Jim Boeheim attempted to put what many see as his Carrier Dome-sized control over all things on this campus in perspective.
"There's a misconception," the Syracuse men's basketball coach said. "Maybe I can clear things up."
The comments came Tuesday, minutes after the Orange had played their first game -- an 84-48 victory over Eastern Michigan -- minus associate head coach Bernie Fine, who was fired Sunday amid child molestation allegations. Boeheim, who displayed his defiant side on occasion in the nearly 20 minute-long news conference, said he has so little sway that he was never consulted about the school's move to the Atlantic Coast Conference or when the athletic director and school chancellor were hired.
"I have say on who starts and which players play," Boeheim continued. "My assistants work for me, and I have absolute say on everything they do in the basketball program. What people do outside the program, I have very little control (over). To make my point, I think there's a misconception that since he's been here for 36 years, he's bigger than the program."
It's what Fine -- who was an assistant during the entirety of Boeheim's tenure here -- did outside of his sights that has the only head coach to lead the Orange to a national title in the tournament era on at least a lukewarm seat. Instead of a fiery Boeheim, who called the first two men who accused Fine of sexual misconduct nearly two weeks ago liars, Tuesday's news conference saw a resolute coach read in a statement that he "can't add anything to (the investigation) by speaking more about it now."
Reporters, however, did their best to pry some info from Boeheim, who referred back to the statement, even raising it and waving it for everybody to see.
One nugget emerged during Boeheim's chat with reporters: Ball boys -- the first two accusers were ball boys when the alleged abuse occurred -- don't travel with the team, ever. (Boeheim estimated there have been 1,500 ball boys/girls during his time at the school.) Bobby Davis, the first to make the accusations, told ESPN that he slept in the same bed as Fine when some of the instances of molestation took place.
Local and federal authorizes are investigating the accusations, although prosecution could be hindered by the statute of limitations.
"There (are) no ball boys who travel with the team," Boeheim said. "People who have been ball boys have moved on and done other things. It's not unusual for those people to travel during tournament time. Not ball boys."
He expressed regret for calling the first two accusers -- Davis and his stepbrother Mike Lang -- liars who were seeking a settlement.
"I supported a friend. That's what I thought I did," Boeheim said. "If you have worked 36 years, known him for 48 years and went to school with him, you owe a debt of allegiance. That's what my reaction was."
Beyond the fans showing their support at the Carrier Dome, his players also had Boeheim's back.
"We are going stand by him, just like he'd stand by us in any situation," Syracuse forward Kris Joseph said. "That's how it's going to be from now and forever. I know if I ever needed anything in the future, I could always come back here and ask anything of the coaches."
None of the players interviewed after the game said they have had any contact with Fine since he was put on administrative leave on Nov. 17; Boeheim refused to say whether he had any conversations with Fine while Fine was on leave or since he was fired.
"I was kind of shocked," Syracuse guard Dion Waiters said. "At the end of the day, everybody is taking responsibility and trying to get everything together. We can't do anything about it but go out and play basketball."
The Orange improved to 7-0 with Tuesday's victory and are ranked fourth in the AP Top 25 poll. The players tried to steer every question back to the team, which is one of Syracuse's most talented since the Carmelo Anthony-led 2002-03 squad that won it all. Not a bad idea when the team is set to face No. 10 Florida on Friday.
"It's been crazy, but the only thing you can do is focus on basketball," Waiters said. "It's about us as a team. Something like this only brings us together, and we have each other's backs. That's what we try to do."
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Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Lakers targeting Paul and Howard?
Photo by Getty Images
Former LA Times Lakers reporter, Mark Heisler, now works over at Sheridanhoops.com
In a recent column he explains that the Lakers didn?t get such a bad deal after all. In regards to the new CBA that the players and owners have agreed to.
Heisler points out that the NBA did not get a full ban on sign-and-trades. With that being said it gives the Lakers room to work with their fortune and still sign big time Free Agents.
When the NBA couldn?t get a full ban on sign-and-trades, it left his Lakers in position to pull off a coup they?re dreaming of, which would make signing LeBron James pale�by comparison.
If Dwight Howard and Chris Paul wind up on the market ? a safe assumption as far as I?m concerned ? the Lakers could offer Andrew Bynum for Dwight and Pau Gasol for CP3, or vice versa.
Nothing says that they will be enough to land either player, but it should put the Lakers in the running for both.
(Oh, and Dwight likes the Lakers. Asked which All-Star he would most like to play with last season, he answered ?Kobe Bryant.?)
It would seem that landing both guys would be a pipe dream. One or the other may be more realistic.
Would you rather have Dwight Howard or Chris Paul? More importantly who are you willing to give up to attain one or the other?
Comment below!
Former LA Times Lakers reporter, Mark Heisler, now works over at Sheridanhoops.com
In a recent column he explains that the Lakers didn?t get such a bad deal after all. In regards to the new CBA that the players and owners have agreed to.
Heisler points out that the NBA did not get a full ban on sign-and-trades. With that being said it gives the Lakers room to work with their fortune and still sign big time Free Agents.
When the NBA couldn?t get a full ban on sign-and-trades, it left his Lakers in position to pull off a coup they?re dreaming of, which would make signing LeBron James pale�by comparison.
If Dwight Howard and Chris Paul wind up on the market ? a safe assumption as far as I?m concerned ? the Lakers could offer Andrew Bynum for Dwight and Pau Gasol for CP3, or vice versa.
Nothing says that they will be enough to land either player, but it should put the Lakers in the running for both.
(Oh, and Dwight likes the Lakers. Asked which All-Star he would most like to play with last season, he answered ?Kobe Bryant.?)
It would seem that landing both guys would be a pipe dream. One or the other may be more realistic.
Would you rather have Dwight Howard or Chris Paul? More importantly who are you willing to give up to attain one or the other?
Comment below!
Kurt Busch isn't a fan of Dr. Jerry Punch
((ht: usatoday))Okay. Then there is this.It appears, at least on video that either Kurt Busch doesn't care for ESPN NASCAR pit reporter Dr. Jerry Punch...or he is agitated that he's having to wait for the director to call for their live interview during Sunday's broadcast of the Homestead race.The original story from USA Today RIGHT HEREIn this video you can hear Busch asking someone to get this...#$%^! out of my face among other things.It should be noted, Busch had just been forced out of the race with transmission issues.It's not really safe for work, but interesting never the less and we might add, apparently, Punch walked away.Here's the video from bakerskating88:
Vikings place four players on IR
The Minnesota Vikings placed four players on season-ending injured reserve Tuesday.
Wide receiver Michael Jenkins, long snapper Cullen Loeffler, and safeties Husain Abdullah and Tyrell Johnson were all lost due to injuries.
Jenkins has a knee injury, Loeffler broke a bone in his back, Abdullah suffered a concussion and Johnson has a right hamstring strain.
The team signed wide receiver Stephen Burton, long snapper Matt Katula, and safeties Jarrad Page and Andrew Sendejo to take the vacated roster spots.
The Vikings have dropped three straight games to fall to 2-9 on the season. They host Denver on Sunday.
Wide receiver Michael Jenkins, long snapper Cullen Loeffler, and safeties Husain Abdullah and Tyrell Johnson were all lost due to injuries.
Jenkins has a knee injury, Loeffler broke a bone in his back, Abdullah suffered a concussion and Johnson has a right hamstring strain.
The team signed wide receiver Stephen Burton, long snapper Matt Katula, and safeties Jarrad Page and Andrew Sendejo to take the vacated roster spots.
The Vikings have dropped three straight games to fall to 2-9 on the season. They host Denver on Sunday.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/vikings_place_four_players_on_ir/8407000
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Beckham: Manchester City has no chance
David Beckham believes Manchester City have no chance of winning the Premier League title this season.
Roberto Mancini's expensively-assembled side currently sit top of the table, five points clear after 13 games. Yet former Manchester United favourite Beckham insists his old side will overhaul their neighbours.
"I don't think Manchester City have a chance," the former England captain, currently in Indonesia for the Los Angeles Galaxy's Asian tour, reportedly told local media.
"This season they have got a good team and have some good players, but Manchester United have more experience and know how to win a championship."
Beckham, linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain as he considers his future, admitted he has "a big decision to make" but would not be drawn on his plans.
Roberto Mancini's expensively-assembled side currently sit top of the table, five points clear after 13 games. Yet former Manchester United favourite Beckham insists his old side will overhaul their neighbours.
"I don't think Manchester City have a chance," the former England captain, currently in Indonesia for the Los Angeles Galaxy's Asian tour, reportedly told local media.
"This season they have got a good team and have some good players, but Manchester United have more experience and know how to win a championship."
Beckham, linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain as he considers his future, admitted he has "a big decision to make" but would not be drawn on his plans.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/soccer/article_external/beckham_manchester_city_has_no_chance/8392024
2013 NFL Season Expectations from a Redskins Fan
The NFL season is far from over, but for Redskins fans the remainder of the season is futile.
Maybe the Skins will win another game or two, but they wont do any better than that. The playoffs are out of reach, and the 3-1 start makes the season all the more disappointing.
It is time for Redskins fans to start looking to next season, something we have become quite skilled at over the past decade.
Step one is the draft in which there are two routes the Redskins could conceivably take: address the overwhelming need at quarterback or draft the dominant receiver the Redskins have coveted for so long but never acquired.
The latter is certainly available. Justin Blackmon and Alshon Jeffery are both highly skilled prospects who could have an immediate AJ Green-esque impact. However, it is almost unimaginable that the Redskins won't draft a quarterback; John Beck and Rex Grossman are truly that bad.
So, under the assumption that the Redskins will draft a quarterback, there is good and bad news.
The Good News: There will be plenty of good quarterbacks available when the Redskins pick.
The Bad News: Andrew Luck will not be available.
Andrew Luck would be the perfect pick for the Redskins, and while his future is still uncertain, it is very unlikely that he will end up in Washington.
But the Redskins should have a Top 10 pick, which means prospects like Matt Barkley and Robert Griffin III should be available. Although Griffin III has some undeniable upside, he also has some question marks and I have to believe that the Redskins will lean towards Barkley.
Although Barkley has not declared for the draft yet, and there is lots of speculation that he will not declare this season, let's assume that he does. If Matt Barkley is on the board when the Redskins pick, I cannot imagine that they will pass on him—he fits their need too much.
If Matt Barkley were added to the Redskins, what would the offense look like? Hopefully, they would have something that resembled a passing game. The offensive line is still a player or two away from being good, but that should be easy to address, especially for Shanahan.
The Redskins receivers aren't dominant, but they are certainly adequate. Fred Davis is emerging as a great target, even for Beck and Grossman. The running game has been good and only needs a passing game to continue to progress.
The defense has been inconsistent this year, but at times has looked excellent. Giving young studs like Kerrigan and Orakpo another season should only make the defense better. And while the defense certainly has room for improvement, there is also no glaring weakness that needs to be addressed. A player here or there through free agency or the draft could only help the defense.
One thing Redskins fans are always worried about is a free-agent spending spree, which involves a lot of money and a handful of players who are past their prime. This pattern appears to be gone thanks to GM Bruce Allen and coach Shanahan, but the the possibility is always there.
So what if the best case scenario pans out? What if the Redskins draft Barkley, some linemen, maybe a receiver and some defenders who can all contribute, and we don't overspend on former superstars in free agency?
If that happens, we should be significantly better. But what should we expect? Being competitive in our division would be a nice start. Although the Redskins usually find a way to play their division rivals close, they are certainly not competitive in the division. (They have one division win to date this season.)
I think .500 would be a good start. .500 in the division and .500 overall. .500 would certainly be a step in the right direction, and that would be a sight for sore eyes for Redskins fans.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/960594-2013-nfl-season-expectations-from-a-redskins-fan
Monday, November 28, 2011
A Few Q-School Players to Watch at Final Stage
The most brutal, grueling golf event of the year kicks off on Wednesday. No, not the U.S. Open or the British Open. Miles past the U.S. Amateur or a Ryder Cup. It's the final stage of PGA Tour Q-School, where dreams go to die, and six rounds take you from obscure or forgotten player to the big show. Here are a few players to watch that will tee it up at PGA West this week.
Rich Beem -- Hey, remember him?! He was the Beemer! He won a major! He beat Tiger Woods! He had a book written about him that he didn't really like! I do love the Beem though and would love to see him back out on the Tour.
Benoit Beisser -- The first time I ever played in a mini tour event, I was paired with Beisser. He had his mom in the cart, and told me and my dad to call him "Benoit" (pronounced Ben-Wa). He was 6-under through 17 holes, and I was the only player in the group that had a made a bogey, but Benoit hit his drive on 18 about 50 yards left of the fairways and made a double-bogey....
Rich Beem -- Hey, remember him?! He was the Beemer! He won a major! He beat Tiger Woods! He had a book written about him that he didn't really like! I do love the Beem though and would love to see him back out on the Tour.
Benoit Beisser -- The first time I ever played in a mini tour event, I was paired with Beisser. He had his mom in the cart, and told me and my dad to call him "Benoit" (pronounced Ben-Wa). He was 6-under through 17 holes, and I was the only player in the group that had a made a bogey, but Benoit hit his drive on 18 about 50 yards left of the fairways and made a double-bogey....
Pic to drive for F1 team Marussia next year
Charles Pic will drive for Marussia in Formula One next year, replacing Belgian driver Jerome d'Ambrosio.
Virgin Racing will be known as Marussia Virgin Racing next season. It announced on its website that the 21-year-old Frenchman will drive alongside Timo Glock of Germany.
D'Ambrosio drove with Glock at last weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix in the final race of the season. Neither scored a point during the entire F1 season.
Pic impressed during the young drivers' test held during the Abu Dhabi GP. He spent the past two seasons competing in the GP2 Series.
Moscow-based sports car manufacturer Marussia Motoring became Virgin Racing's controlling stakeholder last February.
Virgin Racing will be known as Marussia Virgin Racing next season. It announced on its website that the 21-year-old Frenchman will drive alongside Timo Glock of Germany.
D'Ambrosio drove with Glock at last weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix in the final race of the season. Neither scored a point during the entire F1 season.
Pic impressed during the young drivers' test held during the Abu Dhabi GP. He spent the past two seasons competing in the GP2 Series.
Moscow-based sports car manufacturer Marussia Motoring became Virgin Racing's controlling stakeholder last February.
French team chasing Beckham
David Beckham is reportedly on the verge of signing an eighteen month, eighteen million dollar deal to finish his career with Paris Saint-Germain of the French Ligue 1.
PSG’s Qatari ownership group have deep pockets and are ready to open them up for the high profile Beckham even as he comes off another season impacted by injury. Beckham has acknowledged he played the LA Galaxy’s MLS Cup final win with an injured leg.
While no deal has been officially announced, PSG president Nesser Al-Khelaifi has made it clear that Beckham will be opting for PSG over rival suitors Tottenham according to Britain’s DailyMail newspaper:
On Thursday Al-Khelaifi admitted that the decision for Beckham was ‘between Tottenham and PSG’, but it is understood the deal has since moved on in favour of a switch to France.
Signing Beckham will bring the Paris club instant global notoriety, accelerated merchandise sales, and a constant media presence. For Beckham it is a cha...
PSG’s Qatari ownership group have deep pockets and are ready to open them up for the high profile Beckham even as he comes off another season impacted by injury. Beckham has acknowledged he played the LA Galaxy’s MLS Cup final win with an injured leg.
While no deal has been officially announced, PSG president Nesser Al-Khelaifi has made it clear that Beckham will be opting for PSG over rival suitors Tottenham according to Britain’s DailyMail newspaper:
On Thursday Al-Khelaifi admitted that the decision for Beckham was ‘between Tottenham and PSG’, but it is understood the deal has since moved on in favour of a switch to France.
Signing Beckham will bring the Paris club instant global notoriety, accelerated merchandise sales, and a constant media presence. For Beckham it is a cha...
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Week 13 Waiver Wire: 3 Players Who Earned Their Way on Fantasy Rosters This Week
As we wind through the NFL season, the injuries continue to accumulate and as that happens, there are players that come up to replace them. There are a few players who stepped into starting roles this week that indicated they might be able to provide you sufficient fantasy production to serve as an emergency starter.
Caleb Hanie put together some good yards on the ground, accumulating 50 rushing yards, and that's likely not going to change. He added 254 yards and two touchdowns. He threw three picks today, but only two were his fault. He also added a touchdown pass. He did that against a fairly decent Oakland Raiders defense.
Depending on your scoring system, that means he would have earned you in the neighborhood of 19 points, which isn't too shabby. The rushing yards add up for QBs, though, and compensate for mediocre passing numbers.
TJ Yates
I guess if you are being technical, Yates didn't do much other than just play to get a spot on this list, but with one of the most potent offenses in the NFL at his disposal, you figure he's bound to be able to do something.
I'm sure he'll make a mistake here and there, but he has playmakers all over the place. If he can just get them the ball, they can do the work. Yates is probably available in every fantasy league in the world except for his dad's.
Johnny Knox
One thing you like to look at when it comes to new QBs is the receivers they play well with. Johnny Knox hasn't gotten much attention from Jay Cutler, but if today is any indication, Knox is going to be Hanie's out man. He had 145 receiving yards and a touchdown on the day.
Look for Knox to continue with some good production and perhaps get more than four receptions a week as he develops a relationship with the Bears' new starting QB.
What Should the New York Yankees Do With Ivan Nova?
We?re smack in the middle of trade speculation season so New York Yankees fans, blogs and beat writers have been tossing out a new trade idea every day it seems. Virtually no New York Yankee has been spared in these various trade proposals either. Robinson Cano? He was proposed in a package for Felix Hernandez. Jesus Montero? Some fans still just can?t wait to trade him away. Phil Hughes, A.J. Burnett? You would have thought that Phil Hughes didn?t post a 5.79 ERA in 74.2 innings and you would have thought that A.J. Burnett didn?t have $33 million left on his deal. And then there is Ivan Nova. After he emerged as the New York Yankees? No. 2 starter late in the season, you would have thought that the fans would have excused him from their trade speculation for a few months. Nope, apparently not. A few weeks ago, the fellas at NoMaas.org put it quite plainly: sell high on Ivan Nova. This got me thinking about Ivan Nova?s future with the New York Yan...
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Pens' LeTang nets OT winner vs. Habs
Kris Letang returned from being bloodied by a hit late in regulation to score 2:09 into overtime, giving the Pittsburgh Penguins a 4-3 win over the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday night.
Letang scored his third goal after James Neal poked the puck free from Carey Price as Pittsburgh improved to 3-0-1 since Sidney Crosby returned to the lineup.
Jordan Staal drew Pittsburgh even at 3 with 4:30 left in regulation. Staal drove in on Price after taking a pass from Evgeni Malkin and stickhandled to freeze the Montreal goalie before flipping a shot into the top left corner.
Crosby, who had three assists in Pittsburgh's 6-3 win over Ottawa on Friday, got his eighth point in four games back from concussion-like symptoms that sidelined him for the better part of 11 months with an assist on Evgeni Malkin's goal 21 seconds in.
Pascal Dupuis also scored for the Penguins. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 24 shots.
Max Pacioretty and Erik Cole each had a goal and an assist, and Travis Moen scored an unassisted goal for Montreal, which lost in Philadelphia on Friday. Carey Price made 38 saves.
Letang was bloodied by a hit by Pacioretty with 3:14 to go in the third. The Penguins defenseman was bleeding from the nose and had blood on his visor after he was run over by Pacioretty while following through on a slap shot inside the Montreal blue line. Guided by Matt Cooke and Pascal Dupuis as he skated off the ice to the dressing room, he returned for overtime. No penalty was called on the play.
Crosby picked up his sixth assist when Malkin scored during a delayed penalty call 21 seconds in. Malkin put the puck past Price for his eighth goal shortly after Crosby drove the net to draw a call against Canadiens defenseman Josh Gorges.
Crosby lost out on another assist 1:04 into the second after a goal awarded to Chris Kunitz was reversed by a video review, the first of two tallies denied to the Penguins forward during the game.
Crosby's contribution to Dupuis' goal late in the second didn't appear on the score sheet. The Penguins' captain was parked in front of Price when Dupuis drove a slap shot home for his sixth goal at 16:40.
Referee Mike Hasenfratz waved off a potential short-handed goal by Kunitz 3:57 into the third. Both Price and the puck ended up in the net after the Pittsburgh forward came into contact with the Canadiens goalie, who stopped Kunitz's shot on a breakaway.
Moen brought the stunned Bell Centre crowd of 21,273 back to life moments after Malkin's goal when he fired a shot past Fleury into the top right corner from the left faceoff circle.
Pacioretty gave Montreal a 2-1 lead with his team-leading 10th goal at 7:37.
Cole made it 3-1 with his seventh goal with 8:51 left in the second.
Notes: Malkin has eight points over the course of a four-game streak, including three goals and five assists. ... Canadiens RW Andrei Kostitsyn returned after missing 10 games because of a lower-body injury.
Letang scored his third goal after James Neal poked the puck free from Carey Price as Pittsburgh improved to 3-0-1 since Sidney Crosby returned to the lineup.
Jordan Staal drew Pittsburgh even at 3 with 4:30 left in regulation. Staal drove in on Price after taking a pass from Evgeni Malkin and stickhandled to freeze the Montreal goalie before flipping a shot into the top left corner.
Crosby, who had three assists in Pittsburgh's 6-3 win over Ottawa on Friday, got his eighth point in four games back from concussion-like symptoms that sidelined him for the better part of 11 months with an assist on Evgeni Malkin's goal 21 seconds in.
Pascal Dupuis also scored for the Penguins. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 24 shots.
Max Pacioretty and Erik Cole each had a goal and an assist, and Travis Moen scored an unassisted goal for Montreal, which lost in Philadelphia on Friday. Carey Price made 38 saves.
Letang was bloodied by a hit by Pacioretty with 3:14 to go in the third. The Penguins defenseman was bleeding from the nose and had blood on his visor after he was run over by Pacioretty while following through on a slap shot inside the Montreal blue line. Guided by Matt Cooke and Pascal Dupuis as he skated off the ice to the dressing room, he returned for overtime. No penalty was called on the play.
Crosby picked up his sixth assist when Malkin scored during a delayed penalty call 21 seconds in. Malkin put the puck past Price for his eighth goal shortly after Crosby drove the net to draw a call against Canadiens defenseman Josh Gorges.
Crosby lost out on another assist 1:04 into the second after a goal awarded to Chris Kunitz was reversed by a video review, the first of two tallies denied to the Penguins forward during the game.
Crosby's contribution to Dupuis' goal late in the second didn't appear on the score sheet. The Penguins' captain was parked in front of Price when Dupuis drove a slap shot home for his sixth goal at 16:40.
Referee Mike Hasenfratz waved off a potential short-handed goal by Kunitz 3:57 into the third. Both Price and the puck ended up in the net after the Pittsburgh forward came into contact with the Canadiens goalie, who stopped Kunitz's shot on a breakaway.
Moen brought the stunned Bell Centre crowd of 21,273 back to life moments after Malkin's goal when he fired a shot past Fleury into the top right corner from the left faceoff circle.
Pacioretty gave Montreal a 2-1 lead with his team-leading 10th goal at 7:37.
Cole made it 3-1 with his seventh goal with 8:51 left in the second.
Notes: Malkin has eight points over the course of a four-game streak, including three goals and five assists. ... Canadiens RW Andrei Kostitsyn returned after missing 10 games because of a lower-body injury.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nhl/article_external/pens_letang_nets_ot_winner_vs_habs/8344630
Could Gregor Blanco be the new Giants lead off hitter?
Center fielder Gregor Blanco signed with the San Francisco Giants last week (via CSNBayArea), and as a Venezuelan and a huge Blanco fan I couldn't help, but to think if he could be the lead off hitter the Giants are looking for.
Even though Blanco has only played three years in the Majors, and last season he hit .201/.350/.327 in 199 AB's for the Royals' and Nationals' Triple-A team. I believe he has the tools to become a solid lead off hitter for a Major League team.
This year in Venezuela Blanco is hitting .336/.486/.500 with 2 HR's, 8 doubles, 2 triples, 2 HR's and 13 RBI's in 110 AB's as a lead off hitter for Tiburones de la Guaira. In 2009, Blanco won the Final Series MVP in the Venezuelan Winter League. He also walked 30 times and stole 10 bases in 12 attempts.
In my opinion his offensive downsides could be his strikeout rate (28 this season), the fact that he strikes out looking way too much, and his lack of power. But besides that, he is an ou...
Even though Blanco has only played three years in the Majors, and last season he hit .201/.350/.327 in 199 AB's for the Royals' and Nationals' Triple-A team. I believe he has the tools to become a solid lead off hitter for a Major League team.
This year in Venezuela Blanco is hitting .336/.486/.500 with 2 HR's, 8 doubles, 2 triples, 2 HR's and 13 RBI's in 110 AB's as a lead off hitter for Tiburones de la Guaira. In 2009, Blanco won the Final Series MVP in the Venezuelan Winter League. He also walked 30 times and stole 10 bases in 12 attempts.
In my opinion his offensive downsides could be his strikeout rate (28 this season), the fact that he strikes out looking way too much, and his lack of power. But besides that, he is an ou...
Candid Cameron: A 9 million insurance policy
There were lots of reasons to keep Bruce Chen in Kansas City.
At least nine million of them.
Maybe more, in fact, since the Royals are bringing their popular lefty back into the fold with a two-year contract that guarantees him 9 million but could escalate to 11 million with performance bonuses.
Technically a free agent since the day after the World Series, Chen has said all along that he wanted to remain with the club if a deal could be worked out.
That part of the equation was pretty simple.
The other half begged some questions.
For instance: With the addition of left-hander Jonathan Sanchez and several homegrown prospects lining up for a spot in the rotation, why would GM Dayton Moore spend at least 9 million on a guy who has pitched for 10 teams and will turn 35 next June?
True enough, Chen has been the Royals' most reliable starter for the past two years.
Chen has won 12 games in back-to-back seasons, with earned run averages of 4.17 and 3.77 and against all odds, he appears to be getting better with age.
Ever since former Royals pitching coach Bob McClure encouraged a new, lower arm angle, Chen has routinely made big-league hitters look foolish despite putting the radar-gun operator to sleep.
Since velocity isn't an issue, maybe Chen's age doesn't matter. Perhaps he can keep on throwing strikes and getting quick outs.
But let's not kid ourselves here. This new contract is actually a 9 million insurance policy.
The Royals were 10th in total offense in MLB a year ago, and figure to get even better with an exciting lineup that doesn't feature a regular player over 27.
Moore has said all along that his young Royals would become championship contenders, and that the only question was: "When?"
Dayton hasn't ever come out and admitted that 2012 is probably a year or two early for all the pieces to fall into place, but his moves especially practicing patience with an army of terrific prospects more or less indicated that the club has been aiming at 2013.
My own suspicion, though, is that even Moore was startled by how good the kids looked down the stretch last year once the entire lineup had been brought to the big leagues.
If you start with that premise, then suddenly Dayton would have realized that a run at the AL Central title was at least a possiblity this coming season if only he could patch together a decent pitching staff.
There are plenty of thrilling arms in the system, but only Danny Duffy looked advanced enough at the end of 2011 to imagine him as winning starter.
Mike Montgomery, who may have the liveliest stuff in the organization, was supposed to be ready sometime last year but Monty lost his mechanics, threw too hard and wound up struggling at Omaha.
No one is quite sure when Montgomery will harness that electric assortment of pitches, to the point where the Royals can count on him in Kansas City.
There are other pitchers coming, too guys like John Lamb (who lost 2011 to surgery) and Jake Odorizzi.
But in the meantime, Moore looks at the candidates for his starting rotation and sees a lot of question marks.
Maybe Luke Hochevar really has found his stride and his ready to become a dominant winner in the bigs.
Maybe strikeout artist Sanchez can reprise 2010, when he had a 3.07 ERA with the Giants.
Maybe Felipe Paulino can harness those explosive pitches and turn into a guy who's not only tough to hit, but gives the Royals 200 hard-nosed innings.
Maybe, maybe.
Rookie reliever Aaron Crow, who failed as a started in the low minors two years ago but made the American League All-Star team as a reliever last season, will be given a chance to crack the rotation.
Ditto sinker specialist Luis Mendoza, perhaps the most efficient pitcher in all the minor leagues last year. Mendoza certainly looked the part in two outstanding September starts for the Royals.
Spring training is likely to be a bit like an audition for American Idol.
Crazy.
If Moore ever manages to sleep, he probably dreams of a pitching staff that is too good to accommodate Bruce Chen as anything more than a swingman perhaps a spot starter who also might become a relief specialist who can get out those tough left-handed hitters.
The Royals WANT a rotation that has too much talent for Chen.
But what they're building, and what they have now
Well, nobody knows quite when the kids will bring their overpowering stuff to the major leagues and when they'll understand how to pitch effectively for six long months.
In the meantime, Moore has to make sure he has a safety net in case the Royals are dramatically good on offense and defense but remain questionable enough on the mound that they need a savvy veteran to throw strikes, eat some innings and provide leadership in the clubhouse.
That role fits Chen like a tailored suit.
When fans look at all these breathtaking young players the Royals have brought to the big leagues, one thing they cannot see is how well they interact off the field.
The kids need role models, though, guys who know the game and are respected enough among their teammates to command attention.
The Royals have ideal chemistry with personalities like Jeff Francoeur, Joakim Soria and, yes, Bruce Chen.
Bottom line: Moore has spent this 9 million wisely, whether the Royals become contenders next year or the season after that.
When you close your eyes and actually picture a Royals championship team
Yes, you can see Chen in the team photo.
At least nine million of them.
Maybe more, in fact, since the Royals are bringing their popular lefty back into the fold with a two-year contract that guarantees him 9 million but could escalate to 11 million with performance bonuses.
Technically a free agent since the day after the World Series, Chen has said all along that he wanted to remain with the club if a deal could be worked out.
That part of the equation was pretty simple.
The other half begged some questions.
For instance: With the addition of left-hander Jonathan Sanchez and several homegrown prospects lining up for a spot in the rotation, why would GM Dayton Moore spend at least 9 million on a guy who has pitched for 10 teams and will turn 35 next June?
True enough, Chen has been the Royals' most reliable starter for the past two years.
Chen has won 12 games in back-to-back seasons, with earned run averages of 4.17 and 3.77 and against all odds, he appears to be getting better with age.
Ever since former Royals pitching coach Bob McClure encouraged a new, lower arm angle, Chen has routinely made big-league hitters look foolish despite putting the radar-gun operator to sleep.
Since velocity isn't an issue, maybe Chen's age doesn't matter. Perhaps he can keep on throwing strikes and getting quick outs.
But let's not kid ourselves here. This new contract is actually a 9 million insurance policy.
The Royals were 10th in total offense in MLB a year ago, and figure to get even better with an exciting lineup that doesn't feature a regular player over 27.
Moore has said all along that his young Royals would become championship contenders, and that the only question was: "When?"
Dayton hasn't ever come out and admitted that 2012 is probably a year or two early for all the pieces to fall into place, but his moves especially practicing patience with an army of terrific prospects more or less indicated that the club has been aiming at 2013.
My own suspicion, though, is that even Moore was startled by how good the kids looked down the stretch last year once the entire lineup had been brought to the big leagues.
If you start with that premise, then suddenly Dayton would have realized that a run at the AL Central title was at least a possiblity this coming season if only he could patch together a decent pitching staff.
There are plenty of thrilling arms in the system, but only Danny Duffy looked advanced enough at the end of 2011 to imagine him as winning starter.
Mike Montgomery, who may have the liveliest stuff in the organization, was supposed to be ready sometime last year but Monty lost his mechanics, threw too hard and wound up struggling at Omaha.
No one is quite sure when Montgomery will harness that electric assortment of pitches, to the point where the Royals can count on him in Kansas City.
There are other pitchers coming, too guys like John Lamb (who lost 2011 to surgery) and Jake Odorizzi.
But in the meantime, Moore looks at the candidates for his starting rotation and sees a lot of question marks.
Maybe Luke Hochevar really has found his stride and his ready to become a dominant winner in the bigs.
Maybe strikeout artist Sanchez can reprise 2010, when he had a 3.07 ERA with the Giants.
Maybe Felipe Paulino can harness those explosive pitches and turn into a guy who's not only tough to hit, but gives the Royals 200 hard-nosed innings.
Maybe, maybe.
Rookie reliever Aaron Crow, who failed as a started in the low minors two years ago but made the American League All-Star team as a reliever last season, will be given a chance to crack the rotation.
Ditto sinker specialist Luis Mendoza, perhaps the most efficient pitcher in all the minor leagues last year. Mendoza certainly looked the part in two outstanding September starts for the Royals.
Spring training is likely to be a bit like an audition for American Idol.
Crazy.
If Moore ever manages to sleep, he probably dreams of a pitching staff that is too good to accommodate Bruce Chen as anything more than a swingman perhaps a spot starter who also might become a relief specialist who can get out those tough left-handed hitters.
The Royals WANT a rotation that has too much talent for Chen.
But what they're building, and what they have now
Well, nobody knows quite when the kids will bring their overpowering stuff to the major leagues and when they'll understand how to pitch effectively for six long months.
In the meantime, Moore has to make sure he has a safety net in case the Royals are dramatically good on offense and defense but remain questionable enough on the mound that they need a savvy veteran to throw strikes, eat some innings and provide leadership in the clubhouse.
That role fits Chen like a tailored suit.
When fans look at all these breathtaking young players the Royals have brought to the big leagues, one thing they cannot see is how well they interact off the field.
The kids need role models, though, guys who know the game and are respected enough among their teammates to command attention.
The Royals have ideal chemistry with personalities like Jeff Francoeur, Joakim Soria and, yes, Bruce Chen.
Bottom line: Moore has spent this 9 million wisely, whether the Royals become contenders next year or the season after that.
When you close your eyes and actually picture a Royals championship team
Yes, you can see Chen in the team photo.
Friday, November 25, 2011
No. 11 Wisconsin too strong for Bradley
Everything looks better after a win, especially for a team still learning to play together.
Wisconsin went through a few rough patches, but guard Josh Gasser was looking on the bright side after the 11th-rankied Badgers pulled out a 66-43 victory over Bradley in the Chicago Invitational Challenge on Friday night.
''We kind of had a first-half lapse where they got a couple of easy buckets in transition and we got away from our defensive rules,'' he said. ''But that happens coming on the road for the first time against a good team.''
Gasser, Ryan Evans and Jordan Taylor scored 15 points apiece and center Jared Berggren grabbed 10 rebounds for the Badgers (5-0), who scored 18 points off turnovers. They'll face BYU in Saturday's championship at the suburban Chicago Sears Centre.
''Overall we played pretty well,'' Gasser said. ''We moved the ball well, we got good shots, we knocked them down when we needed to. And defensively we were solid all night. We weren't great, but we were good enough.''
Wisconsin never trailed in the teams' first meeting since 1989.
Taylor Brown scored 18 points for the Braves (3-2), who have dropped two straight.
Bradley had 17 turnovers and shot just 34 percent (18 of 53) from the field. Wisconsin hit 25 of 59 from the field (42.4 percent).
Wisconsin established a 10-2 lead as five different players scored in the first three minutes, 34 seconds. Bradley replied with Dyricus Simms-Edwards' three-pointer and Jordan Prosser's baseline drive to cut the lead to 10-7.
The Badgers then rattled off a 13-2 run, highlighted by back-to-back three pointers from Traevon Jackson and Ben Brust, and Taylor's steal and feed to Berggren for a jam and a 23-9 advantage.
A Bradley surge trimmed Wisconsin's lead to 30-22 with 1:33 left in the half, but Gasser and Taylor scored in the final minute to push the Badgers' lead to 34-24.
After the opening minute of the second half, the Badgers restored and maintained double-digit leads the rest of the way. Taylor's three-pointer with 4:34 to play opened a 64-41 lead, the largest of the night before reserves came in to wrap up play.
Bradley coach Geno Ford said his team had to contend with pressure it hadn't faced yet.
''You have to be patient and anticipate,'' he said. ''We had a few where guys were open on cuts and threw it too early, or the guy wasn't open and we just assumed that he would be.''
Despite playing in adjacent states, the teams met for just the fifth time Friday. That's partly due to Wisconsin's policy of not playing non-conference games against teams with Native American mascots and nicknames.
The Braves removed all direct references and stopped using a Native American mascot in 1994. The teams last met in 1989, a 63-57 Badger victory in the San Juan Shootout. The Badgers now have a 3-2 series lead.
Bradley will now take on Nevada (3-3) in Saturday's consolation game.
Wisconsin, 16th in last week's AP Top 25 poll, is off to a 5-0 start for the second time under coach Bo Ryan. The Badgers last won their first five games in 2007-08.
Ryan is now second on Wisconsin's all-time wins list (247-91) and just 18 away from tying Bud Foster's school record for victories.
Following Saturday's games, Wisconsin is at top-ranked North Carolina on Wednesday. Bradley is idle until Dec. 3, when it travels to Wyoming as part of the Mountain West-Missouri Valley Challenge.
Wisconsin went through a few rough patches, but guard Josh Gasser was looking on the bright side after the 11th-rankied Badgers pulled out a 66-43 victory over Bradley in the Chicago Invitational Challenge on Friday night.
''We kind of had a first-half lapse where they got a couple of easy buckets in transition and we got away from our defensive rules,'' he said. ''But that happens coming on the road for the first time against a good team.''
Gasser, Ryan Evans and Jordan Taylor scored 15 points apiece and center Jared Berggren grabbed 10 rebounds for the Badgers (5-0), who scored 18 points off turnovers. They'll face BYU in Saturday's championship at the suburban Chicago Sears Centre.
''Overall we played pretty well,'' Gasser said. ''We moved the ball well, we got good shots, we knocked them down when we needed to. And defensively we were solid all night. We weren't great, but we were good enough.''
Wisconsin never trailed in the teams' first meeting since 1989.
Taylor Brown scored 18 points for the Braves (3-2), who have dropped two straight.
Bradley had 17 turnovers and shot just 34 percent (18 of 53) from the field. Wisconsin hit 25 of 59 from the field (42.4 percent).
Wisconsin established a 10-2 lead as five different players scored in the first three minutes, 34 seconds. Bradley replied with Dyricus Simms-Edwards' three-pointer and Jordan Prosser's baseline drive to cut the lead to 10-7.
The Badgers then rattled off a 13-2 run, highlighted by back-to-back three pointers from Traevon Jackson and Ben Brust, and Taylor's steal and feed to Berggren for a jam and a 23-9 advantage.
A Bradley surge trimmed Wisconsin's lead to 30-22 with 1:33 left in the half, but Gasser and Taylor scored in the final minute to push the Badgers' lead to 34-24.
After the opening minute of the second half, the Badgers restored and maintained double-digit leads the rest of the way. Taylor's three-pointer with 4:34 to play opened a 64-41 lead, the largest of the night before reserves came in to wrap up play.
Bradley coach Geno Ford said his team had to contend with pressure it hadn't faced yet.
''You have to be patient and anticipate,'' he said. ''We had a few where guys were open on cuts and threw it too early, or the guy wasn't open and we just assumed that he would be.''
Despite playing in adjacent states, the teams met for just the fifth time Friday. That's partly due to Wisconsin's policy of not playing non-conference games against teams with Native American mascots and nicknames.
The Braves removed all direct references and stopped using a Native American mascot in 1994. The teams last met in 1989, a 63-57 Badger victory in the San Juan Shootout. The Badgers now have a 3-2 series lead.
Bradley will now take on Nevada (3-3) in Saturday's consolation game.
Wisconsin, 16th in last week's AP Top 25 poll, is off to a 5-0 start for the second time under coach Bo Ryan. The Badgers last won their first five games in 2007-08.
Ryan is now second on Wisconsin's all-time wins list (247-91) and just 18 away from tying Bud Foster's school record for victories.
Following Saturday's games, Wisconsin is at top-ranked North Carolina on Wednesday. Bradley is idle until Dec. 3, when it travels to Wyoming as part of the Mountain West-Missouri Valley Challenge.
Column: Arsenal's van Persie rivals Messi
Robin van Persie was a better footballer than Lionel Messi in 2011. Or are statistics which suggest that misleading? Either way, this is official: It is plain absurd that the captain of Arsenal isn't a nominee with Messi for FIFA's Golden Ball award.
Seems Van Persie and injustice are bedfellows. Remember his sending off against Messi's Barcelona in the Champions League in March? Van Persie claimed he did not hear Massimo Busacca blow his whistle. Seemed plausible given the din from the 95,000-plus Nou Camp crowd. The Swiss referee didn't want to know and he ordered Van Persie off. Whether Arsenal might have won that match if Van Persie's hearing had been better and if the Dutchman had stayed on the pitch remains one of football's unanswerables.
In fact, ''what if?'' follows Van Persie around. That the question is posed in relation to Van Persie shows his importance to Arsenal and the London club's ambitions and future.
If the strong, reliable and intelligent scorer of goals had not hurt his knee volleying home his strike in the League Cup final in February, forcing Arsene Wenger to replace him in the second half with wet blanket Nicklas Bendtner, might Arsenal have won the trophy, instead of losing 2-1 to Birmingham?
Possibly.
If Van Persie hadn't torn right ankle ligaments playing for the Netherlands, forcing Wenger to muddle on without him for five months (he even resorted to the bottom-of-a-barrel measure of playing the ill-suited Andrei Arshavin as a central striker), might Arsenal have won the Premier League title in 2010, instead of Chelsea?
Maybe.
If Van Persie picks up another long-term injury now, will Arsenal finish out of the English league's top four places this season and not qualify for Champions League football and its financial riches next season?
Quite likely.
Will Arsenal be sorry if Wenger cannot get Van Persie to commit to a new contract before his current one expires in 2013?
Definitely.
The departure of Cesc Fabregas this summer for guaranteed trophies with his boyhood club, Barcelona, and Samir Nasri's swoon for the petrobillions of Manchester City left Van Persie, a 2010 World Cup runner-up with the Netherlands, as Arsenal's only remaining, verified world-class player. Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott are still proving themselves.
Arsenal is without a trophy since 2005. Wenger's Catch-22 is that he needs players of Van Persie's caliber to change that, but he also needs trophies, or at least a realistic hope of winning them, to keep and to attract stars.
The reported US$5.7 million Arsenal paid in 2004 for the Netherlands international looks like a bargain now. Healthy, the 28-year-old has proven as reliable as English rain. As Arsenal fans say: ''We don't need Batman, we've got Robin.'' A basic rule shown to be true in 24 Premier League games is that the club doesn't lose when Van Persie scores the first goal.
So far in 2011, he has scored 31 goals in 29 league games. He is only the fifth Premier League player to score 30 in a calendar year. He is the English league's leading scorer this season, putting away 13 of Arsenal's 25 goals as it has awoken from a lumbering start that included a horrific 8-2 mauling at Manchester United in August.
Van Persie's success rate in the league is outstripping even Messi's in La Liga. The world's best player has scored 29 in 31 Spanish games for Barcelona in 2011.
Van Persie's strength, quick feet and polished technique so prized in the Netherlands are often cited as reasons for his goals. But the intelligent way he spots, creates and sprints into gaps in defenses is exceptional, too.
''He is always in the right place at the right moment and he got two goals again tonight from positions that look easy but they are not. He just understands the game so well,'' Wenger said Wednesday after Van Persie scored both Arsenal goals in a 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund that qualified his team yet again for the Champions League knockout stage.
''We hope we can keep him fit and with us for a long time.''
Messi should be player of the year for 2011, just as he was in 2010 and 2009. The FIFA Ballon d'Or winner will be announced Jan. 9. But there's no real suspense. As good as the 22 other nominees are, Barcelona's star is better.
Still, Van Persie should have been on that list, too.
---
John Leicester is an international sports columnist for The Associated Press. Write to him at jleicester(at)ap.org or follow him at twitter.com/johnleicester
Seems Van Persie and injustice are bedfellows. Remember his sending off against Messi's Barcelona in the Champions League in March? Van Persie claimed he did not hear Massimo Busacca blow his whistle. Seemed plausible given the din from the 95,000-plus Nou Camp crowd. The Swiss referee didn't want to know and he ordered Van Persie off. Whether Arsenal might have won that match if Van Persie's hearing had been better and if the Dutchman had stayed on the pitch remains one of football's unanswerables.
In fact, ''what if?'' follows Van Persie around. That the question is posed in relation to Van Persie shows his importance to Arsenal and the London club's ambitions and future.
If the strong, reliable and intelligent scorer of goals had not hurt his knee volleying home his strike in the League Cup final in February, forcing Arsene Wenger to replace him in the second half with wet blanket Nicklas Bendtner, might Arsenal have won the trophy, instead of losing 2-1 to Birmingham?
Possibly.
If Van Persie hadn't torn right ankle ligaments playing for the Netherlands, forcing Wenger to muddle on without him for five months (he even resorted to the bottom-of-a-barrel measure of playing the ill-suited Andrei Arshavin as a central striker), might Arsenal have won the Premier League title in 2010, instead of Chelsea?
Maybe.
If Van Persie picks up another long-term injury now, will Arsenal finish out of the English league's top four places this season and not qualify for Champions League football and its financial riches next season?
Quite likely.
Will Arsenal be sorry if Wenger cannot get Van Persie to commit to a new contract before his current one expires in 2013?
Definitely.
The departure of Cesc Fabregas this summer for guaranteed trophies with his boyhood club, Barcelona, and Samir Nasri's swoon for the petrobillions of Manchester City left Van Persie, a 2010 World Cup runner-up with the Netherlands, as Arsenal's only remaining, verified world-class player. Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott are still proving themselves.
Arsenal is without a trophy since 2005. Wenger's Catch-22 is that he needs players of Van Persie's caliber to change that, but he also needs trophies, or at least a realistic hope of winning them, to keep and to attract stars.
The reported US$5.7 million Arsenal paid in 2004 for the Netherlands international looks like a bargain now. Healthy, the 28-year-old has proven as reliable as English rain. As Arsenal fans say: ''We don't need Batman, we've got Robin.'' A basic rule shown to be true in 24 Premier League games is that the club doesn't lose when Van Persie scores the first goal.
So far in 2011, he has scored 31 goals in 29 league games. He is only the fifth Premier League player to score 30 in a calendar year. He is the English league's leading scorer this season, putting away 13 of Arsenal's 25 goals as it has awoken from a lumbering start that included a horrific 8-2 mauling at Manchester United in August.
Van Persie's success rate in the league is outstripping even Messi's in La Liga. The world's best player has scored 29 in 31 Spanish games for Barcelona in 2011.
Van Persie's strength, quick feet and polished technique so prized in the Netherlands are often cited as reasons for his goals. But the intelligent way he spots, creates and sprints into gaps in defenses is exceptional, too.
''He is always in the right place at the right moment and he got two goals again tonight from positions that look easy but they are not. He just understands the game so well,'' Wenger said Wednesday after Van Persie scored both Arsenal goals in a 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund that qualified his team yet again for the Champions League knockout stage.
''We hope we can keep him fit and with us for a long time.''
Messi should be player of the year for 2011, just as he was in 2010 and 2009. The FIFA Ballon d'Or winner will be announced Jan. 9. But there's no real suspense. As good as the 22 other nominees are, Barcelona's star is better.
Still, Van Persie should have been on that list, too.
---
John Leicester is an international sports columnist for The Associated Press. Write to him at jleicester(at)ap.org or follow him at twitter.com/johnleicester
Ricky Rubio shows off handle at charity game
OK so maybe it's not an NBA game (thank you lockout) but Minnesota Timberwolves' Ricky Rubio finally got to play with his fellow NBA players at Drew Gooden's charity game and did he deliver.Rubio showed off the passing ability and dribbling skills which made him a coveted draft pick out of Spain.From behind-the-back passes, dribbling the ball between a defender's legs to tossing a nicely timed alley-oop pass, Minnesota fans will probably be drooling over this footage (via hoopmixtape.com) of Rubio in action.Also check out Demar Derozen showing off some nice dunks, and Gooden breaking Anderson Varejao's ankle. Hopefully Anderson had ankle insurance.
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Arkansas vs. LSU 2011: 5 Ways the Razorbacks Can Upset the Tigers
The Razorbacks are nearly two-touchdown underdogs against the top-ranked Bayou Bengals, but they have as good a shot to knock them off as any other team has had.
LSU has a great chance to play in the BCS National Championship, but some argue that they could still lose to Arkansas and play for it all barring a blowout loss.
This is clearly the most interesting game of the weekend and for the remainder of the season since it will influence who plays in the SEC and BCS National Championship.
So, what are the five ways that Arkansas can knock off the Tigers?
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Rick Barry Explodes for 55 Points in 1967
 | San Francisco Warriors' Rick Barry scores 55 in a Game 3 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. | From: NBA Views: 13515   210 ratings |
| Time: 00:40 | More in Sports |
Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=depaE9v3cdQ&feature=youtube_gdata
Montana State Unhappy ESPN Won?t Televise its Playoff Game, Politicians Get Involved
ESPN had the audacity to shove a Montana State-New Hampshire playoff game from TV to ESPN3.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Falcons defense looking to slow Peterson
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. When the Falcons host 2-8 Minnesota on Sunday gunning for their fifth win in six games, the match-up will present a case of strength versus strength, weakness versus weakness that is, if Vikings running back Adrian Peterson can play.
After their impressive effort last week against a former NFL rushing champion they held Tennessee's Chris Johnson to 13 yards on 12 carries -- the Falcons now boast the No. 2 rushing defense in the NFL and are preparing to take on another former league rushing champion in Peterson.
The Vikings own the NFL's fifth-ranked rushing offense at 143.1 yards per game, but the status of Peterson, who entered last week fifth in the NFL in average rushing yards per game, remains up in the air after he suffered a high-ankle sprain early in last Sunday's loss to Oakland. Minnesota head coach Leslie Frazier said on Wednesday that Peterson will have a walking boot removed on Friday and at that point the Vikings will evaluate Peterson. Even if he plays, one would have to assume that Peterson will not be at 100 percent.
Falcons head coach Mike Smith was asked how the Vikings' offense would be affected without Peterson.
"Well, Adrian Peterson is a big part of their offense, there's no doubt about it," Smith said. "He's probably been the premier running back the last three seasons."
Both match-ups regarding the Falcons' defense against Minnesota's offense would seem to favor Atlanta. Even without Peterson, expect the Falcons to load up to defend he run. Minnesota, now on its second starting quarterback of the season in 2011 first-round pick Christian Ponder (Florida State), ranks 29th in passing offense. Three of the Falcons' four losses have come when an opposing quarterback has thrown for more than 300 yards against them. Defending the pass has proved a persistent issue for the Falcons, who rank 26th in the league that category, and against a weak passing offense, the Falcons should be in good stead, as they were for much of last week's 23-17 win over the Titans.
So while the defensive match-ups might favor the Falcons, the Vikings will enter with an intimate knowledge of the Falcons' personnel and schemes. Minnesota's offensive coordinator is Bill Musgrave, who mentored Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan through Ryan's first three seasons in the league as Atlanta's quarterbacks coach and also held the title of assistant head coach in his final season here in 2010.
Ryan has major respect for Musgrave.
"Bill Musgrave extremely influential into my transition into the NFL as much as anybody else," Ryan said. "I mean, he really was. Taught me a ton about preparing. Taught me a ton about offensive football, playing the quarterback position, understanding, making good decisions, when to take chances, when not to take chances -- those kinds of things.
"Really even, more so, off the field, too, having played quarterback in the league, played with some really good guys (he backed up Joe Montana and Steve Young). You know, setting up my week. Understanding when to push, when to work, when to get some rest so you're mentally fresh. Those things were invaluable and I'm really glad to have had Bill for the time that I did."
Musgrave runs many of the plays in Minnesota that Falcons defenders are used to seeing in practice, as Musgrave worked under Atlanta offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. As a result, not too much should fool them, scheme-wise.
"They have a lot of things that are the same," said Falcons middle linebacker Curtis Lofton, as nine of 11 current Falcons defensive starters were on the team last season. "But it's not the same offense. They do a lot of misdirection stuff and we're familiar with a lot of things they do."
The Vikings' roster now also includes former Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins, who spent his first seven seasons in Atlanta after being selected in the first-round by the franchise. The Falcons cut Jenkins for salary cap reasons during training camp after he became expendable when the Falcons drafted rookie Julio Jones.
On the opposite side of the ledger, the Falcons' top offseason free-agent acquisition, defensive end Ray Edwards, played his first five seasons in Minnesota four of which were under Frazier, who became Minnesota's defensive coordinator in 2007.
Edwards was asked about practice match-ups as a Viking when his unit went up against Peterson and the offense.
"Come on, man, we were the number one rushing defense when I was in Minnesota, so we know who won that battle," Edwards said.
After their impressive effort last week against a former NFL rushing champion they held Tennessee's Chris Johnson to 13 yards on 12 carries -- the Falcons now boast the No. 2 rushing defense in the NFL and are preparing to take on another former league rushing champion in Peterson.
The Vikings own the NFL's fifth-ranked rushing offense at 143.1 yards per game, but the status of Peterson, who entered last week fifth in the NFL in average rushing yards per game, remains up in the air after he suffered a high-ankle sprain early in last Sunday's loss to Oakland. Minnesota head coach Leslie Frazier said on Wednesday that Peterson will have a walking boot removed on Friday and at that point the Vikings will evaluate Peterson. Even if he plays, one would have to assume that Peterson will not be at 100 percent.
Falcons head coach Mike Smith was asked how the Vikings' offense would be affected without Peterson.
"Well, Adrian Peterson is a big part of their offense, there's no doubt about it," Smith said. "He's probably been the premier running back the last three seasons."
Both match-ups regarding the Falcons' defense against Minnesota's offense would seem to favor Atlanta. Even without Peterson, expect the Falcons to load up to defend he run. Minnesota, now on its second starting quarterback of the season in 2011 first-round pick Christian Ponder (Florida State), ranks 29th in passing offense. Three of the Falcons' four losses have come when an opposing quarterback has thrown for more than 300 yards against them. Defending the pass has proved a persistent issue for the Falcons, who rank 26th in the league that category, and against a weak passing offense, the Falcons should be in good stead, as they were for much of last week's 23-17 win over the Titans.
So while the defensive match-ups might favor the Falcons, the Vikings will enter with an intimate knowledge of the Falcons' personnel and schemes. Minnesota's offensive coordinator is Bill Musgrave, who mentored Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan through Ryan's first three seasons in the league as Atlanta's quarterbacks coach and also held the title of assistant head coach in his final season here in 2010.
Ryan has major respect for Musgrave.
"Bill Musgrave extremely influential into my transition into the NFL as much as anybody else," Ryan said. "I mean, he really was. Taught me a ton about preparing. Taught me a ton about offensive football, playing the quarterback position, understanding, making good decisions, when to take chances, when not to take chances -- those kinds of things.
"Really even, more so, off the field, too, having played quarterback in the league, played with some really good guys (he backed up Joe Montana and Steve Young). You know, setting up my week. Understanding when to push, when to work, when to get some rest so you're mentally fresh. Those things were invaluable and I'm really glad to have had Bill for the time that I did."
Musgrave runs many of the plays in Minnesota that Falcons defenders are used to seeing in practice, as Musgrave worked under Atlanta offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. As a result, not too much should fool them, scheme-wise.
"They have a lot of things that are the same," said Falcons middle linebacker Curtis Lofton, as nine of 11 current Falcons defensive starters were on the team last season. "But it's not the same offense. They do a lot of misdirection stuff and we're familiar with a lot of things they do."
The Vikings' roster now also includes former Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins, who spent his first seven seasons in Atlanta after being selected in the first-round by the franchise. The Falcons cut Jenkins for salary cap reasons during training camp after he became expendable when the Falcons drafted rookie Julio Jones.
On the opposite side of the ledger, the Falcons' top offseason free-agent acquisition, defensive end Ray Edwards, played his first five seasons in Minnesota four of which were under Frazier, who became Minnesota's defensive coordinator in 2007.
Edwards was asked about practice match-ups as a Viking when his unit went up against Peterson and the offense.
"Come on, man, we were the number one rushing defense when I was in Minnesota, so we know who won that battle," Edwards said.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/falcons_defense_looking_to_slow_peterson/8292685
Robert Kubica to miss start of 2012 F1 season
Robert Kubica will miss at least the early part of the 2012 Formula One season for Renault while he recovers from injuries that once threatened his life.
Kubica crashed in the Ronde di Andora rally in Italy on Feb. 6. He sustained massive injuries to his right side - a forearm that was almost severed and leg and shoulder fractures. Renault says he can walk and has regained movement in his elbow and hand, but needs more rehabilitation.
Renault had been hoping Kubica would be its No. 1 driver from the start of season. The team said Wednesday it will talk to a few drivers for next season. Current drivers Vitaly Petrov and Bruno Senna and test driver Romain Grosjean are considered the leading candidates.
Kubica crashed in the Ronde di Andora rally in Italy on Feb. 6. He sustained massive injuries to his right side - a forearm that was almost severed and leg and shoulder fractures. Renault says he can walk and has regained movement in his elbow and hand, but needs more rehabilitation.
Renault had been hoping Kubica would be its No. 1 driver from the start of season. The team said Wednesday it will talk to a few drivers for next season. Current drivers Vitaly Petrov and Bruno Senna and test driver Romain Grosjean are considered the leading candidates.
Reds dodging multiple off-season trade rumors
It is not only the time of year for turkey and cranberry sauce and the season to be jolly, it is rumor time in the baseball world.
With free agents on the market and trades to be made to fill holes, there is more than Christmas presents on the minds of baseball general managers.
The season hardly ended before a rumor surfaced on the internet that the Cincinnati Reds were talking to the Tampa Bay Rays about trading first baseman Joey Votto for pitcher James Shields.
Said one veteran National League scout, hearing the rumor, Trade Votto? Are the Reds nuts? Hes their best player. By far.
Rumors about Votto perplex and exasperate Reds general manager Walt Jocketty, who said, I dont know where these things come from. Were not talking about trading Votto and were not interested in trading Votto.
In many aspects, that trade makes sense on both fronts. The pitch-rich Rays believe they can seriously make a run in 2012 and adding Votto would enhance those chances immensely.
The Reds are resigned to the fact that Votto will test free agency after his contract expires in 2013, when hell be making 17 million.
And the Reds could use a starter of Shields ability. He was 16-12 last year with a 2.88 ERA. He is affordable signed through 2014. Hell make 7 million in 2012, then 9 million, then 12 million.
With closer Francisco Cordero gone, the Reds have 12 million off the books and by trading Votto theyd move 9.5 million more.
And it would make room for Yonder Alonso to play first base.
On the other hand, it makes no sense for the Reds to deal Votto now a bargain for 2012 at 9.5 million in baseballs current inflated economy.
As the scout said, Votto is the teams best players, by far, and need him to make a run for 2012. Now if the Reds are not in contention at next years trade deadline, the team might be listening to offers before they have to pay him 17 million in 2013.
But there are other things the club might do and need to do.
With Cordero gone, the closer situation needs to be addressed and there are reports that the Reds are interested in Oakland closer Andrew Bailey. The Reds do have in-house options in Nick Masset (who endured a down season in 2010) or lefthander Bill Bray, who had a strong year as a set-up performer.
But Bailey, 27, is a proven closer. The 6-3, 240-pound right-hander has 75 saves in his three seasons since the As drafted him in the sixth round in 2006 out of Wagner College.
He has recorded 26, 25 and 24 saves in his three seasons with earned run averages of 1.84, 1.47 and 3.24. He made the American League All-Star team in 2009 and 2010, but didnt make it last year because he was injured most of the first half of last season.
To get Bailey, the Reds probably would have to deal an outfielder to Oakland, which is about to lose its entire starting outfield from last year due to free agency.
One name that surfaced was Alonso, who is a first baseman, not an outfielder, but is spending this winter learning the nuances of left field.
With Votto still with the Reds, the grand plan is for Alonso play left field next season unless he is traded.
Hearing the rumors, Alonso tweeted, Reds for Life, but he has no control over that. If the Reds want to trade him, he can change that tweet to As for Life, or whatever team.
With free agents on the market and trades to be made to fill holes, there is more than Christmas presents on the minds of baseball general managers.
The season hardly ended before a rumor surfaced on the internet that the Cincinnati Reds were talking to the Tampa Bay Rays about trading first baseman Joey Votto for pitcher James Shields.
Said one veteran National League scout, hearing the rumor, Trade Votto? Are the Reds nuts? Hes their best player. By far.
Rumors about Votto perplex and exasperate Reds general manager Walt Jocketty, who said, I dont know where these things come from. Were not talking about trading Votto and were not interested in trading Votto.
In many aspects, that trade makes sense on both fronts. The pitch-rich Rays believe they can seriously make a run in 2012 and adding Votto would enhance those chances immensely.
The Reds are resigned to the fact that Votto will test free agency after his contract expires in 2013, when hell be making 17 million.
And the Reds could use a starter of Shields ability. He was 16-12 last year with a 2.88 ERA. He is affordable signed through 2014. Hell make 7 million in 2012, then 9 million, then 12 million.
With closer Francisco Cordero gone, the Reds have 12 million off the books and by trading Votto theyd move 9.5 million more.
And it would make room for Yonder Alonso to play first base.
On the other hand, it makes no sense for the Reds to deal Votto now a bargain for 2012 at 9.5 million in baseballs current inflated economy.
As the scout said, Votto is the teams best players, by far, and need him to make a run for 2012. Now if the Reds are not in contention at next years trade deadline, the team might be listening to offers before they have to pay him 17 million in 2013.
But there are other things the club might do and need to do.
With Cordero gone, the closer situation needs to be addressed and there are reports that the Reds are interested in Oakland closer Andrew Bailey. The Reds do have in-house options in Nick Masset (who endured a down season in 2010) or lefthander Bill Bray, who had a strong year as a set-up performer.
But Bailey, 27, is a proven closer. The 6-3, 240-pound right-hander has 75 saves in his three seasons since the As drafted him in the sixth round in 2006 out of Wagner College.
He has recorded 26, 25 and 24 saves in his three seasons with earned run averages of 1.84, 1.47 and 3.24. He made the American League All-Star team in 2009 and 2010, but didnt make it last year because he was injured most of the first half of last season.
To get Bailey, the Reds probably would have to deal an outfielder to Oakland, which is about to lose its entire starting outfield from last year due to free agency.
One name that surfaced was Alonso, who is a first baseman, not an outfielder, but is spending this winter learning the nuances of left field.
With Votto still with the Reds, the grand plan is for Alonso play left field next season unless he is traded.
Hearing the rumors, Alonso tweeted, Reds for Life, but he has no control over that. If the Reds want to trade him, he can change that tweet to As for Life, or whatever team.
Wake won't be watching on Thanksgiving
DAVIE, Fla. -- Cameron Wake will step on a football field Thanksgiving Day. It sure beats the view from a couch.
Wake recalls sitting at his family home in Beltsville, Md., on Thanksgiving three years ago watching Dallas wallop Seattle 34-9. The Seahawks didn't have a single sack of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, who shredded them for 331 yards and three touchdowns.
Seems the Seahawks could have used a guy like Wake. But at that time they were one of 32 NFL teams that had bypassed him.
"I remember sitting on a couch watching the Dallas Cowboys play, watching guys I played with, played against or crossed paths with somewhere along the line and in my heart and mind knowing that I should be out there playing," Wake said in an interview with FOX Sports Florida. "I know what it's like to sit on a couch (and) to be on the outside looking in."
It was that way for four straight Thanksgivings for Wake after he had gotten out of Penn State in the spring of 2005 and gone undrafted. The linebacker was cut by the New York Giants in 2005, worked as a mortgage broker in 2006 and then played in 2007 and 2008 for the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League.
The CFL season was over for the Lions by Thanksgiving during each of those years. So that enabled Wade to get back to Maryland to watch football and wonder why he wasn't in the NFL.
Wake finally got his chance when the Miami Dolphins signed him to a four-year, 4.9 million contract in January 2009. By 2010, all Wake did was finish third in the NFL with 14 sacks and make the Pro Bowl.
On Thursday, Wake and the Dolphins will play at Dallas. His mind no doubt will drift back to Thanksgivings of years past and he will feel quite thankful.
"I would assume that it means more (to Wade than) to a guy who's All-American, big payday, first round, and who always had it," Wake said. "I'm very thankful to the supporting cast I had in my family. They never doubted me. They never pushed me to give up on my dreams.
"(During Thanksgivings, Wade would) sit around the dinner table, the game's on, just like so many other people are going to be doing this holiday. And in my head I'd be watching and saying, Look at that linebacker there. I'm bigger than he is. I'm faster than he is.' And I'm sitting on the couch."
It remains a mystery why Wade fell through the cracks. It wasn't as if he had gone to a Division III school. He played at Linebacker U., finishing his Nittany Lions career with 191 total tackles, including 8 sacks and 24 tackles for losses. He had seven blocked kicks.
"If you find out, please let me know," the 6-foot-3, 250-pound Wade said of why he garnered such little interest. "There are so many guys, and you can look it up, that were drafted (in 2005) and they're sitting at home now. And I'm blessed to still be playing."
Well, let's look it up. Five linebackers taken in the first three rounds in 2005 no longer are in the NFL.
"I don't know if it's an indictment on personnel scouts or what the deal is that it took him that long to get to (the NFL)," said Dolphins linebacker Jason Taylor, a six-time Pro Bowl selection. "You see the kind of player he is and the ability that he has. It's a shame it took that long but he's here with us. It's not always a pretty road but the destination is great.
Wade knows that quite well. He says he takes nothing now for granted.
Yes, he means nothing.
"I'm very thankful for every time I get to step on the field," he said. "Every time I get a cut and I'm bleeding. Every time my lungs burn. Every time I go through the struggles and triumphs that are part of football. And I appreciate every piece of it."
Wade hasn't had as much success this season as he did in 2010. But he's still leading the Dolphins with 5 sacks, nine tackles for loss and 12 quarterback hits.
With the Dolphins having won three straight games after a 0-7 start, Wade has been doing his share of celebratory dancing. But Wade, who twice won the CFL Defensive Player of the Year award for the Lions, has earned that right.
"Really good story, just great story," Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said of Wake's road to the NFL. "Obviously, fell through the cracks and had to fight, scratch, claw to get his way into this league.
"He's a very humble guy, he really is. He doesn't kind of forget how he got here and that's probably, besides how he plays, one of the biggest compliments that you can pay a guy like that. He doesn't forget. He understands completely how he got here and everyday he goes about doing his work. He does it with that kind of passion."
Taylor said "the great thing about Cam is he kept believing." He sure did.
Before he joined the Dolphins, Wade always always assumed one day he would play in the NFL. He just needed to find somebody who believed in him.
"Yes," Wade said of knowing he would make it. "Because I just feel that's the way I was built. If I get something in my mind, I don't let it go. I call it a pit-bull mentality. Whatever it is, I was determined that I was going to succeed. There was no obstacle that would break me down If you had told me three years ago (at Thanksgiving), I'd be playing in the NFL, you're damn right I'll be playing in the NFL. And I'm going to do everything I can to make myself the best linebacker period."
Wade last season wasn't all that far from that. He was named second team All-Pro by the Associated Press and finished just 1 sacks behind Dallas' DeMarcus Wade for the NFL lead. But there's no shame in that considering Wade was the first linebacker taken in the 2005 draft.
As for Romo, he might not have been sacked once when Wade was watching from his couch in 2008. But he would wise to keep a close eye on Wade now that he's on the field on Thanksgiving.
Chris Tomasson can be reached at christomasson@hotmail.com or on Twitter @christomasson
Wake recalls sitting at his family home in Beltsville, Md., on Thanksgiving three years ago watching Dallas wallop Seattle 34-9. The Seahawks didn't have a single sack of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, who shredded them for 331 yards and three touchdowns.
Seems the Seahawks could have used a guy like Wake. But at that time they were one of 32 NFL teams that had bypassed him.
"I remember sitting on a couch watching the Dallas Cowboys play, watching guys I played with, played against or crossed paths with somewhere along the line and in my heart and mind knowing that I should be out there playing," Wake said in an interview with FOX Sports Florida. "I know what it's like to sit on a couch (and) to be on the outside looking in."
It was that way for four straight Thanksgivings for Wake after he had gotten out of Penn State in the spring of 2005 and gone undrafted. The linebacker was cut by the New York Giants in 2005, worked as a mortgage broker in 2006 and then played in 2007 and 2008 for the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League.
The CFL season was over for the Lions by Thanksgiving during each of those years. So that enabled Wade to get back to Maryland to watch football and wonder why he wasn't in the NFL.
Wake finally got his chance when the Miami Dolphins signed him to a four-year, 4.9 million contract in January 2009. By 2010, all Wake did was finish third in the NFL with 14 sacks and make the Pro Bowl.
On Thursday, Wake and the Dolphins will play at Dallas. His mind no doubt will drift back to Thanksgivings of years past and he will feel quite thankful.
"I would assume that it means more (to Wade than) to a guy who's All-American, big payday, first round, and who always had it," Wake said. "I'm very thankful to the supporting cast I had in my family. They never doubted me. They never pushed me to give up on my dreams.
"(During Thanksgivings, Wade would) sit around the dinner table, the game's on, just like so many other people are going to be doing this holiday. And in my head I'd be watching and saying, Look at that linebacker there. I'm bigger than he is. I'm faster than he is.' And I'm sitting on the couch."
It remains a mystery why Wade fell through the cracks. It wasn't as if he had gone to a Division III school. He played at Linebacker U., finishing his Nittany Lions career with 191 total tackles, including 8 sacks and 24 tackles for losses. He had seven blocked kicks.
"If you find out, please let me know," the 6-foot-3, 250-pound Wade said of why he garnered such little interest. "There are so many guys, and you can look it up, that were drafted (in 2005) and they're sitting at home now. And I'm blessed to still be playing."
Well, let's look it up. Five linebackers taken in the first three rounds in 2005 no longer are in the NFL.
"I don't know if it's an indictment on personnel scouts or what the deal is that it took him that long to get to (the NFL)," said Dolphins linebacker Jason Taylor, a six-time Pro Bowl selection. "You see the kind of player he is and the ability that he has. It's a shame it took that long but he's here with us. It's not always a pretty road but the destination is great.
Wade knows that quite well. He says he takes nothing now for granted.
Yes, he means nothing.
"I'm very thankful for every time I get to step on the field," he said. "Every time I get a cut and I'm bleeding. Every time my lungs burn. Every time I go through the struggles and triumphs that are part of football. And I appreciate every piece of it."
Wade hasn't had as much success this season as he did in 2010. But he's still leading the Dolphins with 5 sacks, nine tackles for loss and 12 quarterback hits.
With the Dolphins having won three straight games after a 0-7 start, Wade has been doing his share of celebratory dancing. But Wade, who twice won the CFL Defensive Player of the Year award for the Lions, has earned that right.
"Really good story, just great story," Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said of Wake's road to the NFL. "Obviously, fell through the cracks and had to fight, scratch, claw to get his way into this league.
"He's a very humble guy, he really is. He doesn't kind of forget how he got here and that's probably, besides how he plays, one of the biggest compliments that you can pay a guy like that. He doesn't forget. He understands completely how he got here and everyday he goes about doing his work. He does it with that kind of passion."
Taylor said "the great thing about Cam is he kept believing." He sure did.
Before he joined the Dolphins, Wade always always assumed one day he would play in the NFL. He just needed to find somebody who believed in him.
"Yes," Wade said of knowing he would make it. "Because I just feel that's the way I was built. If I get something in my mind, I don't let it go. I call it a pit-bull mentality. Whatever it is, I was determined that I was going to succeed. There was no obstacle that would break me down If you had told me three years ago (at Thanksgiving), I'd be playing in the NFL, you're damn right I'll be playing in the NFL. And I'm going to do everything I can to make myself the best linebacker period."
Wade last season wasn't all that far from that. He was named second team All-Pro by the Associated Press and finished just 1 sacks behind Dallas' DeMarcus Wade for the NFL lead. But there's no shame in that considering Wade was the first linebacker taken in the 2005 draft.
As for Romo, he might not have been sacked once when Wade was watching from his couch in 2008. But he would wise to keep a close eye on Wade now that he's on the field on Thanksgiving.
Chris Tomasson can be reached at christomasson@hotmail.com or on Twitter @christomasson
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/wake_wont_be_watching_on_thanksgiving/8275570
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Fish loses to Tsonga in straight sets
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga earned his first win at the ATP World Tour Finals on Tuesday, beating Mardy Fish of the United States 7-6 (4), 6-1 in his second Group B match.
Fish seemed to be slowed by the left hamstring injury that has disrupted the end of his season, while Tsonga struggled to find consistency.
The sixth-seeded Frenchman was twice up a break in the first set before finally taking it in a tiebreaker. Tsonga was broken at love to start the second set but reeled off six straight games.
Defending champion Roger Federer was to face longtime rival Rafael Nadal later Tuesday at the O2 Arena.
Tsonga's win means that Federer will qualify for the semifinals if he comes out on top. Nadal will be guaranteed to advance only if he wins in straight sets.
Fish followed his opening three-set loss to Nadal with a second straight defeat.
The 29-year-old American hit his troublesome left leg with his racket several times during Tuesday's match, although the pain didn't stop him from attempting a through-the-legs shot in the tiebreaker. He also ran across the court to reach a short ball toward the end of the second set, vaulting the courtside bench.
Tsonga, beaten in three sets by Federer in his opening match, had a chance to serve out the first set at 5-4, but sent an ambitious drive volley into the crowd from the frame of his racket en route to being broken for the second time.
That was one of 21 unforced errors for Tsonga. But his 33 winners, including a glorious backhand pass to take a decisive 3-1 lead in the second set, were enough to beat a fading Fish.
Fish seemed to be slowed by the left hamstring injury that has disrupted the end of his season, while Tsonga struggled to find consistency.
The sixth-seeded Frenchman was twice up a break in the first set before finally taking it in a tiebreaker. Tsonga was broken at love to start the second set but reeled off six straight games.
Defending champion Roger Federer was to face longtime rival Rafael Nadal later Tuesday at the O2 Arena.
Tsonga's win means that Federer will qualify for the semifinals if he comes out on top. Nadal will be guaranteed to advance only if he wins in straight sets.
Fish followed his opening three-set loss to Nadal with a second straight defeat.
The 29-year-old American hit his troublesome left leg with his racket several times during Tuesday's match, although the pain didn't stop him from attempting a through-the-legs shot in the tiebreaker. He also ran across the court to reach a short ball toward the end of the second set, vaulting the courtside bench.
Tsonga, beaten in three sets by Federer in his opening match, had a chance to serve out the first set at 5-4, but sent an ambitious drive volley into the crowd from the frame of his racket en route to being broken for the second time.
That was one of 21 unforced errors for Tsonga. But his 33 winners, including a glorious backhand pass to take a decisive 3-1 lead in the second set, were enough to beat a fading Fish.
Iowa vs. Nebraska: Latest Spread Info, BCS Impact and Predictions
No. 21 Nebraska is hanging on to the BCS rankings for dear life after losing two out of their last three games.
After losing to Northwestern, barely beating a Penn State team that was in the midst of the biggest scandal in college football history and being blown away 45-17 by Michigan, the Cornhuskers are in a dire situation.
Iowa managed to take down Michigan, and though they've been up and down recently as well, they finally won on the road last week against Purdue and have a solid shot in this Big Ten showdown.
Let's take a closer look to see how this game will shake out.
Where: Memorial Stadium (Lincoln, NE)
When: Friday, November 25th at 12 p.m. EST
Watch: ABC
Spread
Nebraska -9.5, according to SportsBook
Take the Points
Nebraska has looked pathetic since they took down Michigan State, and Iowa is catching them at the perfect time.
Over/Under
53.5, according to SportsBook
Go with the Under
The over is tempting, given that both teams score over 30 PPG, but Nebraska's offense has failed to put forth more than 17 in either of their last two games, and Iowa has only allowed more than 30 points three times this season.
Key Injuries (According to USA Today)
Iowa
Nolan MacMillan, OL, (Hernia) Questionable
Dominic Alvis, DL, (Knee) Out for Season
Shane DiBona, LB, (Achilles) Out for Season
Nebraska
Courtney Osborne, S, (Undisclosed) Questionable
Thaddeus Randle, DT, (Knee) Questionable
Andrew Rodriguez, OL, (Foot) Doubtful
Ben Cotton, TE, (Shoulder) Doubtful
Jared Crick, DT, (Pectoral) Out for Season
Jake Cotton, OL, (Knee) Out for Season
BCS/Top 25 Poll Implications
Losing this game would be the final straw for Nebraska. They have managed to stay ranked despite their late-season skid.
It's too late for Iowa to get in the game, but they can certainly play spoiler to their new conference rival.
Keys to Iowa Win
Attack Taylor Martinez
Martinez hasn't rushed for more than 56 yards in any of his last three games, and his ridiculous 39.1 percent completion rate vs. Michigan made victory impossible for the Huskers.
Keep Martinez in check, and Nebraska's offense will have a tough time moving the ball.
Feed Marcus Coker
Coker is a big 230-pound back who has the ability to take over a game. He's racked up more than 100 yards seven times this season, and the Hawkeyes will need him at his best to take down the Huskers.
Keys to Nebraska Win
Stop the Run
With the offense struggling like it is, Nebraska can't afford to give up a lot of points.
Iowa has one of the most underrated rush attacks in the nation, and the Huskers have to load up the box to slow them down.
Get Rex Burkhead Back on Track
Burkhead has been up and down the past few games and has less than 69 yards in two of his last three games.
Not so coincidentally, the Huskers won the game in between, where he produced 121 yards on the ground.
Prediction
Iowa 24, Nebraska 21
Monday, November 21, 2011
Adu, Convey, Ching available for Impact
Philadelphia forward Freddy Adu, San Jose All-Star defender Bobby Convey and Houston forward Brian Ching are among the players left unprotected in Major League Soccer's expansion draft for the Montreal Impact on Wednesday.
Toronto midfielder Julian de Guzman, Houston forward Carlo Costly and New York midfielder John Rooney - the brother of Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney - also were unprotected Monday, as were Washington midfielder Branko Boskovic and Vancouver forward Mustapha Jarju.
Also available are Philadelphia winger Justin Mapp, Salt Lake midfielder Andy Williams, Houston forward Carlo Costly and Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton.
Each of the 18 existing teams may protect 11 players. Homegrown young players don't count against the limit, and high-priced designated players must be protected if they have no-trade provisions. Montreal will select 10.
Toronto midfielder Julian de Guzman, Houston forward Carlo Costly and New York midfielder John Rooney - the brother of Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney - also were unprotected Monday, as were Washington midfielder Branko Boskovic and Vancouver forward Mustapha Jarju.
Also available are Philadelphia winger Justin Mapp, Salt Lake midfielder Andy Williams, Houston forward Carlo Costly and Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton.
Each of the 18 existing teams may protect 11 players. Homegrown young players don't count against the limit, and high-priced designated players must be protected if they have no-trade provisions. Montreal will select 10.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/soccer/article_external/adu_convey_ching_available_for_impact/8248909
Tim Tebow Craze: Bears Want In
The Chicago Bears suffered a huge loss this last Sunday as Jay Cutler fractured his right thumb.
The Bears have chosen to name Caleb Hanie the teams' starting quarterback and have put aside the idea of adding a veteran quarterback like Marc Bulger who is familiar with the Mike Martz offense.
Haine has limited experience during the controversial NFC Championship game where Cutler left due to a knee injury.
Brian Urlacher thinks Hanie is a good runner and wants in on the Tebow magic.
According to Pro Football Talk, ?He?s going to be able to move around in the pocket a little bit, maybe a little Tebow offense,? Urlacher told Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.[...]
The Bears have chosen to name Caleb Hanie the teams' starting quarterback and have put aside the idea of adding a veteran quarterback like Marc Bulger who is familiar with the Mike Martz offense.
Haine has limited experience during the controversial NFC Championship game where Cutler left due to a knee injury.
Brian Urlacher thinks Hanie is a good runner and wants in on the Tebow magic.
According to Pro Football Talk, ?He?s going to be able to move around in the pocket a little bit, maybe a little Tebow offense,? Urlacher told Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.[...]
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/tim_tebow_craze_bears_want_in/8240362
Why Dan Henderson Will Be Owned by Jon "Bones" Jones
Last evening, while perusing the Internet, taking in the aftermath of UFC 139, Bellator 58, Fedor Emelianenko vs. Jeff Monson and Julio Cesar Chavez's butt-whupping of Peter Manfredo on HBO, one article of tremendous interest caught my eye. It was written by my B/R colleague, Tim McTiernan. The article is an attention-grabber:
“UFC 139 Results: Dan Henderson is the Man to Beat Jon Jones”
I had to stop to read that one. Twice!
What's amazing is not that McTiernan really believes what he wrote. What's amazing is that so many of YOU believe that, too. I've read your blogs, posts and reactions.
Hey, Dan Henderson is a combat sports icon. He is a two-time Team USA Olympian. He is colorful, personable, charming and charismatic. He is a world-class combat artist, with accomplishments that are staggering. When he walks in a room, even veteran fighters and champions look admiringly at him. With little doubt, Dan Henderson is a future UFC Hall of Famer.
Henderson has had a helluva calendar year. In December 2010, he TKO'd tough Renato Sobral in the opening round. In March 2011, he stopped Rafael Cavalcante in the third round to win the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Championship. Soon after, he vacated the title to move to heavyweight and face Fedor Emelianenko. Last July 30, he battered Emelianenko, stopping the Russian legend 4:12 into the opening round. Then came his “Fight of the Year” victory against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua.
But Dan Henderson beating Jon Jones? UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon “Bones” Jones? That Jon “Bones” Jones? I hope McTiernan didn't mean that Jon “Bones” Jones. You're not really buying into that, are you?
Above all, I really hope Dan Henderson doesn't buy into that.
OK, let's not put the proverbial cart before the horse. A guy by the name of Lyoto Machida stands in the way of a Jon Jones-Dan Henderson fight. On Dec. 10, the former 205-pound kingpin faces Jones at UFC 140 in Toronto, Canada. Let's presume Jones gets past Machida. Following that, Rashad Evans will tell you he's next in line to face Jones, but he may have to get in line behind Henderson. Sorry, Rashad. It just makes more business sense, kind of like Nick Diaz jumping in front of a waiting Carlos Condit for Georges St-Pierre's 170-pound title belt.
In his article, McTiernan wrote, “Henderson put everything he has on display, from his power to his wrestling, to his incredible heart, chin and determination.”
McTiernan was talking about Henderson's performance against Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in their epic battle last Saturday night at UFC 139. In that regard, McTiernan is absolutely correct. Against Rua, it was indeed Henderson's heart, chin and determination that pulled out the victory for him.
Against Jones, however, it is those attributes which will get him slaughtered.
Just because you saw Henderson do certain things in the Octagon against Rua, don't confuse Rua with Jones. Don't ever confuse Rua with Jones. Henderson was able to hit the immobile Rua. Do you really think those same punches will hit the speedy, elusive Jones? In case you're not sure of the answer, it's “No, they won't.” That powerful right hand of Henderson—which has flattened the likes of Michael Bisping, Wanderlei Silva and Fedor Emelianenko—will come up completely empty against Jones.
Oh, and who was that hitting Henderson on Saturday night? Repeatedly. And flush. OK, sure. It was “Shogun” Rua. Is Jones faster than Rua? Is Jones more accurate with his punches? Does Jones have a much longer reach than Rua? Yes, yes and yes. And even though some question Jones' punching power, I think it's even safe to say Jones is a harder puncher than Rua. Those four-ounce UFC gloves are going be crashing into Henderson's face as much as the champion wants them to crash into Henderson's leather-bent face.
Then there's the wrestling. And the groundwork. And the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. And the Muay Thai. Henderson had no clue what to do with Rua when he had him on the ground. He let a heel hook get away from him. What did Jones to do Rua when he had him on the ground back in March at UFC 128? I'll remind you: He carved him up the way you carve up your Thanksgiving turkey.
Oh, there's also the knees, kicks and elbows. Do you honestly think Henderson is going to be able to grab onto Jones and knee him? Elbow him? From the outside, do you really think Hendo will be landing some fancy kicks? I said “really.” In return, those knees, kicks and elbows will be flying at Henderson.
We like Hendo, so we'll try not to imagine what that will look like. Remember Brandon Vera's nose, crushed by a Jon Jones' elbow? The thought of Hendo's already mashed nose turning into filleted proboscis is quite grotesque.
Then there's the stamina problem you saw on Saturday. Henderson was gassed as early as the second round. He was just lucky that Rua was just as gassed. A gassed, gasping, panting, wheezing, huffing, puffing, blowing, oxygen-depleted 41-year-old Dan Henderson against the 24-year-old phenom champ is truly a scary thought. He is much too nice of a professional—and now too old and way too slow—to be subjected to the absolute and thorough beating he will take at the hands of the brilliant titleholder.
Dan Henderson fought—and won—in what may have been the UFC's greatest fight ever at UFC 139. Dan Henderson vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua is a fight your grandchildren are going to be talking about.
But let's not kid ourselves.
A title challenge against Jon “Bones” Jones is a fight Dan Henderson just can't win.
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/950087-dan-henderson-will-be-owned-by-jon-bones-jones
Sunday, November 20, 2011
5 Snubbed Philadelphia Eagles Who Belong in the Hall of Fame
Vince Young tossed three picks, and yet he still found a way to lead to the Eagles to an improbable 17-10 win against the New York Giants Sunday night.
He routinely went to Riley Cooper as if they were showing everyone their best impersonation of Norm Van Brocklin and Tommy McDonald.
And when Jason Babin forced Eli Manning to cough the ball up, he might as well have been Reggie White in the eyes of the Philly faithful.
While the current Eagles put up the best effort of the season, no one is going to put them in Hall of Fame like Van Brocklin, McDonald and White.
Come to think of it, the Eagles don't have many players enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
According the Pro Football Hall of Fame website, the Eagles have 18 players enshrined.
The caveat is, unlike baseball, the Pro Football Hall of Fame does not attach a player to a specific team when he is voted into the Hall.
The website lists players such as Mike Ditka (1967-1968), James Lofton (1993), Art Monk (1995) and Richard Dent (1997) as Eagles.
It's safe to say no one is really buying it.
So why haven't the Eagles gotten any love from the Hall of Fame?
Well, for one, the franchise has been historically bad. Players that don't win Super Bowls don't get as much attention. Do you think Joe Namath is in the Hall of Fame if he doesn't win Super Bowl III?
The other factor is the players simply haven't been that good over the years. Sure, there have been a handful of really good players. But great players?
They certainly are hard to come by, but I'm willing to make a case for five players who should be in the Hall of Fame.
It's a hard sell, but I'm going to try and make a case for each of these players to get a spot in Canton.
Djokovic, Nadal, Federer win awards
Roger Federer has scooped two honors at the ATP World Tour Awards at the end of his first season without a Grand Slam since 2002.
Federer was voted the fans' favorite for the ninth straight year and won the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award, voted for by players, for a seventh time in eight years.
Novak Djokovic receives the No. 1 award for ending the season as the top-ranked player, while Rafael Nadal will be given the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award for his charity work with the Rafa Nadal Foundation.
Alex Bogomolov Jr. of the United States was voted the most improved player of the year by ATP players, who also chose Milos Raonic of Canada as the newcomer of the year.
Federer was voted the fans' favorite for the ninth straight year and won the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award, voted for by players, for a seventh time in eight years.
Novak Djokovic receives the No. 1 award for ending the season as the top-ranked player, while Rafael Nadal will be given the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award for his charity work with the Rafa Nadal Foundation.
Alex Bogomolov Jr. of the United States was voted the most improved player of the year by ATP players, who also chose Milos Raonic of Canada as the newcomer of the year.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/djokovic_nadal_federer_win_awards/8200807
Hornaday to Denette Motorsports in 2012
During media availability at Phoenix International Raceway, Harvick mentioned that former KHI crew chief Rick Ren, who now works at Kyle Busch Motorsports, had asked Hornaday about his interest in driving for KBM. Hornaday said while he appreciates the gesture, he has other options. This happening after Busch was parked at Texas Motor Speedway for crashing Hornaday under caution during the CWTS race.
To put rumors to rest, it was announced Friday at Homestead Miami Speedway that Camping World Truck series driver Ron Hornaday will drive for Joe Denette Motorsports for the 2012 season. Hornaday, a four-time champion of the series, will drive the No. 9 Chevrolet truck full-time. Denette has confirmed that it is a one year deal, with an option for a second year.
Hornaday currently drives the No. 33 truck, but found himself without a ride when Kevin Harvick Inc. announced they would be closing their doors at season?s end. Hornaday has four victories for the 2011 season and 51 total ca...
To put rumors to rest, it was announced Friday at Homestead Miami Speedway that Camping World Truck series driver Ron Hornaday will drive for Joe Denette Motorsports for the 2012 season. Hornaday, a four-time champion of the series, will drive the No. 9 Chevrolet truck full-time. Denette has confirmed that it is a one year deal, with an option for a second year.
Hornaday currently drives the No. 33 truck, but found himself without a ride when Kevin Harvick Inc. announced they would be closing their doors at season?s end. Hornaday has four victories for the 2011 season and 51 total ca...
Top 10 Playoff Plays From the Bulls in the 90's
 | Take a look at some of the best plays from the Chicago Bulls during their dominant playoff runs of the 1990's. | From: NBA Views: 62169  737 ratings |
| Time: 03:05 | More in Sports |
Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrB20BZ454Y&feature=youtube_gdata
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Vickers, Kahne bring different skills
The talent that Kasey Kahne exhibited on the way to Sunday's victory at Phoenix International Raceway is just one of the reasons why he will be driving for Hendrick Motorsports in 2012.
And the actions displayed by his Red Bull Racing teammate are precisely why Brian Vickers no longer drives for Hendrick Motorsports and has proved again that he's not ready for prime time.
Vickers currently has no Sprint Cup ride for next year. His contract is ending with Red Bull Racing and that operation's future is up in the air. That didn't stop Vickers, who vowed to exact revenge on Matt Kenseth after the drivers tangled at Martinsville Speedway, from putting his career in jeopardy. On Lap 177 in the Kobalt Tools 500 at Phoenix Sunday, Vickers plowed into the back of Kenseth's car and sent the No. 17 Ford into the wall on the backstretch.
Kenseth started on the pole Sunday but had slipped back on a restart from fifth to 12th as his brakes were wearing thin. Still, after initial contact by the No. 83 Toyota, Vickers just kept plowing the No. 17 Ford forward rather than lifting off the throttle.
Regardless of Vickers' contrition following the race, his words rang hollow due to previous altercations. Nothing Vickers can say will convince me that what occurred between him and Kenseth was not payback plain and simple.
"Well yeah, obviously it is retaliation for retaliation," Kenseth said after the wreck. "I was out of brakes and I was up on everybody and I saw him coming and I lifted at least 10 car lengths before where I would normally lift and he drove in there at 165 miles per hour and just cleaned us out."
In the "boys have at it" era, NASCAR regarded Vickers' actions as "a racing incident." Vickers had a similar "incident" with Tony Stewart at Sonoma in June when he punted the two-time champ into the tires 23 laps before the finish. Sure, Stewart had it coming. He was relentless with Vickers some 50 laps earlier. Not only did he get into the back of Vickers, he leaned on him until the No. 83 Toyota went around.
Payback is part of racing, but after Vickers retaliated against Kenseth in the closing laps of Martinsville, it should have been over. Yes, Vickers is auditioning. Yes, he's up on the chip. But at Martinsville, Vickers wrecked Regan Smith and Juan Pablo Montoya long before he reached Kenseth's bumper.
Kenseth, a former Sprint Cup champion, not only took issue with Vickers, he questioned the officiating considering that Vickers' previous threats obviously proved that he had contemplated his revenge prior to the execution.
"If NASCAR is going to start parking people for being mad 25 seconds after you wreck and wrecking somebody then you would park somebody for that," Kenseth said. "You have someone that has been running around telling everybody for four or five weeks that as soon as he got a chance at a fast race track he was going to make it hurt and wipe us out and they do nothing about it.
"It was so premeditated it just surprises me that they didn't do anything. I am disappointed but I expected it. We aren't racing street stocks at a quarter-mile track so they need to figure out how to get the drivers to settle their difference in a different way and talk about it or figure it out or do something instead of using your car as a battering ram somewhere this fast."
Kenseth, who has a solid reputation and is well respected among his peers, said he wished Martinsville had never escalated to the level it did. In hindsight, Kenseth now realizes it would have been better to let Vickers go "because you realize who he is and what he is."
Kenseth said he had absolutely no intention to return the favor at Phoenix because the ramifications could be far too dangerous.
"I would never sit down there and wait for somebody and take a cheap shot like that," Kenseth added. "You can hurt someone like that and that isn't sportsmanlike and that isn't something I would do."
But Vickers is earning a reputation for violence -- and stupidity. He has just two career Cup wins in 254 starts. The first came from hooking his teammate Jimmie Johnson into Dale Earnhardt Jr., who was leading the 2006 fall race at Talladega Superspeedway. Vickers' second victory was won from the pole in a fuel-mileage contest at the August 2009 Michigan race, then he squeezed into his only Chase by a mere eight points over Kyle Busch.
In the five years that Red Bull supported Vickers, all the 28-year-old could muster was one win and one Chase berth. Yes, Vickers lived "the Red Bull lifestyle" during his tenure with the energy drink company but his performance was far from competitive.
Kahne, in identical equipment, scored his first win for Red Bull in just his 40th start with the organization. In the last nine races, only Carl Edwards and Tony Stewart have scored more points (356) than Kahne (331).
"I wouldn't say there's anyone building better cars at this time," Kahne said following his win. "The Red Bull guys are doing an awesome job and they haven't given up.
"It's tough to hear . . . it's closing down in eight days. Over the last three months, you have one of the top-five cars in NASCAR shutting down and it's crazy."
Perhaps if the team had contracted an A-lister like Kahne earlier in its existence the Austrian-based sponsor would not have become so disenchanted with the program. And 150 people wouldn't have to be wondering if they were going to have a job next Monday.
And the actions displayed by his Red Bull Racing teammate are precisely why Brian Vickers no longer drives for Hendrick Motorsports and has proved again that he's not ready for prime time.
Vickers currently has no Sprint Cup ride for next year. His contract is ending with Red Bull Racing and that operation's future is up in the air. That didn't stop Vickers, who vowed to exact revenge on Matt Kenseth after the drivers tangled at Martinsville Speedway, from putting his career in jeopardy. On Lap 177 in the Kobalt Tools 500 at Phoenix Sunday, Vickers plowed into the back of Kenseth's car and sent the No. 17 Ford into the wall on the backstretch.
Kenseth started on the pole Sunday but had slipped back on a restart from fifth to 12th as his brakes were wearing thin. Still, after initial contact by the No. 83 Toyota, Vickers just kept plowing the No. 17 Ford forward rather than lifting off the throttle.
Regardless of Vickers' contrition following the race, his words rang hollow due to previous altercations. Nothing Vickers can say will convince me that what occurred between him and Kenseth was not payback plain and simple.
"Well yeah, obviously it is retaliation for retaliation," Kenseth said after the wreck. "I was out of brakes and I was up on everybody and I saw him coming and I lifted at least 10 car lengths before where I would normally lift and he drove in there at 165 miles per hour and just cleaned us out."
In the "boys have at it" era, NASCAR regarded Vickers' actions as "a racing incident." Vickers had a similar "incident" with Tony Stewart at Sonoma in June when he punted the two-time champ into the tires 23 laps before the finish. Sure, Stewart had it coming. He was relentless with Vickers some 50 laps earlier. Not only did he get into the back of Vickers, he leaned on him until the No. 83 Toyota went around.
Payback is part of racing, but after Vickers retaliated against Kenseth in the closing laps of Martinsville, it should have been over. Yes, Vickers is auditioning. Yes, he's up on the chip. But at Martinsville, Vickers wrecked Regan Smith and Juan Pablo Montoya long before he reached Kenseth's bumper.
Kenseth, a former Sprint Cup champion, not only took issue with Vickers, he questioned the officiating considering that Vickers' previous threats obviously proved that he had contemplated his revenge prior to the execution.
"If NASCAR is going to start parking people for being mad 25 seconds after you wreck and wrecking somebody then you would park somebody for that," Kenseth said. "You have someone that has been running around telling everybody for four or five weeks that as soon as he got a chance at a fast race track he was going to make it hurt and wipe us out and they do nothing about it.
"It was so premeditated it just surprises me that they didn't do anything. I am disappointed but I expected it. We aren't racing street stocks at a quarter-mile track so they need to figure out how to get the drivers to settle their difference in a different way and talk about it or figure it out or do something instead of using your car as a battering ram somewhere this fast."
Kenseth, who has a solid reputation and is well respected among his peers, said he wished Martinsville had never escalated to the level it did. In hindsight, Kenseth now realizes it would have been better to let Vickers go "because you realize who he is and what he is."
Kenseth said he had absolutely no intention to return the favor at Phoenix because the ramifications could be far too dangerous.
"I would never sit down there and wait for somebody and take a cheap shot like that," Kenseth added. "You can hurt someone like that and that isn't sportsmanlike and that isn't something I would do."
But Vickers is earning a reputation for violence -- and stupidity. He has just two career Cup wins in 254 starts. The first came from hooking his teammate Jimmie Johnson into Dale Earnhardt Jr., who was leading the 2006 fall race at Talladega Superspeedway. Vickers' second victory was won from the pole in a fuel-mileage contest at the August 2009 Michigan race, then he squeezed into his only Chase by a mere eight points over Kyle Busch.
In the five years that Red Bull supported Vickers, all the 28-year-old could muster was one win and one Chase berth. Yes, Vickers lived "the Red Bull lifestyle" during his tenure with the energy drink company but his performance was far from competitive.
Kahne, in identical equipment, scored his first win for Red Bull in just his 40th start with the organization. In the last nine races, only Carl Edwards and Tony Stewart have scored more points (356) than Kahne (331).
"I wouldn't say there's anyone building better cars at this time," Kahne said following his win. "The Red Bull guys are doing an awesome job and they haven't given up.
"It's tough to hear . . . it's closing down in eight days. Over the last three months, you have one of the top-five cars in NASCAR shutting down and it's crazy."
Perhaps if the team had contracted an A-lister like Kahne earlier in its existence the Austrian-based sponsor would not have become so disenchanted with the program. And 150 people wouldn't have to be wondering if they were going to have a job next Monday.
Titans' Johnson could run wild in Atlanta
The Atlanta Falcons are a "dome" team and the Tennessee Titans play in an outdoor stadium, but there might not be a player in the NFL more suited to playing indoors than Titans running back Chris Johnson, one the league's fastest players and best open-field runners.
"I know for sure it won't be cold outside or whatever," Johnson said on Wednesday of this week's match-up and venue, the Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Dome. "I don't have to worry about rain. Playing in a dome, you always have a fast surface."
Johnson, the former 2,000-yard rusher who is on pace for by far the least productive season in his four as a pro, is coming off his best game of the year. In a 30-3 win at Carolina last week, he rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries and also totaled 44 receiving yards on four receptions. It marked only the second 100-yard game of the 2011 campaign for Johnson, who began training camp as a holdout, a lengthy process that ended shortly before the start of the season with the Titans awarding him a 53.5-million contract.
The question now is whether Johnson finally is back on track or whether the performance represented an aberration. The meeting in Atlanta is pivotal for both teams, which enter with identical 5-4 records and playoff aspirations.
Johnson said after last week's game that he and head coach Mike Munchak talked about putting a new psychological perspective on the season one that could benefit Johnson and create problems for opponents like Atlanta.
"Me and coach Munchak said these next eight games, it's a new season," Johnson said. "So we're in a new season right now and, basically, just trying to make this new season the best part of this whole season."
The Falcons are relatively a middle-of-the-pack team defensively, but their rushing defense is tied for the third in the league, allowing 90.3 yards per game. Like Tennessee, their philosophy is to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
Falcons head coach Mike Smith, a former defensive coordinator, gave reporters a lesson this week in "leverage" a concept that he said is critical to preventing Johnson from breaking one of his trademark long touchdown runs. The last outside defender the "force" defender -- must keep Johnson on his inside shoulder, Smith said, and every other player must keep Johnson on his outside shoulder. The other rule, Smith said, is never to follow your own man in pursuit of the ballcarrier.
Notoriously tight-lipped middle linebacker Curtis Lofton said he didn't notice anything different about the way Johnson hits the holes this year a criticism of him during his struggles.
"I mean, I'm not a running back," Lofton said. "I just know how to stop 'em."
For his part, Munchak shed a bit more light on the situation, although he said the Titans never quite put their finger on exactly what the problem was.
"We tried a lot of things," Munchak said. "It wasn't just, obviously, all him. He's a part of us not having success. Some of it was the teams we've played against, the defenses we faced. Some of it was us getting behind in some of those games and him only getting 10, 12 carries.
"So there's a lot of factors built in there. Things weren't blocked as well. He wasn't hitting (the hole) quite the same from not having training camp. So there's a lot of intangibles like that and some bad luck. When things don't quite fall your way, there's some of that going on, too."
To expand a little on what Munchak said, the Titans so far have faced rushing defenses ranked as follows in the NFL: No. 2 (Cincinnati), 3 (Baltimore, which is tied with Atlanta), 5 (Houston), 7 (Pittsburgh), 14 (Jacksonville) and 15 (Denver). That's a daunting task for any offense.
During Johnson's struggles, Munchak had talked about continually feeding him the ball in the hope of breaking him out of his slump, a chance the Titans didn't always have. Johnson had only 26 yards on 10 carries at halftime, but the Titans led 17-0 and had plenty of opportunity to let him run in the second.
"I think it helped us as a whole," said Titans tight end Jared Cook, a graduate of metro Atlanta's North Gwinnett High. "In the second half this year we've been struggling to get things going. I think that answered a lot of problems in what we need to do. We can't have a lull in the third quarter. Strike iron fast.
"Like coach Munchak said, get CJ the ball. Get on our blockers, get downfield so that we can come up with some second half points early."
The Titans now hope that they have something to build on and that their struggles are behind them.
"He's definitely has always been a big part of what we do and the first part of his season was kind of hard, dealing with a lot of questions why that wasn't better why he wasn't doing better than he was," Munchak said. "I think last week was a good start in the right direction. We were able to gave him a lot of touches with the ball I think when you get a back like him, just like (Atlanta's Michael) Turner, if they'll get 20 to 25 touches with the ball, they'll do good things and he did.
"Again, for us to win our division and have success, he needs to be a big part of it, so last week is what we hope to continue the rest of this season."
"I know for sure it won't be cold outside or whatever," Johnson said on Wednesday of this week's match-up and venue, the Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Dome. "I don't have to worry about rain. Playing in a dome, you always have a fast surface."
Johnson, the former 2,000-yard rusher who is on pace for by far the least productive season in his four as a pro, is coming off his best game of the year. In a 30-3 win at Carolina last week, he rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries and also totaled 44 receiving yards on four receptions. It marked only the second 100-yard game of the 2011 campaign for Johnson, who began training camp as a holdout, a lengthy process that ended shortly before the start of the season with the Titans awarding him a 53.5-million contract.
The question now is whether Johnson finally is back on track or whether the performance represented an aberration. The meeting in Atlanta is pivotal for both teams, which enter with identical 5-4 records and playoff aspirations.
Johnson said after last week's game that he and head coach Mike Munchak talked about putting a new psychological perspective on the season one that could benefit Johnson and create problems for opponents like Atlanta.
"Me and coach Munchak said these next eight games, it's a new season," Johnson said. "So we're in a new season right now and, basically, just trying to make this new season the best part of this whole season."
The Falcons are relatively a middle-of-the-pack team defensively, but their rushing defense is tied for the third in the league, allowing 90.3 yards per game. Like Tennessee, their philosophy is to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
Falcons head coach Mike Smith, a former defensive coordinator, gave reporters a lesson this week in "leverage" a concept that he said is critical to preventing Johnson from breaking one of his trademark long touchdown runs. The last outside defender the "force" defender -- must keep Johnson on his inside shoulder, Smith said, and every other player must keep Johnson on his outside shoulder. The other rule, Smith said, is never to follow your own man in pursuit of the ballcarrier.
Notoriously tight-lipped middle linebacker Curtis Lofton said he didn't notice anything different about the way Johnson hits the holes this year a criticism of him during his struggles.
"I mean, I'm not a running back," Lofton said. "I just know how to stop 'em."
For his part, Munchak shed a bit more light on the situation, although he said the Titans never quite put their finger on exactly what the problem was.
"We tried a lot of things," Munchak said. "It wasn't just, obviously, all him. He's a part of us not having success. Some of it was the teams we've played against, the defenses we faced. Some of it was us getting behind in some of those games and him only getting 10, 12 carries.
"So there's a lot of factors built in there. Things weren't blocked as well. He wasn't hitting (the hole) quite the same from not having training camp. So there's a lot of intangibles like that and some bad luck. When things don't quite fall your way, there's some of that going on, too."
To expand a little on what Munchak said, the Titans so far have faced rushing defenses ranked as follows in the NFL: No. 2 (Cincinnati), 3 (Baltimore, which is tied with Atlanta), 5 (Houston), 7 (Pittsburgh), 14 (Jacksonville) and 15 (Denver). That's a daunting task for any offense.
During Johnson's struggles, Munchak had talked about continually feeding him the ball in the hope of breaking him out of his slump, a chance the Titans didn't always have. Johnson had only 26 yards on 10 carries at halftime, but the Titans led 17-0 and had plenty of opportunity to let him run in the second.
"I think it helped us as a whole," said Titans tight end Jared Cook, a graduate of metro Atlanta's North Gwinnett High. "In the second half this year we've been struggling to get things going. I think that answered a lot of problems in what we need to do. We can't have a lull in the third quarter. Strike iron fast.
"Like coach Munchak said, get CJ the ball. Get on our blockers, get downfield so that we can come up with some second half points early."
The Titans now hope that they have something to build on and that their struggles are behind them.
"He's definitely has always been a big part of what we do and the first part of his season was kind of hard, dealing with a lot of questions why that wasn't better why he wasn't doing better than he was," Munchak said. "I think last week was a good start in the right direction. We were able to gave him a lot of touches with the ball I think when you get a back like him, just like (Atlanta's Michael) Turner, if they'll get 20 to 25 touches with the ball, they'll do good things and he did.
"Again, for us to win our division and have success, he needs to be a big part of it, so last week is what we hope to continue the rest of this season."
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/titans_johnson_could_run_wild_in_atlanta/8192041
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