Lest you forgot, the 1996 state of Florida showdown consisted of #1 Florida at #2 Florida State. FSU won that game 24-21. That was the year Steve Spurrier put on his politician uniform and complained about the officiating. He claimed his QB Danny Wuerffel was taking late hits and no penalties were called. Well, the Ole Ball Coach got what he wanted. A rematch for the National Championship and a bunch of Florida lovin' refs who protected the QB on every touch of a FSU defensive player. Needless to say, Florida went on to win the Championship.
So, the precedent has been set. It's been done before. A rematch with a rival. However, those two teams were interconference rivals.
Again, I got what I wanted. A game that lived up to the hype last Saturday and finally a game that proves just because you lose doesn't mean you always have to drop in the polls. It took guts to vote for a defensive player for the Heisman in 1997. It's going to take guts and luck for a National Championship rematch in 2006.
Heisman Race:
I forgot to put in my vote last post: Troy Smith clinched the deal against Michigan.
GM of the Week:
Matt Millen, eat your heart out. For those of you Fantasy geeks, last Friday was the trade deadline for any fantasy football wheels and deals. I wouldn't exactly call myself a genius at making great trades, but I put my neck on the line and (so far) came out on top.
In one of my leagues I had to do the random order draft at Adam's appartment. It is a 12 team league and I got "screwed" with the 12th pick. The top 4 teams go to the playoffs. Well, up until two weeks ago my record was 7-0-2 (they are anti-fractional points, however I probably would have lost if they used the fractional points). But I'm still in first place. Well, one of the key players keeping me in first place was Mr. Donovan McNabb. As the deadline approached, I knew I no longer needed a two QB package. Who was my 2nd QB? Up and coming Philip Rivers. With no more byes, I didn't need both.
I put out a trade offer on McNabb in return for Chester Taylor. I think I did alright in that trade. He'll probably never trade with me again, especially since he didn't really need McNabb with Tony Freakin' Romo on his roster.
McNabb: 78 yards, 1 INT, 1 torn ACL = 1 point and done for season.
Taylor: 80 yards, 2 TD = 16 points
In my other league, it is also 12 teams and the top 8 teams make it to the playoffs. I'm not sitting nearly as pretty, somewhere in the 6 or 7 hole. I had just taken on the 10-0 team (my future brother-in-law) and was only down 18 points with Eli Manning and Muhsin Muhammad in the Sunday Night Football game between the Bears and Giants. Muhammad was the man and got me 14 points. 5 points from Eli shouldn't be asking much. (Keep in mind, the scoring is 40 passing yards per 1 point.) Basically 1 TD should seal the deal. No. Manning sucked. He got me -3 points. Needless to say I declared Eli would never see another snap on my team and put my money where my mouth was. However, I didn't have a back up QB. So, I traded Eli and Muhammad for Carson Palmer.
Eli: 230 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT = 7 points
Muhammad: 29 yards = 1 point
Palmer: 275 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT = 22 points.
I think I did pretty well there.
In another trade, someone offered me a TE and Jamal Lewis for Deuce McAllister. He offered me a TE because Tony Gonzalez just got injured. But, I have Colston, so I don't need a TE. (I got Deuce in week 4 along with Muhsin Muhammad in a trade for Willis McGahee. I think I did alright there too.) In this last trade involving Deuce, I countered his offer to get a WR instead of a TE because I didn't need a TE with Colston usable in that position. So I got Patrick Crayton from Dallas. I thought Terry Glenn was still injured, so that wasn't a good WR to go after. Anyway, here are Sunday's stats:
Deuce: 40 yards rushing, 29 yards receiving = 3 points.
Lewis: 91 yards, 3 TD's = 25 points
Crayton: 6 yards = 0 points
Keep in mind, I was given heck for trading Deuce: "He's got more TD's than my 3 RB's combined. What are you thinking?"
So, in one week in that league, I picked up 25 points from Lewis and 22 from Palmer. That's 47 points. How did I end up? Well, my team sucked and only managed 54 total...and lost by 9. Thanks.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Friday, November 24, 2006
Second Best or First Worst
Is this actually a year where Michigan is neither Overrated nor Underrated? I don't think any Michigan fan can complain about their ranking in the BCS after a loss. Then again, I don't think any non-Michigan fan can complain about their ranking either.
Was the game close? Depends on what your definition of close is. If we are talking from a scoring standpoint, then yes, it was close. But, UM needed 3 turnovers just to get it that close. What would the score have been if Michigan had at least one turnover or if the team down south only turned it over once or twice? More than likely not close. Then again, OSU scored 3 times on big plays. Take away those big plays, what happens? Nothing can be taken away, it all happened. What if, what if, what if just talks you into a circle. What if Michigan won? What?
We've all heard the arguments for and against a rematch. I'm not going to pile on either one of those arguments. In fact, I'm not sure where I even stand. I enjoyed the game. It was great. I sure can't complain from a sports entertainment perspective. What if the game was the first game of the year for either team and it was the same result. And then at the end of the year both teams are ranked #1 and #2. Would it be easier to call for a rematch under those circumstances? Because the difference between week 1 and week 12 is a long time. But wait, it's a pretty long time before their next game too, whomever they play.
But (there is always a but), neither Michigan nor OSU designed the schedule at the beginning of the year to say where they'd play the final game. It just so happened to be OSU's turn to host. So, IF the game would have been at Michigan, what would have happened? Which is why I'm slightly leaning toward seeing the game on a neutral field. I know I know, Lloyd can't win a bowl game and Michigan fan doesn't want to lose to OSU again, let alone twice in one season. Coach Carr already has enough L's in his name. I think it's now spelled: LLLLLoyd.
Well, I guess I proved my point...that I've managed to talk into 3 circles. Since I'm taking a pre-Calc class, that would be the equivalent of 6 pi.
Side Note: USC lost Matt Leinart, Lendale White, and Reggie Bush to the NFL last year, so how can they be just as good? I say USC is a fraud. You can't tell me they are just as good losing 3 amazing offensive players. Then again, I think Notre Dame is slightly less of a fraud and will beat USC. It's just that the world can't wait to exault Notre Dame any time they win a game. They can't wait to crown them every year they start out with wins over Georgia Tech and Penn State. If Georgia Tech and Wake Forest are dominating the ACC, you know the world is not round. The only teams ND has beat that are still ranked is G. Tech. USC on the other hand has only beat Cal and Arkansas that are still ranked.
P.S. Anyone surprised Joey Blue Skies picked apart the Detroit Lions like a Thanksgiving Turkey? Didn't think so.
Was the game close? Depends on what your definition of close is. If we are talking from a scoring standpoint, then yes, it was close. But, UM needed 3 turnovers just to get it that close. What would the score have been if Michigan had at least one turnover or if the team down south only turned it over once or twice? More than likely not close. Then again, OSU scored 3 times on big plays. Take away those big plays, what happens? Nothing can be taken away, it all happened. What if, what if, what if just talks you into a circle. What if Michigan won? What?
We've all heard the arguments for and against a rematch. I'm not going to pile on either one of those arguments. In fact, I'm not sure where I even stand. I enjoyed the game. It was great. I sure can't complain from a sports entertainment perspective. What if the game was the first game of the year for either team and it was the same result. And then at the end of the year both teams are ranked #1 and #2. Would it be easier to call for a rematch under those circumstances? Because the difference between week 1 and week 12 is a long time. But wait, it's a pretty long time before their next game too, whomever they play.
But (there is always a but), neither Michigan nor OSU designed the schedule at the beginning of the year to say where they'd play the final game. It just so happened to be OSU's turn to host. So, IF the game would have been at Michigan, what would have happened? Which is why I'm slightly leaning toward seeing the game on a neutral field. I know I know, Lloyd can't win a bowl game and Michigan fan doesn't want to lose to OSU again, let alone twice in one season. Coach Carr already has enough L's in his name. I think it's now spelled: LLLLLoyd.
Well, I guess I proved my point...that I've managed to talk into 3 circles. Since I'm taking a pre-Calc class, that would be the equivalent of 6 pi.
Side Note: USC lost Matt Leinart, Lendale White, and Reggie Bush to the NFL last year, so how can they be just as good? I say USC is a fraud. You can't tell me they are just as good losing 3 amazing offensive players. Then again, I think Notre Dame is slightly less of a fraud and will beat USC. It's just that the world can't wait to exault Notre Dame any time they win a game. They can't wait to crown them every year they start out with wins over Georgia Tech and Penn State. If Georgia Tech and Wake Forest are dominating the ACC, you know the world is not round. The only teams ND has beat that are still ranked is G. Tech. USC on the other hand has only beat Cal and Arkansas that are still ranked.
P.S. Anyone surprised Joey Blue Skies picked apart the Detroit Lions like a Thanksgiving Turkey? Didn't think so.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Deep down...
...Tom Izzo is a football coach. You know this if you've followed MSU basketball over the past few years. So maybe it's not completely crazy that there are some rumors of him taking over the head coaching position of the football program. Now obviously this would only happen in Bizarro world, but here's a fascinating quote:
Huh. I think Izzo could do a good job, maybe even be a great football coach. But, on the other hand, making your national championship winning basketball coach into your football coach is crazy. And who would want the pressure of taking over his old job? Still, it's a strangely compelling idea.
If someone asked him if he'd be interested in the job, "I would have to say no, but I'd probably deep down have to say yeah, I would," he said.
Huh. I think Izzo could do a good job, maybe even be a great football coach. But, on the other hand, making your national championship winning basketball coach into your football coach is crazy. And who would want the pressure of taking over his old job? Still, it's a strangely compelling idea.
Rematch
After watching the game this weekend, I don't want to see a rematch. I've heard every argument for and against a rematch and the fact of the matter is, Detroit still wouldn't beat Arizona.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Bad News for Ohio State
Besides the fact Lee Corso just picked Michigan to beat OSU on College Gameday (the first time ever he's picked OSU to lose a game when Gameday was at the 'Shoe). Side note: I think the camera crew scanned the crowd after Lee's announcement for 0.3 seconds. Why? Well, um...because the OSU fans were letting Lee know who was #1 team. Hmmm. I think it got a PG-13 rating.
Bo Schembechler, 205 pounds of twisted blue steel, died earlier yesterday. The face of everything that stands for the block M has passed away on the eve of arguably the biggest game ever played by either school.
I'm not trying to make light of one of the wisest coaches ever to coach dying, but this has to be probably the worst thing that could happen to Ohio State. This game is already the ultimate game of emotions, and now it just quadruppled...but for Michigan. Neither team needs any extra motivation for the game, but Michigan has probably just taken a slight advantage over the Buckeyes. If Michigan wasn't playing for Bo before, they just may now.
Good luck Ohio. You're in trouble.
Could there be a better week to be a man? Let's see: Wednesday was an ultimate guy day with the opening day of gun hunting season. If you don't like hunting, and you call yourself a man, then you've never met the working end of a Cuban made assault rifle. Next you have the greatest day to be a college football fan. Once again, I'll question your manhood if today doesn't get your blood stirring and wishing you were part of the hype that is smashmouth football.
In the spirit of Michigan-Ohio State week (no I'm not going to use the stupid cliche that ESPN has "coined" to describe the game as "Judgement Day"), it's time for my afforementioned list of top ranked (witnessed) Michigan-Ohio State football games (basically I'm listing every UM/OSU game I've been to):
6) 2004-Columbus: My first experience at the "'Shoe". Michigan unfortunately lost. 21-37.
5) 2001-Ann Arbor: The beginning of Tressel's dominance begins, just like he predicted in January the day he was hired. Also the first time I ever seen Michigan lose a home game out of 15+ witnessed. 20-26.
4) 2003-Ann Arbor: Carr finally gets Tressel. 35-21.
3) 1999-Ann Arbor: Michigan knocks OSU out of post-season contention. The first time they've missed a bowl game in who knows how many years. 24-17.
2) 1993-Ann Arbor: My first experience at the Big House. Michigan 28 OSU 0. I don't remember the details, but the TY LAW was laid down. I believe OSU entered the game either #1 or in first place in the Big Ten. It didn't end that way.
1) 1997-Ann Arbor: Two words: Charles Woodson. I think we've seen the highlights. He clinched the Heisman that day as Michigan went on to win a share of the National Championship. 20-14.
Go Blue
Bo Schembechler, 205 pounds of twisted blue steel, died earlier yesterday. The face of everything that stands for the block M has passed away on the eve of arguably the biggest game ever played by either school.
I'm not trying to make light of one of the wisest coaches ever to coach dying, but this has to be probably the worst thing that could happen to Ohio State. This game is already the ultimate game of emotions, and now it just quadruppled...but for Michigan. Neither team needs any extra motivation for the game, but Michigan has probably just taken a slight advantage over the Buckeyes. If Michigan wasn't playing for Bo before, they just may now.
Good luck Ohio. You're in trouble.
Could there be a better week to be a man? Let's see: Wednesday was an ultimate guy day with the opening day of gun hunting season. If you don't like hunting, and you call yourself a man, then you've never met the working end of a Cuban made assault rifle. Next you have the greatest day to be a college football fan. Once again, I'll question your manhood if today doesn't get your blood stirring and wishing you were part of the hype that is smashmouth football.
In the spirit of Michigan-Ohio State week (no I'm not going to use the stupid cliche that ESPN has "coined" to describe the game as "Judgement Day"), it's time for my afforementioned list of top ranked (witnessed) Michigan-Ohio State football games (basically I'm listing every UM/OSU game I've been to):
6) 2004-Columbus: My first experience at the "'Shoe". Michigan unfortunately lost. 21-37.
5) 2001-Ann Arbor: The beginning of Tressel's dominance begins, just like he predicted in January the day he was hired. Also the first time I ever seen Michigan lose a home game out of 15+ witnessed. 20-26.
4) 2003-Ann Arbor: Carr finally gets Tressel. 35-21.
3) 1999-Ann Arbor: Michigan knocks OSU out of post-season contention. The first time they've missed a bowl game in who knows how many years. 24-17.
2) 1993-Ann Arbor: My first experience at the Big House. Michigan 28 OSU 0. I don't remember the details, but the TY LAW was laid down. I believe OSU entered the game either #1 or in first place in the Big Ten. It didn't end that way.
1) 1997-Ann Arbor: Two words: Charles Woodson. I think we've seen the highlights. He clinched the Heisman that day as Michigan went on to win a share of the National Championship. 20-14.
Go Blue
Questions We'll Never Know
Why is the grass green?
Why is the sky blue?
Why is Marques Colston listed as a TE/WR option for Fantasy Football? Who told Yahoo! that Colston "could be our TE this year"? Have you seen him? Does his body look like a normal speciman of a Tight End? Believe me, that's not Tony Gonzo running around out there. Besides, name me some Tight Ends that wear numbers like 12? What is that? 12? Colston is listed as 231 pounds. He's 6'4", so maybe he's a heavy 231. If so, that's either super amazing that a Rookie "WR" is tearing up NFL secondary's or it's incredibly sad that a Rookie has come into the No Fun League at 231 pounds and runs circles around DB's like a gazelle. Side note: I'm not complaining about this in my other leagues (best free agent pick up ever).
Apparently warnings are being issued to Michigan fans who may be attending the game Saturday in Columbus. For instance:
1) Use alcohol in moderation.
2) Anytime you feel unsafe, call 911 for assistance.
3) Stay in groups.
4) Do not drive a car with Michigan license plates.
5) Do not wear too much Michigan apparel.
6) Guard your anger against fan taunting.
Wow, thanks for that Public Service Announcement. Gee, don't those guidelines apply to any time you just go into the state of Ohio? I would think any smart person would always follow those simple steps to keep from getting killed. It shouldn't take a genius to figure out you are going into hostile territory. Thanks for telling us what we already knew.
How do you know if someone graduated from Ohio State?
If they ask you if you'd like fries with that.
I heard Jim Tressel was only dressing 22 players for the game.
The rest have to dress themselves.
What does Bo think about Jim Tressel's dominance over Lloyd Carr? Well, boy, I'm not sure if I should repeat it word for word, but he don't give a (darn) about Jim Tressel. And, in the spirit of the big game , I will rank my all-time Michigan-Ohio State games seen in person. Stay tuned.
I guess what I'm supposed to say is Thank You, I'm out.
Why is the sky blue?
Why is Marques Colston listed as a TE/WR option for Fantasy Football? Who told Yahoo! that Colston "could be our TE this year"? Have you seen him? Does his body look like a normal speciman of a Tight End? Believe me, that's not Tony Gonzo running around out there. Besides, name me some Tight Ends that wear numbers like 12? What is that? 12? Colston is listed as 231 pounds. He's 6'4", so maybe he's a heavy 231. If so, that's either super amazing that a Rookie "WR" is tearing up NFL secondary's or it's incredibly sad that a Rookie has come into the No Fun League at 231 pounds and runs circles around DB's like a gazelle. Side note: I'm not complaining about this in my other leagues (best free agent pick up ever).
Apparently warnings are being issued to Michigan fans who may be attending the game Saturday in Columbus. For instance:
1) Use alcohol in moderation.
2) Anytime you feel unsafe, call 911 for assistance.
3) Stay in groups.
4) Do not drive a car with Michigan license plates.
5) Do not wear too much Michigan apparel.
6) Guard your anger against fan taunting.
Wow, thanks for that Public Service Announcement. Gee, don't those guidelines apply to any time you just go into the state of Ohio? I would think any smart person would always follow those simple steps to keep from getting killed. It shouldn't take a genius to figure out you are going into hostile territory. Thanks for telling us what we already knew.
How do you know if someone graduated from Ohio State?
If they ask you if you'd like fries with that.
I heard Jim Tressel was only dressing 22 players for the game.
The rest have to dress themselves.
What does Bo think about Jim Tressel's dominance over Lloyd Carr? Well, boy, I'm not sure if I should repeat it word for word, but he don't give a (darn) about Jim Tressel. And, in the spirit of the big game , I will rank my all-time Michigan-Ohio State games seen in person. Stay tuned.
I guess what I'm supposed to say is Thank You, I'm out.
This Just In
The Patriots just signed my cousin Vinny Testaverde. Yeah, that same guy on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from the (Classic) 1991 Nintendo game Tecmo Super Bowl. His first season was actually 1987. Even Julio Franco thinks this is a crazy idea by the Patriots. Was Andre Ware unavailable? Wouldn't they be better off just grabbing ESPN loverboy Brady Quinn off the Irish? I thought Troy Brown was the 2nd stringer.
Either way, now that Testaverde is a Fantasy Free Agent, I wish I wouldn't have already traded for Carson Palmer in one of my other Fantasy Leagues. Dang, I really want Vinny.
Finally:
Dear Eli,
I bet you thought I was joking when I said to a fellow Fantasy League Owner "Eli will never see another snap on my team." Well, I'm a man of my words so hit the road. Thanks for nothing. Good riddance!
Either way, now that Testaverde is a Fantasy Free Agent, I wish I wouldn't have already traded for Carson Palmer in one of my other Fantasy Leagues. Dang, I really want Vinny.
Finally:
Dear Eli,
I bet you thought I was joking when I said to a fellow Fantasy League Owner "Eli will never see another snap on my team." Well, I'm a man of my words so hit the road. Thanks for nothing. Good riddance!
A Message From Our Sponsor
5 Hour Energy
Why do energy drinks make you crash? It’s all the sugar and caffeine. 5-Hour Energy has zero sugar and just enough caffeine for hours of energy with no crash later.
The Grey Vest Man Jim Tressel was asked yesterday if he thought the loser of the Michigan/Ohio State game should be allowed to play in the National Champiionship for a rematch. He responded with, "If you don't win your conference, you shouldn't be allowed to play in the Championship game."
Well, Mr. Sweater Vest Guy, the National championship isn't about who won their conference. It's about who the two best teams are. And when everyone else has 2 losses and your team has only 1, I'd say no one else is better and they don't deserve a shot at the Title if they've already lost twice. If this Saturday's game is close, I don't have a problem seeing it one more time on a neutral field.
I'm curious. We hear so much about "Home Field Advantage" in sports. If we had to put that phrase in terms of Points, how many points would playing on your home field account for?
Is the Michigan v Ohio State football game this Saturday?
Sincerely,
Women, anyone living on Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune, Uranus, Neptune, and probably Pluto, Bears starting an early hibernation, people without a pulse, masses of protoplasm taller than 6'6", and everyone else still living under a rock.
P.S. I don't see what the big deal is about Bob Knight's lastest incident. I think it's been blown way out of proportion.
Sincerely,
Albert Haynesworth
Why do energy drinks make you crash? It’s all the sugar and caffeine. 5-Hour Energy has zero sugar and just enough caffeine for hours of energy with no crash later.
The Grey Vest Man Jim Tressel was asked yesterday if he thought the loser of the Michigan/Ohio State game should be allowed to play in the National Champiionship for a rematch. He responded with, "If you don't win your conference, you shouldn't be allowed to play in the Championship game."
Well, Mr. Sweater Vest Guy, the National championship isn't about who won their conference. It's about who the two best teams are. And when everyone else has 2 losses and your team has only 1, I'd say no one else is better and they don't deserve a shot at the Title if they've already lost twice. If this Saturday's game is close, I don't have a problem seeing it one more time on a neutral field.
I'm curious. We hear so much about "Home Field Advantage" in sports. If we had to put that phrase in terms of Points, how many points would playing on your home field account for?
Is the Michigan v Ohio State football game this Saturday?
Sincerely,
Women, anyone living on Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune, Uranus, Neptune, and probably Pluto, Bears starting an early hibernation, people without a pulse, masses of protoplasm taller than 6'6", and everyone else still living under a rock.
P.S. I don't see what the big deal is about Bob Knight's lastest incident. I think it's been blown way out of proportion.
Sincerely,
Albert Haynesworth
Remembering Bo
I'm really, really the wrong person to eulogize Bo Schembechler, so I'll just point you to bob Wojnowski's article in the Detroit News. There's also another piece about how Bo spent some of his last hours inspiring the team to beat OSU. I'll leave Ump to pick up the slack on this one, or Aaron if he can be coaxed out of hiding.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Dogfights
Dogfights is one of the coolest things the History Channel has ever broadcasted. It has the usual mix of old footage and new interviews that you're familiar with if you spend any time watching the History Channel. However, it also includes CG recreations of the famous dogfights the episode is focusing on. According to the site, up to 25% of the program is made up of animation. I haven't made it all the way through the episode I'm watching, but I can confirm there's enough animation to keep it interesting. Great stuff.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
To answer...
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Scene Canary
I went to a game night last night with my Sunday School class. There was dinner, then we played some games. Party games. I just love party games. We played Catch Phrase, which isn't too bad as party games go. Anyway, a new couple had showed up and joined the group. We were split into teams of guys and girls and I was sitting by the new couple. I passed the disc and saw the next phrase was "Sean Connery." I saw it and thought to myself, "This is a gimme." The new girl's husband had looked and thought the same thing. But she must have misread or just wasn't thinking, because I don't think she's stupid, and started giving clues that lead to the answer "Scene Canary." By this time, her husband and I were both struggling to stay on our chairs while everyone else looked confused. Until we told them. Three hours later, we stopped laughing. Well, it might not have been QUITE that long. Funniest thing I've seen all week.
New Record
On Friday, I broke a record. Eight guys from work went to Eddington's for lunch. They serve sandwiches, salads, and most notably, soup. They're best known for their bottomless bowl of soup. You take your bowl back to the server and they refill as many times as you want. Of course, work being what it is, a challenge had been instituted as to who could consume the most soup and breadsticks. The current record was 4 bowls of soup and 4 breadsticks, held by our summer intern Dan. Another employee from Moline was second with 4 bowls and 2 breadsticks. Keep in mind, my boss and I had not been there before. We hadn't planned on going on Friday either, so there was no preparation. But once we got started, pride kicked in. We couldn't let those lightweights keep the title. So...
Five bowls, five breadsticks.
In case you're wondering, these weren't thin soups. We're talking Chicken Tortilla Chowder, Boundary Waters Wild Rice, Wisconsion Cheddar Cheese, and USS Navy Bean. Hearty. Also, apparently consuming that much soup will raise you body temperature.
Five bowls, five breadsticks.
In case you're wondering, these weren't thin soups. We're talking Chicken Tortilla Chowder, Boundary Waters Wild Rice, Wisconsion Cheddar Cheese, and USS Navy Bean. Hearty. Also, apparently consuming that much soup will raise you body temperature.
Ultimate Bat
The Tigers have traded 3 pitching prospects to the Yankees for slugger Gary Sheffield. Sheffield, who is 38, has agreed to a $28 million contract extension through 2009. Sheffield has previously won a World Series title with the Marlins, who were managed by Jim Leyland and who's GM was Dave Dombrowski. Said Leyland of Sheff:
The Tigers certainly need a bat after their anemic hitting in the World Series. Still, after being injured most of the past season, just how much does Sheff have left in him?
"This is one of the ultimate bats in baseball and one of the ultimate people in baseball. I have the utmost respect for him. I can't tell you how happy we are. It's almost unbelievable. It's hard for me to believe that we landed Gary Sheffield."
The Tigers certainly need a bat after their anemic hitting in the World Series. Still, after being injured most of the past season, just how much does Sheff have left in him?
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Quotes of the Week
Roy Williams, Lions (and NFL) star WR, Monday afternoon on Stony and Wojo:
"We're the best 2-6 team out there."
Side note: Roy is very well spoken when he does his token 10 minutes
every Monday at 5 p.m.
Tony Kornheiser, MNF color commentator said the following about Randy Moss -- "If you throw it to him five times, he'll come up with two of them, so the percentages are in his favor." This classic comment came during the 4th quarter of that gut-wrenching show the Raiders call football v the Seahorses. Good thing he's not a surgeon. Now, I was only half listening to the game because it was boring, but I had to give a double take when I heard that, so I could be wrong. I just don't know who else would have made a comment like that. I can't imagine Joe Theismann saying that, no matter how hard Lawerance Taylor crushed him.
Lebron James, ESPN's boyfriend during the Pistons-Cavs playoff series, had this to say about all the recent technicals being called: "Technicals are being thrown like Peyton Manning passes." Lebron, I think you meant more like Peyton Manning TOUCHDOWN passes.
Other Thoughts:
For those of you who don't watch basketball, David Stern has been making a few changes in the marketing schemes of the NBA, now that they are going global on us. They are toning down the language, whining and complaining to officials, headband and uniform dress code, etc. Oh, and he also wants his players to stop carrying guns every time they so much as check the mail.
There is nothing wrong with wanting to clean up a league's image to give it a better reputation and look more professional/business-like.
And you know what, it must be catching on. The NFL is clearly the league most in need of some serious housekeeping. Just think of all the things the new commish has improved. From Albert Haynesworth's stomp to Brayton's knee, there's too much sociopathic behavior taking place on the field. The league's response has been minimalist, taking every incident separately, mainly because the NFL knows it treads a very fine line when it tries to legislate abhorrent on-field behavior.
Oh, but the NFL has taken steps to make sure no one spikes the ball or does some stupid post-touchdown choreography. And how about those socks -- not a shred of shin showing!
I'm (insert politition name here) and I support this message.
"We're the best 2-6 team out there."
Side note: Roy is very well spoken when he does his token 10 minutes
every Monday at 5 p.m.
Tony Kornheiser, MNF color commentator said the following about Randy Moss -- "If you throw it to him five times, he'll come up with two of them, so the percentages are in his favor." This classic comment came during the 4th quarter of that gut-wrenching show the Raiders call football v the Seahorses. Good thing he's not a surgeon. Now, I was only half listening to the game because it was boring, but I had to give a double take when I heard that, so I could be wrong. I just don't know who else would have made a comment like that. I can't imagine Joe Theismann saying that, no matter how hard Lawerance Taylor crushed him.
Lebron James, ESPN's boyfriend during the Pistons-Cavs playoff series, had this to say about all the recent technicals being called: "Technicals are being thrown like Peyton Manning passes." Lebron, I think you meant more like Peyton Manning TOUCHDOWN passes.
Other Thoughts:
For those of you who don't watch basketball, David Stern has been making a few changes in the marketing schemes of the NBA, now that they are going global on us. They are toning down the language, whining and complaining to officials, headband and uniform dress code, etc. Oh, and he also wants his players to stop carrying guns every time they so much as check the mail.
There is nothing wrong with wanting to clean up a league's image to give it a better reputation and look more professional/business-like.
And you know what, it must be catching on. The NFL is clearly the league most in need of some serious housekeeping. Just think of all the things the new commish has improved. From Albert Haynesworth's stomp to Brayton's knee, there's too much sociopathic behavior taking place on the field. The league's response has been minimalist, taking every incident separately, mainly because the NFL knows it treads a very fine line when it tries to legislate abhorrent on-field behavior.
Oh, but the NFL has taken steps to make sure no one spikes the ball or does some stupid post-touchdown choreography. And how about those socks -- not a shred of shin showing!
I'm (insert politition name here) and I support this message.
Monday, November 06, 2006
It's a Girl!
That's right, Nathan is a daddy now. Congrats to Jaime and Nathan.
Here is a pic of the baby.
I think she looks like her daddy.
Here is a pic of the baby.
I think she looks like her daddy.
Rumor Mill
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Your horse, Lord Vader
Invasor won the Breeder's Cup Classic today and $5 million dollars. Why should you care? Well, you shouldn't as far as I'm concerned; I certainly don't. But where did that name come from? Invasor isn't a name for a horse, it's a name for an Imperial Star Destroyer. "Lord Vader, the Invasor is at your command." Just thought I'd point that out.
Loophole
Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema has found a loophole in the new NCAA rules. The rules say that the clock starts as soon as the kicker's foot touches the ball at kickoff. With little time left in the first half, Wisconsin intentionally went offsides twice to run the clock down to under ten seconds. Although a penalty was called, 8 seconds or so ran off the clock each time. Oops. That's going to need to be fixed. What's to stop a team from getting a lead and doing that for the rest of the half?
Moon Knight: The Series
Blade couldn't cut it on television, so now Moon Knight gets an opportunity. It was announced on Oct. 25th that Marvel Entertainment would be teaming with No Equal Entertainment to develop a live-action series. Personally, I think this could have some potential. If they went for a Batman Begins vibe with the show, which wouldn't be too difficult since Moon Knight shares quite a few similarities with the Dark Knight, it could be successful. And there could be werewolves. But then the whole thing could be screwed up pretty easily. The hero's name is Moon Knight after all. And I'm not sure which network would go for it. Still, it will be interesting to see where it goes.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Golden
Kenny Rogers, the only Tigers pitcher who knows how to field a baseball, won his 4th straight Gold Glove award yesterday. It was his fifth overall. The young guns on the Tigers' pitching staff need to pay attention to Rogers in the offseason and see if they can pick something up, because they sure can't afford to field as poorly as they did in the World Series. Pudge also won his twelfth Gold Glove, which extends the record for catchers that he currently holds.
Re: Adios
Adam, do you have a crystal ball over there? Has Ron Mason been hitting you on the hip looking to pick your mind? I'm going to take off my block M hat and think as a general sports fan living in Michigan. It seems MSU has a lot of parallels to the Detroit Lions organization. It's not the players. It's not the coach. John "Too Many L's" Smith had great credentials. Everyone has to admit he ran a fun watching offense. The shuffle pass is one of the greatest things since sliced bread. Saban was obviously good. But, when the MSU brass look at the 5th year seniors and realize none of them have beat Michigan, heads are going to roll Steinbrenner style.
It just doesn't make sense. You couldn't ask much more from your coach. He practically started every year on a big 4-0 run and even 7-0. Hype. Heisman talk. BCS contention. Then the wheels fell off. But not only that, but they fell off 4 staight years and not even Fisher Price wheels were put back on. Apparently each year's first loss was the mental part he couldn't correct. And they weren't just "losses." These were, as Adam would put it (or Kirk Herbstreit), textbook MSU losses. Had the game and blew it.
I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, so I'm just going to stop.
Side note: Adam, how do you get the format that when you copy a quote that it indents the entire passage?
It just doesn't make sense. You couldn't ask much more from your coach. He practically started every year on a big 4-0 run and even 7-0. Hype. Heisman talk. BCS contention. Then the wheels fell off. But not only that, but they fell off 4 staight years and not even Fisher Price wheels were put back on. Apparently each year's first loss was the mental part he couldn't correct. And they weren't just "losses." These were, as Adam would put it (or Kirk Herbstreit), textbook MSU losses. Had the game and blew it.
I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, so I'm just going to stop.
Side note: Adam, how do you get the format that when you copy a quote that it indents the entire passage?
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Ocho Cinco...
...has been fined $5,000 for his velcro shenanigans before last Sunday's game. He'll appeal the decision. I usually hate this kind of thing, but I thought the Ocho Cinco velcro nameplate was actually pretty funny stuff. But why appeal? Come on Chad, you knew the price when you planned the stunt. Five G's seems like a pretty good deal, don't you think?
Adios
So, John L. Smith is toast, as I predicted. I've been a fan of Smith's and I think most of the griping about him, especially early on, was just idiotic. The only real knock against Smith when he was hired was that his teams weren't know for being disciplined. If you thought he was a bad hire because of that, you get a cookie. Otherwise, you're just a jackass who's trying to look smart in hindsight, so get over yourself. Having played on a team that just wouldn't respond to a good coach I'm more likely to give Smith some slack. But when it comes down to it this team's psyche was made of glass, and that goes on the coach. It has to. The players aren't happy about the firing. Guess what guys? Tough. You had the power to keep your coach's job. And you didn't get it done. Again. And again. And again. Too many heartbreaking losses; the kind of losses that will turn your stomach years later. Frankly, I'm sick of Michigan State football and probably won't watch another game the rest of the year (they are usually on here in MN). If I feel like, how do you think alumni who actually donate feel?
So who becomes the next coach? This article has a few ideas, some of them are even good. But, please, not Brian Kelly (Hotshot young coach + MSU football = pathetic failure) or Ron English (No table scraps from the Wolverines). And, for the love of all that is Sparty, don't hire Mariucci. Don't. Even. Think about it. My pick? I don't care, because this is how I think it's going to unfold:
But maybe I'm wrong.
So who becomes the next coach? This article has a few ideas, some of them are even good. But, please, not Brian Kelly (Hotshot young coach + MSU football = pathetic failure) or Ron English (No table scraps from the Wolverines). And, for the love of all that is Sparty, don't hire Mariucci. Don't. Even. Think about it. My pick? I don't care, because this is how I think it's going to unfold:
So how is this going to play out? I'll tell you. MSU loses it's next 2 games against superior teams, but the calls for Smith's head get louder. The Spartans can't pull enough wins out of their last 5 games and don't make a bowl game. Smith is fired. Smith's recruiting gains go out the window, along with his high-octane offense. MSU begins its coaching search, which turns into a pathetic circus. At the end MSU has an unexciting new coach and a new offense, as well as a slew of soon to be broken promises. Spartan football goes into rebuilding mode and is set back a decade. Dire? Maybe, but that's the path this program is on. There's no easy solutions and a new sheriff won't be able to clean up EL overnight.
But maybe I'm wrong.
"Man on the loose, Officer needs assistance!"
Not so much. Apparently two guys thought they would "help" the police capture a man who was fleeing into a woods they were allegedly hunting in. Here is the full story. Two guys put their camo on and walked through a police perimeter into the woods the man was chased. The two men, 17 and 25, were armed with shotgun and a hunting bow. They found the suspect hiding under a tree and brought him out of the woods at gunpoint.
I can picture it now: "Here you go guys. I got him for ya. Yeeeeee-haaaaaw."
Look you red-neck degenerates. Get your ace out of there. This isn't Walker, Texas Ranger.
I can picture it now: "Here you go guys. I got him for ya. Yeeeeee-haaaaaw."
Look you red-neck degenerates. Get your ace out of there. This isn't Walker, Texas Ranger.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
When I Remember
Blindside is my favorite band right now and their song "When I Remember" is probably their best work. Check out the video:
Squirrels + Crack = Funny
Some squirrels in the UK are getting hooked on crack. Apparently some junkies or dealers have been hiding the drugs in flower beds and the like, then the squirrels dig it up. And then they go looking for more. According to the article, crack squirrels are a recognized problem here in the US and "have been known to attack park visitors in their search for a fix." I'm not surprised. The squirrels on campus at MSU got pretty grumpy when you came out of the cafeteria without something for them. You could see it in their beady little eyes: "Where's my cookie, punk?" I'd hate to see them actually on drugs. (Hat tip: Cosmo at The Corner)
Fun words to say?
Monkey. A word we like to say and talk about in this blog. But what happened when a heckler used it as a racial slur towards NBA star Dikembe Mutombo? Not exactly a slap on the wrist. He's been banned from attending games at any NBA arena. Orlando said they would refund his season ticket payment. You can check out the story here. I wonder, since they took away his season tickets and banned him from NBA arenas, what more could be done to him? Knowing that, did he call him a monkey again? What would they do? Ban him from next season?
Side note: If your name is Hooman Hamzehloui, maybe you shouldn't be calling someone a monkey.
Side note: If your name is Hooman Hamzehloui, maybe you shouldn't be calling someone a monkey.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
"No! My candy innards!"
This comic is probably a little sick, but it made me laugh, so I thought I'd share. Enjoy.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Ruing
The Tigers are ruing their poor play in the World Series, especially the 8 errors in the series that lead to 8 unearned runs. "I didn't have the team ready to play the way it needed to play to win a World Series, so blame me," said manager Jim Leyland. Maybe, but Leyland wasn't the one making the errors. How do you prepare your team not to make errors anyway? In a little while I'm sure we'll be able to appreciate the Tigers' remarkable season, but it stings right now. Especially letting that punk Weaver clinch the title. That sucks.
RE: Care to reconsider?
I'm pretty sure that there's a clause in all Big Ten contracts that says if you lose to Illinois and Indiana in the same season you are automatically fired. If there's not, there ought to be. John L. is toast and so is this season. Also, a note to all aspiring coaches: a multiple-TD deficit at the half isn't always a good motivator. I still can't believe the Spartans are actually this bad, but you have to look at the product on the field and all signs point to it being a lemon. Thanks guys, you've managed to steal away all my joy in college football this season.
Care to reconsider?
Ok, maybe you don't fire a guy after a win. However, MSU should never have been down 38-3. Yeah, it was a great come from behind victory, but it shouldn't have been that way to begin with. So, it wouldn't have been too far fetched to see the reasoning behind firing JL Smith after a win. Now that Indiana rolled them up, and I know IU is having an awesome year in Indiana standards, I think by Monday morning would be an appropriate time to get fired. If getting down 38-3 didn't wake them up last week, there has to be problems.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Adam couldn't have said it better
For those of you illustrious blog readers, you've probably figured out that Adam doesn't think too highly of ESPN football "journalist" Michael Irvin. Well, either does Tiki Barber and he doesn't pull any punches. Tiki went on his radio show "The Barber Shop" and let loose on how he felt about a few of his critics. Basically, Tiki is pissed. You can read the story here, but all the meat and potatoes follow:
"And that includes Gary Myers," he said. "That includes Tom Jackson on ESPN. That includes the ultimate character guy, facetiously speaking of course, Michael Irvin. Please get a clue on how to be a journalist."
Amen.
"And that includes Gary Myers," he said. "That includes Tom Jackson on ESPN. That includes the ultimate character guy, facetiously speaking of course, Michael Irvin. Please get a clue on how to be a journalist."
Amen.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance releases tomorrow, and it sure looks cool. Check out the trailer and see for yourself. It even has Deadpool. If you don't know who Deadpool is, you're a chimichanga. Obviously it also features more well-known characters like Spider-man, Wolverine, Captain America, Blade, and Beta Ray Bill. Okay, some of those are well-known. I would almost certainly be picking this up tomorrow, except that it's not coming out for the only system I have here, the Gamecube. Maybe I'll have to try the PC version, but I'll have to wait for reviews on that. Or, I could buy a 360... nah, better pay my auto insurance instead.
Hey Chevrolet,
When I'm watching the World Series, you know, the one featuring the DETROIT Tigers and ST. LOUIS Cardinals, I want my truck commercials to be in ENGLISH, not espańol. I'd also prefer truck commercials to feature a truck doing something it can actually do instead of moving a semi or withstanding a meteor hit (Yes that goes for you too Ford and Nissan). Still, I'd settle for English commercials.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Fantasy Football
Adam,
Do you think you could post the fantasy scores on the blog on Sunday nights to give us a little teaser of how everyone is doing?
Signed,
Fantasy Geek
Do you think you could post the fantasy scores on the blog on Sunday nights to give us a little teaser of how everyone is doing?
Signed,
Fantasy Geek
Saturday, October 21, 2006
You Read It Here First
John L. Smith is going to be fired. Not right now, or mid-season like another former MSU football coach. But the way the Spartans have played so far today (it's only halfway through the 3rd quarter) the season and Smith's job cannot be salvaged. Adios.
UPDATE: Talk about strange coincidences. Out of curiousity I was surfing the archives from last October and found this post, which is almost a year ago to the day. The content? Referring to the Spartans as a race horse 'Sparty Jones', I said "Looks like it's dog food time. Somebody get my gun." Deja Vu?
UPDATE 2: Maybe I spoke too soon, since Michigan State managed to pull off the biggest comeback in NCAA Division I-A history. The previous record had the teams coming back from a 31-point deficit, MSU trailed 38-3 in the 3rd quarter. This team might just have some life left in it.
UPDATE: Talk about strange coincidences. Out of curiousity I was surfing the archives from last October and found this post, which is almost a year ago to the day. The content? Referring to the Spartans as a race horse 'Sparty Jones', I said "Looks like it's dog food time. Somebody get my gun." Deja Vu?
UPDATE 2: Maybe I spoke too soon, since Michigan State managed to pull off the biggest comeback in NCAA Division I-A history. The previous record had the teams coming back from a 31-point deficit, MSU trailed 38-3 in the 3rd quarter. This team might just have some life left in it.
Aliens, Predators, Batman, Superman, and... Monkeys!?!
This is either the coolest or dumbest idea I've ever heard: SUPERMAN AND BATMAN VS. ALIENS AND PREDATORS. Now, this isn't completely out of the blue as DC has published the crossovers Batman vs. Predator and Superman vs. Aliens previously. Or, perhaps the writers were inspired by the indie short film, Batman: Dead End. Either way, I suppose there's a thin line between lunacy and brilliance, and I suspect this two-issue series will jump right over it. But still, how could you pass it up? I just may have to check it out.
Another character that is so crazy I just might have to check out: Detective Chimp, who's billed as "The World's Greatest Simian Sleuth" (is there any competition?), and, of course, dresses like Sherlock Holmes. Who wouldn't love a crime-fighting monkey? Apparently he was once thought an embarassment left over from the Silver Age of comics, but has been resurrected recently. As soon as Barrigar finds out about this guy he will surely become his greatest fan. Maybe I'll have to find him a Detective Chimp t-shirt for Christmas.UPDATE: Uhh, there are no Detective Chimp t-shirts, which is a sad commentary on our culture. Maybe we need Cass City Monkies t-shirts?
The Spirit of Detroit...
... has some new duds in preparation for the World Series which starts tonight at 8:05 PM. Fans are ready too. So how did the Tigers get here after years of being awful? Short answer: pitching. If you want more detail, click the link. Finally, how does Alan Trammell feel about the Tigers' success this season?"I think our entire staff feels good that we were able to lay a little foundation. It's not like I'm sitting here saying, 'OK, they made the playoffs. Now I'm proud of them.' I've been proud of them all year."
Good luck tonight, Tigers.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
You thought you knew it all...
...well, you probably didn't. Since it is October and the "Fall Classic" is just around the corner, I thought I'd let you know about a story I read on ESPN's Page 2. You didn't know Bill Buckner was in a double-whammy situation did you? Well, according to zoomed in picture technology, Buckner can be seen walking off the field with his glove off after the horrible fielding play he booted to lose game 6 of the World Series wearing a...Chicago Cubs batting glove! Gulp! If the Sox wouldn't have won in 2004, Sox fans could now have closure on the '86 disaster knowing everything now makes sense and has come around full circle.
Until next time, here's spanning the world, if there is a next time.
Until next time, here's spanning the world, if there is a next time.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Best Campaign Stunt EVER
Elephant, mariachi band, mexican border. Go. Read. Now.
Money quote:
“If I can get an elephant led by a mariachi band into this country, I think Osama bin Laden could get across with all the weapons of mass destruction he could get into this country.”
Money quote:
“If I can get an elephant led by a mariachi band into this country, I think Osama bin Laden could get across with all the weapons of mass destruction he could get into this country.”
Sunday, October 15, 2006
They won?
World Series fever is sweeping Detroit. It's so infectious, even the Detroit Lions have caught it. They decided to go ahead and win today so that Detroit fans could keep celebrating. Somehow, I don't think the celebration was quite as jubilant, but a win is a win. Roy William had 10 catches for 161 yds and a TD while Kevin Jones ran for 127 yards and a TD of his own.
Disgraceful
I've seen a bench-clearing brawl at a baseball game. But never at a football game. But Miami and FIU changed that last night in a fight that included players stomping on each other, punches being thrown, and helmets being used as weapons (They must have missed the classic "Your helmet is not a weapon" speech). 13 players were ejected during the game and Miami coach Larry Coker suspended more of his players today. Said Coker: "I don't have many bad days. This is a bad day."
Saturday, October 14, 2006
ALCS Champions
Monday, October 09, 2006
Who's Your MAM?
It's time to nominate some MAM's (Monday Afternoon Morons). Here are just a couple that receive a MAM:
1) Anyone who got married this weekend. Ok fellas, you are about to pick a date. You know it's fall which every real man knows is football season. How do you not check the schedule? Yeah, Michigan-Michigan State week doesn't create any hype at all. Let's see: Every sports radio station talks about it. Heck every news station talks about it. It's all going on at work for bragging rights. The list goes on. I know the "Big Day" is all about you and you could careless about football, but don't you want people to WANT to be there or at least show up? Yeah, I'm sure the bride-to-be is geeked about seeing the reception hall clear out so the guys can go watch the big screen TV.
2) Anyone who attended a wedding this weekend. Did you not know what was going on Saturday? Not just the Tigers, but the Freakin' Tigers were destroying the Evil Empire. Oh, that's right, there was some rivarly football game going on in A-squared that NO ONE had interest in. But, you don't ware the pants and you still went to the wedding. Loser.
3) Terrell Owens. He once again threw his QB under the bus.
4) Everyone that said the Tigers had no chance of beating the Yankees. Hmmmm...I guess this one pertains to me. Oops. Oh well, there's nothing wrong with MAM on MAM crime.
5) The Media and Coaches who rank West Virginia in the Top 5 football polls. West Virginia? WHOM? Do they play any tough teams? And we have to pin our hopes on Louisville taking them down?
6) The Lions defense. You gave up how many points in the 4th quarter? Answer me this: what kind of purse do they tackle with? Is it Gucchi, Ralph Lauren, a Gap Bag?
If anyone has any other MAM's they'd like to nominate, pile on.
1) Anyone who got married this weekend. Ok fellas, you are about to pick a date. You know it's fall which every real man knows is football season. How do you not check the schedule? Yeah, Michigan-Michigan State week doesn't create any hype at all. Let's see: Every sports radio station talks about it. Heck every news station talks about it. It's all going on at work for bragging rights. The list goes on. I know the "Big Day" is all about you and you could careless about football, but don't you want people to WANT to be there or at least show up? Yeah, I'm sure the bride-to-be is geeked about seeing the reception hall clear out so the guys can go watch the big screen TV.
2) Anyone who attended a wedding this weekend. Did you not know what was going on Saturday? Not just the Tigers, but the Freakin' Tigers were destroying the Evil Empire. Oh, that's right, there was some rivarly football game going on in A-squared that NO ONE had interest in. But, you don't ware the pants and you still went to the wedding. Loser.
3) Terrell Owens. He once again threw his QB under the bus.
4) Everyone that said the Tigers had no chance of beating the Yankees. Hmmmm...I guess this one pertains to me. Oops. Oh well, there's nothing wrong with MAM on MAM crime.
5) The Media and Coaches who rank West Virginia in the Top 5 football polls. West Virginia? WHOM? Do they play any tough teams? And we have to pin our hopes on Louisville taking them down?
6) The Lions defense. You gave up how many points in the 4th quarter? Answer me this: what kind of purse do they tackle with? Is it Gucchi, Ralph Lauren, a Gap Bag?
If anyone has any other MAM's they'd like to nominate, pile on.
Tigers Roundup
I'm short on time tonight and out of town the next couple of days, so I don't really have time to give the Tigers the proper coverage, so someone else is going to have to pick up the slack. That said here's an article with some historical perspective, one looking back at the ALDS, and another looking forward. An observation from the weekend: no one seems to hate a Tigers fan after their win on Saturday.
"This chick is toast."
That's it. I've had it. No more! I was driving home a few nights ago from Mandy's house and had 4 deer either jump out in front of me or walking along the shoulder and could have at any second. So what did I do about it? Well, punk, I bought a combo hunting license the next day from Wild John's. RACK 'EM! "If it's brown, it's down." (Nathan Fritz...during desparate hunting season).
And if you want, just for fun, name the movie that this quote comes from.
P.s. Adam, I don't surf the web for all the comics, but anytime you post one, I don't hesitate to check 'em out. Funny stuff. Keep it up.
And if you want, just for fun, name the movie that this quote comes from.
P.s. Adam, I don't surf the web for all the comics, but anytime you post one, I don't hesitate to check 'em out. Funny stuff. Keep it up.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Kenny! Kenny!
"I wanted this game as much as any game I've ever wanted in my life," said Kenny Rogers about last night's game. It showed as he pitched 7 2/3 scoreless innings of baseball to give the Tigers a 2-1 lead over the Yankees in the ALDS. This was especially impressive since the Yankees have arguably the best lineup ever. Bonderman has a chance to finish off the Yankees this afternoon.
New Jobs
The Red Wings have a new captain: Nicklas Lidstrom. Lidstrom was the the favorite to win the position after Yzerman retired. Speaking of Yzerman, he has a new job too. He's the new vice-president of the Red Wings. Unfortunately, neither of these moves helped the Wings win their opener, which they lost 3-1 to the Canucks.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Now for the rest of the story
So I was picking up a supply for the Village at Fairway Discount. While waiting at the counter, I noticed this weeks Chronicle so I peeked at a couple of pages. I noticed I recognized someone who had their engagement picture in the paper. It was Dan Curtis. I just saw him yesterday at the Dealership because he is the GM there. (Side Note: I think he graduated close to my year from Caro.) So I read about the couple in the picture. His fiancé is Laura Price. Big deal. But I kept reading and she is the band director for Deckerville. But that's not the stumper. I kept reading and it said they met on e-Harmony.
Look, e-Harmony = losers. You can't find your life partner by going down the store isle picking out the exact one based on your needs. This isn't shopping. If I need a car, I look for the color, price, year, size, etc. until I find the one I want. Your partner isn't on ebay where you can refine your search: Girl = Blond = Blue eyes = Athletic = Age 20-25 = College Degree = Lives within 75 miles = Christian = etc... "You Have 7 items matching your search." It may work at Best Buy if you are looking for a specific kind of computer. But you won't find your partner on some shelf based on your specifications. "Yup, that's the one. Perfect. She has 250 GB of storage space! Oh, it says here she likes euchre. All right!"
If you meet that person and after a little while realize they weren't what you expected/wanted, then you are basically saying e-Harmony doesn't work and if e-Harmony doesn't work and it's programed to find the perfect match for you and this person wasn't, then there must not be anyone out there for you. Because, gee, if a computer can't find her, how will you ever find that person?
This has been Paul Harvey. Good day.
Look, e-Harmony = losers. You can't find your life partner by going down the store isle picking out the exact one based on your needs. This isn't shopping. If I need a car, I look for the color, price, year, size, etc. until I find the one I want. Your partner isn't on ebay where you can refine your search: Girl = Blond = Blue eyes = Athletic = Age 20-25 = College Degree = Lives within 75 miles = Christian = etc... "You Have 7 items matching your search." It may work at Best Buy if you are looking for a specific kind of computer. But you won't find your partner on some shelf based on your specifications. "Yup, that's the one. Perfect. She has 250 GB of storage space! Oh, it says here she likes euchre. All right!"
If you meet that person and after a little while realize they weren't what you expected/wanted, then you are basically saying e-Harmony doesn't work and if e-Harmony doesn't work and it's programed to find the perfect match for you and this person wasn't, then there must not be anyone out there for you. Because, gee, if a computer can't find her, how will you ever find that person?
This has been Paul Harvey. Good day.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Couldn't Have Said It Better Myself
"More times than not, you don't have a dislike for the people who went to Michigan. It's the thousands and thousands of bandwagon people that jump on there that went all over, went to community college, and all of a sudden they're Michigan fans because Michigan's No. 1."
-Drew Stanton
-Drew Stanton
Call on the Amish Mafia
Just to back up my aforementioned statement on the fantasy football post about Amish Mafia, check out the story.
On another note: I'm currently watching The Cobert Report and he just did a segment in which he called the Oscoda School Board pussies for canceling the rest of the football season. "Get your asses back on the field."
On another note: I'm currently watching The Cobert Report and he just did a segment in which he called the Oscoda School Board pussies for canceling the rest of the football season. "Get your asses back on the field."
Monday, October 02, 2006
Re: This is how it's gonna be
I was looking at buying a house in the "EL" area, but it appears the one I wanted has already been sold. Dang. And I heard some guy by the name of Steve Mariucci bought it. Oh well. So, anybody else hear of that rumor yet? Side note: Hats off to the Spartans. I don't care who you lose to, you don't let anyone come on your turf and plant a flag, especially a crappy football team like Illinois. But if you really don't want a team doing that, WIN you idiots. What a bunch of underachievers. I also enjoyed the humor in your coach after the press conference: "And somebody slapped me." I like jabs at the Domers.
I am Batman
Sunday, October 01, 2006
How It's Gonna Be
John L. Smith, quoted in the Detroit News, afer yesterday's loss to Illinois: "Apparently I don’t have the answer." The question? How to get his players to practice hard and be ready for the game. Smith said he knew all week that his guys weren't prepared and he couldn't snap them out of it. Is this his fault? It has to be partly, but John L. has coached successfully at other places, you'd think he can get a team up for a game. But not the Spartans. Based on my experience from playing on a team that just didn't seem to care enough to win, maybe there's nothing he can do. But that doesn't matter. Too many excruciating losses have fans and alumni angry and looking for a scapegoat.
So how is this going to play out? I'll tell you. MSU loses it's next 2 games against superior teams, but the calls for Smith's head get louder. The Spartans can't pull enough wins out of their last 5 games and don't make a bowl game. Smith is fired. Smith's recruiting gains go out the window, along with his high-octane offense. MSU begins its coaching search, which turns into a pathetic circus. At the end MSU has an unexciting new coach and a new offense, as well as a slew of soon to be broken promises. Spartan football goes into rebuilding mode and is set back a decade. Dire? Maybe, but that's the path this program is on. There's no easy solutions and a new sheriff won't be able to clean up EL overnight.
So that's where the Spartan players are. They hold the next 10 years of the program in their hands right now. Turn your season around and save football at MSU, or bequeath their successors a legacy of losing. Make your choice.
So how is this going to play out? I'll tell you. MSU loses it's next 2 games against superior teams, but the calls for Smith's head get louder. The Spartans can't pull enough wins out of their last 5 games and don't make a bowl game. Smith is fired. Smith's recruiting gains go out the window, along with his high-octane offense. MSU begins its coaching search, which turns into a pathetic circus. At the end MSU has an unexciting new coach and a new offense, as well as a slew of soon to be broken promises. Spartan football goes into rebuilding mode and is set back a decade. Dire? Maybe, but that's the path this program is on. There's no easy solutions and a new sheriff won't be able to clean up EL overnight.
So that's where the Spartan players are. They hold the next 10 years of the program in their hands right now. Turn your season around and save football at MSU, or bequeath their successors a legacy of losing. Make your choice.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Quote Me
You know, sometimes you forget that the internet is, well, interconnected. Meaning the posts on this blog could potentially be viewed by anyone. Or reposted anywhere. Like here. What the heck? I'm sure AOL Sports uses some blog-crawl program that searches and pulls up quotes pretty much randomly, but it's weird to see your words repeated somewhere, especially on a respectable sports site. So, the moral of the story? Don't suck.
Disappointing the Frog
Michigan State got an early start on it's late-season implosion this afternoon with a 23-20 loss to Illinois. It was the Illini's first conference win since 2004. It was also homecoming for the Spartans. That's right, they lost in front of Kermit. It doesn't get much worse than that folks. Stick a fork in them, this team is DONE. If they're lucky they can go 7-5 the rest of the way and make a bowl game, but they missed an easy one today. It will be tough sledding the next 2 weeks against UM and OSU, leaving the Spartans at 3-4. That would mean they'd have to go 4-1 the rest of the way. Nope. Don't worry Spartan moms and dads, your boys will be home for Christmas.
Friday, September 29, 2006
"I'm Batman."
"...this is why you're Michigan State."
"If you've watched Michigan State for the last 50 years, you know that this is why you're Michigan State." That's what Kirk Herbstreit said Saturday night after QB Drew Stanton fumbled the ball in the 4th quarter. You know what? He's right. Kirk and Bob Davie had the Spartans' number last week. They knew just what to expect, just like every Spartan fan that was watching. Stanton's response: "Everybody wants to say they blew a 17-point lead to Notre Dame, they're still the same football team. Luckily, we still have the whole Big Ten schedule to go out there and prove all of our naysayers wrong." I love Stanton as a football player and a team leader, but he's dead wrong. The Spartans had their chance on Saturday night, and they blew it. Big time. It's already too late to prove the naysayers wrong, because they've proven what they're made of. They would have to beat UM and OSU, back to back to prove they're not that team. Win one? Quite possibly, though I doubt it. Win both? Psssh. Yeah, right. Sorry Drew, you couldn't change the Spartans. Good luck in the NFL. Whatever you do STAY AWAY from the Lions.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Send The Pain Below
So you thought you had a hard day? Tampa Bay quarterback Chris Simms was hit so hard so many times today by the Panthers that he had to have his spleen removed. Yes, you read that right. His spleen. Good thing he doesn't need it. Maybe he can keep it in a jar like Dave Mirra.
The Clincher
The Tigers clinched a playoff berth today with a victory over the Royals, 11-4. This is the first time the Tigers have been in the playoffs since 1987. Yeah, that's a longer drought than even the Lions. The Twins also won today, keeping the battle for the AL Central close.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Bachelor Chow 2: Asian Pan Fried Catfish
The other day I was in Meijers. Went to get some chicken breast, but it wasn't on sale. Frozen catfish was cheaper. So I'm slowly learning what to do with it. This is my only attempt that has been good enough to recommend to anyone.
1/2 cup rice
handful oriental blend vegetables
serving of catfish strips
flour
Hoisin Sauce
Spices
Cooking oil
Dump the rice, veggies, and water (appropriate to the kind of rice you use, follow the directions) into a large pan. Start that cooking.
Thaw your catfish (I use short spurts in the microwave).
While the fish is thawing, mix a bit of flour with your chosen spices (I used Lowry salt and garlic powder) in a ziplock bag.
Pour some cooking oil in the bottom of a small pan, start that heating (you want it at or close to boiling before the fish goes in)(Boiling oil pops and splatters, don't boil it to far ahead or stand too close in your favorite shirt (I didn't but it could happen)).
When the fish is thawed, either dump it in the bag, or dip it in some milk then dump it in the bag (not sure how much the milk helps, probably more if you use fresh fish). Shake this until the fish is coated, then lay it in the pan of boiling oil. Let it cook till the breading gets a bit brown, then turn it to cook both sides. Don't leave it in for more than a few minutes, fish is more temperature sensitive than terrestrial flesh (the live in colder environments, so their chemistry is optimized for those conditions. Their proteins denature at lower temps as a result. Also why fish oils are liquid at room temp and animal fats are solid.). (Caution to morons, boiling oil is hot. The fish will be too when it comes out.)
Serve the fish on the rice, add Hoisin to taste (works well for dipping the fish and punching up the rice).
1/2 cup rice
handful oriental blend vegetables
serving of catfish strips
flour
Hoisin Sauce
Spices
Cooking oil
Dump the rice, veggies, and water (appropriate to the kind of rice you use, follow the directions) into a large pan. Start that cooking.
Thaw your catfish (I use short spurts in the microwave).
While the fish is thawing, mix a bit of flour with your chosen spices (I used Lowry salt and garlic powder) in a ziplock bag.
Pour some cooking oil in the bottom of a small pan, start that heating (you want it at or close to boiling before the fish goes in)(Boiling oil pops and splatters, don't boil it to far ahead or stand too close in your favorite shirt (I didn't but it could happen)).
When the fish is thawed, either dump it in the bag, or dip it in some milk then dump it in the bag (not sure how much the milk helps, probably more if you use fresh fish). Shake this until the fish is coated, then lay it in the pan of boiling oil. Let it cook till the breading gets a bit brown, then turn it to cook both sides. Don't leave it in for more than a few minutes, fish is more temperature sensitive than terrestrial flesh (the live in colder environments, so their chemistry is optimized for those conditions. Their proteins denature at lower temps as a result. Also why fish oils are liquid at room temp and animal fats are solid.). (Caution to morons, boiling oil is hot. The fish will be too when it comes out.)
Serve the fish on the rice, add Hoisin to taste (works well for dipping the fish and punching up the rice).
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
What about Mike?
Lions WR Mike Williams has played in the same number of NFL games that I have so far this year. Now, if I was 6'5", 228 lbs. (I might be one of those), this would make sense. What does Williams need to do to earn a starting spot? Well, that's the problem: he doesn't know, and the coaches won't tell him. So he's frustrated. That's just a great job at motivation. The more I read about the Lions, the more I doubt the coaches. Here's a prediction (look, I'm Roy Williams!): the Lions win no more than 6 games.
Lumberjack Song
I know this has been posted before, but I can't find it because Blogger search is currently a piece of crap. So, to augment my ripping of Ump on the league message board:
You're welcome.
You're welcome.
In Case You Missed It
No pun intended for what you are about to read when it comes to "missing" things.
No, I'm not talking about Instant Replay in Oregon. Those officials were terrible. Off the record...ah heck, let's keep this for the record: You're dang right I'm glad it happened to Oklahoma.
But anyway, speaking of bad calls, and this may be the most obsured you've ever heard happen Adam.
Friday night: USA v CC at USA.
USA just scored a TD and kicked off to CC. The ball banked off the chest of the CC returner harder than Nathan Fritz attempting a layup in Basketball. So the ball bounced in front of the returner and he was going after it, just like the USA kick coverage team was racing to get to the ball before him. Well, like a typical fumble, there was a big pile. It appeared the CC returner got to the ball first, but it also appeared a USA player recovered the ball. But, like I say, it was a typical fumble where you don't really know for sure what happened, plus, we were in the stands on the USA 35 yard line. It happened on our sideline, but at the CC 20 yard line.
So the officals all got together like normal to determine who will get the ball. So, what did the officals decide? I'll give you multiple choice.
A. Cass City ball
B. USA ball
Errrrr (buzzer sound). That is incorrect. The correct answer is neither.
They decided to just kick the ball off again. A freakin' Do-Over? According to the Chronicle, the referees ruled that no team had control of the ball before an inadvertent whistle, which resulted in a do-over. Inadvertent whistle my tail. Personally, I think USA got screwed and this all happened near the USA sideline. (Note: On the do-over kickoff, since USA got screwed, there was a "blocking" penalty against CC. Hmmm. I'll bet.)
Then later in that same 2nd quarter, USA threw a 25 yard TD that appeared to be an incomplete pass. Again, we were 75 yards away, but it sure looked like a drop. In fact, I can't even use the word "drop" because that would mean he actually had the ball in order to drop it. If you never had possession of something, it's impossible to drop it. It basically had just enough time to hit both his hands (without dropping it, mind you) and then FALLING (not dropping) to the ground. The referees ruled he had the ball long enough. Rumor has it the officals didn't actually see what happened and by the time they looked (since he was so wide open and it was a perfect pass) they just assumed he caught the ball. Like I mentioned, it was difficult to see the play because...well, let me set it up for you.
CC just got done punting or whatever and USA got the ball on the CC 25 yard line. There was less than 1 minute in the first half remaining. ON THE VERY FIRST PLAY, Bitzer (Brandon) dropped back to pass and everyone in the stands could see this was going to be a TD. Which is why we didn't see the "drop" very well because EVERYONE in the stands stood up waiting to exploded with gayness. And because the guy was so wide open and it was right to him, everyone knew he was going to catch it. But with everyone standing up and the receiver running to the corner of the endzone, I seen it hit his hands, assumed he caught it, blinked, and then seen it falling to the grass. And then I noticed the referees signaling a TD. I thougth they would at least talk about it to see if he had it long enough. Nope. I still didn't believe my eyes, so I just so happened to turn my head to look at the scoreboard to see how much time was left and I saw the USA score changing...28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33.
I hope that painted a good enough picture for you. But I'll throw this at you. I was at the game with Fritz and the gang as well and after what we all just saw minutes ago with the "do-over" kickoff, we were making fun of the refs on what they would call this time. Fritz thought we were just joking around. After seeing the highlights on TV-5, I called Fritz to see if he saw the "drop."
Quote:
Haag: "Did you see the pass they called a TD on the news?"
Fritz: "What are you talking about?"
Fritz didn't even know they called that a TD. Keep in mind, this was after the game at 11:30 pm and he still thought it was a drop.
News 5 was there and showed it on TV but the sports guys did the highlight reel like it was no big deal. If I was the Sports Anchor (since the USA/CC game was the lead highlight) I think I'd question what I just saw. He blew over it like someone in his earpiece threated his wife and kids. News 5 used to keep the video on the net so you could watch from your computer, but they don't do that anymore, or else I'd suggest you watch it on video for yourself.
No, I'm not talking about Instant Replay in Oregon. Those officials were terrible. Off the record...ah heck, let's keep this for the record: You're dang right I'm glad it happened to Oklahoma.
But anyway, speaking of bad calls, and this may be the most obsured you've ever heard happen Adam.
Friday night: USA v CC at USA.
USA just scored a TD and kicked off to CC. The ball banked off the chest of the CC returner harder than Nathan Fritz attempting a layup in Basketball. So the ball bounced in front of the returner and he was going after it, just like the USA kick coverage team was racing to get to the ball before him. Well, like a typical fumble, there was a big pile. It appeared the CC returner got to the ball first, but it also appeared a USA player recovered the ball. But, like I say, it was a typical fumble where you don't really know for sure what happened, plus, we were in the stands on the USA 35 yard line. It happened on our sideline, but at the CC 20 yard line.
So the officals all got together like normal to determine who will get the ball. So, what did the officals decide? I'll give you multiple choice.
A. Cass City ball
B. USA ball
Errrrr (buzzer sound). That is incorrect. The correct answer is neither.
They decided to just kick the ball off again. A freakin' Do-Over? According to the Chronicle, the referees ruled that no team had control of the ball before an inadvertent whistle, which resulted in a do-over. Inadvertent whistle my tail. Personally, I think USA got screwed and this all happened near the USA sideline. (Note: On the do-over kickoff, since USA got screwed, there was a "blocking" penalty against CC. Hmmm. I'll bet.)
Then later in that same 2nd quarter, USA threw a 25 yard TD that appeared to be an incomplete pass. Again, we were 75 yards away, but it sure looked like a drop. In fact, I can't even use the word "drop" because that would mean he actually had the ball in order to drop it. If you never had possession of something, it's impossible to drop it. It basically had just enough time to hit both his hands (without dropping it, mind you) and then FALLING (not dropping) to the ground. The referees ruled he had the ball long enough. Rumor has it the officals didn't actually see what happened and by the time they looked (since he was so wide open and it was a perfect pass) they just assumed he caught the ball. Like I mentioned, it was difficult to see the play because...well, let me set it up for you.
CC just got done punting or whatever and USA got the ball on the CC 25 yard line. There was less than 1 minute in the first half remaining. ON THE VERY FIRST PLAY, Bitzer (Brandon) dropped back to pass and everyone in the stands could see this was going to be a TD. Which is why we didn't see the "drop" very well because EVERYONE in the stands stood up waiting to exploded with gayness. And because the guy was so wide open and it was right to him, everyone knew he was going to catch it. But with everyone standing up and the receiver running to the corner of the endzone, I seen it hit his hands, assumed he caught it, blinked, and then seen it falling to the grass. And then I noticed the referees signaling a TD. I thougth they would at least talk about it to see if he had it long enough. Nope. I still didn't believe my eyes, so I just so happened to turn my head to look at the scoreboard to see how much time was left and I saw the USA score changing...28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33.
I hope that painted a good enough picture for you. But I'll throw this at you. I was at the game with Fritz and the gang as well and after what we all just saw minutes ago with the "do-over" kickoff, we were making fun of the refs on what they would call this time. Fritz thought we were just joking around. After seeing the highlights on TV-5, I called Fritz to see if he saw the "drop."
Quote:
Haag: "Did you see the pass they called a TD on the news?"
Fritz: "What are you talking about?"
Fritz didn't even know they called that a TD. Keep in mind, this was after the game at 11:30 pm and he still thought it was a drop.
News 5 was there and showed it on TV but the sports guys did the highlight reel like it was no big deal. If I was the Sports Anchor (since the USA/CC game was the lead highlight) I think I'd question what I just saw. He blew over it like someone in his earpiece threated his wife and kids. News 5 used to keep the video on the net so you could watch from your computer, but they don't do that anymore, or else I'd suggest you watch it on video for yourself.
Monday, September 18, 2006
You Want Some More of This?
Heidi Klum, eat your heart out! Oh yeah, that's snow you see on your left.
Just Hangin' Around
Calculus....or....Colorado?
Yup, climbed that. Mt. Belford. 14,197 ft...0% Oxygen
Sick Man
Want to read a concise description of Michigan's economic woes? Check out this article from Rich Lowry at NRO. A quote:
Ouch.
According to the free-market Mackinac Center for Public Policy’s analysis of United Van Lines data, Michigan is now the No. 1 state in the continental United States for outbound traffic. An estimated 65 percent of the moving company’s Michigan interstate traffic is families moving out of the state, headed to more economically open and vital destinations. As an official in Wyoming put it, "Michigan has been very good for us."
Ouch.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
CBS Sucks
I'm a little peeved at CBS. You want to know why? Well, I'll tell you anyway. It's about football. There's not enough of it on. There is absolutely no reason why on Saturday or Sunday at 1pm that CBS isn't showing a football game. I don't care about golf, tennis, or infomercials. It's especially bad on Sunday, when I'm otherwise stuck watching the Vikings in their awful new uniforms. It would have been nice to watch the Bengals roll up the Browns for a while. Or the offensive show put on by Manning's Colts. Nope, infomercials and the Vikings. Grrrr...
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Money, Money, Money
At the beginning of the week, Reggie Bush was being talked about because of his performance is his first regular season NFL game. By the end of the week he was being talked about for allegedly accepting more than $100,000 in improper benefits while at USC. Here is the story you've heard so much about.
If Bush is guilty he'll have his Heisman trophy taken away. Does that mean they give it to Vince Young? Would he really want it? USC could also lose its 2004 national championship. I know those are the rules, but I don't know that it's right. If USC knew, then sure. But it's taken this long to find compelling evidence that Bush might have been ineligible. Is USC really responsible for that?
If Bush is guilty he'll have his Heisman trophy taken away. Does that mean they give it to Vince Young? Would he really want it? USC could also lose its 2004 national championship. I know those are the rules, but I don't know that it's right. If USC knew, then sure. But it's taken this long to find compelling evidence that Bush might have been ineligible. Is USC really responsible for that?
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Launching the Wii
Nintendo announced yesterday some vital stats for its new system. The most important one: $249. The second most important: Nov. 19th, the release date. I hope you like white (I don't), because that's the only color available at launch. Games should run you about $50. Prices for the controller: remote $40, nunchuck $20, classic controller $20. That's a lot of money you'll have to put into controllers if you want to play with friends. The Virtual Console games, which are (were) a big selling point to me will be priced as follows: $5 NES, $8 SNES, and $10 N64. That's a little steep. I mean, I love Tecmo, but I'm not sure I want to pay $5 for it, especially when I think about the other games I'd like to have available. Finally, Nintendo promised more than 25 unique games for the new console yet this year.
"big man" On Campus
Adam,
When you went back to MSU for more classes after you had your degree, did you feel like you walked with a little different...swagger on campus? More like a..."I've got a college degree" swagger? Or maybe it's the fact my pocket book is lighter because I just shelled out $500 for a class, thus causing an imbalance in the weight applied to my lower body from what I'm normally used to?
When you went back to MSU for more classes after you had your degree, did you feel like you walked with a little different...swagger on campus? More like a..."I've got a college degree" swagger? Or maybe it's the fact my pocket book is lighter because I just shelled out $500 for a class, thus causing an imbalance in the weight applied to my lower body from what I'm normally used to?
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Guza-isms
At Ump's request, a list of our favorite phrases from Mr. Guza.
Mr. Guza: "What do you do when you see one like #26?"
Adam: "Close the book."
(I think we should really credit Steve with this one.)
Mr. Guza: (in scary voice) "Story problems."
Mr. Guza: (clears throat 3 times) "Be reasonable."
Mr. Guza:(disgusted) "Freshmen orangutangs."
Mr. Guza: "Tricky, tricky textbook people."
More to come.
Mr. Guza: "What do you do when you see one like #26?"
Adam: "Close the book."
(I think we should really credit Steve with this one.)
Mr. Guza: (in scary voice) "Story problems."
Mr. Guza: (clears throat 3 times) "Be reasonable."
Mr. Guza:(disgusted) "Freshmen orangutangs."
Mr. Guza: "Tricky, tricky textbook people."
More to come.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Back in Black
I'm going to geek out for a minute. Since just before Marvel Comics began its "Civil War" event, which I mentioned here, Spider-man has been wearing a costume that looks like this:
Not bad, and is makes sense in context, but it's not classic. Well, Marvel has just announced that once "Civil War" is over Spider-man will wear his black costume, which I've posted about before, and is one of my favorites. The cover of the issue where Spider-man will return to classic duds:
Of course it's just a fortuitous coincidence that a black costume will be featured in Spider-man 3.
Not bad, and is makes sense in context, but it's not classic. Well, Marvel has just announced that once "Civil War" is over Spider-man will wear his black costume, which I've posted about before, and is one of my favorites. The cover of the issue where Spider-man will return to classic duds:
Of course it's just a fortuitous coincidence that a black costume will be featured in Spider-man 3.
Billy's Going Back To School
Well, I'm back in school. Big ol' Delta College. I enrolled in Calculus, after disappearing from math since I graduated high school (7 years?). Keep in mind, that was my senior year, and Guza didn't push us too much. So, mentally I've been away from Math more like 8 years 'cuz Guza didn't teach. In fact, every day was "group work" and I never really caught on to Calc anyway. So, it's no surprise that I'm a little behind, not to mention I missed my first two calc classes while in Colorado camping/hiking. After attending my first class (3rd class scheduled), I dropped it like a bad habit...then quickly transfered to Pre-Calc which is the exact same nights and times as the Calc class. Go figure. Now I've only missed 3 pre-calc classes and behind on a few assignments. But I made it to the 4th schedule pre-calc class last night and I'm doing alright I think. Maybe it helps that I have a calculator that I can follow along in class with. You see, my superior Ti-86 is apparently inferior to the Ti-83, Ti-83 Plus, and Ti-84. Well, it's really not inferior, they just choose to use those ones instead. The 86 would work just fine, but I have barely used my calculator that it takes me forever to figure out how to do what the instructor did on his 83 because I've barely used my 86. It can do the same stuff, but you have different setting and buttons to push to accomplish it. I don't have time to not only learn freakin' pre-Calc, but a 300 page manual on how to use my 86. So what did I do? Called Kevin, of course, and stole his Ti-83 Plus. Actually I traded my 86 for his 83.
It's hard for me to sit in class and not think "what would Guza say." I think I'll like my instructor. We were using the calulators last night and going back and forth from the "y=" screen to the main screen. He told us to press "2nd", "Quit" to clear the screen and get back to the main screen. However, a collegue had difficulty with that:
Classmate: "My screen didn't clear when you told me to do that."
Instructor: "We can use a hammer."
(I think when he said that I was the only one paying attention or heard him, because no one else chuckled.)
Oh, if only I could remember more Guza-isms. If anyone would like to help build a library of Guza-isms so I can shout them out in class at random times, I'd appreciate it. Or, if we could build a list of the inverse of Guza-isms, that'd be great too. For example:
Mr. Guza: "What do you do when you see one like #26?
Adam: "Close the book."
Let's start a list.
It's hard for me to sit in class and not think "what would Guza say." I think I'll like my instructor. We were using the calulators last night and going back and forth from the "y=" screen to the main screen. He told us to press "2nd", "Quit" to clear the screen and get back to the main screen. However, a collegue had difficulty with that:
Classmate: "My screen didn't clear when you told me to do that."
Instructor: "We can use a hammer."
(I think when he said that I was the only one paying attention or heard him, because no one else chuckled.)
Oh, if only I could remember more Guza-isms. If anyone would like to help build a library of Guza-isms so I can shout them out in class at random times, I'd appreciate it. Or, if we could build a list of the inverse of Guza-isms, that'd be great too. For example:
Mr. Guza: "What do you do when you see one like #26?
Adam: "Close the book."
Let's start a list.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Remembering 9/11
Saturday, September 09, 2006
The Protector
The Protector rocks. Need proof? Here's some proof. We'll start with a small fraction of a scene filmed all in one take:
Here's Tony Jaa fighting a guy using what Andy thinks is "southern monkey style" kung-fu:
Finally, here's Jaa kicking a guy out of a helicopter:
Convinced?
Here's Tony Jaa fighting a guy using what Andy thinks is "southern monkey style" kung-fu:
Finally, here's Jaa kicking a guy out of a helicopter:
Convinced?
Joe Duuuuuuuumars...
James Bond will return...
...in Casino Royale. You can check out the trailer here. This looks to be a new direction for the Bond franchise. No invisible cars in this one, though the Aston Martin is still present. Daniel Craig looks hardcore. I'm definitely going to have to check this one out.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Fallacious
Here's a fun list of fallacies. Here is a more serious one. If you don't find the first one humorous, than you need to study more philosophy, rhetoric, etc. From Jonah Goldberg via the Corner.
Monday, September 04, 2006
More Crystal Ball Time '06
My picks for the '06 NFL season. You can compare with ESPN's experts here.
AFC East: Dolphins
AFC North: Bengals
AFC South: Colts
AFC West: Broncos
AFC Wild Cards: Ravens, Jaguars
NFC East: Giants
NFC North: Bears
NFC South: Panthers
NFC West: Seattle
NFC Wild Cards: Bucs, Eagles
AFC Champ: Colts
NFC Champ: Panthers
Super Bowl Champ: Colts
Coach: T. Dungy
MVP: P. Manning
Def. POY: E. Reed
Off. POY: L. Johnson
Def. rookie: A.J. Hawk
Off. rookie: M. Bell
Comeback POY: D. McAllister
I reserve the right to change any of these up until kickoff of the first game. Here are my picks from '05, updated to show the correct picks in parentheses where they were wrong. Not too awful:
AFC East: Patriots
AFC North: Ravens (Bengals)
AFC South: Colts
AFC West: Chiefs (Denver)
AFC Wild Cards: Chargers, Jaguars (Steelers, Jaguars)
NFC East: Eagles (Giants)
NFC North: Vikings (Bears)
NFC South: Panthers (Bucs)
NFC West: Seahawks
NFC Wild Cards: Rams, Lions (Panthers, Redskins)
AFC Champ: Colts (Steelers)
NFC Champ: Panthers (Seahawks)
Super Bowl Champ: Colts (Steelers)
Coach: T. Dungy (Lovie Smith)
MVP: P. Manning (Shaun Alexander)
Def. POY: J. Peppers (Brian Urlacher)
Off. POY: P. Manning (Shaun Alexander)
Def. rookie: D. Ware (Shawne Merriman)
Off. rookie: C. Williams
Comeback POY: S. Smith (Tied with Tedy Bruschi)
AFC East: Dolphins
AFC North: Bengals
AFC South: Colts
AFC West: Broncos
AFC Wild Cards: Ravens, Jaguars
NFC East: Giants
NFC North: Bears
NFC South: Panthers
NFC West: Seattle
NFC Wild Cards: Bucs, Eagles
AFC Champ: Colts
NFC Champ: Panthers
Super Bowl Champ: Colts
Coach: T. Dungy
MVP: P. Manning
Def. POY: E. Reed
Off. POY: L. Johnson
Def. rookie: A.J. Hawk
Off. rookie: M. Bell
Comeback POY: D. McAllister
I reserve the right to change any of these up until kickoff of the first game. Here are my picks from '05, updated to show the correct picks in parentheses where they were wrong. Not too awful:
AFC East: Patriots
AFC North: Ravens (Bengals)
AFC South: Colts
AFC West: Chiefs (Denver)
AFC Wild Cards: Chargers, Jaguars (Steelers, Jaguars)
NFC East: Eagles (Giants)
NFC North: Vikings (Bears)
NFC South: Panthers (Bucs)
NFC West: Seahawks
NFC Wild Cards: Rams, Lions (Panthers, Redskins)
AFC Champ: Colts (Steelers)
NFC Champ: Panthers (Seahawks)
Super Bowl Champ: Colts (Steelers)
Coach: T. Dungy (Lovie Smith)
MVP: P. Manning (Shaun Alexander)
Def. POY: J. Peppers (Brian Urlacher)
Off. POY: P. Manning (Shaun Alexander)
Def. rookie: D. Ware (Shawne Merriman)
Off. rookie: C. Williams
Comeback POY: S. Smith (Tied with Tedy Bruschi)
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Stupid Appendix
Ben Roethlisberger just can't stay out of the hospital. He underwent an emergency appendectomy today. The surgery went well, but it is uncertain when Ben will return. The recovery time from an appendectomy is a couple of weeks. Roethlisberger will not play in the season opener; Charlie Batch will start in his place. This also leaves the Steelers in a bit of a bind a QB: they only had 2 on the roster. Maybe they'll try and acquire disgruntled Billy Volek?
It's Not Easy Being Green
I've thought the above statement many, many times while watching Spartan football, as I'm sure many Spartan fans have. So it's strangely appropriate that the Grand Marshal of the Michigan State University Homecoming parade will be none other than Kermit the Frog. Said Kermit: "I’m thrilled that Michigan State University asked me to be Grand Marshal of this year’s Homecoming parade, and I promise to continue to wear the school colors year round in honor of this momentous event! Thank you, Spartans!"
Saturday, September 02, 2006
A Question
What happened to Ohio State's jerseys? They used to look like this:
Now they look like this:
Why did they mess with a classic uniform?
Now they look like this:
Why did they mess with a classic uniform?
Show Your Colors
Home Depot is doing something pretty cool: they're offering paint in your favorite teams' colors. Want to paint your den just the right shade of honolulu blue? Home Depot has it. Here's an example. It should be noted though that if anyone paints a room maize and blue, I might have to hurt them. At least a little.
Man on a Mission
Drew Stanton has just one mission this year: put Michigan State football on the map. A quote from Stanton:"It's a piece of me. If I left without doing everything in my powers, I think I would have regretted it down the road. The more I started to think about it, I've invested a lot in the program. I'm a Spartan fan at heart. I grew up a Spartan fan."
Stanton is the kind of guy you love to have on your team. He's not just passionate about his play, or his team's play, he's passionate about his school. You might say he's fighting with a vim. Though he's a Heisman candidate, Stanton only has one measure of success this year: wins. He gets his chance to start at noon.
Time for Cuts
Today is the day NFL teams will make final cuts to get their 53-man rosters. The biggest name who might be cut is Charles Rogers. The Detroit News has a look at the salary cap ramifications of cutting Rogers. It seems a foregone conclusion that Chuck will be gone by the end of the day. Marinelli made up his mind very early about him, and from the fan's perspective, never gave him a real chance. He didn't even play in the last preseason game. I've already wrote what I think about cutting Rogers. I'm sticking with that prediction. Here's another: Marinelli will be another in a long line of failed Lions' coaches. He wants the Lions to be a tough team, which is great. But you have to coach the whole team differently than just the defensive line. An NFL coach isn't just a drill sergeant, he's got to be a bit of a politician. A head coach is a general, not a grunt. Marinelli seems to be coaching as a grunt. This team will look different, but not better.
UPDATE: It's official, Rogers in no longer a Lion.
UPDATE: It's official, Rogers in no longer a Lion.
NBC Football...
...has new theme music, which you can listen to here. If you're a fan of film scores, you can guess who wrote this one. I'll give you one clue if you can't figure it out: it sounds an awful lot like battle droids are invading an NFL stadium.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Crystal Ball Time '06
Every year just before the season begins, ESPN like to post its experts picks for the upcoming NFL season. So here they are. You can also check out the picks from 2005. Joe Theismann was the only one to correctly predict the Super Bowl winner last year; this year he picks the Colts. I had meant to go back and score the rest of these predictions at the end of the season, but never got around to it. To be fair, I should also post my picks from last year. I can't promise I'll try to get my '06 picks up before the season starts, but I'll try to try.
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