Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
Shootin' From the Hip
Where do we start? I can't hold it in any longer. What a crappy weekend of sports.
Thoughts on the Tigers:
Let's be honest, they overachieved. If you were told August 1st they would be two games from the World Series, you'd love it. They never should have beat the Yankees in game 5. The frustrating part is the Tigers could have swept the Rangers if they just had timely hitting...and walked Cruz once or twice...or threw every ball at his earhole. How do you not drill that guy in the ribs by game 3? When they meet up in 2012, someone better have the stones to put one right between his numbers.
Detroit was plagued by timely hits the entire series. Texas's game plan was obvious: be ahead after the 5th inning, throw four different (unhittable) closers in each of the remaining innings. Ball game. Detroit has the starting pitching to win, but Austin Jackson looked like a Little Leaguer in the box. Avila needed rest. Lots of guys were banged up. Verlander never got his two full games...or a good strike zone. That zone in game 1 of the Texas series was terrible.
I am disappointed because for the month of October I got to enjoy Tigers baseball via the antenna. Actually, I watched two full post-season games with Fox muted and listening to 97.1 The Ticket play-by-play. It took some getting used to, TBS had about a 2 second delay and FOX had about a 9 second delay. When Fister pitched, I thought for sure I'd hear two pitches before I saw one on TV. The Tigers also played better when I did it that way, so I couldn't break the ritual in the middle of the series. In fact, pretty much any time I listened on the radio (car, kitchen, basement, etc.) the Tigers found instant success. (Remember when Detroit was down 3-0 in game 1 of the Texas game before the rain delay? That was all me. I got home just in time to see Avila bat after the second rain delay with bases loaded to hit a dribbler to second. Remember when Detoit played the day game (game 4) of the Texas series and they jumped out to an early lead? All me again.)
I don't know how much of the WS I'll watch with Texas in it. I'm bitter now. Texas was better, but Detroit had their chances.
Thoughts on the Lions:
I was at the game. My first Lions game at Ford Field. I think my current Lion record is 1-3 (with two losses coming from the 49ers...Alex Smith wasn't exactly Steve Young.) In the words of Big Daddy, I must be bad luck. I broke the Lion streak and I was at game 4 of the Yankee series that was 1-10.
The Lions got exposed. Blitz all day and stop Johnson. That was the quietest 7 catch - 117 yard day I've heard of. He was not utilized at all. The running game? Yikes. I will admit I was very impressed by the noise of the crowd at the game. We were sitting in the endzone in the upper level and it was very loud. It was also the looooooonnnnnnngest game ever. Didn't get done until after 4:45. We got up from our seats before they snapped the ball on the last play, so we missed all the Jim v Jim commotion after the game. In my opinion, Harbaugh didn't do anything Schwartz hasn't done all season after a win. Schwartz was just being a poor sport. He's just as emotional in other games (check out his trash talking in the 3rd quarter with Dez Bryant of the Cowboy game on the catch that was challenged and found to be out of bounds. Schwartz dropped a nice "INCOMPLETE MR. FALCON" lip-bomb on national TV...more on "Mr. Falcon" later.)
Very disappointed on the Lions last two positions. They had three timeouts and 1:51 remaining to just get to the 35 yd line to tie the game. Then at the end they couldn't do jack squat. No targets to Johnson at all. Just throw him the bleep ball!
The "other" game:
I've never watched a Michigan game where they played Wayne State, Oregon, and Baylor all in the same day. Anyway, moving on. You know how they say you can throw out the records and rankings for these rival games? No doubt. Michigan should never have been ranked #10 and MSU was better than the #19. But, that isn't UM's fault where they are ranked. MSU was by far the better team on Saturday...and the last 4 years for that matter. So, no congrats for doing what EVERYONE expected and that was beating Michigan for the fourth straight time. The better team won. Plain and simple.
I was very disappointed in the use of Denard and the lack of adjustments. MSU man-handled the O-line all day, yet nothing changed, just more yards lost on sacks. Why did they go away from their only game plan...keep the ball in Robinson's hands and let him get free. The worst part is they never figured it out, yet with 9 minutes to go in the game, THEY WERE STILL IN THE GAME! His running has to set up the pass. Granted, UM had numerous scoring chances with great field position all day. The whole Gardner thing didn't work and I'm not sure what they are thinking there. He looked sloooooooooooow.
MSU is a very good team, maybe Top 10 good. UM is still a much improved team, maybe Top 15 at best. If that game is at UM, I'm still not convinced UM wins. MSU has the better team and they did what was expected...beat a weaker opponent.
Yes there was lots of unsportsman-like stuff that went on, mostly by MSU. I just wonder why Gholston wasn't ejected. They clearly saw him punch the UM player or else a flag wouldn't have been thrown. Gholston was very dirty and a dink. He should definately be suspended. Even the D-Coordinator was quoted in the Free Press that he wanted them to play "60 minutes of unnessasary roughness." Side note: Gholston is a beast at D-end for MSU.
What was worse?:
I'm still debating what was the worst loss of the weekend. I think the Tiger season ending was the worst. The Lions are still in good position and the UM loss was expected. It was just frustrating the offensive scheme was so bad.
REACT TO ME!!!!!!!
Thoughts on the Tigers:
Let's be honest, they overachieved. If you were told August 1st they would be two games from the World Series, you'd love it. They never should have beat the Yankees in game 5. The frustrating part is the Tigers could have swept the Rangers if they just had timely hitting...and walked Cruz once or twice...or threw every ball at his earhole. How do you not drill that guy in the ribs by game 3? When they meet up in 2012, someone better have the stones to put one right between his numbers.
Detroit was plagued by timely hits the entire series. Texas's game plan was obvious: be ahead after the 5th inning, throw four different (unhittable) closers in each of the remaining innings. Ball game. Detroit has the starting pitching to win, but Austin Jackson looked like a Little Leaguer in the box. Avila needed rest. Lots of guys were banged up. Verlander never got his two full games...or a good strike zone. That zone in game 1 of the Texas series was terrible.
I am disappointed because for the month of October I got to enjoy Tigers baseball via the antenna. Actually, I watched two full post-season games with Fox muted and listening to 97.1 The Ticket play-by-play. It took some getting used to, TBS had about a 2 second delay and FOX had about a 9 second delay. When Fister pitched, I thought for sure I'd hear two pitches before I saw one on TV. The Tigers also played better when I did it that way, so I couldn't break the ritual in the middle of the series. In fact, pretty much any time I listened on the radio (car, kitchen, basement, etc.) the Tigers found instant success. (Remember when Detroit was down 3-0 in game 1 of the Texas game before the rain delay? That was all me. I got home just in time to see Avila bat after the second rain delay with bases loaded to hit a dribbler to second. Remember when Detoit played the day game (game 4) of the Texas series and they jumped out to an early lead? All me again.)
I don't know how much of the WS I'll watch with Texas in it. I'm bitter now. Texas was better, but Detroit had their chances.
Thoughts on the Lions:
I was at the game. My first Lions game at Ford Field. I think my current Lion record is 1-3 (with two losses coming from the 49ers...Alex Smith wasn't exactly Steve Young.) In the words of Big Daddy, I must be bad luck. I broke the Lion streak and I was at game 4 of the Yankee series that was 1-10.
The Lions got exposed. Blitz all day and stop Johnson. That was the quietest 7 catch - 117 yard day I've heard of. He was not utilized at all. The running game? Yikes. I will admit I was very impressed by the noise of the crowd at the game. We were sitting in the endzone in the upper level and it was very loud. It was also the looooooonnnnnnngest game ever. Didn't get done until after 4:45. We got up from our seats before they snapped the ball on the last play, so we missed all the Jim v Jim commotion after the game. In my opinion, Harbaugh didn't do anything Schwartz hasn't done all season after a win. Schwartz was just being a poor sport. He's just as emotional in other games (check out his trash talking in the 3rd quarter with Dez Bryant of the Cowboy game on the catch that was challenged and found to be out of bounds. Schwartz dropped a nice "INCOMPLETE MR. FALCON" lip-bomb on national TV...more on "Mr. Falcon" later.)
Very disappointed on the Lions last two positions. They had three timeouts and 1:51 remaining to just get to the 35 yd line to tie the game. Then at the end they couldn't do jack squat. No targets to Johnson at all. Just throw him the bleep ball!
The "other" game:
I've never watched a Michigan game where they played Wayne State, Oregon, and Baylor all in the same day. Anyway, moving on. You know how they say you can throw out the records and rankings for these rival games? No doubt. Michigan should never have been ranked #10 and MSU was better than the #19. But, that isn't UM's fault where they are ranked. MSU was by far the better team on Saturday...and the last 4 years for that matter. So, no congrats for doing what EVERYONE expected and that was beating Michigan for the fourth straight time. The better team won. Plain and simple.
I was very disappointed in the use of Denard and the lack of adjustments. MSU man-handled the O-line all day, yet nothing changed, just more yards lost on sacks. Why did they go away from their only game plan...keep the ball in Robinson's hands and let him get free. The worst part is they never figured it out, yet with 9 minutes to go in the game, THEY WERE STILL IN THE GAME! His running has to set up the pass. Granted, UM had numerous scoring chances with great field position all day. The whole Gardner thing didn't work and I'm not sure what they are thinking there. He looked sloooooooooooow.
MSU is a very good team, maybe Top 10 good. UM is still a much improved team, maybe Top 15 at best. If that game is at UM, I'm still not convinced UM wins. MSU has the better team and they did what was expected...beat a weaker opponent.
Yes there was lots of unsportsman-like stuff that went on, mostly by MSU. I just wonder why Gholston wasn't ejected. They clearly saw him punch the UM player or else a flag wouldn't have been thrown. Gholston was very dirty and a dink. He should definately be suspended. Even the D-Coordinator was quoted in the Free Press that he wanted them to play "60 minutes of unnessasary roughness." Side note: Gholston is a beast at D-end for MSU.
What was worse?:
I'm still debating what was the worst loss of the weekend. I think the Tiger season ending was the worst. The Lions are still in good position and the UM loss was expected. It was just frustrating the offensive scheme was so bad.
REACT TO ME!!!!!!!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
?
I saw a smart car this morning, a "pure coupe" I think, that had a flame paint job. Do you think the owner was being ironic?
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Thoughts on the Game
-MSU played undisciplined, sloppy football. They committed way too many personal fouls and inexcusable (dirty) ones at that. That's not Michigan State football and Dantonio needs to straighten these guys out, Worthy and Gholston in particular. I'm sure he will.
-That doesn't mean I'm not really enjoying the win though.
-Has there ever been a game between #11 and #23 where #23 was favored by three points? I know the polls have certain unwritten rules, but that just doesn't seem right.
-I thought Michigan keeping secret the fact that they were going to wear throwback uniforms came across as kind of petty. I don't mind the idea at all and was expecting it, but why not announce it? It's not like it gave them an edge.
-The Nike Pro Combat uniforms looked pretty cool in action, they just didn't look like MSU. I was impressed by how the bronze came out even though I hate that it was used.
-Those first couple snaps in alternate uniforms was awfully disorienting.
-I agree with the announcers, I don't know why Denard Robinson was taken out for so many snaps. If Gardner throws better the lack of snaps and the wind pretty much negated his edge.
-It's been a while since I've seen a game where wind had such an obvious effect.
-They set the parabolic mics too close to the Michigan band.
-That doesn't mean I'm not really enjoying the win though.
-Has there ever been a game between #11 and #23 where #23 was favored by three points? I know the polls have certain unwritten rules, but that just doesn't seem right.
-I thought Michigan keeping secret the fact that they were going to wear throwback uniforms came across as kind of petty. I don't mind the idea at all and was expecting it, but why not announce it? It's not like it gave them an edge.
-The Nike Pro Combat uniforms looked pretty cool in action, they just didn't look like MSU. I was impressed by how the bronze came out even though I hate that it was used.
-Those first couple snaps in alternate uniforms was awfully disorienting.
-I agree with the announcers, I don't know why Denard Robinson was taken out for so many snaps. If Gardner throws better the lack of snaps and the wind pretty much negated his edge.
-It's been a while since I've seen a game where wind had such an obvious effect.
-They set the parabolic mics too close to the Michigan band.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Baseball Trip of All Time!!!
If the stars line up and the Tigers make it past Texas to get to the world series, I am proposing a baseball trip like old times. I believe I have reserved 6 world series tickets for Game 4 or 5. Are we all in? Cost is $250 per ticket. There are 4 tickets on the wall (Rows A & B) in Right Field in section 103 and 2 tickets 9 rows (K) back of that. Stack can you make it happen? 10/23 or 10/24 would be the dates. React to me.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
?
It's 3:49 in the afternoon central time and Fox is showing a soccer game instead of NFL football? That's un-American.
!
I'm watching the Bears game, hoping it can finish so Fox can show the end of the Lions game. They show up to the point where Calvin Johnson catches a TD, then go back to the studio saying they can't show the rest of the game due to NFL rules. NFL rules suck. I have to think with media being available in so many forms this is going to come back and bite them someday. I hope.
Saturday, October 01, 2011
RE: Ouch
From Stacks previous post about Jay Cutler getting a boom dropped on him all game long, MSU did quite a number on Ohio State's QB...in the 4th quarter alone. The last time I saw a college kid get hammered that quick in such a short amount of time was at a college party with alcohol involved.
I thought they'd keep the shutout. They said the last time OSU was shutout was November 22, 1993. I remember it clearly...that was my first Michigan game experience when I was a 7th grader. (Let's just say my first UM experience was a little better than my first MSU experience...a loss to CMU.) If I remember right, UM was unranked and OSU was undefeated.
I thought they'd keep the shutout. They said the last time OSU was shutout was November 22, 1993. I remember it clearly...that was my first Michigan game experience when I was a 7th grader. (Let's just say my first UM experience was a little better than my first MSU experience...a loss to CMU.) If I remember right, UM was unranked and OSU was undefeated.
Megatron
Last Friday's "Huge Show" poll question was "How many games do the Lions win in a row to start the season?" Well, it's at three now.
I was thinking, there are only 3 teams in the entire NFL after only three weeks of the season that are undefeated. Jim Rome is right, the NFL is upside down right now. B-lo and The D are undefeated while Indy is 0-fer, the Eagles are in panic mode, ATL is 1-2, the Redskins nearly stayed perfect, and the Raiders are showing up.
I haven't done the Elias Sports research yet, but if after Week 1 there are 16 undefeated teams, in just two weeks, it's down to three. I'd say that has to be very low based on history. It seems like most seasons 5 teams are still undefeated after 5 weeks. And honestly, Detroit has the toughest game of the three this week to remain undefeated. I'd be shocked if there were three 4-0 teams after Sunday. One thing the Lions have going for them is a beat up, bad Cowboys team coming off short rest and they never sniffed the endzone against Sexy Rexy and the Redskins. Oh, and Suh might "end" Romo. Yes, he may actually kill him.
I was thinking, there are only 3 teams in the entire NFL after only three weeks of the season that are undefeated. Jim Rome is right, the NFL is upside down right now. B-lo and The D are undefeated while Indy is 0-fer, the Eagles are in panic mode, ATL is 1-2, the Redskins nearly stayed perfect, and the Raiders are showing up.
I haven't done the Elias Sports research yet, but if after Week 1 there are 16 undefeated teams, in just two weeks, it's down to three. I'd say that has to be very low based on history. It seems like most seasons 5 teams are still undefeated after 5 weeks. And honestly, Detroit has the toughest game of the three this week to remain undefeated. I'd be shocked if there were three 4-0 teams after Sunday. One thing the Lions have going for them is a beat up, bad Cowboys team coming off short rest and they never sniffed the endzone against Sexy Rexy and the Redskins. Oh, and Suh might "end" Romo. Yes, he may actually kill him.
24
This has to be posted. If someone would have told me in April that Justin Verlander would be going for his 25th (and 13th? straight) win and it would be...at home...against Baltimore...the LAST place team in the world...and home field advantage for the playoffs on the line...I would have bet $10000 on JV and the Tigers. Way to go guys. 25 wins and a LOCK to win the MVP. Now, it cost you home field advantage in the first round and possibly the MVP for JV. Yes, I realize JV gave up 5 runs in the first two innings, but still, that is unacceptable.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Exactly two months after...
...Captain America was released, I finally saw it at...The Cass Theater. That's right. Decent movies must be at a premium these days, so ole Dick hit up CA and this weekend is having "Friends With Benefits." Nine weeks after a movie is released, do the movie studios even bother with asking for a cut of the sales? If studios get 50% for opening weekend, what is the ninth week, 5%? Good for Dick if that's the case. I hope he had a great weekend. (There was probably 15 people on the final night.)
I got very lucky however. This lets you know that I've gone back to work: I haven't been on Main Street in Cass City between Seeger and Leach (where the Theater is located) in the last two weeks. If I had, I would have seen the CA poster as the "next week coming attractions" poster. So, not only did I not see it as the upcoming movie, I didn't drive by the theater until Thursday night the last night it was showing. I just happened to glance at the sign marquee at 4:45pm giving me just a little over two hours to make plans.
Thoughts: Worth the wait, especially since I was counting down the weeks until it was to be released on DVD. I gave up hope I'd ever see it, so it was a nice surprise. With about 15 minutes left in the movie, I remembered to pay attention for the Wilhelm scream. But I missed it already. They definately worked hard to make sure we saw that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree in the Stark family. They made sure to portray daddy as a "player."
I got very lucky however. This lets you know that I've gone back to work: I haven't been on Main Street in Cass City between Seeger and Leach (where the Theater is located) in the last two weeks. If I had, I would have seen the CA poster as the "next week coming attractions" poster. So, not only did I not see it as the upcoming movie, I didn't drive by the theater until Thursday night the last night it was showing. I just happened to glance at the sign marquee at 4:45pm giving me just a little over two hours to make plans.
Thoughts: Worth the wait, especially since I was counting down the weeks until it was to be released on DVD. I gave up hope I'd ever see it, so it was a nice surprise. With about 15 minutes left in the movie, I remembered to pay attention for the Wilhelm scream. But I missed it already. They definately worked hard to make sure we saw that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree in the Stark family. They made sure to portray daddy as a "player."
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Interesting
While listening to Mike and Mike last Tuesday morning, they mentioned a stat from Monday's Sportscenter about quarterbacks whom have never passed for 422 yards in a game. This was in reference to rookie Cam Newton who threw for 422 in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. Sportscenter apparently only chose to compare four QB's. I can't remember all of them, but three were Hall of Famers (Terry Bradshaw was one) and the other was Tom Brady. Keep in mind, this was Monday's Sportscenter. Brady went on to throw 517 yards that night on MNF.
Mike and Mike were wondering what the odds were that Brady destroys 422 yards...the very next night.
Oh, and he put up 423 in Week 2.
Maybe he's tired of all the Aaron Rogers talk?
Mike and Mike were wondering what the odds were that Brady destroys 422 yards...the very next night.
Oh, and he put up 423 in Week 2.
Maybe he's tired of all the Aaron Rogers talk?
RE: Sports Mulligans
I felt this was a great thread, but I got ZERO responses. I'll chalk it up to bad timing around the Labor Day weekend. I decided to re-post it because I'm curious to hear some comments on others' 30 years of sports memories, some live, some only in the record books.
Great discussion question on WDFN 1130 The Fan last Thursday:
If you could have one pro/college sports mulligan (from a game), what would it be? If you could make just one game disappear from your memory, what would it be?
Obviously you will name more than one.
In no particular order:
1. "The Colorado game" ("Slash" - Kordell Stewart")
2. "TIME OUT!" Oops.
3. Appalachian State (Can't wait for the 2014 rematch)
4. Isiah's pass to Larry Bird in the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals at Boston to lose the game.
5. Spartan Bob
6. UM/MSU 1990 @ Big House (The Pass Interference NOT called in the endzone on Desmond Howard)
7. 2005 NBA Finals (Rasheed Wallace not covering Robert Horry for the game winning shot)
8. Every loss to Ohio State during the Salary Cap Era
9. All of September 2009 for the Tigers
10. This is not a game, but drafting Darko.
Great discussion question on WDFN 1130 The Fan last Thursday:
If you could have one pro/college sports mulligan (from a game), what would it be? If you could make just one game disappear from your memory, what would it be?
Obviously you will name more than one.
In no particular order:
1. "The Colorado game" ("Slash" - Kordell Stewart")
2. "TIME OUT!" Oops.
3. Appalachian State (Can't wait for the 2014 rematch)
4. Isiah's pass to Larry Bird in the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals at Boston to lose the game.
5. Spartan Bob
6. UM/MSU 1990 @ Big House (The Pass Interference NOT called in the endzone on Desmond Howard)
7. 2005 NBA Finals (Rasheed Wallace not covering Robert Horry for the game winning shot)
8. Every loss to Ohio State during the Salary Cap Era
9. All of September 2009 for the Tigers
10. This is not a game, but drafting Darko.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Ouch
Things that would be less painful than the afternoon Jay Cutler is having:
-Going 12 rounds with a heavyweight boxer.
-Getting hit by a heavy duty pickup.
-Logrolling down a mountain.
-Standing in the middle of a batting cage with the pitching machine on for a few hours.
-Playing rodeo clown for an evening.
-Having a piano dropped on his head.
-Going 12 rounds with a heavyweight boxer.
-Getting hit by a heavy duty pickup.
-Logrolling down a mountain.
-Standing in the middle of a batting cage with the pitching machine on for a few hours.
-Playing rodeo clown for an evening.
-Having a piano dropped on his head.
Dead-on
I don't often agree with Detroit News columnist Lynn Henning, but this article about MSU's offensive line is dead-on. The O-line is outclassed by talented defensive lines. What makes it worse is that the coaches, whether the offensive coordinator or Dantonio himself, don't seem to have any idea how to adjust the game plan when they're getting beat up front. Obviously it's tough to be successful when your O-line is getting it's collective butts kicked, but there ought to be some adjustments to be made.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
AL Central Champions
Congratulations to the Tigers for clinching the AL Central by beating Oakland 3-1 last night. This is the Tigers first division title since 1987.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Μολὼν λαβέ
Well, I've taken plenty of shots at teams wearing "cutting-edge" uniforms, so I guess I need to mention that the Spartans are wearing special Nike Pro Combat uniforms in the game against Michigan. Here's a video that was released today:
Yes, Nike Pro Combat uniforms are so powerful they can turn Kirk Cousins into a black runningback. Here are some photos for those of you who dislike video:
A few thoughts:
-I do like that my school is getting the most advanced uniforms available, but I don't suspect it actually makes much, if any, difference.
-Only 8 other teams are wearing Pro Combat uniforms this year (Army, Boise State, Georgia, LSU, Navy, Ohio State, Oregon and Stanford). So I guess it's nice that Nike chose MSU to wear them.
-If this was a jersey for anyone else I'd like it quite a bit. It's definitely the best Pro Combat uniform I've seen, though Army, Navy, and LSU's uniforms are pretty decent. The colors work well together even if they do come off too Oregon-ish. You can see all the uniforms on Facebook.
-I've wrote before that I don't like the Spartans using bronze. I get that Nike is trying to provide a visual tie-in to the ancient Spartans, and while I support the idea in theory I hate the execution. MSU should be green and white with silver as an accent color. A little black for depth is okay too. But if you're using bronze you need to go all the way and replace the green with scarlet, and I definitely can't support that.
-The bronze writing on the green stripe is the Greek phrase "Molōn labe" which means "Come and take them!" in English. Or, as Nike rendered it in the press release, "Come and get them!" As Wikipedia puts it: "The phrase was reportedly the defiant response of King Leonidas I of Sparta to Xerxes I of Persia when asked to lay down their arms and surrender, at the onset of the Battle of Thermopylae." That's an excellent way to reference the ancient Spartans, I'd even support adding it to the regular uniforms.
-While they're kind of silly, I really do like the gloves. Notice the Greek pattern behind the helmet logo.
-I should note that the Spartans wore black and gold back in the '30s, so I suppose an argument could be made for using black and bronze. Not a good argument, but you could try.
-According to this article on the Spartan Athletic site, the uniforms came about because William Gholston asked Mark Dantonio if MSU would be able to get Pro Combat uniforms. Dantonio asked Phil Knight and these are the result. The players are apparently very excited about them and, at last check, 56% of the respondents to a State News poll like them. Presumably that poll is largely made up of students. I'm still skeptical about this kind of thing helping recruiting, but I guess I can see why the athletic department would think it worth a shot.
-I expect there's going to be a ton of related merchandise available for sale before the game, though there's none available yet.
-Overall: I don't really like them, but I don't hate them either, so given some of the awful uniforms Nike has put out I guess that's a win.
Yes, Nike Pro Combat uniforms are so powerful they can turn Kirk Cousins into a black runningback. Here are some photos for those of you who dislike video:
A few thoughts:
-I do like that my school is getting the most advanced uniforms available, but I don't suspect it actually makes much, if any, difference.
-Only 8 other teams are wearing Pro Combat uniforms this year (Army, Boise State, Georgia, LSU, Navy, Ohio State, Oregon and Stanford). So I guess it's nice that Nike chose MSU to wear them.
-If this was a jersey for anyone else I'd like it quite a bit. It's definitely the best Pro Combat uniform I've seen, though Army, Navy, and LSU's uniforms are pretty decent. The colors work well together even if they do come off too Oregon-ish. You can see all the uniforms on Facebook.
-I've wrote before that I don't like the Spartans using bronze. I get that Nike is trying to provide a visual tie-in to the ancient Spartans, and while I support the idea in theory I hate the execution. MSU should be green and white with silver as an accent color. A little black for depth is okay too. But if you're using bronze you need to go all the way and replace the green with scarlet, and I definitely can't support that.
-The bronze writing on the green stripe is the Greek phrase "Molōn labe" which means "Come and take them!" in English. Or, as Nike rendered it in the press release, "Come and get them!" As Wikipedia puts it: "The phrase was reportedly the defiant response of King Leonidas I of Sparta to Xerxes I of Persia when asked to lay down their arms and surrender, at the onset of the Battle of Thermopylae." That's an excellent way to reference the ancient Spartans, I'd even support adding it to the regular uniforms.
-While they're kind of silly, I really do like the gloves. Notice the Greek pattern behind the helmet logo.
-I should note that the Spartans wore black and gold back in the '30s, so I suppose an argument could be made for using black and bronze. Not a good argument, but you could try.
-According to this article on the Spartan Athletic site, the uniforms came about because William Gholston asked Mark Dantonio if MSU would be able to get Pro Combat uniforms. Dantonio asked Phil Knight and these are the result. The players are apparently very excited about them and, at last check, 56% of the respondents to a State News poll like them. Presumably that poll is largely made up of students. I'm still skeptical about this kind of thing helping recruiting, but I guess I can see why the athletic department would think it worth a shot.
-I expect there's going to be a ton of related merchandise available for sale before the game, though there's none available yet.
-Overall: I don't really like them, but I don't hate them either, so given some of the awful uniforms Nike has put out I guess that's a win.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Draft Day
It would be great if someone else would host the draft party so please step up. I'll offer my place as a default but I would be happy to defer. If it holds, 6:30pm Sunday night. Bring a snack and your stupid pills.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Triple U
Unfunny, Unreadable, and Uninspiring
"Triple U" is a Jim Rome Show bit. Find something in the world that is basically lame but others may find "funny," and it becomes a "Triple U" contest (via email or text) on the JR show.
For example: The tool in the office that says, "Hey, who's the new guy!?!?" when a co-worker finally comes back after a week long vacation. It's not really funny. It's lame.
Here is something that isn't necessarily funny, but lame: Being charged for a cup of water/ice at fast-food retaurants, golf courses, party stores, and gas stations to name a few.
In early August I was heading to Peru, IL and we stopped at a party store that I think was just across the Illinois border. I had a warm Gatorade in the van, I just needed a cup of ice. Come to find out, that will be $.25.
I decide to suffer without it.
Then we stopped at a gas station just up the road. I decided I didn't want to suffer, so I'll pony up the $.25. Come to find out, at this crapland it's $.35... + TAX. I had to pay $.37 for a cup of ice. No water. Just ice.
Lame.
Side note: Two minutes later we decided we were hungry and walked across the street to a Wendy's where I ordered a meal...and a cup of FREE ice water.
"Triple U" is a Jim Rome Show bit. Find something in the world that is basically lame but others may find "funny," and it becomes a "Triple U" contest (via email or text) on the JR show.
For example: The tool in the office that says, "Hey, who's the new guy!?!?" when a co-worker finally comes back after a week long vacation. It's not really funny. It's lame.
Here is something that isn't necessarily funny, but lame: Being charged for a cup of water/ice at fast-food retaurants, golf courses, party stores, and gas stations to name a few.
In early August I was heading to Peru, IL and we stopped at a party store that I think was just across the Illinois border. I had a warm Gatorade in the van, I just needed a cup of ice. Come to find out, that will be $.25.
I decide to suffer without it.
Then we stopped at a gas station just up the road. I decided I didn't want to suffer, so I'll pony up the $.25. Come to find out, at this crapland it's $.35... + TAX. I had to pay $.37 for a cup of ice. No water. Just ice.
Lame.
Side note: Two minutes later we decided we were hungry and walked across the street to a Wendy's where I ordered a meal...and a cup of FREE ice water.
24
My dad and I went golfing yesterday at Arrowhead Golf Course in Caro. I already had a giftcard of 18 holes for two people. We were teeing off at noon and I didn't have my pullcart, so we wanted a golf cart.
$24.
"Is that with the greens fees?"
"No. There are two of you, so $12 each is $24."
"Um, dad, we can walk."
Seriously? Is it possible I could rent a Mustang for 4 hours for less than $24? I don't know really, just guessing. $24? Really? I realize the weight of an extra person would use more gas (it might even be a battery cart), but an additional $12?
If they are trying to get society more physically fit by walking, well, I guess they achieved that goal.
Later on in the day...
After the first 9 holes, I went into the clubhouse to get a simple cup of icewater.
"$0.25"
That's right. Water from the tap is now $0.25. Man, styrofoam and a straw doesn't grow on trees anymore.
More on this in a future post.
$24.
"Is that with the greens fees?"
"No. There are two of you, so $12 each is $24."
"Um, dad, we can walk."
Seriously? Is it possible I could rent a Mustang for 4 hours for less than $24? I don't know really, just guessing. $24? Really? I realize the weight of an extra person would use more gas (it might even be a battery cart), but an additional $12?
If they are trying to get society more physically fit by walking, well, I guess they achieved that goal.
Later on in the day...
After the first 9 holes, I went into the clubhouse to get a simple cup of icewater.
"$0.25"
That's right. Water from the tap is now $0.25. Man, styrofoam and a straw doesn't grow on trees anymore.
More on this in a future post.
Sports Mulligans
Great discussion question on WDFN 1130 The Fan last Thursday:
If you could have one pro/college sports mulligan (from a game), what would it be? If you could make just one game disappear from your memory, what would it be?
Obviously you will name more than one.
In no particular order:
1. "The Colorado game" ("Slash" - Kordell Stewart")
2. "TIME OUT!" Oops.
3. Appalachian State (Can't wait for the 2014 rematch)
4. Isiah's pass to Larry Bird in the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals at Boston to lose the game.
5. Spartan Bob
6. UM/MSU 1990 @ Big House (The Pass Interference NOT called in the endzone on Desmond Howard)
7. 2005 NBA Finals (Rasheed Wallace not covering Robert Horry for the game winning shot)
8. Every loss to Ohio State during the Salary Cap Era
9. All of September 2009 for the Tigers
10. This is not a game, but drafting Darko.
If you could have one pro/college sports mulligan (from a game), what would it be? If you could make just one game disappear from your memory, what would it be?
Obviously you will name more than one.
In no particular order:
1. "The Colorado game" ("Slash" - Kordell Stewart")
2. "TIME OUT!" Oops.
3. Appalachian State (Can't wait for the 2014 rematch)
4. Isiah's pass to Larry Bird in the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals at Boston to lose the game.
5. Spartan Bob
6. UM/MSU 1990 @ Big House (The Pass Interference NOT called in the endzone on Desmond Howard)
7. 2005 NBA Finals (Rasheed Wallace not covering Robert Horry for the game winning shot)
8. Every loss to Ohio State during the Salary Cap Era
9. All of September 2009 for the Tigers
10. This is not a game, but drafting Darko.
How Bad Has SNL Become?
Keep in mind, this was December 2010. (I saw this sketch/episode on Saturday night after watching the sports highlights on the local news channels and just decided to keep the TV on an extra 5 minutes to see what SNL had to offer since I haven't watched it in 3-4 months.) I can only imagine the envelope has been pushed even further since then.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
the Coolidge Test
A thoughtful analysis of the presidents performance.
"President Barack Obama is an Ivy League-educated man of considerable intelligence and ambition who has surrounded himself with numerous experts to help in his decision-making. With these advantages, he has tried a number of things to help the country domestically and in the area of foreign affairs. But at the end of the day, how does Obama’s efficacy in office compare to that of a sack of hammers?"
"President Barack Obama is an Ivy League-educated man of considerable intelligence and ambition who has surrounded himself with numerous experts to help in his decision-making. With these advantages, he has tried a number of things to help the country domestically and in the area of foreign affairs. But at the end of the day, how does Obama’s efficacy in office compare to that of a sack of hammers?"
?
A question for those of you who are bigger baseball fans than I: Now that Justin Verlander has his 20th win, and before the end of August to boot, should he win the MVP? If not, is there a number of wins he needs to have to be a candidate? Paul Sporer of ESPN has some discussion here. Regarding the argument that a pitcher doesn't play enough to truly deserve the MVP, Sporer observes:
That conclusively settles that argument for me. Any other thoughts from you baseball guys?
Looking at Verlander’s 216 innings shows that he has pitched 18.6 percent of the Tigers' total innings (1161) while the team’s best offensive player and marginal MVP candidate, Miguel Cabrera, has logged 577 plate appearances, or 11.5 percent of their 5,001 total plate appearances. So who is really making a bigger contribution?
That conclusively settles that argument for me. Any other thoughts from you baseball guys?
Saturday, August 27, 2011
A Thought
Perhaps this might come across as a little insensitive, but after seeing some of the news about Hurricane Irene it strikes me that New York City on the day a hurricane hit would be a fantastic setting for an action movie or a mystery/thriller. Can you imagine? Daniel Craig. Dwayne Johnson. Emily Blunt. Storm Surge. Summer 2013. It practically writes itself.
Draft Day
Is everyone planning on having our 2011 draft next weekend? It's our traditional time, but I thought I had better check. Also, we have only 6 managers signed up so far, it would be nice to have everyone in before we draft. We can't start unless we have an even number.
Some draft links:
Fox's Draft Guide
ESPN's Draft Kit
Yahoo's Draft Kit
I'm thinking of going with ESPN's top 300 as the default list rather than Fox's top 200. Thoughts?
Some draft links:
Fox's Draft Guide
ESPN's Draft Kit
Yahoo's Draft Kit
I'm thinking of going with ESPN's top 300 as the default list rather than Fox's top 200. Thoughts?
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
It All Makes Perfect Sense
Maybe this explains why the Lions have never really tried to build a winning team. You make more money...LOSING!
Boooooo!
Now that things have settled down, I have a chance to get to the theater to see Captain America. Unfortunately, a few of the city theaters are already pulling it or reducing the number of showtimes, which makes it difficult to fit into a schedule (especially if they say they have a 9:50 showtime on their automated recording only to find out at 6:30 when you get there that 4:40 was their actual last show for the day.)
I've been gone a lot since it was released, but I was pretty confident it hadn't come to the Cass Theater yet. But when the poster showed Smurfs as the next show after this weeks Cowboys and Aliens, I started to wonder. (No way does he show "CA" Friday, Sept. 2...six weeks after it was released.) So, I called the theater last night and asked when it was coming. It's not. BOOOOOOO! How do you not have a way to fit Captain America into your summer rotation?
I've been gone a lot since it was released, but I was pretty confident it hadn't come to the Cass Theater yet. But when the poster showed Smurfs as the next show after this weeks Cowboys and Aliens, I started to wonder. (No way does he show "CA" Friday, Sept. 2...six weeks after it was released.) So, I called the theater last night and asked when it was coming. It's not. BOOOOOOO! How do you not have a way to fit Captain America into your summer rotation?
Monday, August 22, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Good news everyone!
Matthew Stafford played for 5 minutes in an exhibition game last night and didn't get injured. So, hey, that's one in a row. If we're lucky he might make it through the preseason, but there's always the chance of getting hurt while he's playing Xbox or washing his car.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Thursday, August 04, 2011
RE: Movie Trailers
This trailer?
Usually I feel like a trailer loses something after I've seen the movie a dozen times, but that's still pretty awesome. The teaser trailer isn't bad either, I think I prefer it to the one for The Dark Knight Rises, even though it doesn't have any scenes from the movie:
Usually I feel like a trailer loses something after I've seen the movie a dozen times, but that's still pretty awesome. The teaser trailer isn't bad either, I think I prefer it to the one for The Dark Knight Rises, even though it doesn't have any scenes from the movie:
Movie Trailers
I watched "I Am Legend" last night on DVD and the best part of the movie was seeing the trailer for "The Dark Knight." It still sends chills down my spine and gets me even more geeked for 2012. When I finished the movie, I went back to watch the trailer again. I also noticed in the trailer that there was no reference to Harvey Dent. In fact, there was probably less Bruce Wayne/Batman than the Joker.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
It's Good to Have the NFL Back
You've probably noticed that the sports-related posts around here have fallen off dramatically. That's because there just hasn't been that much interesting enough to me to be worth the effort. But now the NFL is back, so here's a quick summary of the first few days of free agency, mostly the ones with fantasy impact:
-DeAngelo Williams is staying with Carolina.
-Reggie Bush is going to Miami, and now that I've typed that sentence I have to post this:
-Kevin Kolb, displaced from Philadelphia by Michael Vick, is going to Arizona.
-Chad formerly Johnson has signed with the Patriots.
-Vince Young has signed with Philly, presumably to see if he can learn something from Vick.
-The Eagles also signed CB Nnamdi Asomugha, the best cornerback on the market.
-Brett Favre is still retired.
-DeAngelo Williams is staying with Carolina.
-Reggie Bush is going to Miami, and now that I've typed that sentence I have to post this:
-Kevin Kolb, displaced from Philadelphia by Michael Vick, is going to Arizona.
-Chad formerly Johnson has signed with the Patriots.
-Vince Young has signed with Philly, presumably to see if he can learn something from Vick.
-The Eagles also signed CB Nnamdi Asomugha, the best cornerback on the market.
-Brett Favre is still retired.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Game on?
According to ESPN, the NFLPA and the owners have reached an agreement that will end the lockout. There are still a few hurdles left, but according to the article these are considered formalities and shouldn't slow anything down. Assuming there aren't any issues, free agency will begin on Saturday.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Thoughts on Captain America
-I liked the movie a lot. I think most people will call it the best of the Marvel movies so far. It has to at least be a tie with Iron Man. It reminded me somewhat of Indiana Jones, mostly in tone and that it's a period piece. And also the Nazis.-Chris Evans was excellent in the role. I had my doubts when he was cast, but I don't think anyone else would have done any better.
-The rest of the cast was great too. Hugo Weaving is excellent as the Red Skull. Tommy Lee Jones basically plays himself, or at least the character you usually see him play, but that's perfect for the part. Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter has much more to do than I would have expected and plays the role very well. She's also an absolute knockout in this movie, I expect you'll see her in a lot more films in the next year or two.
-The film is a little more violent than I would have expected. Nothing graphic, but a few places where it might take you off guard, like when a HYDRA soldier goes through a spinning propellor blade.
-There's a Wilhelm scream in the movie. I don't recall any of those in other Marvel movies.
-The score is very John Williams-ish, there's a sequence with a fight on a train that sounds a lot like a piece from Star Wars.
-Pre-serum Steve Rogers looks good in the movie, not as odd as in the trailers. The rest of the effects are pretty decent, but I think they outstripped their budget. There's a lot of scenes where it's pretty obvious that you're looking at green screen work.
-I still think the HYDRA costumes, and Cap's suit, look too future and not retro enough, but it looks okay on screen. I think they pushed the designs for HYDRA pretty hard because they were worried that the audience would think they were normal Nazis.
-The post-credit sequence is a teaser for Avengers. Definitely worth sticking around for, it got a round of applause at the showing I went to. It looks fantastic, but I'm honestly more excited to see Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark interact with Cap and Thor than any action pieces.
"Going Out of Business"
After watching Captain America last night I stopped in at the Borders across the street. I figured they might have some good deals since they're liquidating. Well, half the people in the Quad Cities must have had the same idea, there wasn't a place to park in the parking lot. I finally got in and it looked like it would have taken 30+ minutes to check out. That didn't look like fun, but I thought there must be some good deals if people were putting up with it. So I started looking around and the biggest discount? Twenty percent off. That almost makes them competitive with Amazon. Needles to say, I left without buying anything.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Car of the Week
On Father's Day, we went to Frankenmuth to celebrate...everyone's birthday. There are four June birthday's in the King family, so we get big discounts on the chicken dinners, yada yada yada. Woohoo!
As we were leaving the Bavarian parking lot, I noticed some humans checking out a vehicle as if they've never seen one before, let alone certainly not their way of transportation that afternoon.
So, when they were done gawking, I stolled over and tried to pretend it was just another ugly Bugatti. It didn't take long for me to also realize I'd never seen this type of car before, in fact, I had no idea what it was (that's not really saying much, I know Japanese about as good as cars). I looked at the emblem on the grill, but that was really no help. It looked like two M's inside each other. I really should have taken a picture. Not sure why I didn't. Maybe because I knew this was nothing in the ballpark of a Bugatti, and once you've seen one of those, everything else is just small potatoes.
But, I filed it in the back of my mind and hoped the M's had something of importance...or at least that I thought they were M's and could help me later. So, it's now later and I did a little search of auto's that start with the letter M...that I've never heard of and would sound foreign/expensive. I don't know the model, but it's in the Maybach family tree.
A 2011 Maybach ranges between $372,000 and $463,000 if you are shoping for a vehicle.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
SSC Tuatara
The Bugatti Veyron, the fastest road-legal car in the world, has been mentioned a few times on this blog, and even photographed by Ump:
Well, the Veyron is going to have some competition as Shelby Supercars (SSC) is making a car meant to take that record, the Tuatara:
That is one fantastic looking car. I don't know about you, but I think I have a guess as to the inspiration:
Well, the Veyron is going to have some competition as Shelby Supercars (SSC) is making a car meant to take that record, the Tuatara:
That is one fantastic looking car. I don't know about you, but I think I have a guess as to the inspiration:
Monday, July 18, 2011
Sunday, July 17, 2011
"You wouldn't like me when I'm angry."
I saw a crazy car yesterday at the gas station. Just as I was pulling up to the pump an older Chevy pulled in, probably an '85 or older Caprice Classic. It was rolling on at least 19" rims, maybe larger, but that wasn't the remarkable part. The top was yellow and the rest of the car was bright green. On the side there was an airbrushed scene featuring the Incredible Hulk. I should have taken a picture, but I was so in shock it didn't occur to me.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Game of Thrones Theme
I haven't watched HBO's Game of Thrones yet, but this mashup of two different covers of the theme music is awesome:
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
?
This is for those of you who never read comics. DC Comics, the publishers of Superman, Batman, etc is undergoing a major revamp in September. One part of this is updating the costumes of many heroes, including Superman. Now if the word "iconic" has any meaning I think Superman would fit it, but DC thinks this will help sales. Here are some pics:
VS.
I don't expect anyone reading this is going to go out a buy a new book because of this, but is it positive at all? Does eliminating the red shorts make you more likely to be interested? Does it just seem silly?
VS.
I don't expect anyone reading this is going to go out a buy a new book because of this, but is it positive at all? Does eliminating the red shorts make you more likely to be interested? Does it just seem silly?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Super 8
More like "Super Ain't"...as in Super Ain't good.
The best part of watching Super 8 was getting to see the trailer for Captain America again.
The best part of watching Super 8 was getting to see the trailer for Captain America again.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Auto Review: Chevy Aveo5
This week I had to leave my car at the dealer for a little warranty work for a couple days. Ford provided a rental car. Knowing that there was no way Ford was going to spring for anything besides a basic car, I was really hoping for a Ford Fiesta based on this Top Gear review:
Unfortunately the car was not supplied by Ford, but rather provided by Ford through Hertz, so what I ended up with was the 2011 Chevy Aveo5:
It left such an impression that I thought I would write something.
The Pros
-My rental car looked exactly like the picture above. It's not especially good-looking, but it's pretty inoffensive, obviously a Chevy, and a big improvement over the previous model.
-There's lots of headroom, not that I would be the best judge. (That's a short joke.) It's easy to see out of the car at all angles.
-I really didn't like the 1.6 L 108-hp engine at first, but after driving around for two days I decided it was adequate for driving around town. As long as you stay off the open road you're not going to notice the lack of power.
-It did have AC and a CD player, but no cruise control.
The Cons
-Here's what driving an Aveo on the freeway is like: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA(breath)AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH(breath)HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! This car was not designed to go over 55-mph. It has a strained relationship with the road and never feels firmly planted at freeway speeds. Add a crosswind on a bridge over the Mississippi to that and you have a terrifying experience.
-The car vibrated at idle like a two cylinder tractor. I was afraid it was going to explode.
-Those backseats are just for show, there's no way a human could sit in them if anyone was sitting in the front.
-The interior is obviously cheap, though not outstandingly so. The clock is awkwardly positioned on the dash near the windshield rather than on the CD player display.
-The interior door handles are positioned so far forward it can be difficult to open the doors, especially if you don't want to hit the car next to you.
-The car sounds hollow and flimsy when you shut the doors.
I could go on, but I won't. If you have had even a fleeting thought about buying one of these, stop. Please. No one should have to drive this car. You would be better off buying practically anything else. Heck, buy a horse. Even if it kicks you in the face it would be better than driving this car.
Unfortunately the car was not supplied by Ford, but rather provided by Ford through Hertz, so what I ended up with was the 2011 Chevy Aveo5:
It left such an impression that I thought I would write something.
The Pros
-My rental car looked exactly like the picture above. It's not especially good-looking, but it's pretty inoffensive, obviously a Chevy, and a big improvement over the previous model.
-There's lots of headroom, not that I would be the best judge. (That's a short joke.) It's easy to see out of the car at all angles.
-I really didn't like the 1.6 L 108-hp engine at first, but after driving around for two days I decided it was adequate for driving around town. As long as you stay off the open road you're not going to notice the lack of power.
-It did have AC and a CD player, but no cruise control.
The Cons
-Here's what driving an Aveo on the freeway is like: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA(breath)AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH(breath)HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! This car was not designed to go over 55-mph. It has a strained relationship with the road and never feels firmly planted at freeway speeds. Add a crosswind on a bridge over the Mississippi to that and you have a terrifying experience.
-The car vibrated at idle like a two cylinder tractor. I was afraid it was going to explode.
-Those backseats are just for show, there's no way a human could sit in them if anyone was sitting in the front.
-The interior is obviously cheap, though not outstandingly so. The clock is awkwardly positioned on the dash near the windshield rather than on the CD player display.
-The interior door handles are positioned so far forward it can be difficult to open the doors, especially if you don't want to hit the car next to you.
-The car sounds hollow and flimsy when you shut the doors.
I could go on, but I won't. If you have had even a fleeting thought about buying one of these, stop. Please. No one should have to drive this car. You would be better off buying practically anything else. Heck, buy a horse. Even if it kicks you in the face it would be better than driving this car.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Thoughts on Green Lantern
A few thoughts on Green Lantern, which I saw on Friday:
-I liked it, though not as much as Thor. It's a decent film, but it had the potential to be a lot better. They tried to fit a lot of story into one movie when they probably should have went with less.
-Like Thor, GL starts with exposition that fills you in on the origin of the Corps, their powers, and the source of the threat they face. I don't think it's a problem, but I've seen a lot of whining to the contrary.
-The costume is a little weird, but it worked for me well enough when watching the movie.
-Ryan Reynolds does a good job as Hal Jordan. Not exactly how I picture the character, but close enough.
-Mark Strong is very good as Sinestro, but he doesn't get near enough screen time.
-This movie has the most alien aliens I've ever seen in a movie.
-Yes, there's a lot of CG in this movie. A lot. I've seen complaints about that too and how things don't look real. Most of the CG is pretty good, but so much of the movie is spent in such fantastic locations you're never going to buy it as "real". If that's a problem you should probably go watch something else.
-There is a scene after the main credits, so you don't have to wait as long as you do in the Marvel films. It's a cool scene, but a bit disappointing because it's a major development and it really wasn't set up well enough.
-I liked it, though not as much as Thor. It's a decent film, but it had the potential to be a lot better. They tried to fit a lot of story into one movie when they probably should have went with less.
-Like Thor, GL starts with exposition that fills you in on the origin of the Corps, their powers, and the source of the threat they face. I don't think it's a problem, but I've seen a lot of whining to the contrary.
-The costume is a little weird, but it worked for me well enough when watching the movie.
-Ryan Reynolds does a good job as Hal Jordan. Not exactly how I picture the character, but close enough.
-Mark Strong is very good as Sinestro, but he doesn't get near enough screen time.
-This movie has the most alien aliens I've ever seen in a movie.
-Yes, there's a lot of CG in this movie. A lot. I've seen complaints about that too and how things don't look real. Most of the CG is pretty good, but so much of the movie is spent in such fantastic locations you're never going to buy it as "real". If that's a problem you should probably go watch something else.
-There is a scene after the main credits, so you don't have to wait as long as you do in the Marvel films. It's a cool scene, but a bit disappointing because it's a major development and it really wasn't set up well enough.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Busy
I know I've been pretty quiet on his for the last 3 months, but I hope this sums it all up.
First time since 1995. We then beat Saginaw Valley Lutheran in the Regional Semi-Finals 6-5. We lost in the Reg. finals to Shepherd 7-3. We had bases loaded in the 7th with 1 out and our #3 hitter up. The #3 and #4 both struck out. Shepherd is the back-to-back defending state champs. They lost today in the State semi-final game.
First time since 1995. We then beat Saginaw Valley Lutheran in the Regional Semi-Finals 6-5. We lost in the Reg. finals to Shepherd 7-3. We had bases loaded in the 7th with 1 out and our #3 hitter up. The #3 and #4 both struck out. Shepherd is the back-to-back defending state champs. They lost today in the State semi-final game.
Sad, Scary,...not surprised
Discrimination in Hollywood? No way.
Unless you're really naive, this shouldn't surprise anyone based on the world we live in today.
After reading the headline, there probably wasn't a GASP! reaction.
MacGyver certainly had an anti-gun theme, but (1) what's wrong with that, (2) that was kinda the point of his character, and (3) I didn't really see that changing the culture of the world much.
Unless you're really naive, this shouldn't surprise anyone based on the world we live in today.
After reading the headline, there probably wasn't a GASP! reaction.
In one video, Friends co-creator Marta Kauffman says that when she cast Candace Gingrich-Jones, half-sister of Republican former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, as the minister of a lesbian wedding, “There was a bit of ‘f--- you’ in it to the right wing.”
Kauffman also acknowledges she “put together a staff of mostly liberal people,” which is another major point of Shapiro’s book: that conservatives aren’t welcome in Hollywood.
However, the ranks of dumb right-wingers has dwindled, according to Harris, whose video has her saying: “At least, you know, we put Obama in office, and so people, I think, are getting – have gotten – a little bit smarter.”
MacGyver certainly had an anti-gun theme, but (1) what's wrong with that, (2) that was kinda the point of his character, and (3) I didn't really see that changing the culture of the world much.
What's Your Point?
Percentage of black MLB players declines again:
I hate stories like this, especially when it comes from ESPN. I don't hear anyone complaining about the lack of white players in the NBA, so why is this "news"? I'm no professional sports team owner, but I'm pretty sure it comes down to who can produce the desired results, regardless of skin color. Is it that hard to figure out that maybe black kids growing up are better at basketball and choose to play that over baseball?
I hate stories like this, especially when it comes from ESPN. I don't hear anyone complaining about the lack of white players in the NBA, so why is this "news"? I'm no professional sports team owner, but I'm pretty sure it comes down to who can produce the desired results, regardless of skin color. Is it that hard to figure out that maybe black kids growing up are better at basketball and choose to play that over baseball?
Thursday, June 16, 2011
The most awesome news you'll read all day.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Nemesis
Although I follow the NBA only a little more closely than I follow NCAA women's volleyball (which is at least aesthetically pleasing), I'm really enjoying the fact that the Miami Heat, and LeBron James in particular, lost the NBA finals. Detroit News writer Vincent Goodwill has an article up about it today. Here's an excerpt:
I think hubris is exactly the right term here, and I can't think of a pro sports team that has invited nemesis the way the Heat did. James, Wade, and Bosh made it pretty clear that they thought they had outsmarted the system and everyone was ready to hand them the title. Now, not only have they blown it, but James has cemented his reputation as the biggest choker in the NBA. It's wonderful, isn't it?
This is the path the Heat laid for themselves, one of extreme hubris.
Their arrogance was one of a different kind. It differed much than the determined arrogance of the late '80s Pistons or the early '90s Bulls. And it wasn't quite the same as the historical arrogance the late '90s Bulls displayed.
The conceit of their predecessors was built from success, but in most cases it birthed from failure. From silent tears and mental growth. The Heat's arrogance stemmed from pulling off a coup in front of the world, staging a sense of suspense when they all truly knew what they were doing, before James' "Decision."
In doing so, they felt the season would just be a formality, aside from meeting the experienced Celtics and then possibly taking on the defending champion Lakers for an epic Finals showdown.
I think hubris is exactly the right term here, and I can't think of a pro sports team that has invited nemesis the way the Heat did. James, Wade, and Bosh made it pretty clear that they thought they had outsmarted the system and everyone was ready to hand them the title. Now, not only have they blown it, but James has cemented his reputation as the biggest choker in the NBA. It's wonderful, isn't it?
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thursday, June 09, 2011
Wii U Wha?
Nintendo announced their next system, the terribly named Wii U.
The controller has a built-in touch screen in addition to the accelerometers. The whole thing looks terrible awkward. I want to be excited, but I just can't figure it being comfortable to play with. Besides, I won't be buying it anytime soon anyway regardless.
It will be backwards compatible with the Wii, but not the Gamecube, will have Hi-Def HDMI output, and the controller will be usable to play games as a notepad with data streamed to it by the console. Cool gadget, not sure about it as a game system.
Friday, June 03, 2011
Thursday, June 02, 2011
James Bond will return...
I was recently discussing with my brother that there was a bit of a question mark over the Bond franchise due to studio financial troubles. Well, that must be more or less resolved, because MGM and Sony have announced that Bond 23 will release in the UK on 10/26/2012 and in the US on 11/9/2012.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Just a Note
While Chrysler is celebrating paying off its debt to the US government, Henry Payne makes a few observations of how things aren't quite what they seem. Notable points:
-The government still owns 6.6% of Chrysler.
-Chrysler didn't so much pay off the debt as move it to another credit card, just not one owned by the government.
-Taxpayers are still going to lose $1.9 billion on the deal.
-Obama insisted that part of part of Fiat's acquisition deal of Chrysler be that they bring the successful small car from Europe, the Fiat 500, to the US. But what's bringing in the money for Chrysler now? The same as every other US automaker, trucks and SUVs.
-The government still owns 6.6% of Chrysler.
-Chrysler didn't so much pay off the debt as move it to another credit card, just not one owned by the government.
-Taxpayers are still going to lose $1.9 billion on the deal.
-Obama insisted that part of part of Fiat's acquisition deal of Chrysler be that they bring the successful small car from Europe, the Fiat 500, to the US. But what's bringing in the money for Chrysler now? The same as every other US automaker, trucks and SUVs.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Petroglyphs
It's not every day you see an article in a Detroit paper start with a location of Cass City, but the lead story on the Detroit News website today is about the Sanilac Petroglyphs. Short version: The Petroglyphs are eroding away because the government does not want to spend the money to protect them and there's difficulty getting private money because of general economic conditions in the Thumb and legal issues involving Indian tribes.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Monday, May 09, 2011
RE: Thor
A few thoughts of my own:
-I liked it quite a bit myself, not sure exactly where it ranks against the other Marvel Studios films. Ahead of Hulk anyway.
-I was surprised that the movie managed to be funny without being cheesy. I was worried it would slip up in this department, but it managed to not get stupid.
-Ump, what did you think of the costumes? I thought they came out well on screen when they could have looked pretty goofy, but I'm more tolerant of that sort of thing than the average viewer.
-I'd heard it was doing fairly well with women, so it's nice to hear some confirmation of that. I actually thought it needed about two more scenes on Earth to flesh the relationship angle and I wouldn't have minded that at all. Maybe I just wanted more Natalie Portman.
-I think Hemsworth is going to be a star. He seemed to carry the film without any trouble. Also, having good actors makes a huge difference. Anthony Hopkins was great as Odin.
-Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, the guy with the bow, got me psyched for Avengers. I really hope they get him some screen time, which is going to be tough with Iron Man, Cap, and Thor.
-The device at the end was almost certainly the cosmic cube. It gives anyone who holds it the power to turn their thoughts into reality. It's sometimes possessed and often pursued by Captain America villain the Red Skull. I'd be surprised if it didn't show up in Captain America. I also think it's practically guaranteed that Loki and the cube will either be or cause the main threat in Avengers. Loki was the villain in The Avengers #1 way back in 1963.
-I liked it quite a bit myself, not sure exactly where it ranks against the other Marvel Studios films. Ahead of Hulk anyway.
-I was surprised that the movie managed to be funny without being cheesy. I was worried it would slip up in this department, but it managed to not get stupid.
-Ump, what did you think of the costumes? I thought they came out well on screen when they could have looked pretty goofy, but I'm more tolerant of that sort of thing than the average viewer.
-I'd heard it was doing fairly well with women, so it's nice to hear some confirmation of that. I actually thought it needed about two more scenes on Earth to flesh the relationship angle and I wouldn't have minded that at all. Maybe I just wanted more Natalie Portman.
-I think Hemsworth is going to be a star. He seemed to carry the film without any trouble. Also, having good actors makes a huge difference. Anthony Hopkins was great as Odin.
-Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, the guy with the bow, got me psyched for Avengers. I really hope they get him some screen time, which is going to be tough with Iron Man, Cap, and Thor.
-The device at the end was almost certainly the cosmic cube. It gives anyone who holds it the power to turn their thoughts into reality. It's sometimes possessed and often pursued by Captain America villain the Red Skull. I'd be surprised if it didn't show up in Captain America. I also think it's practically guaranteed that Loki and the cube will either be or cause the main threat in Avengers. Loki was the villain in The Avengers #1 way back in 1963.
Sunday, May 08, 2011
Thor
Saw it. Good flick. My wife even liked it...it had a love story. She also thought it was pretty funny.
We even stuck around for the crazy end credit scene. I'm getting geeked. Maybe someone could explain their thoughts on what is being talked about at the end credit scene...I don't know comic books as well.
We even stuck around for the crazy end credit scene. I'm getting geeked. Maybe someone could explain their thoughts on what is being talked about at the end credit scene...I don't know comic books as well.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Rashard Mendenhall...
...has persuasively made the case for NFL players not being allowed to have Twitter accounts. For example, after tweeting about Bin Laden's death, concerning 9/11 he wrote: "We'll never know what really happened. I just have a hard time believing a plane could take a skyscraper down demolition style." Sure, he's free to put up whatever he wants, but is that really a good idea? I can't imagine the Steelers front office was thrilled, especially since they released a statement today:
I don't think it was hard to explain or comprehend, but I guess that's an official statement for you.
"I have not spoken with Rashard, so it is hard to explain or even comprehend what he meant with his recent Twitter comments. The entire Steelers organization is very proud of the job our military personnel have done and we can only hope this leads to our troops coming home soon."
I don't think it was hard to explain or comprehend, but I guess that's an official statement for you.
Monday, May 02, 2011
What's in a name?
For those of you dealing with naming children, this might be useful: Most Hated Baby Names.
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