It Actually Happened!

I always wondered if a crazy soccer fanatic actually saved a goal from going in on his favorite team. You know, those slow rollers or lazy balls that could have been saved if the goalkeeper had been in the right spot. Sometimes you feel bad and wish the goalie had a backup plan to prevent the goal.

Well now I have video evidence that it has happened:

Bravo. I do not have any information on this game and what happened to the second goalie, but will post it once I do some more investigative work.

About To Be Clubbed?

Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach, Bill Cowher, says that someone may take a cheap shot at a Patriots player at some point.

“It’s risk and reward,” he said. “How long do you want your starters to play? You want to be careful. At some point if this continues, someone’s going to take a cheap shot. Is that worth subjecting your players to if it comes to that?

“You can say it’s playing football, but those are the decisions you have to make.”

The person that could suffer that shot is Stetson cologne poster boy, Tom Brady. I do not agree with Bill Belichick's antics of running up the score, well, not in the manner they are doing it. If they were running mostly running plays with a big lead and score that is fine. But the Brady and the Pats continually throw the ball late in the game and with the game already decided.

I would have no problem if they handed RB Laurence Maroney the ball and let him run all over the opponent with a huge lead. But throwing to Wes Welker for TDs, going for it on fourth downs in field goal range, and keeping Brady in an already decided game is ridiculous.

We get it Belichick, the Pats are good and are on a mission.

You better protect your good smelling QB (not my type of smell) before someone does a "Tanya Harding" on his knee.

Ryan Parker even has posted a song on YouTube to warn the Pats:

Alex Rodriguez - Where Will He Go?

The best baseball player in the MLB is a free agent, and is looking to get a historical paycheck for the tune of about $30 million per year for ten years.

Is he worth that much money? My answer is yes. Roger Clemens, who was average at best this past season, got a $28 million prorated deal with the Yankees. And without A-Rod, the Yankees would not have made the playoffs.

Here is the look at the highest salaries in the MLB last year (not including Clemens):
1. A-Rod - $27.7 million
2. Jason Giambi - $23.4 million
3. Derek Jeter - $21.6 million
4. Manny Ramirez - $17 million
5. Todd Helton - $16.6 million
6. Bartolo Colon - $16 million
7. Andy Pettite - $16 million
8. Jason Schmidt - $15.7 million

Is he worth $30 million a year? Yes. If Jason Giambi is making $23 million, then you can pay A-Rod the money his agent is requesting.

Colon and Schmidt were scheduled to play once every five games, and both were unable to do that for a full season. A-Rod plays in 150+ games a year, and will be taking his stats with him, wherever that may be.

Another reason this guy should be paid that much is the revenues he will be taking to a team. The media coverage, merchandise sales, ticket sales, and marketibility are all intangibles that make him worth that money.

And now to my list ranking from worst shot to best shot at landing this big fish:

Mariners
I have heard that they may be in the running, but raise my eyebrows at that one. Yes, he has played there before, but why would he go back? They are not a big market team and is not a city that his family would enjoy. Fat chance.

New York Mets
How to stick it to the Yankees further? Join the Mets in their new stadium and put the spotlight on the other baseball team in the Big Apple. They have a better chance than the Mariners because of their location. A-Rod's wife loves New York because she is able follow her ventures in the city. But, they already have all-star players in the two positions A-Rod would play, with third baseman David Wright and shortstop Jose Reyes (although I heard the Mets would be willing to part with Reyes). The looming question: is A-Rod willing to deal with the media scrutiny that comes along with playing in New York, again? I say no.

San Francisco Giants
A-Rod has gushed about playing in San Francisco at AT&T Park, and he could replace Barry Bonds as the "worth the price of admission" player with the Giants. He likes the city and can break the home run record in the same place it was broken. But are the Giants willing to pay him? This is a one of my two sleeper picks, but there is a big reason I have my doubts (*see Dodgers explanation).

Chicago Cubs
Like San Francisco, A-Rod likes Chicago and the history of Wrigley Field. Plus, they have a manager he loves in Lou Piniella. Problem is the Tribune Co. may never let it happen because the sale of the team is still pending. A-Rod is not going to sit around waiting for the team to be sold to its new owner.

Boston Red Sox
You have to throw the Red Sox into the mix because they are the new evil empire in the MLB. But I think the Boston have too much pride to swallow (yes, they swallow) his contract especially with the feuds they have had with him when he was with the Yankees. If they do not re-sign Mike Lowell, they may be a player in the sweepstakes.

Detroit Tigers
My other sleeper pick. They have the money and a squad A-Rod would like to play with. Also, the Tigers have dealt with his agent, Scott Boras, who represents all-stars Magglio "The Perm" Ordonez and Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez. Jim Leyland is a manager he would like as well.

Los Angeles Dodgers
Now we are getting to the big boys; the teams who can only blow the chance at getting A-Rod. The Dodgers have only given themselves a better chance at A-Rod with the signing of Joe Torre. The familiarity of Torre and his managing might make it a smooth transition for Rodriguez to head out West. It is Hollywood, he can be on the big stage with less media scrutiny (but there will be some) than in New York. They are a storied franchise that appeals to a player like A-Rod, and have a chance to take make a splash in the playoffs next year.

Two glaring factors that make them the number two team:
1. Dodgers Stadium is not a hitter's ballpark. It will not be fun chasing the home run record in his later years in that stadium. Ah, his later years, which brings me to my next point (*the one that applies to San Francisco and the other NL teams)...

2. They are in the National League. Why would he change leagues now? And more importantly, why minimize the days he can get out on the diamond in the later stages of his career? Did you see Barry Bonds play left field with the Giants this past year? It was painful to watch, and I bet he would have given anything to DH for the whole season. In the American League, A-Rod can. No more errors at third base, just getting into the batter's box everyday. He can preserve himself by being a DH in the AL and chase down every record he dreamed of breaking.

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Now, this is not a biased pick. This is real, and once you read why, you will understand.

• When Arte Moreno bought the Angels he had a vision of making them as big as the Dodgers. He started putting up Angels billboards in Los Angeles county and asking those who live in that county to give the Angels a look. He is enamored with A-Rod, not only as a player, but at his marketibility. Moreno once talked of starting an Angels television channel, and with A-Rod he could start it.
  
  
• The Dodgers may have just blown their own chance at A-Rod by hiring Joe Torre; not regarding A-Rod's willingness, but based on Moreno's pride. What better way to steal the Dodgers mojo by signing the biggest fish on the pond? The spotlight is currently on the Dodgers and Moreno does not like that. He has worked so hard to get the team to be recognized nationally, and now this is his opportunity to take it to that next level. Dodgers recognition level.
  
  
• Moreno can market the (expletive) out of A-Rod and make money back from the signing. He would love to be the owner of the team when A-Rod breaks the home run record, and be able to say "I signed the home run king."
  
  The media around Anaheim would not be as harsh on A-Rod as they would be in New York and down the freeway in Los Angeles. A pleasing environment for A-Rod and his family. His wife is in Southern California and can continue her ventures down the way in Los Angeles or in Orange County.
  
  
• Mike Scioscia. A-Rod showered Scioscia with praise last year, more so than any other manager (source NY Daily News):
  

  A-Rod couldn’t have enough nice things to say about Mike Scioscia, first throwing some love his way in an on-field interview with Kim Jones on YES, then telling reporters by his locker that Scioscia should be credited with making the Angels into the gritty team they are.
  
  Asked about the Yankees’ huge 14-9 win, A-Rod replied, “It just tells you how tough and competitive a team those guys are over there; that’s a tribute to Mike Scioscia. They never stop.”

  
  He wants to play for him. He has the wheels to run in Scioscia's offense.
  
  
• Angels Stadium. He kills it at Angels Stadium. In three games in 2007, he hit .417 with three home runs and six RBIs in Anaheim. His slugging percentage? 1.167. He has a .332 lifetime average in 77 games at the stadium.
  I have seen it live, he loves to hit the ball into the bullpens of both the Angels' and visiting teams' in left field.
  
  
• He would be welcomed with open arms. Rarely do Angels fans "boo" their own players, and he is what they have been waiting for. They have an open third base position for him to take, and a smiling Vladimir Guerrero who would sigh a breath of relief at his arrival. The pressure will not be as high as in New York, Boston or Los Angeles.
  
  
• His agent, Scott Boras' office is located in Newport Beach and he regulary sits in the Diamond Club behind home plate when A-Rod plays in Anaheim. Him and A-Rod could wine and dine together all they wanted, year round.
  

All signs point to Anaheim, the ball is in Moreno's glove.

---

So there you have it... it will probably be a couple months until we know where he will be going, but at least you have these thoughts on your mind.

"Happy Hump Day"

Happy Wednesday to everyone, and a "happy hump day" to you as well!

Oh yeah, I guess it is Halloween as well... but what would you rather have? A beautiful woman or candy that you will never finish eating?

Today's edition of our weekly "happy hump day" is the NBA edition in honor of the season opening up last night.

I bring you Greek supermodel, Aleka Kamila, wife of New Orleans Hornets guard/forward Peja Stojakovic.

Aleka, I know Peja has a bad back, so I can carry you to my bed anytime. Plus, I know Peja smells, he just has that look to him.

Penn State Fans Show Class

The following is a video of Penn State fans showing some class towards Ohio State fans. And when I say "class" I mean the exact opposite. The Ohio State fans were outnumbered 3-to-120. Turn down your speakers if you are at work, cussing in the video:



What a bunch of idiots. I am sure they would accept being pelted with beers if those Penn State fans visited the Ohio State campus. Oh well, we all know every team has a bunch of bad apples.

What a waste of beer. Rookies.

I originally planned to go to Oakland Coliseum in December with my Colts jersey on when they play the Raiders, but have decided to just wear black after hearing stories from people I know. One person was stabbed, and the other got their rental car destroyed. No thanks.

Anyway, those three guys were smart by sucking up their pride and not retaliating. They would have been destroyed by those fans.

Kudos to a comment on the YouTube about the video: "You can't spell pussy without PSU."

Get Original Fellas

Searching YouTube I found the same two "hazings" going on at Golden State and Portland:





The Blazers' rookies win in the dance off, but lets see some real hazing. I know there are better ones behind closed doors, but get original guys.

By the way, I fail miserably to do that dance after I have a couple (okay, several) in me, and that also includes singing. Keep singing and choreographed dances away from me.

"Come karma aejfkes ksksj CHAMELEON! I know so asklejs, yeah sdfaoikef yooooo!"

NFL London - Wembley Streaker

The game between the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants may have been an ugly game, but everyone loves a good streak job by a fan:



Nice costume dude. I might be all for more games in London if this happens at every game. Classic.

I think the NFL should look into having an NFL game at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles though. That game would sell out immediately and encourage the NFL to get a team in LA sooner than proposed.

Well you did have TWO teams in LA and they failed!

As the saying goes, you do not know what you have until it is gone. Plus, what else do LA fans have to hold onto right now? The Dodgers have not won a playoff series since 1988, the Lakers are a drama club, the Clippers are the Clippers, the SC is no longer college's powerhouse, and David Beckham is a non-factor with the LA Galaxy.

Torre To Dodgers

It was reported last night by The Journal News that the Dodgers will fire Grady Little and hire Joe Torre as the new manager for Los Angeles. Don Mattingly will reportedly join Torre as the bench coach.

Torre, 67, could be named manager as soon as tomorrow, according to two sources close to the situation. Don Mattingly is expected to accompany Torre to Los Angeles as his bench coach. Torre is also interested in hiring Kevin Long, his hitting coach with the Yankees.

If this is true then I have to commend the hire by the Dodgers. BIG pickup, especially with their squad. Torre is exactly the kind of manager that they need in Los Angeles, with the veterans fighting with their talented young players. The former Yankees manager is a player's coach and will make an immediate impact on the squad.

Torre is a great man and a very bright baseball mind. He was on the David Letterman show last night and was very funny. I cannot wait to see him in the media around this area.

The "Freeway Series" will have a new twist, as Mike Scioscia owns Joe Torre. Sorry Dodgers fans, that will be the only negative thing about this hire.

NBA Preview/Predictions

The National Basketball Association is set to begin play today with three games scheduled, including my favorite love-hate player, Kobe Bean Bryant in action (hopefully) against the Houston Rockets.

Divisional outlook according to First To Third L.J.:

Atlantic: Boston, New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, Toronto

Top dog: Boston
Golden retrievers: New Jersey, Toronto, New York
Love Park lovable loser: Philadelphia

This has been one of the weakest divisions in basketball the last couple of years but now has a new triple threat in Boston with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.

Philadelphia is still several years away from competing and we never know what we are going to get out of New Jersey. Although I think they addressed a glaring need in the center position by signing Jamaal Magloire.

I like the Knicks roster (maybe I am biased because I grew up following the Knicks as my East Coast team), but with Isiah Thomas at the helm I never will bank on them going far.

Toronto will be second or third in the division behind Chris Bosh and one of my personal favorites, TJ Ford. Carlos Delfino is a big pickup for the Raptors and cannot wait to see what he does with more playing time.

And to the new three-headed monster... I do not want to see Boston rise to NBA glory again because I am a Lakers fan and do not want them to raise another banner. This Celtics team is deeper than people are going to give them credit for, and could possibly get a nice addition in Juwan Howard in the next couple of weeks. Allen does not get as much love as he deserves... Pierce will play better with less work on his shoulders... and Garnett will be Garnett like always.

Celtics taking the division.

Central: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indiana, Milwaukee
My favorite division in the East this year.

The obvious culprits: Chicago, Detroit
Hanging tough: Cleveland
Outside looking in: Indiana, Milwaukee

Chicago's young Bulls are gaining experience as each year passes, and will be more dangerous this year. But, if the rumors are true and they trade for Kobe Bryant, things may be different for them. If they do make the trade, it will all depend on who they send to the Lakers. No matter what, Kobe in the East will make this Bulls team a contender.

Detroit is solid with a deep bench and veteran leadership. They will always be contending in the East as long as they have Richard Hamilton, Chauncey Billups, and Rasheed Wallace. And you cannot forget about my boy Arron Afflalo. He is a baller.

Indiana and Milwaukee are in the developing stages. I look at the Pacers as the Golden State Warriors of the East. They can run on opponents. I hope Mo Williams was not working for a contract last year and continues his strong play of yesteryear.

Now Cleveland you ask? Why are they hanging tough? Them being the defending Eastern Conference champions. I do not like the supporting cast of Lebron James. His team is essentially the Lakers of the East. Chicago and Detroit are better.

Pistons taking the division.

Southeast: Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, Orlando, Washington

Head of the beer: Washington
Couple of sips behind: Orlando, Miami
Improved with age: Atlanta
Bottom of the barrell: Charlotte

Washington is the easy pick, especially with Shaq getting older, and Wade still recovering from surgery. The Wizards are returning most of their squad and will be at the top as long as they stay healthy.

Orlando is the sexy pick. Dwight Howard is a beast, the next coming of Shaq, and Jameer Nelson should have a good contract year. Stan Van Gundy was the perfect selection to be their coach.

Like I said, with Shaq getting up there in years and Wade not 100%, it is going to be hard to see these guys as a contender. It is not going to be fun for them to fight their way back into the Eastern conference race after a slow start.

Atlanta will be better this year as their young players will make improvements. Watch out for Acie Law, another baller made for the NBA. Good draft by the Hawks.

Charlotte gets hurt too much and that is why they are at the bottom of the division.

Wizards taking the division.

Northwest: Denver, Minnesota, Portland, Seattle, Utah

Belvedere vodka: Denver, Utah
Smirnoff: Portland, Seattle
Popov: Minnesota

Denver can easily take this division if they get a healthy Kenyon Martin for at least 70 games. If not, AI and Carmelo will be able to handle the load.

The Jazz are coming off a very successful season, but have a unhappy AK. As long as they have Boozer and Williams these guys will be fine.

Portland has been hit by the injury bug already and are looking forward to next year, when they will see Greg Oden for the first time. Darius Miles and Oden to become best friends on the bench.

This year will be Kevin Durant's year to shine. He will be the man in Seattle but they will not go far with the squad they have.

The first year without KG will be a long one for the Wolves, but have some young, exciting players. Al Jefferson hopefully will get more love this year, he is the real deal.

Denver taking the division.

Pacific: Golden State, LAC, LAL, Phoenix, Sacramento

Newcastle ale: Phoenix
Bass ale: Golden State, LAL (with Kobe)
Bud Light: LAC, Sacramento

Phoenix are the obvious favorites in this division with Nash, Stoudemire, and Marion ready to get deeper into the playoffs.

The Warriors had a great run last year, and will no longer be in the sleeper role. They play fun basketball to watch and will get more exposure this year. Baron Davis is a baller.

The Lakers season will rest on whether Kobe is traded or not. If they trade Kobe, the team will be fourth or fifth in the division, and will not make the playoffs. With him, they are second or third in the division with a seventh or eighth seed in the West. The drama will no doubt unfold. Bynum is going to have a good year if Jackson gives him the bulk of the minutes at center.

Los Angeles' other team has a hurt Brand, likely out until after the all-star break, and older point guards. The Clippers will once again be Staple Center's second best team.

Sacramento's rookie coach, Reggie Theus, has to resolve a bad relationship between two of their best players in Mike Bibby and Ron Artest. Brad Miller needs to lose the cornrows. Kevin Martin cannot carry this squad.

Suns taking the division.

Southwest: Dallas, Houston, Memphis, New Orleans, San Antonio

Johnnie Walker Blue Label: San Antonio, Dallas
Johnnie Walker Gold Label: Houston
Johnnie Walker Black Label: New Orleans
Johnnie Walker Red Label: Memphis

I could have put Houston in the Blue Label status with San Antonio and Dallas, but refrained from doing so because T-Mac and Yao have not made it past the first round of the playoffs. But they made some nice additions and think Adelman will do better with this squad than Van Gundy did.

Going into the season, the defending champion Spurs are the obvious favorite to get back to the finals out of the West. Nothing more to say about them, except their winning is boring. But they are good, really good.

Dallas, we will see how they react to their meltdown in last year's playoffs, and their yearly disappointments in the playoffs. This will be a big test for Dirk, who spent the summer searching for answers and not shaving.

Memphis has some good young players, but are a couple of years away from a playoff berth especially being in a tough division. Might sneak in next year as an eighth seed though.

The Hornets will be in New Orleans full-time and will be in the playoff hunt at the end of the season. Chris Paul is worth the price of admission and has good shooters to get the ball to in Peja and Mo Pete.

Spurs taking the division.

---

West champ: Phoenix Suns
East champ: Boston Celtics

NBA Champ: Phoenix Suns

Awards:
Rookie of the year: Al Horford
Most improved: Andrew Bynum
Sixth man of the year: Leandro Barbosa
Scoring champ: Gilbert Arenas
Defensive player of the year: Marcus Camby
MVP: Kobe Bryant (no matter where he plays)

---

Final note: Will someone pick up Earl Boykins?!?! The NBA is not the same without the most exciting player in the game! I will be making a petition that the Lakers sign him.

NFL Week 8 Is Over

NFL week 8 is officially over, and it ended in great fashion last night with a 19-13 victory for the Green Bay Packers over the Denver Broncos at Invesco Field.

Trailing 13-10 in the fourth quarter, Denver QB Jay Cutler led the Denver Broncos down the field to set up a Jason Elam 21-yard field goal as time expired to tie the game.

The bad part for the Broncos was that the Packers won the coin toss giving Green Bay's future Hall of Famer QB Brett Favre a chance to shine once again.

Favre connected on an 82-yard touchdown with Greg Jennings on the first offensive play of overtime to take the game. Vintage and current Favre all in one package. Any questions about his arm strength were obviously shut up as he also hit James Jones on a deep throw in the first half.

Favre now has 18 Monday night football wins in his career and helped the Packers move to 6-1 on the season.

I am not even mad that the Packers won (I had the Broncos winning this one), because it was a great game, and an excellent way to end week 8.

Favre is so fun to watch it is hard not to root for the 38-year-old.

The only disappointment on the night was the celebrity guest in the booth with the ESPN announcers. I am usually not a fan of the segment, but was especially excited that Vince Vaughn would be joining the crew.

I was disappointed because the game was so good, and the announcers were so into it, that Vaughn was only asked a few questions. He probably talked for a total of 30 seconds in the time he was in the booth.

Oh well, I guess I will have to watch Swingers and Made this morning to make up for it.

Week 8 record: 10-3
Overall record (started in week 3): 51-33

UCLA Bruins football, way to continue your consistency of winning a big game one week, and flopping against an inferior opponent the next week.

November 4 is this Sunday.

Next Week Put Him Out There

I found this video of a sports anchor proclaiming a high school cheerleader getting pummeled by a football player as the "play of the night."

Sure, this video could be submitted to America's Home Videos, and that the girl was fine after the hit, but how is this the "play of the night?" Anyway, it is funny, but replaying it over and over with slow motion is a little distasteful.

I think he should get behind that sign and take one for the news team.

Ron Burgundy should be a sports anchor:

NFL Week 8 Almost Over

NFL week 8 concludes tonight with the Green Bay Packers visiting the Denver Broncos.

My head was killing me yesterday as I woke up, and I had to "think" at 12:30 p.m. to draft my fantasy basketball team. The NFL games that I saw on TV did not help me get through my day. And where the hell was my night game?!?!

Blow outs, sloppy games and one game on local television at 10 a.m. I guess that is the price you pay when you are already looking ahead to week 9 (yes, November 4).

The Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots both won their games, meaning two things:
1. Both Peyton Manning and Tom Brady are the first QBs to beat all 31 teams.
2. Both teams are undefeated heading into their matchup in the RCA Dome.

The Colts beat the Carolina Panthers 31-7, while the Patriots embarrassed the Washington Redskins, 52-7. Some are accusing the Patriots of running up the score on opponents, especially after this week's antics.

With the game already in hand, the Patriots elected to go for a fourth-and-1 on the Redskins 7-yard line instead of kicking a field goal for a mere three points.

Here is what Bill Belichick had to say about that situation:

"What do you want us to do, kick a field goal?" he said.

Stay classy Emperor Palpatine Bill Belichick.

It is obvious these Patriots want to roll up all their opponents this year. That is the Belichick we have come to know. Cross him and you will pay! I knew it would get ugly as soon as the reports came out that the Pats were part of "spygate 2007"; a sleepy giant was woken.

More on the week 9 to come...

Quick hits on week 8:
LenDale White carried the Titans over the Raiders, as Vince Young was slowed by injury. The Rams helped the Browns win their first road win. Minnesota's pass defense allowed McNabb to look good for a week in the Eagles win. The Bengals still continue to underachieve in a loss to the Steelers. Miami continued their perfect season by losing to the Giants in London. Lions are 5-2 after beating the Bears, again; Griese still sucks. Jeff Garcia's interceptions are too costly for the Bucs as they lose to the Jags. Buffalo Bills beat the New York Jets in the "who cares?" game. Brees finds Colston three times in the end zone against the Niners.

Picks results coming tomorrow.

End Of An Evil Empire?

Has the evil emire moved to a different city? Is the new Death Star being constructed in Boston with the Red Sox winning their second championship in four years, and the talent to make them the favorites for next year?

The fans are already the stormtroopers; kind of slow, clumsy, and quick to make some unwanted noise. Star Wars references aside, these Red Sox can dominate baseball for years to come with their pitching and young talent that has already shown they are ready for the big stage.

Yesterday, it was Alex Rodriguez trying to steal some thunder from the Red Sox by announcing he was opting out of his Yankees contract. Today, it is the Yankees announcing that they have offered Joe Girardi the vacant manager's position.

First let me talk about Girardi (and it is reported he will accept the job tomorrow). This hire may cause a stir in the Yankees clubhouse because he was offered the job over Don Mattingly. Yes, that Don... "Donnie Baseball," one of the most beloved Yankee players, and a player who already had his number retired by the club.

Mattingly will not accept a position on the Yankees coaching staff, Marchand and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney are reporting.

"Don was extremely disappointed that he wasn't the organization's choice to fill the manager's vacancy," Mattingly's agent, Ray Schulte, said in a statement.

I know Girardi is a great manager, but you have to try to keep your team intact after losing Joe Torre. Several key players with the Yankees were hinging their decisions on whether to stay with the Yankees based on if Torre was retained, and now who replaced him.

I think Mattingly was that guy to help make a smooth transition from the Torre era to a Yankees era that will include younger players.

The key Yankees players who are free agents: Jorge Posada, Andy Pettite, and Mariano Rivera. Pretty hefty names that helped the Yankees strive in their evil empire era. Oh yes, and do not forget that third baseman that decided to opt out.

And it appears that it is officially over between A-Rod and the Yankees, as Hank Steinbrenner had this to say about him opting out:

"It's clear he didn't want to be a Yankee," Hank Steinbrenner, a son of Yankees owner George Steinbrenner and now the figurehead of the club's baseball operations, told the New York Daily News. "He doesn't understand the privilege of being a Yankee on a team where the owners are willing to pay $200 million to put a winning product on the field.

"I don't want anybody on my team that doesn't want to be a Yankee."

So now the Yankees may or may not have to replace key players from the outside or from within. Hey, they have Wilson Betemit to play third.

The evil empire has changed uniforms, and I couldn't be happier.

Bleacher Creatures

I did not know about a special song that the Yankees' bleacher creatures have come up with for visiting team fans until I stumbled across it on YouTube (got to love that web site).



Pretty clever song... Boston fans probably could not think this one up.

As stupid as it sounds, this video makes me want to grab a seats in the bleachers next year in New York. Bank on that, I am going out there when the Angels play the Yanks.

Rocks Swept Under The Rug

The Boston Red Sox proved me wrong by completing a sweep of the Colorado Rockies on Sunday night. Mike Lowell was named MVP, as the Red Sox won their second championship in four years.

The playoff road was similar to their 2004 championship: ALDS sweep, ALCS comeback, World Series sweep. These Red Sox were on their game, doing something that the Rockies could not, getting hits with runners in scoring position. They could not do any wrong.

Shoot, even Ronald McDonald Bobby Kielty got in on the action, hitting a solo shot in the eighth inning, proving to be the winning run.

The thing that sucks for Boston haters is that this team will be good for years to come. They have a solid bullpen, good starting pitching, and guys that can swing the bat. Kind of crazy how it looks like the Yankees are going in the opposite direction (more on that later).

I do not think the Rockies would have faired much better even if they did not have that long layoff... the Red Sox are just that good.

Congratulations to the Rockies for making that improbable run and to Ben Affleck. Your team won! Yeah right, you are a douche Affleck... sit next to me at Angels stadium and we will see how long you last.

I cannot believe JD Drew and Eric Gagne are getting World Series rings. Ah, I just threw up a little in my mouth.

I will miss you baseball, the focus of MLB will shift to awards and rumors.

Holy Lateral!

The following is a video of a NCAA Division III football game that took place this weekend. Trinity University used 15 laterals to defeat Millsaps College with no time remaining. Kudos to the announcer for only stumbling on the word "lateral" once in the video. I stuttered it while typing.

Best finish ever.

Billy Goat, And A Goal Post?

After some investigative work for my friend Russell, I discovered another reason why the Chicago Cubs may be cursed with bad luck.

Roger "Sodfather" Bossard recently dug up an interesting artifact while working on the new playing surface for the Cubbies. He found the the cement blocks that held the goal posts for the Chicago Bears.

Unbeknownst to everyone involved in the Wrigley project, cement blocks surrounding the bottom parts of the old goal posts from Bears games at Wrigley had been buried under the infield at Wrigley for nearly four decades.

After the Bears played their final game there on Dec. 13, 1970, they tore down the goal posts but decided not to remove the cement blocks underneath the end zones holding the posts in place, covering them with dirt instead.

Do not fret Cubs fans... I think your time is coming.

First, the Tribune Co. is selling the franchise, and this could mean a change for the better.
Second, the Cubs no longer have old Chicago Bears goal posts underneath your playing field.
Third, the Cubs are getting a new playing surface.
Fourth, the Cubs are installing a modern drainage system.

Aw, the times are changing Cubbies. And I love the fact that they just told him to throw the blocks away.

"Screw it, if that was under the field the last 30 years then it might do some good to get rid of it."

So there you have it, the curse of the Billy Goat and the curse of the goal posts. Mystery solved, time to win a World Series!

And I must say, being a heads groundskeeper must be fun. Once these guys are in the MLB system or work for a team, they basically are with them until they retire. Unless you have divots on the field all the time.

The groundskeepers get to know all the players, coaches, stadium staff, umpires... the list can go on. Get to watch baseball games free everyday. And you see your art in work. Good stuff.

In my next life im going to be a groundskeeper.

NFL Week 8 Picks

NFL week 8 is upon us and it comes with a game being played overseas in London.

London?
Yes, London. You know, fish, chips, cup o' tea. Bad food, worse weather. Mary fu**in' Poppins. London!

The New York Giants and Miami Dolphins will be playing in London to a sellout crowd. Cool if it is a preseason game, but I do not like a regular season game played overseas. It throws everything off for each team that participates. Practices, food, beers, and the travel are all different.

There is a reason that there is futbol in Europe, and a reason there is football in America... they are where they flourish. That is like Manchester United coming over here for a match in the US. Sure, it would sellout, but the excitement would die after the 90-minute match.

*Yawn* Can we move onto next week's Colts-Pats matchup?

Anyway... this week's picks:

Indianapolis Colts @ Carolina Panthers - With their big matchup on the horizon, look for the Colts to use this game as a tuneup. No let down this week. Manning will officially be the first QB to beat 31 teams, take that Brady (he plays a later game)! Indianapolis.

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears - The Bears showed me some life last week by coming back on the Eagles, and making me look foolish for picking Philly. And the Lions have lost both their contests that have been on the road. They are looking to sweep the season series against the Bears. They actually showed the run last week as they prevailed over the Bucs. Detroit.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals - Yes, yes, the Bengals came from behind last week. But look who they were playing... the New York Jets. Steelers will be sharper this week than last, and RB Willie Parker plays well against the Bengals. Pittsburgh.

New York Giants v. Miami Dolphins in London - No Ronnie Brown for the Dolphins? Miami, say hello to 0-8. And thank you Brown for throwing my fantasy football season out the door... I had you in two leagues! Bum. New York.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Minnesota Vikings - This is one of those "Ugh" games that I hate to pick. Both offenses suck this season, and you never know what you are going to get. Eagle fan, miss Jeff Garcia? Minnesota.

Cleveland Browns @ St. Louis Rams - At first I kind of wanted to make this an upset game and be able to point my finger and say, "Haha, I told you it was an upset," based on the return of Steven Jackson. But then I remembered that the Rams O-Line sucks and that the Browns can actually score. Cleveland.

Oakland Raiders @ Tennessee Titans - I love how Oakland fan was proclaiming, "first place AFC West!" early this season. Well at least they got their kicks in. Vince Young is back and hopefully he makes me look smart by keeping him on the bench on my fantasy team. Tennessee.

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets - Trent Edwards if the starter now, and JP Losman may have to think about the prospect of being on another team. Too bad the Jets do not go with their backup QB. Chad Pennington will be starting again. Buffalo.

Houston Texans @ San Diego Chargers - The Chargers will have a little more motivation this week with the fires threatening players and fans homes this past week. L.T. had to evacuate his home, he lives by MLB pitcher Steve Trachsel. I know Steve's brother, Pat Trachsel, through my buddy BQ and Amir. Pat sometimes invites BQ... oh nevermind, I will shut up now. San Diego.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - With David Garrard out for a few weeks, expect to see a lot of the Jaguars running game. I do not like backup QB Quinn Gray's chances on the road. Go Jeff Garcia. Tampa Bay.

Washington Redskins @ New England Patriots - Tom Brady will be out for blood once he sees that Peyton Manning is the first QB to beat 31 NFL teams. He will throw five TDs to get back at Manning. New England.

New Orleans Saints @ San Francisco 49ers - Drew Brees and Reggie Bush are starting to play well, while the 49ers are struggling under their first-year offensive coordinator. New Orleans.

Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos - Denver is not an easy place to play, and in Brett Favre's only appearance there he threw three interceptions in a 31-10 loss. Green Bay's running game has been non-existent, but they can run on Denver's defense. This is tough for me.... Packers, Denver, Packers, Denver... I am going to flip a coin... Heads, Packers. Tails, Denver. Denver.

Week 7 record: 8-6
Overall record (started in week 3): 41-30

Orioles Fans, You Out There?

What do you think about Kevin Millar throwing out the first pitch in game 7 of the ALCS for the Boston Red Sox? Running out of the Red Sox dugout and playing footsies with David Ortiz.

First, does he not know that his current team, the Baltimore Orioles, are in the same division as the Red Sox? Second, how did this guy get the honor to throw out the first pitch of game 7 in the ALCS?

Yes, he won helped them in 2004, but that was ONE World Series. "Well it was the first in 86 years!" Who cares? Why not bring back a Red Sox player from the past. You know, guys who were not fortunate enough to win a ring, yet they played their asses off for Red Sox nation.

If I am Orioles fan, I am pissed right now. Not only because of the first pitch, but because of this video that was aired before game 5:



What the hell. Millar, you do not play for Boston anymore. Try to get a contract with them if you want to play with them so bad. What's that? Oh you can't because you will not make the roster? Then get off their nuts! Stay true to the team you are signed with.

And Red Sox, get over your comeback of 2004. Okay you came back from 0-3 against the Yankees, and yes, it was the first time ever in MLB history. But damn, move on... you too Millar move on.

I understand it if Millar was retired and they brought him back to throw the first pitch. But he is still playing in the MLB, in the SAME division.

It's not 2004 anymore dude. Whatever Millar, keep "cowboying up."
Tell Heath Ledger to not mess up the sequel to Batman Begins and Jake Gyllenhaal to stop trying to kid everyone.

Fight Night - Hockey Edition

I know I do not post interesting news articles or opinions about hockey and the NHL; that is because I do not watch it very often unless it is playoff time. And I have no problem attending a game, especially with a woman, they love hockey games.

What I do find myself doing often regarding hockey is rummaging through YouTube for good hockey fights!

I found this one from a few nights ago between Pittsburgh Penguins' Georges Laraque and Washington Capitals' Donald Brashear:



What is up with the Black-on-Black crime? I kid, but really though, did you know that there are currently only 10 active Black NHL players? I think the announcers should switch from hockey to boxing, they made it exciting. "Southpaw on southpaw!"

Both players are enforcers in the NHL so it should not surprise that they put a good fight on out there on the ice.

A little sidenote for you kids: Have you ever seen the movie Men of Honor with Cuba Gooding Jr. and Robert DeNiro? Well the character Gooding plays, Carl Brashear, is Donald's uncle, who the movie is based on.

Donald Brashear has also trained with boxing legend Joe Frazier.

While searching for good NHL hockey fights, I also found this video that reminded me of NHL '95 on Sega Genesis:



That was Chicago Blackhawks' youngster, Jonathan Toews, who is only 19 years old. I used to be able to pull off those moves in NHL '95 and continued my expertise through 2000. I have seen on MTV how they had Madden Nation as a TV show... they should do it for NHL '95, I would rip it.

Some of the best quotes from the movie Swingers comes at times when they are playing NHL '95:

Trent: Score Chicago!
Sue: F**k! Such f**kin' bullshit!
Trent: [Trent hits the instant replay] Now that was pretty Sue...
Sue: Man, don't do the instant replay thing...
Trent: No way, you said it was f**kin' bulls**t.
Sue: Don't do the f**king...
Trent: Well that's why they put the instant replay in the f**king game! So you can see if it's bulls**t!
Sue: You're unbelieveable.
Trent: Well you know something, I am unbelievable.
Sue: [Trent shoves Sue] Don't f**king touch me.
Trent: When I'm not here will you practice?

I am petitioning for NHL '95 tournament to go down in Vegas. Who is with me?

Free Taco

America is now eligible for a free taco from Taco Bell on October 30, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (local time) thanks to Jacoby Ellsbury's steal in the fourth inning of tonight's World Series game.

The free taco comes from the promotion "steal a base, steal a taco" by Taco Bell.

So go get your taco on, during a day that Southern Californians dub "taco tuesday," and hang out at vomit-smelling bars like Rockin' Taco in Fullerton.

Personally I have been staying away from fast food joints all together; I do not know, trying to eat healthy or something, yes call me a wuss bag. But the beer is never leaving me!

This intrigues me though because a Red Sox player made it possible for the free taco. I may have to pick on up at Taco Bell and find a transplant Boston fan and throw it in his face. "In Da Face!"

That would be wicked pissah.

What Are We Talking About?

We are talking about practice! Practice man. Practice.

I guess Allen Iverson had a reason why he does not like to practice, as he suffered a quadriceps contusion in practice Wednesday when he collided with teammate Steven Hunter.

And isn't it a coincidence that Hunter had previously spent the last two seasons with the Philadelphia76ers?

Here is the rant Iverson had about practice when he was with the 76ers:

How the hell can I make my teammates better by practicing?!?!

Well for one Mr. Iverson you can be in a scrimmage situation with your teammates and find out their strengths and weaknesses on the floor. Or how fast they are on the floor. Or if you will need to bring defensive help due to a teammate's shortcomings. Or you can learn the set plays.

You get my point. Anyway, this subject has been beaten to the ground like Mickey O'Neill did Gorgeous George (from Snatch).

All I want is another rant by Iverson about practice. If I had a press pass for the Denver Nuggets I would no doubt push his buttons if he misses practice because of the injury.

Did You Know?

This week's edition brings you a "Did you know?" regarding Peyton Manning and Tom Brady (who sadly have become good friends).

Manning and Brady both have a chance to make history with the same feat this coming Sunday in their respective games. Both players can become the first QBs to beat 31 NFL teams, something Brett Favre has yet to accomplish. (Side note: although Favre does have a chance to join them if he beats Kansas City next week. Assuming Manning and Brady win.)

So you see, as much as we would like to look ahead to the Colts-Patriots matchup, we have a reason to watch both squads this weekend.

Does anyone else want to see Brady and Manning hate each other? I hate the fact that I love Manning but he does not hate Brady like I do. Kill, kill, kill.

World Series Game 1

Josh Beckett was at it again last night, pitching the Red Sox to another victory in the 2007 postseason.

Okay, maybe the rust was present in the Colorado lineup, but Boston is just clicking on all cylinders right now. Shoot, even Eric Gagne pitched a perfect inning last night.

They are coming through with hits when runners are in scoring position, fielding the ball well, and their pitching is lights out. It is quite sickening to watch this team hit double after double, scoring run after run. Even Julio Lugo could not be kept off the bases as we went 3-for-4 and had a walk.

The game was over by the fourth inning and should have been called after the fifth. It got so out of hand we even had a Alex Cora sighting.

All the game really was after the fifth was background eye noise, as music was turned up and attention away from the game.

Know doubt Boston fan thought that game was a "wicked pissah!" and will proclaim the series is over already.

Game was the anticlimatic that any non-Red Sox or Rockies baseball fans hate to watch. You want a competitive game to watch if your team is not in it.

Beckett is completely killing it in the playoffs. He dropped his career postseason ERA to 1.73, third on the all-time list for those with 70 or more innings. This year he has gone 4-0 with a 1.20 ERA while striking out 35 to issuing two walks. I need to write that again. In his four games this postseason, 35 have struck out against him, while only two have drawn a walk.

Was anyone else freaked out by Ashanti's hand during the seventh inning stretch? Her hand looked like the prosthetic hand of Happy Gilmore's golf coach, Apollo Creed Chubbs Peterson.

Game 2 tonight, 8PM ET.

Pat Riley Taking Antoine Walker's Plate Away

General Manager move of the year!

Okay it is not a done deal yet, but reports are out today that the Heat are dealing Antoine Walker and others to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Ricky Davis and Mark Blount.
*Update: Done Deal*


He did what I thought was the impossible, trade off the contract of Walker. I may have already been a fan of Pat Riley before this because of the Showtime Lakers, but he has just elevated himself further in my book.

How do you get a team to take this unmotivated, overpaid basketball player? Riley had called this guy out in the media for being out of shape a month ago, and now he found a taker. Genius.

I know it is not the a groundbreaking deal, or one that has glitz and glam to it. But the fact that the Miami Heat is on the verge of getting rid of Walker is godly.

More Fuel To The Fire

The media is at it again... adding more fuel to the Patriots fire.

In this edition, AskMen.com has left Tom Brady off of the Top 49 men of 2007 .

And guess who is #16 on the list? Peyton Manning.

You know why right? Manning is America's QB, and Brady is the arrogant boy that does not relate to the everyday man.

Manning was the lovable loser for years, and Brady was the winning QB under the guidance of Emperor Palpatine Bill Belichick. So in essence, Brady is Darth Vader.

Manning is in our living rooms everyday: jumping into our television screens every hour in a commercial. Some goofy, some serious. He was the goofy guy on Saturday Night Live: trying to sing and dance, and playing with children in the United Way spoof.

Brady? He is busy chasing supermodel tail and vacationing in Europe. Manning? Married to his high school sweetheart and goes to Mexico for cheap beer and nice sun.

I guess AskMen.com had a point.

But it does not make it any better that they left him off the list and had Manning rated so high.

Poor Brady is going to be staring at a picture of Manning in his locker while Emperor Palpatine rubs his head, "yes, yes... the dark side must prove its power over the force."

November 4.

Soccer Moms Are The Realness

As a kid I was looked at as the "golden foot" to my parents. The soccer kid who could make it to the World Cup. Nothing against my parents, because I had the same dream.

I wanted to be in the World Cup as well, but there is something about soccer that brings out the best of mothers.

You know what I am talking about. The mothers that yell at the top of their lungs for their child to prevail on the pitch, no matter the age.

My mother was guilty of it, and she knew it bothered me. That is the way it is around the world though. Things change with time, except the soccer mom that wants her child to dominate the field.

Do not get me wrong, I love my mother will all my heart. I understand it though, we all want to see our own win on the field. Shoot, I will probably be doing the same thing when I have children.

But if you smell what I am cooking then you know what a child goes through. The yelling, accompanied by the shaking of our own collective heads. You know what is going through your head, "Mom! Shut up, just let us play."

That is the passion. I could only imagine being a parent of a child that is on a professional sports team. Your heart beating every game that your child plays.

Let me get to my point. A soccer mom assaulted her daughter's coach after being left off an email list with the directions to the game.

That is the passion I am talking about. God bless the parents with passion.

It may make you shake your head one year, but all it shows is that they love you.

My mother changed so many lives through soccer. She took in kids with no light at the end of the tunnel and showed them there is always a brighter side of life. Those kids became adults and thanked her for saving their lives... keeping them from the wrong path in the fork in the road. This happens all over the world, because the same can be said about my Uncle Andy. Actually the list never ends, throw my Aunt Sandy on that list as well.

Sports changes lives more than we think.

I love you Mom, and will be visiting you in Texas soon.

Raise your glasses for the "soccer mom." But no assaults!

Good Morning

Normally I care about the format of my paragraphs against the picture I post, but today is different, it is Wednesday!

And you know what Wednesday means, it is "happy hump day!"

Monday through Friday, you are half way through the week. Two more days until the work week is over.

When anyone that comes up to you today and gives you the office cliche of the "happy hump day," you can smile because of First To Third.

This week I bring you Carmella DeCesare. This girl could be the weekly entry for a whole year with her beauty. Not only that, but her husband means a lot to mean as well.

Her husband is Jeff Garcia, starting quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the first string QB on my fantasy team. Many questioned the sexuality of Garcia early in his career, but this is his second Playmate model he has dated. The first one beat him up with a karate kick.

For little boy giggles you can google DeCesare and find her 2004 Playboy pictures on the Internet. No harm done, just appreciating beauty.

So DeCesare, I salute you for being the wife of NFL QB Jeff Garcia. You would not have made the "happy hump day" of First To Third if you were not married to a professional football player.

Jeff Garcia, you lucky man. More power to you, if you ever need a break I can fill in.

Here is to starting your day off right... Cheers.

World Series 2007

The 2007 Fall Classic is set to begin tomorrow evening at Fenway Park in Boston, with the Red Sox facing the Colorado Rockies.

So here it is. Wally the Green Monster v. Dinger. Soxtober v. Rocktober. AL. v. NL.
Personally I think the "Rocktober" slogan has a much better ring to it. Why does Boston have to copy?

As you may know by now, I am not a big fan of anything out of Boston. They have turned into monsters, not their players, but their fans (okay, some of their players).

Boston fans have essentially turned into what they hate, Yankees fans. But they have surpassed the Yankees fans in being more obnoxious, rude, and arrogant. Five years ago? I would have taken Red Sox fans over Yankees fans any day of the week.

Today, I would take Yankees and Dodgers fans in the same room with no way out, over three Red Sox fans in an empty stadium.

Oh yes, the World Series (I guess you can tell by now who I am rooting for).

The Rockies are coming off an eight-day layoff after their sweep of the Arizona Diamondbacks, while the Red Sox completed their series comeback versus the Cleveland Chokers Indians. Like I said in the past, I am not a fan of the long days off between games. I feel sorry for the Rockies.

The following are the pitching matchups for the first few games:

Josh Beckett v. Jeff Francis
Curt Schilling v. Ubaldo Jimenez
Daisuke Matsuzaka v. Josh Fogg
Josh Beckett v. Aaron Cook

The Red Sox have to love their chances with Beckett potentially starting three games in a seven game series (due to the fact that Tim Wakefield is not on the World Series roster). But I like the game 4 pitcher of Cook pitching against Beckett, saving Francis for game 5.

The sports nation outside of Colorado is giving the Rockies no chance at winning this series, and based on what we saw in last year's World Series I do not blame them. Let me say this though, this Rockies team is not the same as the Detroit Tigers of yesteryear that lost to the St. Louis Cardinals after their long layoff.

The Tigers were still the favorites going into the series even though they had a seven-day layoff. The Rockies would still be the underdogs even if they had won their NLCS matchup in seven games. It is always a dangerous thing to place a chip on the shoulder of a talented team.

These Rockies fought their way into the playoffs and they will be the first to tell you that they are not done.

Do not believe the hype, this series is going six or seven games.

My breakdowns:

Batting lineup
Boston has the two big bats of Ortiz and Ramirez, with Lowell capable of cleaning it up. And Colorado has five guys that hit 90+ RBIs during the season. The patience of the Red Sox gives them the edge. Red Sox.

Starting pitching
Boston has a veteran, playoff battled pitcher in Schilling, and a young playoff stud on a tear in Beckett. Colorado has a nifty lefthander in Francis and a hard-throwing young cat in Jimenez. It will be interesting to see how Aaron Cook pitches in his first postseason appearance this year. Based on the way Beckett is dealing I have to go with Boston. Red Sox

Bullpen
I know what you are thinking, Boston by far. But hold on Voltaire. The Rockies made their miraculous run into, and through the playoffs thanks to its bullpen play over the last month. As hot as they are, there is no denying their effectiveness. Rockies.

Intangibles
Yes, the Rockies are going in with eight days off, but like I said, they have a different makeup. Every night they have a new hero emerge during their current run. And that is a real intangible. Boston mystique, blah, blah. Rockies.

Mascots
On one hand you have a purple dinosaur representing the Rockies, and on the other you have a "Green Monster" representing a green monster wall. Although Dinger the dinosaur has a girlie purple color, I say he can beat up the Green Monster of Boston. Plus, Wally the Green Monster would not come down to my seats to face off against me when he was in Anaheim for game 3 of the ALDS. I called him down and he walked away. Coward. Rockies

With my heart I am picking the Rockies in seven.
With my head I am picking the Red Sox in six.

Normally I do not want the NL team to win it all unless there is a certain AL team in the World Series. Yes, you guessed it, that team is the Red Sox.

Go Rockies!

What Patriots' Fans Lack

A sense of humor. The following occurred last night in the Colts-Jaguars Monday night football game, and I must say the guy is hilarious.



At first he acts like he is non-chalant about being on camera, and then bam! He pulls out a premade prop for all the world to see.

The reason I picked on the Pats fans is because KSK wrote a genius article about how to be an insufferable a**hole s***head f**kface fan of Boston-area sports teams . I agree with everything that is in the article and could have contributed to it as well.

I am jealous that I did not think about writing that before them, but I have to give them their proper due.

Setting Up For November 4

NFL week 7 officially ended this evening, with Peyton Manning and the Colts defeating their divisional foe Jacksonville Jaguars, 29-7. The Colts have started the season 6-0 for the third straight season.

There were questions on whether the Colts would be able to stop the Jaguars ground game that ran all over them last year in a 44-17 win for the Jags. I think the Colts responded well, holding the Jaguars to 117 rushing yards and one touchdown.

If the Colts beat the Panthers, and the Patriots beat the Redskins in week 8, it will set up a big AFC game of two undefeated teams. The Pats are being tagged as the team to beat, while the Colts are looking to get respect as the defending Super Bowl champs.

The win for the Colts sets a blueprint that is all too familiar in the AFC South: chasing the Colts. Indianapolis dominated this contest, in a game deemed to be a measuring stick for Jacksonville and how close they are to the Colts.

Tony Dungy said the 2007 version of the Colts are better and faster than the 2006 version, and I believe him.

Bob Sanders is a beast. Last year, Sanders was sorely missed by the Colts defense for much of the season and we saw his impact in the playoffs. He came up with huge tackles, pass deflections, and one interception against the Jaguars.

November 4, mark you calendars. You are going to want to watch the game with me on that day, I promise.

As for my week 7 picks... I have had better weeks.

Week 7 record: 8-6
Overall record (started in week 3): 41-30

College football side note: I have to apologize to the UCLA Bruins for picking Cal to dismantle them. I doubted the Bruins mainly because Patrick Cowan was not starting the game. To my surprise he did, and helped the Bruins keep their undefeated conference record intact. It was a great game largely in part because I was there. College football games are the best to attend so get your butt to a game near you.

Hope Solo, You Win

Greg Ryan is no longer the US Women's soccer head coach today, after a World Cup loss in the semifinals and a controversial goalkeeping decision.

He should have been fired before the third place match ion the World Cup. Once the decision was mad to bench Solo and they lost I told you her would be fired.

Ryan is probably a Star Trek junkie, and wanted to bench Solo to put down the Star Wars fans by sitting a goalkeeper that is strong with the force.

He only had one loss in his tenure since 2005, but he clearly made the wrong choice in a big game.

Ryan has one saving grace in that he coaches in a country that does not follow soccer like the rest of the world, or else he would have had to move the other side of the world.

Do not fret Ryan, you can always attend the Star Trek conventions as "the man who dissed the force."

I Blame Red Sox Nation

Colorado Rockies fans are irate today over the internet sales of World Series tickets.

The ticket sales had to be suspended due a failure of the computer system. Many fans secured tickets in the system but were unable to go through the checkout process.

That has to be the worst feeling ever. Bad enough you have to sit on your computer in a panic; clicking away, heart pounding, and mind racing (I guess I have gone through it before). And it all comes crashing down when you get an "error" screen.

It has to be Red Sox nation hacking into the system and directing those from the Colorado area to the error screen. Expect to see 20,000 Red Sox fans at Coors Field when the series shifts to Colorado.

The Red Sox fans will no doubt get their tickets from season ticket holders of the Rockies. I saw this first hand with the Angels.

Outside the stadium a gentleman started talking to me and later revealed that he was a Red Sox fan. He was not wearing any Red Sox gear, saying he did not want to disrespect, so I just continued to talk to this man from Vegas. We talked for a few more minutes and told me he bought his tickets off of an Angels season ticket holder. He then had the audacity to ask if we had a good following here. Was that a real question, or sarcasm?

Poor Colorado, you do not know what you have to deal with. Good luck, do not take any crap.

The Angels playoff tickets were a mess as well. The computer systems did not crash, but you had to win in the "playoff lottery" for a chance to guy tickets. Luckily I had season tickets or else I would have flipped my noodle.

Go Dinger.

Week 7 Almost Over

I normally give my summary of the NFL week after the Monday night game, but this week is different because the Indianapolis Colts are playing at the Jacksonville Jaguars today. They get their own post.

The media's favorite team, New England Patriots, dismantled the Miami Dolphins. Tom Brady, you heard about this guy right? Well, he threw 6 TDs on Sunday and is on pace to throw 62 on the year. The backup QB for the Patriots scared Bill Belichick and had to send Brady back into the game in the middle of the fourth quarter.

Brady immediately went back in after Matt Cassell threw an interception that was returned for a TD and cut the deficit to a mere 21 points. How did Brady respond? With an "eff you" TD to make the score 49-21.

The sad part in the game? Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown went down with a knee injury and looks like he will be out for the rest of the season. He was the only bright spot for the Dolphins this year, and more importantly, he was my main man on my fantasy football team. Goodbye fantasy football season.

Even my favorite lounge singer, Phil Shane, knows what important event that is occuring on November 4. Colts v. Patriots.

Quick shots:
Willis McGahee returned to Buffalo and his team lost. Jeff Garcia fumbled the game away to the Lions. Saints win the suck-off fest against the Falcons. Giants have one five in a row. The Redskins squeezed by the Cardinals (Neil Rackers missed a FG as time expired; thanks Rackers, you cost me points). Rob Bironas can kick FGs; he kicked a record 8 FGs to lead the Titans to victory. The Bengals won a game (thank the Jets)! The Chiefs are in first place in the AFC West after winning a close game with the Raiders (ninth straight over them). Dallas got a boost from their special teams to help them over the Vikings. St. Louis joined Miami at 0-7. The Broncos almost gave the game back to the Steelers before kicking getting a game-winning FG as time expired.

And the Chicago Bears-Philadelphia Eagles matchup.
Brian Griese is trying to make sure Rex Grossman stays on the bench, as he guided the Bears from their own 3-yard line on their final drive for a TD to take a 19-16 lead with nine seconds left.

The interesting part? Griese called all but one of the plays on the final drive because the audio in his helmet was not working. Take that Grossman.

Be sure to catch tonight's game. Week 7 picks record coming tomorrow (about .500 on the week, ugh).

Cleveland Rocks Chokes!

Well, the Cleveland Indians completed their choke job last night by losing game 7 at Fenway Park, after holding a 3-1 series edge.

Granted, the Red Sox played well, but it comes down to Cleveland giving the series away. 3-1 series lead and all they had to do is win one game out of three. Their two aces were pitching games 5 & 6, and they came up short.

Travis "Pronk" Hafner what happened to your bat? You are the DH and cannot go 1-for-19 in the final five games of the ALCS. This young team either ran out of gas at the wrong time, or they got ahead of themselves with a 3-1 series lead.

I hope it is the latter because you have to man up and bring your game to take your team to the World Series. Actually, both reasons are unacceptable, but they happen. Just ask Tracy McGrady.

The Indians had a great season and may be there again next year, but you never know. A long season and injuries can make anything crazy happen. This may have been their only shot, and that is not good news for Kenny Lofton. Another lost chance at his first ring.

World Series predictions coming tomorrow.

In the mean time, enjoy this classic sound bite from Major League which includes an "F" bomb from Pedro Cerrano: You no help me now. I do it myself.

Three dreams broken for me in these MLB playoffs: the Philly Phanatic getting his spotlight in the playoffs, the Angels getting to the World Series, and the chance to hear, "the Indians win it, the Indians win it. Oh my God! The Indians win it! AHuhhahamwahaha!"

Dallas Cowboys Haters

Dallas Cowboys haters, keep reading. And that can also apply to Texas Rangers fans as well, but who watches them in the first place?

A 14-acre property between the new Cowboys' stadium and the Rangers stadium is being demolished to make way for a new development. What is currently on the property? Stonegate Pines. It is a mobile home park that is being removed, forcing the residents off the property.

They have until November 16 to find a new place to live and will not be financially compensated for their move.

Moving a mobile home costs a few thousand dollars or more, depending on distance, size of the home, etc. I know things like this happen all the time around the world, but it always sucks to hear about it.

There is a RV park about a mile from my house and was closed down about a year ago. I remember reading an article about the residents who lived there for several years and were shocked when they were told they had 30 days to move.

The 30 days passed and the RV park was empty. Demolish the park and build something new, right?

Wrong. The land was used to open a new RV park. Huh? Yes, you read that right. People were forced to move out of an RV park, for a new RV park.

Weird stuff. Maybe I just do not know about RV parks, but that is bizarre.

Anyway, you can continue to hate the Cowboys now. The residents that have to move out are definitely on the top of the Cowboys haters list.

Press Conference Gems

For you to relax in the final hours of your work week:

Chicago Cubs manager Lee Elia tirade about Cubs fans in which he drops the "F" bomb like crazy in 1983. Turn down the volume or throw on the head phones if you are at work. At home, turn it up!


Colorado football coach Dan Hawkins talking about the players break, and the anonymous letter he received from a parent. "Go play intermurals brother, go play intermurals."


Former Temple coach John Chaney wants to kick former UMass coach John Calipari's ass, and I believe him. Problem is it has not happened yet, come on Chaney, you promised.


Kansas City Royals manager Hal McRae goes nuts in 1993. I love the guy at the :57 mark, classic look on his face. I wonder how the next day went when they wanted to talk to McRae, awkward.


This one is not a press conference, but is the best ejection from a baseball game, ever. It is Mississippi Braves manager Phillip Wellman setting a new bar for antics following an ejection. At the 2:05 mark you can see the second baseman smiling, who wouldn't?


A gem I know you have seen, but it never gets old. Whether it be the original or in a Coors Light commercial. Dennis Green and the Cardinals knew who the Chicago Bears were and they let them off the hook. God I love the back of his head.


There are plenty that I know I left off, but do not want to take up the whole page with videos. My apologies to the following: Jim Mora, Herm Edwards, Mike Gundy, and the master of the press conference, Bobby Knight.
Enjoy, and feel free to tell me your favorites that I left off in the comments section. Have a happy Friday afternoon.

And Then There Were Five

University of South Florida and their pretty fans are heartbroken today after being upset by Rutgers last night, 30-27. (Mental note to self: get to more college football games! I need a seat next to her.)

It is not fun to be at the top of the college football rankings this year, as the Bulls continued the trend of top-10 teams losing to unranked teams this year. Look for the Bulls to drop out of the top-10 in the BCS rankings.

There are still five undefeated teams in college football (BCS rankings in parentheses): Ohio State (1), Boston College (3), Arizona State (8), Kansas (13) , and Hawaii (18).

The parody in college football has made for an exciting season so far this year. I say Ohio State loses to Penn State, or dare I say, Michigan? Hold me to that.

Games to watch:

Auburn @ LSU. #17 Auburn v. #4 LSU in an SEC matchup. Both teams are 3-1 in conference play this season. ESPN, 9:00 PM ET.

Florida @ Kentucky. Another SEC matchup #15 v. #7. Kentucky has a 20-game losing streak to Florida. CBS, 12:30 PM ET.

USC @ Notre Dame. Oh wait, there is no hype going into this game? What is that I hear? The bandwagon SC fans looking for their next wagon to hop on? Yes, yes. Run, run. SC is losing at least two more games this season. Bore yourself at 12:30 PM ET on NBC.

Cal @ UCLA. Ah, I kid, I kid. This is going to be a laugher. McLeod Bethel-Thompson will probably get the start at QB for the Bruins; close your eyes during this one kids. He threw four interceptions when they played Notre Dame two weeks ago. UCLA, say goodbye to that undefeated conference record. ABC, 12:30 PM ET.

So have your remote in hand because there are plenty of games to watch at the same time. That or get the cute bartender girl to reach up and change the channel (note: attire of the girl must include a skirt).

Dealing...

It is never a bad thing to have Josh Beckett pitching for your team in the postseason.

Beckett pitched eight innings of one-run ball last night, helping the Boston Red Sox win game 5 and move the series back to Boston in hopes of extending the series to game 7.

Beckett improved to 3-0 in the this postseason and dropped his ERA to 1.17. He now has a career playoff record of 5-2 with a 1.78 ERA.

Like I said after his ALDS start, you can put the AL, NL, and Japanese all-stars in the batter's box and they still would not manage more than one run off the guy. If, and I really mean if, the Red Sox somehow win this series, Beckett is the sure-fire MVP of the ALCS.

But, that of course will not happen because I picked the Cleveland Indians to win in seven games.

There was some drama in this game of course:

· Beckett did not take kindly to Kenny Lofton flipping his bat, after what Lofton thought was ball four. Beckett got Lofton to fly out on the next pitch and yelled something at him as he ran to first base. Lofton chirped back and jogged towards the mound after the ball was caught. No punches were thrown and Beckett continued to dominate the Indians. Respect your elders Beckett.

· Manny Ramirez was up to being Manny again. He turned a near home run into a 390-foot single because he was slow to get out of the box. Well at least you looked good getting that single Man Ram. To his credit it was a mere inches from being a home run, but that still does not excuse him from trotting around the bases, or base in this case.

· Another Manny being Manny? Why yes of course. In the first inning, Manny tried to score from second base in the first inning on a single to right field. Indians' right fielder Franklin Gutierrez gathered the ball and threw home, but the throw was high to catcher Victor Martinez. The good thing for the Indians was that Manny was running the bases, because instead of sliding home, he came in standing up and was tagged out by Martinez. Weird dude.

Game 6 will be tomorrow, Schilling v. Carmona.
No word yet on whether Schilling will bring his red Sharpie marker for his sock.

Joe Torre Out

Joe Torre will officially be out of a Yankees uniform, as he turned down a one-year $5 million contract that included a possible $3 million in bonuses, and a $8 million option in 2009 if the Yankees won the AL pennant.

This has to be a pride thing for Torre. At $5 million, he still would have been the highest paid manager in the bigs, and probably would have made it $6 million since the Yankees have reached the playoffs for 12 straight years. Not only that, I think the Yankees wanted to save face by offering Torre a contract he would not accept.

The contract negotiations could have gone on for a couple of days but instead, they offered, he declined, thank you for the great years. Who would want to be in Torre's situation anyway?

He led the Yankees to 12 straight postseason appearances and four World Series championships, yet faced scrutiny from George Steinbrenner on the daily. Why would Torre take a one-year deal after all the years he put into the Yankees?

Basically that is telling Torre, "you better perform in 2008 or you will be out of here." Why would Torre want to go through a full season with that hanging over his head? The worst part about this whole thing is that Steinbrenner gave Torre an ultimatum during the ALDS. That is no way to treat a manager.

Some say that the door is still open for Torre to return, but I doubt that will happen.

Those considered to be the top candidates to replace Torre:
Don Mattingly, Joe Girardi, and Tony La Russa.

Stay tuned for more.

Nice move by the Yankees though: keeping the attention on them on the day that the Boston Red Sox can be eliminated in the ALCS. Touché.

Game 5, ALCS 8 p.m. ET on FOX.
The ex-girlfriend of Red Sox starting pitcher Josh Beckett, Danielle Peck, will be singing the national anthem at tonight's game. No word yet on whether she will give him a kiss of death before he pitches tonight. Double touché.

NFL Week 7 Picks

Let me try this again....

It is time, it is time my friends. Week 7 NFL picks, the fifth installment of weekly picks in the NFL season by First to Third (started in week 3).

Games of the week:
Kansas City v. Oakland - With San Diego looking like they are ready to act like the 14-2 team they are, this game is important for the these AFC West squads to stay close to the Chargers in the standings.

Houston v. Tennessee - Why is this game important you ask? Same reason as above. If either of these teams want a chance in the AFC South then they must win their division matchups. Sure, they are chasing Indianapolis and Jacksonville, but you never know what might happen.

Indianapolis v. Jacksonville - 5-0 v. 4-1. AFC South matchup. Monday night football. Last time they met the Jaguars ran all over the Colts. This is the big daddy of the games this week.

Now onto the picks:

Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills - Kyle Boller will start for the Ravens and they are 2-0 in his starts this year. Willis McGahee will return to Buffalo to face his former team and try to make a statement. Baltimore.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Detroit Lions - Both running games are not great for these teams, leaving a lot of responsibility on the quarterbacks. Bucs QB Jeff Garcia has not thrown an interception this year (please do not let me jinx him, he is on my fantasy team) and that will be the difference in this game. He is more careful with the ball and will guide the Bucs to victory. Tampa Bay.

Tennesse Titans @ Houston Texans - One of my "games of the week" and it might not include a certain Madden '08 coverboy, Vince Young. I am banking on the fact that Young will not be playing in this game when I make this pick. If he did play I would have no problem picking the Titans. Houston.

New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins - My goodness. 6-0 v. 0-6. All I hope is that Ronnie Brown scores a pair of touchdowns on Sunday. Laurence Maroney, you are a wuss, play already. I remember when the Dolphins upset the Patriots in 2004, 29-28. I was at a Friday's enjoying a cold beverage with my girlfriend at the time. I was watching the game while she was talking my head off; I, of course nodded my head and wrinkled my eyebrows to show some interest in what she was saying. Needless to say, I had no problem dropping $100 on drinks that night after the game. I was happy. New England.

San Francisco 49ers @ New York Giants - The Giants are playing like they want to get the attention of NFL analysts, who were previously enamored with the Cowboys. Well, I think the Giants are making their case after winning four consecutive games following an 0-2 start. Brandon Jacobs, just get in the end zone once. New York.

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints - I am not ready to proclaim that the Saints offense is back, but last week was a start. Byron Leftwich will be the starting QB for Atlanta, but their offensive line will remain the same. That is a problem, especially with Leftwich starting. New Orleans.

Arizona Cardinals @ Washington Redskins - The Cardinals may be forced to start either Tim Rattay or Tim Hasselbeck in place of Kurt Warner; both Tim's cannot carry this squad over the Redskins. The good news? Tim Hasselbeck's wife, The View star Elizabeth Hasselbeck, took an early maternity leave in hopes of seeing her husband play football. Washington.

New York Jets @ Cincinnati Bengals - Ugh. Where is the option where I pick neither team? I like the Bengals offense better than the Jets. But my cousin Gabe's football team can throw up 30 points on the Bengals defense right now. I hate to pick them, but...Cincinnati.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders - The Chiefs were able to get some points on the board thanks largely to the aforementioned defense of the Bengals. This week they face the Raiders in Oakland. Raiders running back LaMont Jordan is going to have a good game, I can just feel it. Oakland.

Minnesota Vikings @ Dallas Cowboys - Adrian Peterson will face a tough Dallas run defense. Dallas running backs will face a tough Minnesota run defense. Vikings QB Tavaris Jackson cannot throw like Cowboys QB Tony Romo. Dallas.

Chicago Bears @ Philadelphia Eagles - If Chicago wants a chance to compete in this game, they better have figured out what is wrong with their run defense. Both teams have been inconsistent this year so this can be anyone's game. Chunky soup... wait Brian Urlacher also endorses the stuff; well Donovan McNabb is better than Brian Griese. Philadelphia.

St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks - Rams QB Marc Bulger and his broken ribs will be playing this Sunday to try and break a six-game losing streak for the Rams. The Seahawks have been horrible as of late. I think the Dolphins need company at 0-7. Seattle.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos - The Steelers are getting some offensive firepower back this week following a bye week. Flying under the radar so far, the Steelers are 4-1 coming into this matchup, looking to stay in the hunt for the best record in the AFC. Pittsburgh.

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars - DO NOT MISS THIS GAME. It will be as good as advertised, wait, this isn't the "showdown in Dallas"? Who cares then? Trust me. This will be a great game between the AFC South rivals. The Jags have won four straight, while the Colts are coming off a much needed bye week. Expect the Colts to have Joseph Addai, Marvin Harrison, and Bob Sanders back this week. Indianapolis.

Week 6 record: 9-4
Overall record (started in week 3): 33-24

Enjoy your Sunday football, and do not forgot to catch Cal beating up on UCLA on Saturday.