Five NFL opinions you may or may not be on board with:
Showing posts with label Bill Belichick. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bill Belichick. Show all posts
11/02/2010
NFL Take 5: Moss, McNabb, Patriots, NFL Stats, Steelers
Five NFL opinions you may or may not be on board with:
1/09/2009
WE HAVE A WINNER
Rather than re-hash the ongoing freefall of our favorite hockey team, I decided to start the morning with the announcement of the Cope/Hope Photoshop Contest Winner. 1,232 votes were cast, and the landslide winner was Chris Flecker of Brooklyn, New York, who captured 72.2% of the vote. His Bill Belichick-themed submission made the internet rounds and to no surprise, became quite popular with Jets fans. So congrats to Chris for the fantastic work. I'm sure he'll wear the prize of a Myron-themed shirt with pride.
And if you'd rather talk about the aforementioned Pens, who blew a three-goal lead in Nashville last night, look no further than Dave Molinari's article in today's PG, which sums up the team in a neat little package:
Some people believe the Penguins look like a team trying to get its coach fired.
Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.
Some people believe the Penguins look like a team trying to get its coach fired.
Not so.
Not always, anyway.
There are times -- like in their 5-3 loss to Nashville at the Sommet Center last night -- when they look more like one trying to get the franchise disbanded.
Yeah, that's not a sentence I expected to see after watching this team in the Stanley Cup Finals a few months ago.Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.
1/05/2009
COPE / HOPE PHOTOSHOPS: THE FINALS
At long last, it's time to announce the finalists for the Hope/Cope Photoshop Contest, sponsored by the Hope/Cope T-Shirt (available through Al at toomuchmetal@comcast.net - quantities very limited).
We'll unveil them one-by-one, and the winner will be decided by you with a poll at the end. Voting concludes Thursday at midnight, the winner to be made official on Friday. And now, the finalists:
Muhammad Ali, by Patrick K.
Bill Belichick, by Chris F.
Ray Lewis, by Tim B.
Ray Lewis, by Tim D.
Bill Belichick, by James S.Don't forget to click the "comments" link on the poll graphic to see where all the votes are coming from. Europeans like their Belichick parodies, thank you very much.
Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.
12/01/2008
SATISFYING
STEELERS (9-3) 33
PATRIOTS (7-5) 10
ROETHLISBERGER 17/33, 179 YARDS, 2 TD
PARKER 16-87
MILLER 4-60
PATRIOTS (7-5) 10
ROETHLISBERGER 17/33, 179 YARDS, 2 TD
PARKER 16-87
MILLER 4-60
Sure, it wasn't the same Patriots team that trampled the rest of the NFL (like that poor Wal-Mart employee) last year. But don't be so quick to dismiss this as a win over an also-ran. This was a Patriots team that was being talked up as a contender by many know-it-alls who cover the league, with a quarterback coming off of two consecutive 400-yard passing games. This was also a Patriots team who crushed Steeler hopes and dreams roughly 112 times in the past decade. Make no doubt about it, this was a big win. And it was on the road.
Since the readers seemed to enjoy last week's list format to wrap up the game, let's try it again:
1. This was totally a tale of two halves. The Steelers were plodding around in the Foxborough rain in the first half en route to a 10-10 tie. The second half featured a 23-0 Steeler shutout and a physical beating delivered to the three-time champs, including the hit above delivered on Wes Welker, who I briefly felt sorry for. If a football game could ever be rated 'R', it would be the second half. It was violent.
2. That was Mike Tomlin's first win over Bill Belichick, so don't discount the importance of that. EVERY coach likes beating Bill Belichick, regardless of who is playing for him that day.
3. Randy Moss just dropped another pass.
4. Nate Washington just dropped another pass.
5. Nice to see Fast Willie Parker get into the groove to the tune of 87 yards on 16 carries. Toss in 67 yards from Mewelde and the team finished with a respectable 161 on the day.
6. It wasn't the prettiest game from Big Ben (probably because of the 51% completion percentage). That first half was sure uninspiring. But he rose to the occasion along with his teammates and capitalized on the Pats' slippery fingers in the final 30 minutes.
7. How excited were you when Troy Polamalu picked off that pass? I think that moment in a game has become my favorite. It's like how the Howard Stern show was once described: "You don't know what's going to happen next."
8. As great as the Steeler D played, Kevin Faulk somehow finished with 121 yards on 13 touches yesterday.
9. Randy Moss just dropped another pass.
10. Rapidly rising candidate for Overplayed Commercial of 2008: letting Beyonce upgraaade you.
11. Too bad Lawrence Timmons ran out of gas on the one yard line during his INT runback. The Steelers actually had 112 yards in interception yards yesterday. By comparison, Matt Cassel threw for 169. So I guess that would be a net of 57. Sure, that's worth $65 million.
12. The Steelers defense is now #1 in pass defense, rush defense, total defense, and points allowed. As long as they hold the Lombardi Trophy, I'm happy.
13. Why was this win so big? Because the Ravens keep winning, that's why.
14. The Pats were 1-for-13 on third down. I know we heard that often during the game yesterday, but it's so enjoyable, I had to say it again.
15. I get the impression there was a lot of trash talk going on yesterday. Unless you have a better explanation for Ike Taylor throwing a football at Jabar Gaffney. Who just dropped a pass.
15. James Harrison was playing with a hyperextended back yesterday. I didn't notice.
16. Big weekend of football. All the teams I root for won big games: the Steelers beat the hated Patriots, Pitt eeked out a win in the Backyard Brawl (and could be headed to the Sun Bowl against Oregon State), and W&J upset the third-ranked team in the country in the D-3 playoffs.
By the way, take five seconds and vote for W&J QB Bobby Swallow for the D-3 Player of the Year award. I'm sure he thanks you.
17. Next week, the Cowboys and their parole officers visit Heinz Field for a 4:15 date with destiny. Which means in consecutive weeks, the Steelers D-backs will face Randy Moss and Terrell Owens. I know one thing: their ears will be tired.
18. Thanks to everyone who sent links over the past couple of days. I'm a bit overwhelmed by the by the volume, which means you can expect a big link dump...as soon as I can get through them all.
Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.Since the readers seemed to enjoy last week's list format to wrap up the game, let's try it again:
1. This was totally a tale of two halves. The Steelers were plodding around in the Foxborough rain in the first half en route to a 10-10 tie. The second half featured a 23-0 Steeler shutout and a physical beating delivered to the three-time champs, including the hit above delivered on Wes Welker, who I briefly felt sorry for. If a football game could ever be rated 'R', it would be the second half. It was violent.
2. That was Mike Tomlin's first win over Bill Belichick, so don't discount the importance of that. EVERY coach likes beating Bill Belichick, regardless of who is playing for him that day.
3. Randy Moss just dropped another pass.
4. Nate Washington just dropped another pass.
5. Nice to see Fast Willie Parker get into the groove to the tune of 87 yards on 16 carries. Toss in 67 yards from Mewelde and the team finished with a respectable 161 on the day.
6. It wasn't the prettiest game from Big Ben (probably because of the 51% completion percentage). That first half was sure uninspiring. But he rose to the occasion along with his teammates and capitalized on the Pats' slippery fingers in the final 30 minutes.
7. How excited were you when Troy Polamalu picked off that pass? I think that moment in a game has become my favorite. It's like how the Howard Stern show was once described: "You don't know what's going to happen next."
8. As great as the Steeler D played, Kevin Faulk somehow finished with 121 yards on 13 touches yesterday.
9. Randy Moss just dropped another pass.
10. Rapidly rising candidate for Overplayed Commercial of 2008: letting Beyonce upgraaade you.
11. Too bad Lawrence Timmons ran out of gas on the one yard line during his INT runback. The Steelers actually had 112 yards in interception yards yesterday. By comparison, Matt Cassel threw for 169. So I guess that would be a net of 57. Sure, that's worth $65 million.
12. The Steelers defense is now #1 in pass defense, rush defense, total defense, and points allowed. As long as they hold the Lombardi Trophy, I'm happy.
13. Why was this win so big? Because the Ravens keep winning, that's why.
14. The Pats were 1-for-13 on third down. I know we heard that often during the game yesterday, but it's so enjoyable, I had to say it again.
15. I get the impression there was a lot of trash talk going on yesterday. Unless you have a better explanation for Ike Taylor throwing a football at Jabar Gaffney. Who just dropped a pass.
15. James Harrison was playing with a hyperextended back yesterday. I didn't notice.
16. Big weekend of football. All the teams I root for won big games: the Steelers beat the hated Patriots, Pitt eeked out a win in the Backyard Brawl (and could be headed to the Sun Bowl against Oregon State), and W&J upset the third-ranked team in the country in the D-3 playoffs.
By the way, take five seconds and vote for W&J QB Bobby Swallow for the D-3 Player of the Year award. I'm sure he thanks you.
17. Next week, the Cowboys and their parole officers visit Heinz Field for a 4:15 date with destiny. Which means in consecutive weeks, the Steelers D-backs will face Randy Moss and Terrell Owens. I know one thing: their ears will be tired.
18. Thanks to everyone who sent links over the past couple of days. I'm a bit overwhelmed by the by the volume, which means you can expect a big link dump...as soon as I can get through them all.
11/12/2008
10 MEMORABLE ALTERED LEGACIES
Legacies. They're a fascinating thing. A person's legacy is the very definition of how they will be remembered. And they're constantly evolving. For instance, the Manning family's legacy just a few years ago would have been that they can't win the big game (or that the only Bowl game Peyton or Eli would ever win was the Pro Bowl). And here we are, coming off of back-to-back Manning family Super Bowl wins, both times beating Tom Brady and the Patriots at some point along the way.
But legacies can go the opposite direction as well. After Isiah Thomas' latest bizarre incident, people started casually throwing around comparisons of Thomas to O.J. Simpson for their falls from grace. That was enough for me. It was list time. What are the top 10 most memorable altered legacies in sports, I wondered?
My thoughts are below. I put a great deal of weight on the subject's past on-field accomplishments, which is why you won't find someone like Rae Carruth on the list. If one incident instantly comes to mind when mentioning these players and coaches, you will likely find them below. And this is not a lifetime achievement award either, so you won't see any Terrell Owenses or Randy Mosses for their collective buffoonery.
And since 10 is a relatively small number, I listed a few after the list that merit some level of consideration. Consider it a mix of a "watch list" and "others receiving votes". So without further adieu, I present...
10. RICKY WILLIAMS
Oh, Ricky Williams. Such promise. Such talent. Such a weed problem.
The one-time NCAA all-time rushing king still holds or shares a whopping 20 NCAA records. His pro career got off to an interesting start in 1999 when Mike Ditka went temporarily insane and traded the Saints' entire draft (as well as a 1st and a 3rd in 2000) to get him, followed up nicely by a Master P-negotiated contract and the infamous "Wedding Dress" ESPN: the Magazine cover.
But legacies can go the opposite direction as well. After Isiah Thomas' latest bizarre incident, people started casually throwing around comparisons of Thomas to O.J. Simpson for their falls from grace. That was enough for me. It was list time. What are the top 10 most memorable altered legacies in sports, I wondered?
My thoughts are below. I put a great deal of weight on the subject's past on-field accomplishments, which is why you won't find someone like Rae Carruth on the list. If one incident instantly comes to mind when mentioning these players and coaches, you will likely find them below. And this is not a lifetime achievement award either, so you won't see any Terrell Owenses or Randy Mosses for their collective buffoonery.
And since 10 is a relatively small number, I listed a few after the list that merit some level of consideration. Consider it a mix of a "watch list" and "others receiving votes". So without further adieu, I present...
10 MEMORABLE ALTERED LEGACIES IN SPORTS:
10. RICKY WILLIAMS
Oh, Ricky Williams. Such promise. Such talent. Such a weed problem.
The one-time NCAA all-time rushing king still holds or shares a whopping 20 NCAA records. His pro career got off to an interesting start in 1999 when Mike Ditka went temporarily insane and traded the Saints' entire draft (as well as a 1st and a 3rd in 2000) to get him, followed up nicely by a Master P-negotiated contract and the infamous "Wedding Dress" ESPN: the Magazine cover.
Following a bizarre rookie season in which he gave interviews with his helmet on, Williams was later diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and actually became a spokesperson for the drug Paxil. He finally hit his stride after a 2002 trade to Miami, gaining 1,853 yards to go along with 16 touchdowns. But by 2004, he found himself out of the game of football, retiring due to marijuana-related issues. His abrupt retirement set off a chain reaction in Miami which eventually led (in part) to Dave Wannstedt showing up on the doorstep of the Pitt Panthers.
The story could go on forever, but let's shorten it to the Cliffs Notes version: return to the NFL, 2nd drug suspension, Canadian Football league, broken arm, yoga, holistic medicine, Australia, 2nd return, and torn chest muscle. Not exactly the path we expected for the soft-spoken college superstar.
The story could go on forever, but let's shorten it to the Cliffs Notes version: return to the NFL, 2nd drug suspension, Canadian Football league, broken arm, yoga, holistic medicine, Australia, 2nd return, and torn chest muscle. Not exactly the path we expected for the soft-spoken college superstar.
9. BILL BUCKNER
Contrary to popular belief, Bill Buckner was not a bum. In fact, he played 22 seasons in the bigs, with a .289 career average, over 2,700 hits, and a .992 fielding percentage.
Of course, the only thing people will ever remember about him is his error in the 1986 World Series, which is brilliantly re-created below...in the form of RBI Baseball.
8. JIM MORA, DENNIS GREEN, AND COMING SOON...MIKE SINGLETARY
Jim Mora was a very good NFL coach. Not Hall of Fame-good, but he won 125 career games, gave the New Orleans Saints their first-ever winning season, and turned a rookie named Peyton Manning into a 13-3 record by season two. But all that pales in comparison to your legacy dissolving into fodder for a beer commercial:
Dennis Green was only the second African-American coach in college history when he landed the Northwestern gig in 1981. He later coached at Stanford before graduating to the NFL, where he also became the second African-American coach in their history.
As coach of the Minnesota Vikings, his team landed in the playoffs in eight of 10 seasons. He coached the likes of Daunte Culpepper, Randy Moss, and Cris Carter in their prime. And what is he remembered for? A blowup following a (rookie) Matt Leinart-led collapse as coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 2006.
As for Hall of Fame linebacker-turned-49ers coach Mike Singletary, his legacy could come crumbling down fast with more tirades like the one he gave after, oh, his first game as coach:
7. RON ARTEST
Artest will always be remembered as a talented guy with oodles of screws loose. He's averaged 16 and 5 for his career, which started by being chosen 16th overall in the 1999 NBA draft. He'll also be remembered for asking to take time off from the game to promote his CD, and this little video clip, which pretty much killed the Indiana Pacers organization for the foreseeable future and rocked the world of pro sports in a way that few events ever had.
6. MICHAEL VICK
How the mighty have fallen. I'll never forget watching a young Vick win a 2003 playoff game at Lambeau Field and thinking how the torch had symbolically been passed from Brett Favre.
Almost six years later, Favre has 16 touchdown passes and is playing for first place tonight, and Vick is sitting in the United States Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas for dogfighting-related charges. And honestly, the dogfighting was just the tip of the iceberg. Or did you all forget about "Ron Mexico"?
5. BILL BELICHICK
One word: Spygate. Rightly or wrongly, it called into question anything that Belichick ever accomplished, and it turned every Patriots-Jets postgame handshake into must-see TV. And it got some quality time from the federal government, too.
4. ISIAH THOMAS
You say "crazy", the numbers say "champion". He's one of the 50 greatest players in league history, a 12-time All-Star, and a Playoff MVP. Yet he will be remembered as the human anchor that sank the New York Knicks, with debacles such as the acquisition of Stephon Marbury, $30 million given to 4.3 point per game-scoring Jerome James, the idea that Larry Brown would be a good fit as coach, and the cherry on top, a sexual harrassment lawsuit, on his watch. His latest bizarro incident involving sleeping pills certainly helped vault him up the list.
3. BARRY BONDS, MARK MCGWIRE, RAFAEL PALMEIRO, SAMMY SOSA, ROGER CLEMENS...
Ugh. The talk of steroids in baseball isn't good for anybody. It stained the players for life, it crushed the fans, it took away from the credibility of the game, it showed young ballplayers that (at least for a time) steroids led to huge paydays and swollen statistics, and it made taxpayers angry that the government was spending time on it. I think I've made my case here.
2. PETE ROSE
"Charlie Hustle" always played hard. You'd have to if your plan was to have more hits than anyone else who ever played Major League Baseball. Rose loved the game so much, he returned as a manager and won 412 games, with four consecutive second-place finishes. But despite all of his accomplishments, Rose is on the outside looking in when it comes to the Baseball Hall of Fame due to his involvement in gambling on baseball.
Since discussion of Rose's legacy always leads to this question, what do you think: should Pete Rose be in the Baseball Hall of Fame?
1. O.J. SIMPSON
His on-field accomplishments could fill pages. College superstar. Pro superstar. College Hall of Famer. Pro Hall of Famer.
Off the field, there was a filmography 31 titles deep, including The Towering Inferno and three Naked Guns. Monday Night Football. The NFL on NBC. His own production company. Tons of endorsements.
But his 1994 trial for the murder of wife Nicole and her friend, Ron Goldman, changed the way we will forever look at O.J. His 2007 Las Vegas robbery case surprised some, but paled in comparison to the controversy that still grips people today when discussing the first man to rush for 2,000 yards in an NFL season. Unfortunately, when his name comes up in the news, it's usually not about football.
and for good measure...
Take an iconic, Hall of Fame quarterback, stand him on the sidelines, give him some alcohol, force him to watch the Jets fumble their way through another season, then plop Suzy Kolber in his face with a microphone. Watch as a legend's legacy evaporates into a brief YouTube clip:
This list could go on forever, but here are a few who nearly made it, for singular incidents, game screwups, inappropriate comments, or in some cases, their "body of work". I've provided some points of reference as well:
The '70s Steelers (steroids and subsequent deaths), Ed Hochuli (blown call & apologetic emails to angry fans), Scott Norwood, Allen Iverson (Practice?), Najeh Davenport, Onterrio Smith, Shawn Kemp, Travis Henry, Dennis Rodman, Lawrence Phillips, PacMan Jones, Todd Bertuzzi (for ending Steve Moore's career), Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Latrell Sprewell (Got a family to feed), Kobe Bryant, Jayson Williams (the Net), Larry Johnson (the Chief), Cedric Benson, Chris Henry, Fred Smoot and Bryant McKinnie (Vikings Love Boat), Koren Robinson, Len Bias, Kellen Winslow (the solider), Ray Lewis, Floyd Landis, Josh Howard, Vince Young (6 on the Wonderlic, shirtless bar photos, bizarre 2008 season), Chris Webber (championship timeout), The Portland Jailblazers, Derek Bell (Operation Shutdown), Albert Haynesworth (stomping on Andre Gurode), Brady Quinn (countless less-than-flattering internet photos) ...
And please, add any obvious oversights in the comments section.
Contrary to popular belief, Bill Buckner was not a bum. In fact, he played 22 seasons in the bigs, with a .289 career average, over 2,700 hits, and a .992 fielding percentage.
Of course, the only thing people will ever remember about him is his error in the 1986 World Series, which is brilliantly re-created below...in the form of RBI Baseball.
8. JIM MORA, DENNIS GREEN, AND COMING SOON...MIKE SINGLETARY
Jim Mora was a very good NFL coach. Not Hall of Fame-good, but he won 125 career games, gave the New Orleans Saints their first-ever winning season, and turned a rookie named Peyton Manning into a 13-3 record by season two. But all that pales in comparison to your legacy dissolving into fodder for a beer commercial:
Dennis Green was only the second African-American coach in college history when he landed the Northwestern gig in 1981. He later coached at Stanford before graduating to the NFL, where he also became the second African-American coach in their history.
As coach of the Minnesota Vikings, his team landed in the playoffs in eight of 10 seasons. He coached the likes of Daunte Culpepper, Randy Moss, and Cris Carter in their prime. And what is he remembered for? A blowup following a (rookie) Matt Leinart-led collapse as coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 2006.
As for Hall of Fame linebacker-turned-49ers coach Mike Singletary, his legacy could come crumbling down fast with more tirades like the one he gave after, oh, his first game as coach:
7. RON ARTEST
Artest will always be remembered as a talented guy with oodles of screws loose. He's averaged 16 and 5 for his career, which started by being chosen 16th overall in the 1999 NBA draft. He'll also be remembered for asking to take time off from the game to promote his CD, and this little video clip, which pretty much killed the Indiana Pacers organization for the foreseeable future and rocked the world of pro sports in a way that few events ever had.
6. MICHAEL VICK
How the mighty have fallen. I'll never forget watching a young Vick win a 2003 playoff game at Lambeau Field and thinking how the torch had symbolically been passed from Brett Favre.
Almost six years later, Favre has 16 touchdown passes and is playing for first place tonight, and Vick is sitting in the United States Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas for dogfighting-related charges. And honestly, the dogfighting was just the tip of the iceberg. Or did you all forget about "Ron Mexico"?
5. BILL BELICHICK
One word: Spygate. Rightly or wrongly, it called into question anything that Belichick ever accomplished, and it turned every Patriots-Jets postgame handshake into must-see TV. And it got some quality time from the federal government, too.
4. ISIAH THOMAS
You say "crazy", the numbers say "champion". He's one of the 50 greatest players in league history, a 12-time All-Star, and a Playoff MVP. Yet he will be remembered as the human anchor that sank the New York Knicks, with debacles such as the acquisition of Stephon Marbury, $30 million given to 4.3 point per game-scoring Jerome James, the idea that Larry Brown would be a good fit as coach, and the cherry on top, a sexual harrassment lawsuit, on his watch. His latest bizarro incident involving sleeping pills certainly helped vault him up the list.
3. BARRY BONDS, MARK MCGWIRE, RAFAEL PALMEIRO, SAMMY SOSA, ROGER CLEMENS...
Ugh. The talk of steroids in baseball isn't good for anybody. It stained the players for life, it crushed the fans, it took away from the credibility of the game, it showed young ballplayers that (at least for a time) steroids led to huge paydays and swollen statistics, and it made taxpayers angry that the government was spending time on it. I think I've made my case here.
2. PETE ROSE
"Charlie Hustle" always played hard. You'd have to if your plan was to have more hits than anyone else who ever played Major League Baseball. Rose loved the game so much, he returned as a manager and won 412 games, with four consecutive second-place finishes. But despite all of his accomplishments, Rose is on the outside looking in when it comes to the Baseball Hall of Fame due to his involvement in gambling on baseball.
Since discussion of Rose's legacy always leads to this question, what do you think: should Pete Rose be in the Baseball Hall of Fame?
1. O.J. SIMPSON
His on-field accomplishments could fill pages. College superstar. Pro superstar. College Hall of Famer. Pro Hall of Famer.
Off the field, there was a filmography 31 titles deep, including The Towering Inferno and three Naked Guns. Monday Night Football. The NFL on NBC. His own production company. Tons of endorsements.
But his 1994 trial for the murder of wife Nicole and her friend, Ron Goldman, changed the way we will forever look at O.J. His 2007 Las Vegas robbery case surprised some, but paled in comparison to the controversy that still grips people today when discussing the first man to rush for 2,000 yards in an NFL season. Unfortunately, when his name comes up in the news, it's usually not about football.
and for good measure...
Take an iconic, Hall of Fame quarterback, stand him on the sidelines, give him some alcohol, force him to watch the Jets fumble their way through another season, then plop Suzy Kolber in his face with a microphone. Watch as a legend's legacy evaporates into a brief YouTube clip:
This list could go on forever, but here are a few who nearly made it, for singular incidents, game screwups, inappropriate comments, or in some cases, their "body of work". I've provided some points of reference as well:
The '70s Steelers (steroids and subsequent deaths), Ed Hochuli (blown call & apologetic emails to angry fans), Scott Norwood, Allen Iverson (Practice?), Najeh Davenport, Onterrio Smith, Shawn Kemp, Travis Henry, Dennis Rodman, Lawrence Phillips, PacMan Jones, Todd Bertuzzi (for ending Steve Moore's career), Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Latrell Sprewell (Got a family to feed), Kobe Bryant, Jayson Williams (the Net), Larry Johnson (the Chief), Cedric Benson, Chris Henry, Fred Smoot and Bryant McKinnie (Vikings Love Boat), Koren Robinson, Len Bias, Kellen Winslow (the solider), Ray Lewis, Floyd Landis, Josh Howard, Vince Young (6 on the Wonderlic, shirtless bar photos, bizarre 2008 season), Chris Webber (championship timeout), The Portland Jailblazers, Derek Bell (Operation Shutdown), Albert Haynesworth (stomping on Andre Gurode), Brady Quinn (countless less-than-flattering internet photos) ...
And please, add any obvious oversights in the comments section.
Related:
10 Most Interesting Athlete/Politicians
16 Reasons Why the Pirates' Streak Won't End in 2008
20 Questions Fans Are Asking About the 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers
27 Years of Steelers vs Pirates
50 Reasons Why I Love the Steelers
79 Reasons Why It's Hard to be a Pirate Fan
Pittsburgh Pirates: The Movie (2006)
Pittsburgh Pirates: The Movie II (2007)
Pittsburgh Pirates: The Movie III (2008)
Send your news, tips, and links to Mondesishouse@gmail.com.
9/22/2008
NEWS AND NOTES
--Sure, the Steelers stunk yesterday...but at least we've got a new deal with Pedro Alvarez in place! [ESPN]
--With Saturday's injury to Sergei Gonchar, that leaves the Pens without their top two scoring defensemen for some period of time. Here's a closer look at exactly what we'll be without. [Empty Netters]
--Jack Wilson had "the best moment of his career" yesterday. Sadly, it was a send-off from Pirate fans and not anything remotely connected to winning. [PG]
--Bill Belchick addresses the growing "Randy Moss is frustrated" storyline. Personally, I could never imagine Moss shutting it down. In a totally unrelated stat, Randy Moss averaged about 3 catches a game in Oakland in 2006. [PFT]
--Pitt cleans up in the weekly Big East Player of the Week awards. Where are they going to put all those plaques? [Trib]
--A Merril Hoge soundbyte from DVE makes national news. I was previously unaware Merril thought very little of Vince Young. [The Big Lead]
--Antwaan Randle-El, media star. [YouTube]
--My W&J Presidents move to 3-0 with a 34-24 win over Thiel. That oughta move them up the BCS rankings. [Washjeff.edu]
--Email of the morning so far, from Jamie:
"I have stumbled upon a trend in Steelers football that not many people are taking notice of. It seems that the Steelers are a much worse team when kicking off at 4PM on the road, dating back to last season. In fact, I was so aware of this anomaly, that I selected the Eagles in my suicide pool this week. Allow me to substantiate my claim with statistical evidence.
The Steelers played 8 road games, and 4 of them were a 4PM kickoff (Arizona, Denver, NY Jets, and New England).The Steelers lost all 4 of these games. Arizona is a team we likely beat at home, Denver was mediocre last year, and the Jets were horrible. Now, take the Patriots game for what it is worth. Nobody beat the Pats last season until the super bowl (thank you Giants!), so perhaps that game doesn't count. Yesterday we get pounded and manhandled by an Eagles defense that had exactly ZERO sacks coming into the game. Eli Roth thought it was excessively violent. I have no conclusion here, I am just saying that perhaps we should be wary of the next 4PM kickoff road game. It happens to be New England who got throttled at home by the Fish."
Got news? Email it to mondesishouse@gmail.com and get automatically entered in a drawing to win a copy of Jim Wexell's new book, Steeler Nation.
6/12/2008
PLEASE COME TO ALTOONA, WILL FERRELL
That's the plea being made by the Altoona Curve, as they try to entice the SNL alum for a July 21 double-dip with the hated Akron Aeros:
Hollywood mega-star Will Ferrell will toss out a ceremonial first pitch, broadcast an inning on radio and sign autographs for Curve fans. Actually, the odds of any of that happening are extraordinarily slim, but the Curve are hereby begging Mr. Ferrell to accept their invitation. Either way, the Curve will play video clips from his hilarious performances in “Anchorman”, “Old School” and many other films.
Notice that they didn't mention Semi-Pro or Bewitched in that list of hilarious movies. But for those who follow the Curve on a regular basis, this is nothing new. The team is famous for their share of oddball promotions, which this year include:
--“You Got Caught Night” (Wednesday, June 18, honoring the 1919 Chicago Black Sox, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, former U.S. President Richard M. Nixon and Olympic sprinter Marion Jones). What, no Clemens or Donaghy?
--“Train Wreck Series – Ode to Fallen Stars” (Wednesday, August 6, honoring Britney Spears, Leif Garrett, McKenzie Phillips, Danny Bonaduce and Jeff Conaway).
--and the team's favorite, “Awful Night VI – Worseest Ever” (Monday, July 7 vs. Harrisburg): "The most recognizable fun Curve promotion returns! Fans attending the game will be greeted by an awful giveaway item as they enter the ballpark, awful food specials and music throughout the game, and Curve and visiting player stats will change from batting averages to fail percentages."
Being that the Curve develop future players for the Pirates, is there any chance that they also develop future promotions for the Pirates? Wouldn't fans love to see "LAROCHE - FAIL PCT .781" the next time he stepped to the plate?
FUN THEME NIGHTS DOT 2008 CURVE PROMOS [Altoona Curve]
5/08/2008
THE NEWS
--Fantastic news! Matt Walsh turned over eight videotapes that show the Patriots recording opposing coaches' playcalling signals...including the 2001 AFC Championship game against, you guessed it...the Steelers.
This is the same Walsh that Bill Belichick "couldn't pick out of a lineup", right?
--Baseball's most highly-paid starter-turned-reliever-turned-starter was back in the saddle last night, as Barry Zito, the third starting pitcher since 1956 to go 0-6 before May, took the hill against Phil Dumatrait at PNC Park.
And surprisingly, the Pirates came out on top, with a 3-1 offensive explosion in front of 9,788 wild and crazy Bucco fans.
Zito pitched five innings, allowing five hits and two runs while striking out five. He leaves Pittsburgh with an 0-7 record, 6.95 ERA, and the $126 million contract he came with.
--Are Pens fans planning to overtake the Rocky statue?
--Don't forget to vote for the World's Greatest Pittsburgh Pirate Fan, or at the very least, read the comments section, where the gloves have clearly come off.
--SI points out how the Pens-Flyers rivalry really heated up on November 16, 2005.
--Here's a lengthy profile on Flyer RJ Umberger's Pittsburgh roots.
--Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales was spotted at the Pirates-Nationals game this weekend. Does this clarify his position on torture?
--It's the attack of the six-foot-tall, $10,000 Big Ben bobblehead!
--Here's some information we could all use: What Ruins Beer and What Doesn't: An Important Consumer Experiment
--Are Garrett and Britt Reid the worst sons ever? They're certainly in the conversation.
--Well, this should prove that Elisha Cuthbert is hanging out with Calgary's Dion Phaneuf.
--"Can I get 60 extra pieces of bacon on my Whopper?"..."Of course...we make it YOUR WAY!"
--Check out the custom PBR beer can coffin.
A LIST OF TODAY'S TOP LISTS
GOT NEWS? EMAIL IT TO MONDESISHOUSE@GMAIL.COM
YOU COULD WIN STUFF!
3/24/2008
The News
--It was a bitter end to the Pitt Panthers' season on Saturday night, certainly raising the old question of "how much energy do they burn in the Big East Tournament?"
Today, the PG looks back on what was a fascinating season, noting that seniors Ronald Ramon and Keith Benjamin won 101 games, went to four consecutive NCAA tournaments and won a memorable Big East championship while at Pitt.
--At least the Pitt women are still alive, as they face off against Baylor in the second round.
--This Steelers controversy isn't going away anytime soon. However, Steigy says that there is no double standard.
--In the "last week's news" department, the Steelers will play the Bills in Toronto in August, continuing the trend of pro sports leagues exploiting Pittsburgh and Buffalo teams in unconventional settings to sell tickets.
--Trying to get a status report on Sidney Crosby from the Penguins? Good luck.
--TMZ has what might be the greatest Bill Belichick picture ever:
--Straight Outta Johnstown interviews Megan from 'That's Amore'
--Penn State LB Tyrell Sales: innocent!
A LIST OF TODAY'S TOP LISTS
2/05/2008
The News
--The Pens blow a two-goal lead, lose in overtime, and still gain a share of the division lead, falling 4-3 to New Jersey.
--A local group including Robert Morris U. is trying to lure college hockey's Frozen Four to Pittsburgh. It would be the first NCAA championship held in Pittsburgh since the NCAA men's gymnastics finals at Fitzgerald Field House in 1963. And if you don't remember the excitement of the '63 gymnastics finals, then you're just not a Pittsburgh sports fan.
--Here's a 12-page document on why the 70s Steelers are still superior to the Patriots.
--Today in Terrelle Pryor news: he's probably going to be a Buckeye.
--Good news for courtside chairs who've lived in fear all these years....Bob Knight has resigned from Texas Tech and is probably done with coaching.
--Only the Pirates would have this headline for their star player: "Pirates, Sanchez agree to unusual three-year deal".
--Is the Bus stopping on Dancing with the Stars?
--Here's the first post-Super Bowl mock draft, with the Steelers taking Pitt's Jeff Otah in the first round.
--Which postgame interview had a higher squirm quotient: Tiki with the Giants or Bill Belichick with Chris Myers?
--Former Stiller assistant coach Mike Mularkey gets the plum job of offensive coordinator in Atlanta. He'll have fun with all of those weapons.
--Tom Petty, any explanation for this photo op from your halftime show?
A LIST OF TODAY'S TOP LISTS
2/03/2008
Patriots' 19-0 Trademark Rendered Useless
In a series of events that I never thought I'd see, the Giants downed the Patriots, 17-14, in one of the most exciting Super Bowls ever. Honestly, would you have believed these two facts if I told you before the season started:
--Eli Manning leads the Giants on a Super Bowl-winning TD drive, ultimately throwing the difference-maker to Plaxico Burress.
--Tom "Colonel" Coughlin rises from the dead once again and ends the season soaked in Gatorade.
No, I wouldn't have believed me either.
Some knee-jerk reaction and discussion points:
--Everyone's talking about the decision by Bill Belichick to go for it on 4th-and-13 from the Giants' 31 . But here's a good question: does he go for the 49-yard field goal if Adam Vinatieri's still on the roster? I say YES.
--Plaxico said the Giants would win, 23-17. Tom Brady thought 17 points was a bit light. Who's smarter now?
--If you didn't realize yet that the Dolphins were a horribly-run organization, did Wes Welker's 11-103 line remind you? I think it's pretty safe to say a 2nd and 7th round pick for the 112-catch receiver was a pretty lopsided trade.
--Cheerleader of the game: Peyton Manning. And in another location, Mercury Morris.
--How many Steeler fans will now pine for Brandon Jacobs?
--Prediction: David Tyree makes a TON of money for the rest of his life signing photos of "The Catch".
--Michael Strahan, Amani Toomer and Jeff Feagles finally get rings. And for Junior Seau, it's 0-2 in the Big Game.
--Anyone notice how many late pushes and shoves were delivered by Rodney HGHarrison?
--Speaking of ground games, the Pats' leading rusher, Bony Maroney, had just 36 yards.
--It's amazing how human Tom Brady looked when his line gets pushed around. Remember that the next time you want to dump your beer on Big Ben.
--Jordin Sparks looked very nervous before and after the anthem, but I think she did a pretty good job, no?
--Jordin Sparks looked very nervous before and after the anthem, but I think she did a pretty good job, no?
--And finally, did you enjoy Big Ben's American Idol commercial?
More coverage and discussion coming throughout the day. Please feel free to add your two cents.
11/13/2007
The News and Everyone Hopping on the BenWagon
--Email of the day, from an incoherent, rambling, misspelling Browns fan who apparently disliked my game wrapup:
If your so disatisfied with the Browns why don't you find a winner and root for them.In fact why not root for the previous years Super Bowl winner and you'll be with a winning team all the time. That way you can stay the hell off of my E-Mail andIcan let myself growwiththe team. No wonder Model moved the original Brown BBrowns out of town.
Well said, my division rival. I'd expect nothing less from a Clevelander.
If your so disatisfied with the Browns why don't you find a winner and root for them.In fact why not root for the previous years Super Bowl winner and you'll be with a winning team all the time. That way you can stay the hell off of my E-Mail andIcan let myself growwiththe team. No wonder Model moved the original Brown BBrowns out of town.
Well said, my division rival. I'd expect nothing less from a Clevelander.
--MSNBC's Rich Cimini mentions Ben in the MVP discussion. Careful, that bandwagon's starting to get crowded! Only a few seats left, media members!
--Wait, one more is hopping on the BenWagon! Do we have a seat for James C. Black of Yahoo Sports?
--Wait, one more is hopping on the BenWagon! Do we have a seat for James C. Black of Yahoo Sports?
--Hold that Wagon! From reader Sean comes this:
The Washington Post's Mark Maske, who I think is fairly highly regarded for his football coverage, has a weekly Q&A. Here was his answer regarding the top QBs in the league:
Washington, D.C.: The last day or so I have been hearing about the top three quarterbacks in the league. The order has been 1. Brady 2. Manning 3. Roethlisberger or Romo. I am partial to Big Ben but that is through jaded eyes. Who are your best three quarterbacks now and the rationale?
Mark Maske: I would have to go Brady first, Manning second and Roethlisberger third. Favre and Romo are right there in the mix, too. Roethlisberger is having a great season. It's no disgrace to be the next-best guy behind Brady and Manning.
--The Pens lose yet again, dropping them to last place in the division. Hopefully Jordan Staal can improve on his "18 games, 1 goal, 1 assist" start to the season.
--The Pens lose yet again, dropping them to last place in the division. Hopefully Jordan Staal can improve on his "18 games, 1 goal, 1 assist" start to the season.
--I've wondered in the past if it's worse to be a Browns fan or a Pirates fans. Luckily, Bugs and Cranks went the extra mile and presented both sides of the argument.
What, no hoody?
--My 1986 Pirates squad is off to a rip-roarin' 2-4 start in the Sporting News Strat-O-Matic League. Last night, we got 6 1/3 strong innings from Walkie and took down the Phillies, 4-3. Barry went a disappointing 0-5.
--Your chance to scream at Gary Bettman!
--Did you know the whole "Bart Simpson prank calling Moe" bit? Turns out that it was based on a series of prank calls in the '70s.
--Here's the encyclopedia of all things NHL from the past seven days.
--Great news...gas might rise .20 a gallon in the next few weeks!
--I present another "which Presidential candiate is for you" 11-question quiz
--We just passed the 41-year mark on the anniversary of "Paul is Dead"
--It's the $25,000 dessert!
--Keep your eyes on the upper left hand corner...A LIST OF TODAY'S TOP LISTS:
Top 87 Bad Predictions About the Future
The Next 9 Children's Characters That Should Come Out of the Closet
9/14/2007
The News - Addendum
Just had a great joke sent to me:
"What kind of battery does it take to shock a Michigan Wolverine?"
"1 AA"
--OJ Simpson wanted in connection with a Vegas burglary
--Larry Johnson allgedly drops 24 n-bombs in a rap song - and he's denying it.
--SI's Dr. Z. outlines the Pats cheating throughout NFL history:
Marinelli was the defensive line coach in Tampa Bay when the Bucs beat the Patriots in the 2000 regular season opener and did a good job controlling New England's offense. After the game the Patriots' offensive coach, Charlie Weis, was overheard congratulating the Bucs' defensive coordinator, Monte Kiffin.
"We knew all your calls, and you still stopped us," Weis said. "I can't believe it."
9/13/2007
Your Daily Dose of Videogate
First, some fantastic photoshops sent in from a loyal reader (click for larger view)
And for those who enjoy written shots at the Patriots, as opposed to visual:
--Profootballtalk wonders if this tarnishes the legacy of Tom Brady:
Do the revelations of stolen defensive signals diminish the reputation and perceived abilities of quarterback Tom Brady?
If the goal of the brazenly overt operations was to help the team know the tactics that an opposing defense would employ on a given play (either on game day or the next time the two teams met), the player squarely in the eye of the storm of information was Brady. And, surely, he knew (or at least suspected) that the intelligence that the offensive coaches had about what a given defense might be doing didn't come from legitimate methods.
--Also from PFT:
Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News reports that the Patriots' efforts to videotape defensive signals was brought to light by former New England defensive coordinator Eric Mangini, who shared the information in 2006 with members of the Jets' organization.
--The Steelers weigh in:
--Ed Bouchette asks why he should vote Double B for the Hall of Fame. And I'm not talking about Barry Bonds.
9/11/2007
The News: Addendum
--Terrelle Pryor is SI.com's #1-ranked high school player in the country. He's destined to be the next great Western PA quarterback, joining Dan Marino, Joe Montana, and Bruce Gradkowski.
--DJ Gallo gives us 27 Things I May Remember Considering Thinking I Thought about week one. Anyone who reads Peter King would get a kick out of this.
My favorite:
12. Someone who did learn from the Michael Vick fiasco: Nike execs. Burned by making Vick the face of its NFL marketing push, the company needed to distance itself from shady dealings and align with a more positive role model. Enter Shawne Merriman. Steroid use is definitely not as bad as dogfighting. Great move.
I kid you not, I was watching the game on Sunday, saw that commercial, and had the same thought. In baseball, Rick Ankiel is ready to be tarred and feathered for using performance enhancing drugs. In football, you get endorsements.
--Here's some photo evidence of the Pats cheating on Sunday. As the writer points out, Belichick is just getting sloppy.
--Tiki Barber gets a middle finger from a blogger
--In other middle finger news, Terrell Owens denies giving it to the Giants' Gibril Wilson on Sunday night.
4/05/2007
The Afternoon Killer
Clear your October schedules, my friends. The Pirates are 3-0.
The Pirates defend their handling of pitching prospects. Hey, whatever you have to tell yourself.
What's new on the PNC Park menu this season? First Place Fries? World Series Weiners?
Barry hits #735, media reacts as if it were 756.
Darryl Stingley, who was paralyzed by a Jack Tatum hit in 1978, passed away at the age of 55.
Bill Belichick attended the Final Four with a mysterious blonde. Was he inspired by Tom Brady?
The Pirates defend their handling of pitching prospects. Hey, whatever you have to tell yourself.
What's new on the PNC Park menu this season? First Place Fries? World Series Weiners?
Barry hits #735, media reacts as if it were 756.
Darryl Stingley, who was paralyzed by a Jack Tatum hit in 1978, passed away at the age of 55.
Bill Belichick attended the Final Four with a mysterious blonde. Was he inspired by Tom Brady?
Anna "The Cocked Gun" Benson (her nickname, not mine) goes off against gun haters.
I'll just start this link with the first line of the story: "A suspended Toronto elementary school principal has pleaded guilty to throwing feces (excrement) on a child."
The PG tells us that the Pittsburgh region has lost more residents since 2000 than any U.S. metropolitan area except New Orleans, dropping 60,309 people.
Three Six Mafia christened their new digs by peeing on next-door neighboor Jennifer Love Hewitt's lawn.
Here's the 25 Most Awesome Video Game Covers of All Time
I'll just start this link with the first line of the story: "A suspended Toronto elementary school principal has pleaded guilty to throwing feces (excrement) on a child."
The PG tells us that the Pittsburgh region has lost more residents since 2000 than any U.S. metropolitan area except New Orleans, dropping 60,309 people.
Three Six Mafia christened their new digs by peeing on next-door neighboor Jennifer Love Hewitt's lawn.
Here's the 25 Most Awesome Video Game Covers of All Time
1/22/2007
Quick Monday Wrapup
Time is at a premium for old Mondesi, so I can't write much now...I'll be back later on in the day with some good stuff for you. In the meantime, here's a quick recap of what's going on:
The P-G says that Tomlin is the man for the Steelers. Looking back, the whole Cowher resigning/coach search/Tomlin hire has been a less-than-memorable experience for all involved.
The Colts are in the Super Bowl. Think of this: Peyton Manning was in every other commercial this year, and that was before he played in a Super Bowl. Next year he'll probably be battling the Rock Em Sock Em Robots, eating subs with Jared, and looking like a piece of food in a Vytorin commerical. But the greatest subplot from this outcome is that Bill Belichick gets to coach nine Chargers in the Pro Bowl.
The Bears will represent the NFC. Prepare yourself for multiple appearances of Jim Belushi over the next two weeks, as well as approximately 5,649 retrospectives on the 1985 Bears. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Colts are early 7-point favorites for the big game
Pitt plays like crap, somehow manages to get Marquette into OT, then ultimately loses with .9 seconds left.
Pens thrash the Maple Leafs 8-2, much to the dismay of all the Canadian visitors in town to witness the carnage.
Now sources say Michael Vick didn't have marijuana in that water bottle after all. A nation of haters is distraught.
Rush Limbaugh on the NFL: "Look, let me put it to you this way: the NFL all too often looks like a game between the Bloods and the Crips without any weapons. There, I said it."
11/20/2006
55 Things That Annoy Me About Sports
Update: Thanks to the 102.5 WDVE Morning Show for having me in-studio to talk about the list in greater detail today. It's always an honor to be on Pittsburgh's #1 morning show! You can visit the show's website at www.dve.com.
I've become an angst-filled sports fan lately. So today I'm going to unleash some rage and vent with all of my faithful readers. 55 things that annoy me about sports. Why 55? Because I couldn't stop at 50. Feel free to air your own grievances in the comments section, and we'll take the best and add them on in a future post, making it the uber-list of beefs from annoyed fans.
1. Bill Belichick dressing like a hobo. At least wear a hoodie with sleeves! While I'm at it, kudos to Mike Nolan and Jack Del Rio for their suits this weekend. And since the NFL is a copycat league, expect to see all 32 coaches in suits, since the 49ers and Jags both won.
2. "...this is ouuuuuur country..."
3. The Lions on Thanksgiving every year. Is this not the worst tradition in the history of mankind?
4. Celebrities in the Monday Night Football booth. Especially when they aren't even football fans. Christian Slater, I'm looking in your direction.
5. Stuart Scott. Your act is so played out. Boo-ya.
6. "Thrown under the bus". When Donna Shalala uses it, it's time to move on.
7. "Drinking the kool aid". Find a new cliche.
8. The 1972 Miami Dolphins. You're embarrassing yourselves at this point.
9. Red Sox vs. Yankees. You're both full of overpaid underachievers. The rest of the country doesn't care.
10. The BCS. Let's devise as many ways as possible to decide a champion other than a playoff system.
11. The Oakland Raiders' apathy. Nice work naming Randy Moss captain.
12. OJ Simpson's now-cancelled confession, I mean book.
13. Pitt football's "defense".
14. Fans wishing each other luck on message boards. As my brother Ramon Mondesi, a frequent visitor of Pitt message boards, often wonders, "Why would WVU fans wish us luck against Louisville? The guys on the message boards aren't playing!"
15. Websites/blogs offering messages to deceased athletes' families. As admirable as it is to post messages like, "To the Schembechler family, our thoughts and prayers are with you...", I doubt they're reading a blog the next day.
16. Notre Dame. Play a real schedule or join a conference. Three service academies, North Carolina (2-9), Stanford (1-10)...what a murderer's row.
17. Ogden Nutting. Although I admire his being able to dodge the arrows for so long through McClatchy, who many fans still think is the majority owner.
18. D-Fence Signs. At least try the "Off-fense" in the Man Law commercials.
19. Pete Rose, Terrell Owens, Barry Bonds, and Bobby Knight. Please go away, and take your "I'm Sorry I Bet on Baseball" autographs, Little T children's books, Cream, Clear, and choking with you.
20. Diminishing the accomplishments of teams who just won the championship. First we heard about how the Steelers stole the Lombardi Trophy. Then we endured how the Cardinals were such a crappy champion. How about criticizing the teams that finished in the bottom of the league?
21. The Red Sox crying poor (not re-signing Pedro or Damon, calling the Yankees "the Evil Empire") and bidding $51 million to negotiate with a Japanese pitcher. Hypocrites.
22. Spoiled Yankee fans. They boo their best/most fragile player, driving him into a further funk. They really are the smartest fans in baseball. Want to see real fans? Check out the brave souls who pay to watch Jeromy Burnitz trot out to right field.
23. Big East bashing. How about bashing the ACC, the real worst conference among the big six?
24. Roger Clemens/Brett Favre's annual retirement dances. Go away.
25. Corruption in amateur basketball. When there is a list of top 6th graders, I can safely say our priorities are out of order in this country.
26. Chris Berman. Tha Rayyyydahsss...The Seeeeeehawks...The Geeeeee Men...The frozen tundra of Lambeauuuu Field...and my favorite...You're With Me, Leather.
27. Ranking Peyton Manning as the best QB in the NFL every year, only to have him disappoint everyone in the playoffs. I know, this year it will be different. And next year the Pirates will have a winning record.
28. Jon Gruden as an elite coach. Keep working those 20-hour days. They've resulted in losing seasons in three of the last four years.
29. Larry Brown.
30. Teams who hire Larry Brown.
31. Players who celebrate individual plays when their team is behind. Also known as "The Joey Porter Special".
32. The NHL on Versus. Most YouTube videos have better production values.
33. Kobe vs. Shaq on Christmas. This was cool 2 years ago. How about Lebron vs. Wade?
34. Bud Selig. Need I say more?
35. Tiki Barber as a first-ballot HOFer. On the all-time rushing list, he's behind players like OJ Anderson, Ricky Watters, and even Edgerrin James, who started two years after him and lost a year to a torn ACL. Don't think so.
36. Koren Robinson. He's the Steve Howe of the NFL. He just can't help himself.
37. Michelle Wie, and to a lesser degree, Danica Patrick.
38. Overprotection of NFL quarterbacks. 2006 has taken this to ridiculous heights.
39. The myth that Michael Vick will someday be a polished quarterback. Marcus Vick has a better chance, and he's a wide receiver.
40. The NHL schedule. 8 games against some teams, 0 against others. Did they have one too many Labatt's when they wrote this up?
41. Matt Millen still having a job. The Lions are now 23-67 (.255) on his watch.
42. Tear-jerking Sunday morning SportsCenter pieces. I'm looking for the scores and insight. If I wanted to cry I'd watch Brian's Song.
43. Trey Wingo imitating Chris Berman. So if Berman wasn't bad enough, now he has a clone.
44. CBS's Gus Johnson. Strictly upon the Steelers-Browns game on Sunday.
45. Athletes stealing nicknames. First there was the Anthony Thomas/Mike Alstott "A-Train" controversy. Now we have Ladainian Tomlinson stealing "L.T.". Unless he gains some bulk and starts snorting coke by the bushel, he is not L.T.
46. Tony Kornheiser talking about his fantasy team on Monday Night Football. Congratulations on drafting Matt Jones. It really does prove you know nothing about football.
47. The Broncos' cut-blocking. Hard to believe a team that once employed Bill Romanowski would resort to such dirty tactics.
48. Lee Corso. Try not pandering to the home crowd. That would be really interesting.
49. Joe Theismann. Let's recap: the Sunday night football crew gets blown up. Paul Maguire gets shuffled off to college football. Mike Patrick gets shuffled off to college football. Joe Theismann gets promoted to Monday Night Football. Didn't make sense to me, either.
50. Selected ESPN programming. I know there's a lot of time to fill, especially with 19 channels, but in addition to poker, we now have paintball, dominoes, the Hot Dog eating competition, and worst of all, Cold Pizza.
51. The NFL Network. It's the ultimate leverage for the league, but until some of these cable operators blink, a lot of fans will miss out on some good football.
52. Power Rankings. The ultimate space-filler for websites. Absolutely meaningless, yet fans get whipped up about perceived disrespect. Just remember, John Clayton's vote doesn't have any influence on your team making the Super Bowl.
53. AC/DC's Hell's Bells played on 3rd and or 4th down in 98% of stadiums across the country.
54. Footballs players putting up four fingers to signify the fourth quarter.
55. Nerdy bloggers who write lists. Oooh, some guy in Pittsburgh hates the Yankees...I'm sure George Steinbrenner is losing sleep.
Find Jurassic Dog Bones in your local Wal-Mart, Giant Eagle, Shop'n'Save, Foodland, or online--just click on the banner!
I've become an angst-filled sports fan lately. So today I'm going to unleash some rage and vent with all of my faithful readers. 55 things that annoy me about sports. Why 55? Because I couldn't stop at 50. Feel free to air your own grievances in the comments section, and we'll take the best and add them on in a future post, making it the uber-list of beefs from annoyed fans.
1. Bill Belichick dressing like a hobo. At least wear a hoodie with sleeves! While I'm at it, kudos to Mike Nolan and Jack Del Rio for their suits this weekend. And since the NFL is a copycat league, expect to see all 32 coaches in suits, since the 49ers and Jags both won.
2. "...this is ouuuuuur country..."
3. The Lions on Thanksgiving every year. Is this not the worst tradition in the history of mankind?
4. Celebrities in the Monday Night Football booth. Especially when they aren't even football fans. Christian Slater, I'm looking in your direction.
5. Stuart Scott. Your act is so played out. Boo-ya.
6. "Thrown under the bus". When Donna Shalala uses it, it's time to move on.
7. "Drinking the kool aid". Find a new cliche.
8. The 1972 Miami Dolphins. You're embarrassing yourselves at this point.
9. Red Sox vs. Yankees. You're both full of overpaid underachievers. The rest of the country doesn't care.
10. The BCS. Let's devise as many ways as possible to decide a champion other than a playoff system.
11. The Oakland Raiders' apathy. Nice work naming Randy Moss captain.
12. OJ Simpson's now-cancelled confession, I mean book.
13. Pitt football's "defense".
14. Fans wishing each other luck on message boards. As my brother Ramon Mondesi, a frequent visitor of Pitt message boards, often wonders, "Why would WVU fans wish us luck against Louisville? The guys on the message boards aren't playing!"
15. Websites/blogs offering messages to deceased athletes' families. As admirable as it is to post messages like, "To the Schembechler family, our thoughts and prayers are with you...", I doubt they're reading a blog the next day.
16. Notre Dame. Play a real schedule or join a conference. Three service academies, North Carolina (2-9), Stanford (1-10)...what a murderer's row.
17. Ogden Nutting. Although I admire his being able to dodge the arrows for so long through McClatchy, who many fans still think is the majority owner.
18. D-Fence Signs. At least try the "Off-fense" in the Man Law commercials.
19. Pete Rose, Terrell Owens, Barry Bonds, and Bobby Knight. Please go away, and take your "I'm Sorry I Bet on Baseball" autographs, Little T children's books, Cream, Clear, and choking with you.
20. Diminishing the accomplishments of teams who just won the championship. First we heard about how the Steelers stole the Lombardi Trophy. Then we endured how the Cardinals were such a crappy champion. How about criticizing the teams that finished in the bottom of the league?
21. The Red Sox crying poor (not re-signing Pedro or Damon, calling the Yankees "the Evil Empire") and bidding $51 million to negotiate with a Japanese pitcher. Hypocrites.
22. Spoiled Yankee fans. They boo their best/most fragile player, driving him into a further funk. They really are the smartest fans in baseball. Want to see real fans? Check out the brave souls who pay to watch Jeromy Burnitz trot out to right field.
23. Big East bashing. How about bashing the ACC, the real worst conference among the big six?
24. Roger Clemens/Brett Favre's annual retirement dances. Go away.
25. Corruption in amateur basketball. When there is a list of top 6th graders, I can safely say our priorities are out of order in this country.
26. Chris Berman. Tha Rayyyydahsss...The Seeeeeehawks...The Geeeeee Men...The frozen tundra of Lambeauuuu Field...and my favorite...You're With Me, Leather.
27. Ranking Peyton Manning as the best QB in the NFL every year, only to have him disappoint everyone in the playoffs. I know, this year it will be different. And next year the Pirates will have a winning record.
28. Jon Gruden as an elite coach. Keep working those 20-hour days. They've resulted in losing seasons in three of the last four years.
29. Larry Brown.
30. Teams who hire Larry Brown.
31. Players who celebrate individual plays when their team is behind. Also known as "The Joey Porter Special".
32. The NHL on Versus. Most YouTube videos have better production values.
33. Kobe vs. Shaq on Christmas. This was cool 2 years ago. How about Lebron vs. Wade?
34. Bud Selig. Need I say more?
35. Tiki Barber as a first-ballot HOFer. On the all-time rushing list, he's behind players like OJ Anderson, Ricky Watters, and even Edgerrin James, who started two years after him and lost a year to a torn ACL. Don't think so.
36. Koren Robinson. He's the Steve Howe of the NFL. He just can't help himself.
37. Michelle Wie, and to a lesser degree, Danica Patrick.
38. Overprotection of NFL quarterbacks. 2006 has taken this to ridiculous heights.
39. The myth that Michael Vick will someday be a polished quarterback. Marcus Vick has a better chance, and he's a wide receiver.
40. The NHL schedule. 8 games against some teams, 0 against others. Did they have one too many Labatt's when they wrote this up?
41. Matt Millen still having a job. The Lions are now 23-67 (.255) on his watch.
42. Tear-jerking Sunday morning SportsCenter pieces. I'm looking for the scores and insight. If I wanted to cry I'd watch Brian's Song.
43. Trey Wingo imitating Chris Berman. So if Berman wasn't bad enough, now he has a clone.
44. CBS's Gus Johnson. Strictly upon the Steelers-Browns game on Sunday.
45. Athletes stealing nicknames. First there was the Anthony Thomas/Mike Alstott "A-Train" controversy. Now we have Ladainian Tomlinson stealing "L.T.". Unless he gains some bulk and starts snorting coke by the bushel, he is not L.T.
46. Tony Kornheiser talking about his fantasy team on Monday Night Football. Congratulations on drafting Matt Jones. It really does prove you know nothing about football.
47. The Broncos' cut-blocking. Hard to believe a team that once employed Bill Romanowski would resort to such dirty tactics.
48. Lee Corso. Try not pandering to the home crowd. That would be really interesting.
49. Joe Theismann. Let's recap: the Sunday night football crew gets blown up. Paul Maguire gets shuffled off to college football. Mike Patrick gets shuffled off to college football. Joe Theismann gets promoted to Monday Night Football. Didn't make sense to me, either.
50. Selected ESPN programming. I know there's a lot of time to fill, especially with 19 channels, but in addition to poker, we now have paintball, dominoes, the Hot Dog eating competition, and worst of all, Cold Pizza.
51. The NFL Network. It's the ultimate leverage for the league, but until some of these cable operators blink, a lot of fans will miss out on some good football.
52. Power Rankings. The ultimate space-filler for websites. Absolutely meaningless, yet fans get whipped up about perceived disrespect. Just remember, John Clayton's vote doesn't have any influence on your team making the Super Bowl.
53. AC/DC's Hell's Bells played on 3rd and or 4th down in 98% of stadiums across the country.
54. Footballs players putting up four fingers to signify the fourth quarter.
55. Nerdy bloggers who write lists. Oooh, some guy in Pittsburgh hates the Yankees...I'm sure George Steinbrenner is losing sleep.
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11/06/2006
Monday Morning Wrapup: Disaster for Pittsburgh Sports
This weekend was an unmitigated disaster for the Pittsburgh sports fan. Pitt loses at South Florida, the Pens drop a contest in San Jose, and the Steelers, well, they were the Steelers again. I think Mayor Ravenstahl must have proclaimed this "Be Kinda Cleveland Weekend" but forgot to inform the fans in advance.
South Florida 22, Pitt 12- Pitt TE Darrell Strong, who watched one too many Steeler games this season, drew a crucial 15-yard unsportsmanlike with his flipping off of the South Florida fans. He has been suspended indefinitely for his stupid play. At least one coach in town disciplines his players for senseless, back-breaking penalties.
Sharks 3, Pens 2- Evgeni Malkin is held goal-less, Mark Eaton is injured on a dirty hit, the Pens have a goal disallowed that should have counted...this was a bummer all around. And then we had to see Dan Potash do LA with Colby Armstrong and Ryan Whitney in between periods.
Wisconsin 13, Penn State 3- JoePa goes down on a late hit...I think it was by Joey Porter...and was carted off. Early word is a torn ACL and MCL, and he'll train with Daunte Culpepper to rehab in time for opening day next season.
Lions 30, Falcons 14- Mr. Engraver, you might want to wait on that "MICHAEL VICK" inscription on the MVP trophy.
Dolphins 31, Bears 13- Surprisingly, it looks like Joe Theismann's prediction for an undefeated Bears season was wrong. Can't wait to see how they do on their three-game road trip of the Giants, Jets and Patriots.
Bills 24, Packers 10- This is what Brett Favre came back for: a cold Sunday afternoon in Buffalo losing to a 2-win Bills team quarterbacked by JP Losman.
Redskins 22, Cowboys 19- I really feel bad for the Cowboys, losing on the sequence of a blocked Mike Vanderjagt field goal, a 15-yard facemask, and a game-ending field goal by Nick Novak. Then I remembered that the Cowboys have Terrell Owens, are coached by Bill Parcells, and are owned by Jerry Jones. And I felt much better. By the way, Tony Romo is Joe Montana, Brett Favre, Tom Brady, Joe Namath, Dan Marino, Terry Bradshaw, and John Elway rolled into one, and multiplied by 50.
Ravens 26, Bengals 20- If it weren't for his media whoring during each week, would we realize Chad Johnson was even playing this year? A couple things jump out at me from this game: Cincy RB Chris Perry fumbled twice, meaning he will probably be a Steeler in the future; TJ Houshmandzadeh had the most impressive on-field helmet-spike I've seen in ages; the AFC North probably has the worst collection of offensive lines in the NFL; and that meaningless Carson Palmer interception at the end of the game gave negative points to thousands of fantasy footballers across the country.
Saints 31, Bucs 14- Did anyone notice Reggie Bush's rushing stats for this game? 11 carries, minus-5 yards! For the year...81 carries, 207 yards (2.55 YPC)...46 catches, but for only 312 yards (6.7 YPC)...0 offensive TDs? Can I be the first to suggest too many Subway subs with Jon Lovitz? On the Bucs side, this is the fifth game this season that Cadillac Williams rushed for 48 yards or less. The Bucs record is a Cowher-esque 0-5 in contests where the running game stalls.
49ers 9, Vikings 3- When Alex Smith faces off against Brad Johnson, you can throw out all the records.
Chargers 32, Browns 26- Cleveland keeps pace with their AFC North brethren in dropping a close one to San Diego. The Charlie Frye Era in Cleveland has not started as well as, say, the 2004 Ben Roethlisberger Era in Pittsburgh. Which is to say, no 15-1 record, no playoffs, and no Charlie Frye Beef Jerky.
Giants 14, Texans 10- Tiki "Fox and Friends" Barber chooses Game 8 to get into the scoring column. Eli Manning contributes another victory to the Manning Family Pot for 2006, which now stands at 14-2. Sean Salisbury has just predicted a Giants-Colts Super Bowl. Not one, but TWO Mannings in a Super Bowl. Does Sean ever watch the playoffs, or is he more of a "regular season" kinda guy?
Colts 27, Patriots 20- I would have been happy seeing either of these teams lose. The Patriots, who value kickers and wide receivers as much as the Steelers value holding onto the football, saw four INTs from their passing attack and a missed field goal from their rookie kicker. And this happened while their all-time leading scorer accounted for 9 of the Colts' 27 points. I hope all of that $10 million in cap room keeps you warm at night, Bill Belichick. And then we have Indy fans, who are getting excited again for a title run. They're like Charlie Brown getting the football pulled out from them every year. It's almost sad.
11/03/2006
Cool Stuff to Watch This Weekend
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, opening tonight, at a theater near you. Wow wow wee wee!
Pitt at South Florida, Saturday, Noon- The Wannstache returns to Florida for a key Big East matchup. Unfortunately, I'll miss this while watching a few Steelers sign 500 autographs. Someone give me a recap.
Penn State at Wisconsin, Saturday, Noon- Big game for the Nits, who have a legit shot at a 9-3 season if they can pull the upset. Although this game is really just a 2006 Big Ten bronze medal game.
Penguins at Sharks, Saturday, 10:30 PM- Evgeni Malkin continues his attempt at becoming the only player in NHL history to score in every single game of his career.
Broncos at Steelers, Sunday, 4:15 PM- Steelers attempt to salvage their season with a win over QB Joe Dirt and the Denver Broncos. In other Steeler news, Duce Staley is so bad, he isn't even going to be activated for this game, with Mr. Bill instead opting for practice-squadder John Kuhn. Cowher has been unfairly criticized for some aspects of the season, but keeping Staley on the roster is nearly indefensible.
Colts at New England, Sunday, 8:15 PM- Peyton Manning tries to improve on his 1-6 career record vs. Tom Brady. The Vinatieri-Belichick mini-battle is a nice subplot that's developed this week.
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