of my friends. I am a die-hard Red Sox, Devils, Celtics, and NY Giants fan. So for days like February 5th, 2012, this creates a strong divide in my household.
Despite being regionally-challenged, I don't understand the need for media members to play up the New York-Boston rivalry this week. To me, it honestly doesn't apply. Let's be serious here, how are the Giants and Patriots bitter enemies? Just because the Giants ended a perfect season run by New England four years ago?
In football, the biggest rivals are the Cowboys/Eagles for the Giants and the Jets for New England. So explain to me how I should hate the Patriots with a passion (and why Jets fans are so reluctant to root for Giants. Actually don't, I really don't wanna hear you bitch and moan).
In basketball, don't the Lakers rise up more fire than the Knicks? And for the Knicks, didn't you have bitter battles with Miami before the Celtics? On the ice, I have never felt any bit of discontent with the Bruins. Nowhere near the level of a Montreal or Toronto (but that's personal). For the Rangers, isn't it the Devils or the Flyers that really get your stomach turning? I won't even bring up the Islanders here.
And then, there's the greatest rivalry in sports. The Yankees and the Red Sox have been bitter enemies for more than 100 years, and their fans put together some of the best shouting matches in baseball. But how does this carry over to other sports? It truly doesn't make sense to me.
If it's a battle between cities, Boston wins no contest. The people are nicer, the air is cleaner, the cost is cheaper, and the history is much more nostalgic. This is also coming from a country kid who really isn't fond of New York City, aside from the pizza, pretzels, steak, and ability to still have something to do at 11 pm on a Thursday. Seriously Beantown, closing down at nine during the week is like asking people to leave the game in the third quarter.
Maybe I'm not a "true" New Yorker or Bostonian. But ya know what, I'm ok with that. Last night, I was happy the Celtics won, not because they beat the Knicks, but because they are 7-1 in their last eight. When the Devils beat the Bruins, it's a feeling of "Thank, God they won" not "Yeah! Suck it Bruins!". Tomorrow, if the Giants win I'll rejoice seeing my favorite football team win a fourth title. If they lose, I won't be devastated as if Dallas of Philly just destroyed any hopes of the playoffs like DeSean Jackson did last year.
However, come April, 20, when the Yanks and Sawx renew their age-old rivalry, I will be at Fenway and I will curse any human being in pinstripes. Why? Because that is the only REAL New York-New England rivalry worth getting worked up about. The rest of this stuff, doesn't make sense to me. But maybe that's cause my parents gave me the influence of both regions, and it's really hard to hate family.
For the last two weeks, people have been nauseated with Super Bowl coverage as every possible story line has been exhausted. One of them has been the rivalry between Boston and New York. To be honest, I don't understand how it works in this situation.
I am the fortunate curse of being the product of two regionally diverse parents. My mother and her family from New England, my father and his from New Jersey. This created a divide in my rooting interests for each of the Big Four sports, something that has gotten me ridiculed by many of my friends. I am a die-hard Red Sox, Devils, Celtics, and NY Giants fan. So for days like February 5th, 2012, this creates a strong divide in my household.
Despite being regionally-challenged, I don't understand the need for media members to play up the New York-Boston rivalry this week. To me, it honestly doesn't apply. Let's be serious here, how are the Giants and Patriots bitter enemies? Just because the Giants ended a perfect season run by New England four years ago?
In football, the biggest rivals are the Cowboys/Eagles for the Giants and the Jets for New England. So explain to me how I should hate the Patriots with a passion (and why Jets fans are so reluctant to root for Giants. Actually don't, I really don't wanna hear you bitch and moan).
In basketball, don't the Lakers rise up more fire than the Knicks? And for the Knicks, didn't you have bitter battles with Miami before the Celtics? On the ice, I have never felt any bit of discontent with the Bruins. Nowhere near the level of a Montreal or Toronto (but that's personal). For the Rangers, isn't it the Devils or the Flyers that really get your stomach turning? I won't even bring up the Islanders here.
And then, there's the greatest rivalry in sports. The Yankees and the Red Sox have been bitter enemies for more than 100 years, and their fans put together some of the best shouting matches in baseball. But how does this carry over to other sports? It truly doesn't make sense to me.
If it's a battle between cities, Boston wins no contest. The people are nicer, the air is cleaner, the cost is cheaper, and the history is much more nostalgic. This is also coming from a country kid who really isn't fond of New York City, aside from the pizza, pretzels, steak, and ability to still have something to do at 11 pm on a Thursday. Seriously Beantown, closing down at nine during the week is like asking people to leave the game in the third quarter.
Maybe I'm not a "true" New Yorker or Bostonian. But ya know what, I'm ok with that. Last night, I was happy the Celtics won, not because they beat the Knicks, but because they are 7-1 in their last eight. When the Devils beat the Bruins, it's a feeling of "Thank, God they won" not "Yeah! Suck it Bruins!". Tomorrow, if the Giants win I'll rejoice seeing my favorite football team win a fourth title. If they lose, I won't be devastated as if Dallas of Philly just destroyed any hopes of the playoffs like DeSean Jackson did last year.
However, come April, 20, when the Yanks and Sawx renew their age-old rivalry, I will be at Fenway and I will curse any human being in pinstripes. Why? Because that is the only REAL New York-New England rivalry worth getting worked up about. The rest of this stuff, doesn't make sense to me. But maybe that's cause my parents gave me the influence of both regions, and it's really hard to hate family.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)