Last night, the AP reported that the Seattle Seahawks received an apology from the NFL regarding both of the TDs the Giants scored on Sunday.The story broke late in the evening, and was picked up by most media outlets, including ESPN.
Late this afternoon, the league office denied that their officiating office had a conversation with Holmgren, and denied making such apologies, and ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting that the league is investigating Mike Holmgren for divulging confidential information, and he could face a fine for doing so.
Ok, so the league office is denying that a conversation took place, but are investigating whether or not to fine Holmgren for discussing confidential information? How could he divulge anything, if a conversation never took place?
What the league office really needs to do is evaluate what Mike Holmgren actually said. I listened to the press conference, and aside from saying that he spoke to the league (never indicated who at the league he spoke to), and saying that "mistakes were made", Holmgren never mentioned that the league apologized to the Seattle organization for anything.
Holmgren even said that he thought the catch made by Amani Toomer was a great catch that he wished his team covered better, so why would Holmgren state that the league apologized for a play that Holmgren possibly didn't even submit for review (since he thought it was legit)?
Now, the Jeremy Shockey one is a play that Holmgren still didn't think was a catch. And since I have two functioning eyes, neither did I. But Larry Nemmers reportedly didn't have conclusive evidence to overturn the call on the field.
It's possible that someone say a different review that showed more clearly that Shockey's left foot never touched the ground before he was "jacked up" by Marquand Manuel, freeing the ball from Shockey's grasp. But Holmgren never claimed to have received an apology from the league office regarding that play, in particular. In fact, the word "apology" doesn't appear once in the entire transcript of Mike Holmgren's press conference.
So why did the AP report that Holmgren received one? Who knows?
Why didn't ESPN, FOX, Yahoo or CBS (which also powers NFL.com) ever bother to dig any deeper into this story? You'd have to ask them.
This is all meaningless, since the Seahawks still won the game. But let's play Devil's Advocate for a minute.
Let's assume that Larry Nemmers ruled that Shockey didn't maintain possession long enough for that to be ruled a completion. Since it was a 3rd down play, the Giants kick a field goal and trail at the half, 7-6.
If the game were to progress in the same manner, and Seattle led the Giants 14-9 with 4:44 to play in the game, does Mike Holmgren go for it on 4th and inches, or does he play it safe and kick the field goal to give the Seahawks a 17-9 lead? Holmgren would likely play it safe, even though a TD would've done more to seal the game for the 'Hawks.
Assuming that Amani Toomer did get both feet in bounds, the game would still head into overtime, Jay Feely still misses three potential game-winning kicks, and Jeremy Shockey and Michael Strahan still look stupid for celebrating early.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Monday, November 28, 2005
Luck Had Nothing to Do With It
That's the word that is being used to describe the Seahawks victory over the New York Giants yesterday.
And it's nonsense.
Luck had absolutely nothing to do with it. Here's why:
On a 3rd and 13 from their own 46, Eli Manning completes a 23-yard pass to Plaxico Burress at the Seahawks 31-yard line. On the next play, Luke Petitgout commits his 23rd false start penalty of the day, pushing them back to the Seahawks 36.
Manning then completes a pass to Jeremy Shockey down to the Seahawk 26, which he fumbles and the ball is recovered by Giants WR Tim Carter at the Seahawk 20. Mike Holmgren calls a timeout, and the play ends up being reviewed by the booth where it's determined that Jeremy Shockey never had possession of the ball. So, wipe away 16 yards and a down, and you've got 2nd and 15 from the Seahawks 36.
Manning attempts a QB draw, which is stuffed by Seahawks DE Grant Wistrom for no gain. Next play is a pass to Plaxico Burress, which is broken up by Andre Dyson, leaving the Giants with a 4th and 15 from the Seahawk 36. Jay Feely missed the 53-yard FG attempt.
Is that luck? No, it's not luck. A 50-yard FG by a visiting kicker not named Neil Rackers is unheard of in late November at Qwest Field, but it might've been good from 48 (original line of scrimmage before the penalty) or from 37 yards (if Holmgren doesn't take the timeout giving the replay offical time to review the play).
So chalk that missed field goal up to good defense (Dyson knocking the ball out of Shockey's hands, making the incompletion more obvious, and forcing the incomplete pass on Burress; Grant Wistrom alertly snuffing out Mannings QB draw attempt) and heads up coaching by Holmgren.
The later field goal attempt (45 yards) was makeable, but by that time, Feely was so out of sorts, it shouldn't surprise anyone that he missed it.
If you're going to say it was "luck", the you probably believe in the "football gods", as well. For example, perhaps those Jay Feely missed kicks were due to:
a.) Jeremy Shockey's non-TD in the 2nd quarter. You still have to have "complete the catch" in the end zone, and Shockey did not. Seahawks FS Marquand Manuel knocked the ball loose (and Shockey on his ass) before the left foot ever touched the ground. The same rules that govern the 5-yard line apply in the end zone.
b.) Amani Toomer's TD was much closer, but two officials were within feet of the play and neither of them could say whether or not it was a completed pass, so they gave it to the Giants knowing replay could bail them out if they were wrong. Nice that they erred on the side of awarding the Giants points, wasn't it? Plus, it appeared as though Toomer's left heel was touching the white paint before his second foot was down. I've heard this from impartial observers, as well.
c.) Jeremy Shockey and Michael Strahan's idiotic celebrations of missed field goals. Shockey taunted the camera, not even looking at Feely's botched effort at the end of regulation. The stunned look on his face afterwards was so priceless, I will pay top dollar for a still image of it. And then Michael Strahan runs out to midfield after Feely's 1st missed field goal in overtime, sans helmet, even though he needed it since the game wasn't over.
The Giants have no one to blame but themselves. When you go on the road and commit 16 penalties (11 false starts), your marquee players (Shockey/Burress) combine to drop half a dozen footballs, you shouldn't expect to win. That you were in a position to win the game is the only way "luck" factored into things.
So What Now?
At 9-2 the Seahawks are still in the driver's seat in the NFC. They have a one-game lead on the Bears and Panthers, and essentially a 3-game lead on the Giants, Cowboys and Falcons, thanks to beating all 3 this season.
After the way the Seahawks crowd impacted the Giants, is there any team that wants to come into Seattle in January? Probably not. And the road to the Super Bowl in the NFC will likely come through Seattle. Look at their remaining schedule:
Dec 5th @ Philadelphia (5-6)
Dec 11th San Francisco (2-9)
Dec 18th @ Tennessee (3-8)
Dec 24th Indianapolis (10-0)
Dec 31st @ Green Bay (2-9)
The absolute worst I can see the Seahawks going is 3-2 down the stretch, which would put them at 12-4 to end the season. That would mean Chicago and Carolina would have to go 4-1 down the stretch to get the #1 seed. Dallas, Atlanta and New York, even if the Seahawks went 3-2, couldn't unseat the Seahawks, who own the tiebreakers over both (Seattle beat them both this year), even if they win out.
The Sauce
If the Seahawks OT win was a heaping plate of ribs, Michael Irvin's drug-related arrest was definitely the sauce.
Now, I do think that if Irvin is still hitting the pipe, it's a tragic situation that I hope he gets help for. I don't wish the man ill will. But I do think it's funny, because his contract is up at the end of the year, and ESPN should not, under any circumstance, retain his services.
The way he cheerleads for the Cowboys while blindly defending the actions of anyone playing the WR position, automatically call into question his journalistic integrity. Like it or not, Irvin has a duty to be objective, and he fails miserably at doing that.
Even during yesterday's segment with Shaun Alexander, Irvin turned it into a "why haven't they paid you, yet?" affair. You know what, Mike? Alexander has representation and both sides are working towards a new contract, so butt out. They don't need your help. Oh, and thanks for jumping on-board a story that's been running in Seattle since last February. Way to go, genius.
His shtick is so tired, even Steve Young and Tom Jackson were mocking Irvin after the Alexander segment yesterday. And that's saying something!
You know, I hate to say it, but ESPN has slipped to the bottom of the NFL pregame show pile. They're even below FOX, who employs two mammary glands named Jillian Barberie. And CBS, who gets it right. Sure, it's vanilla, but it's informative and moderately entertaining, and that's what a pregame show should be. You don't have to go over the top, you just have to dispense information in a somewhat entertaining manner.
Speaking of which, Armen Keteyian's segment on Steve Belichick made me wish I had a TiVo. Brilliant stuff.
Fuck You, Peter King
Since I live on the east coast, I rarely lend credence to the "East coast bias" argument that those on the left coast tend to resort to when their teams aren't getting enough publicity. But Peter King, c'mon, you're better than what you wrote today.
The Giants are the best team in the NFC? Puh-lease. Maybe that would mean something if you didn't live in Ernie Accorsi's lower intestines. They're good, don't get me wrong, but the best?
They got two gift (and by gift I mean "non") TDs yesterday, dropped half a dozen passes and committed 16 penalties. When they had taken the crowd out of it in the 3rd quarter, Eli Manning let them back in the game by throwing a punt to Michael Boulware, which rejuvenated the crowd and the Seahawks, who immediately took the lead. Is that the makings of the "best team in the NFC"? I don't think so.
And your egg nog latte tastes metallic? The horror, you say! That's what you get for continually spending $4 on burnt coffee.
For the record, "Seattle's lovely new home" was opened in 2002. Same year that Gillette Stadium was built.
And it's nonsense.
Luck had absolutely nothing to do with it. Here's why:
On a 3rd and 13 from their own 46, Eli Manning completes a 23-yard pass to Plaxico Burress at the Seahawks 31-yard line. On the next play, Luke Petitgout commits his 23rd false start penalty of the day, pushing them back to the Seahawks 36.
Manning then completes a pass to Jeremy Shockey down to the Seahawk 26, which he fumbles and the ball is recovered by Giants WR Tim Carter at the Seahawk 20. Mike Holmgren calls a timeout, and the play ends up being reviewed by the booth where it's determined that Jeremy Shockey never had possession of the ball. So, wipe away 16 yards and a down, and you've got 2nd and 15 from the Seahawks 36.
Manning attempts a QB draw, which is stuffed by Seahawks DE Grant Wistrom for no gain. Next play is a pass to Plaxico Burress, which is broken up by Andre Dyson, leaving the Giants with a 4th and 15 from the Seahawk 36. Jay Feely missed the 53-yard FG attempt.
Is that luck? No, it's not luck. A 50-yard FG by a visiting kicker not named Neil Rackers is unheard of in late November at Qwest Field, but it might've been good from 48 (original line of scrimmage before the penalty) or from 37 yards (if Holmgren doesn't take the timeout giving the replay offical time to review the play).
So chalk that missed field goal up to good defense (Dyson knocking the ball out of Shockey's hands, making the incompletion more obvious, and forcing the incomplete pass on Burress; Grant Wistrom alertly snuffing out Mannings QB draw attempt) and heads up coaching by Holmgren.
The later field goal attempt (45 yards) was makeable, but by that time, Feely was so out of sorts, it shouldn't surprise anyone that he missed it.
If you're going to say it was "luck", the you probably believe in the "football gods", as well. For example, perhaps those Jay Feely missed kicks were due to:
a.) Jeremy Shockey's non-TD in the 2nd quarter. You still have to have "complete the catch" in the end zone, and Shockey did not. Seahawks FS Marquand Manuel knocked the ball loose (and Shockey on his ass) before the left foot ever touched the ground. The same rules that govern the 5-yard line apply in the end zone.
b.) Amani Toomer's TD was much closer, but two officials were within feet of the play and neither of them could say whether or not it was a completed pass, so they gave it to the Giants knowing replay could bail them out if they were wrong. Nice that they erred on the side of awarding the Giants points, wasn't it? Plus, it appeared as though Toomer's left heel was touching the white paint before his second foot was down. I've heard this from impartial observers, as well.
c.) Jeremy Shockey and Michael Strahan's idiotic celebrations of missed field goals. Shockey taunted the camera, not even looking at Feely's botched effort at the end of regulation. The stunned look on his face afterwards was so priceless, I will pay top dollar for a still image of it. And then Michael Strahan runs out to midfield after Feely's 1st missed field goal in overtime, sans helmet, even though he needed it since the game wasn't over.
The Giants have no one to blame but themselves. When you go on the road and commit 16 penalties (11 false starts), your marquee players (Shockey/Burress) combine to drop half a dozen footballs, you shouldn't expect to win. That you were in a position to win the game is the only way "luck" factored into things.
So What Now?
At 9-2 the Seahawks are still in the driver's seat in the NFC. They have a one-game lead on the Bears and Panthers, and essentially a 3-game lead on the Giants, Cowboys and Falcons, thanks to beating all 3 this season.
After the way the Seahawks crowd impacted the Giants, is there any team that wants to come into Seattle in January? Probably not. And the road to the Super Bowl in the NFC will likely come through Seattle. Look at their remaining schedule:
Dec 5th @ Philadelphia (5-6)
Dec 11th San Francisco (2-9)
Dec 18th @ Tennessee (3-8)
Dec 24th Indianapolis (10-0)
Dec 31st @ Green Bay (2-9)
The absolute worst I can see the Seahawks going is 3-2 down the stretch, which would put them at 12-4 to end the season. That would mean Chicago and Carolina would have to go 4-1 down the stretch to get the #1 seed. Dallas, Atlanta and New York, even if the Seahawks went 3-2, couldn't unseat the Seahawks, who own the tiebreakers over both (Seattle beat them both this year), even if they win out.
The Sauce
If the Seahawks OT win was a heaping plate of ribs, Michael Irvin's drug-related arrest was definitely the sauce.
Now, I do think that if Irvin is still hitting the pipe, it's a tragic situation that I hope he gets help for. I don't wish the man ill will. But I do think it's funny, because his contract is up at the end of the year, and ESPN should not, under any circumstance, retain his services.
The way he cheerleads for the Cowboys while blindly defending the actions of anyone playing the WR position, automatically call into question his journalistic integrity. Like it or not, Irvin has a duty to be objective, and he fails miserably at doing that.
Even during yesterday's segment with Shaun Alexander, Irvin turned it into a "why haven't they paid you, yet?" affair. You know what, Mike? Alexander has representation and both sides are working towards a new contract, so butt out. They don't need your help. Oh, and thanks for jumping on-board a story that's been running in Seattle since last February. Way to go, genius.
His shtick is so tired, even Steve Young and Tom Jackson were mocking Irvin after the Alexander segment yesterday. And that's saying something!
You know, I hate to say it, but ESPN has slipped to the bottom of the NFL pregame show pile. They're even below FOX, who employs two mammary glands named Jillian Barberie. And CBS, who gets it right. Sure, it's vanilla, but it's informative and moderately entertaining, and that's what a pregame show should be. You don't have to go over the top, you just have to dispense information in a somewhat entertaining manner.
Speaking of which, Armen Keteyian's segment on Steve Belichick made me wish I had a TiVo. Brilliant stuff.
Fuck You, Peter King
Since I live on the east coast, I rarely lend credence to the "East coast bias" argument that those on the left coast tend to resort to when their teams aren't getting enough publicity. But Peter King, c'mon, you're better than what you wrote today.
The Giants are the best team in the NFC? Puh-lease. Maybe that would mean something if you didn't live in Ernie Accorsi's lower intestines. They're good, don't get me wrong, but the best?
They got two gift (and by gift I mean "non") TDs yesterday, dropped half a dozen passes and committed 16 penalties. When they had taken the crowd out of it in the 3rd quarter, Eli Manning let them back in the game by throwing a punt to Michael Boulware, which rejuvenated the crowd and the Seahawks, who immediately took the lead. Is that the makings of the "best team in the NFC"? I don't think so.
And your egg nog latte tastes metallic? The horror, you say! That's what you get for continually spending $4 on burnt coffee.
For the record, "Seattle's lovely new home" was opened in 2002. Same year that Gillette Stadium was built.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
NFL Week 12 - Mac's Picks
NFL Week 12 – Mac’s Picks
Last week: 9-7
Overall: 87-71-2
The saddest part about the current Thanksgiving Day NFL broadcasts is the absence of John Madden and Pat Summerall. Couldn’t we reunite this legendary duo for one of the games?
It was always comforting knowing that by the middle of the 3rd quarter, Summerall was well in the bag, and Madden was doing hand-drawings of turkeys on his telestrator while audibly drooling over the “turducken”.
Anyways, it’s Thanksgiving morning and we’ve got a couple of inches of snow on the ground. That must mean it’s time for this week’s picks!
Atlanta at Detroit Steve Mariucci is keeping who is starting QB will be today under wraps. As if it matters. On the Turkey Day games, I’ve found that it’s best to always go with the better team, since neither had much time to prepare. Pick: Falcons –3
Tryptophan/Red Hook IPA –7 ½ over Mac
Denver at Dallas See above. The Cowboys are a fine team, but the Broncos are doing some incredible things this year. Pick: Broncos –2
Baltimore at Cincinnati The last time these two teams played, a horrendously bad call kept it from being a nail-biter. Cincy won’t have to worry about that this time. Pick: Bengals –9
Carolina at Buffalo Do you think the Bears might’ve exposed a weakness or 5 along the Panthers offensive line? Buffalo plays much better at home, so don’t be discouraged by their performance in San Diego last week. Pick: Bills +4 (I’m not at all confident about this one)
Cleveland at Minnesota The Minnesota Vikings are 5-5, which may mean that the Vikes may stick with Mike Tice as head coach. It could also mean that Einstein was wrong. Pick: Vikings –4
Chicago at Tampa Bay A part of me still thinks that the Buccaneers are a group of frauds, and I think we’ll get our answer when Chris Simms has to face that Bears defense. Speaking of Simms, isn’t it great to see his daddy come to his rescue? Yep, that’ll answer all those questions about Chris’ toughness. Pick: Bears +3
New England at Kansas City Playing the Texans is the ultimate elixir to get over a bad loss. However, you shouldn’t give the ball 36 times to a guy you’re going to need production out of in December to have a shot at the playoffs. Not when the game was over at halftime. And for New England, if anyone knows how to win through adversity, it’s Bill Belichick. Despite his personal loss, he’ll have this team ready to play on Sunday. Pick: Patriots +3
San Diego at Washington San Diego is a good team, but going cross-country 4 times in a single season is a lot to ask of any team. Pick: Redskins +3
San Francisco at Tennessee Normally, in a battle of 2-8 teams, the only angle of note is “Who wants the #1 pick”. But, as long as the Houston Texans (and Dom Capers) are in the NFL, that’s not the case this time around. Pick: 49ers +8
St. Louis at Houston Hey, speak of the devil. I know some people are looking at the way the Rams have fallen apart and are picking the Texans to “shock” the Rams this week. Did any of you see what Larry Johnson did to the Texans on Sunday night? If so, what do you think Joe Vitt plans to do with Steven Jackson, especially now that Marc Bulger is done for the season and he’s got Jamie Martin at QB? Pick: St. Louis –4
Jacksonville at Arizona The Cardinals might win this one outright, but if not, it’ll at least be a 3-point game. Jacksonville struggles away from home, and the Cardinals have a little confidence after trouncing the Rams. A healthy Anquan Boldin will do that for you. Pick: Cardinals +3 ½
Miami at Oakland I just wonder how different the Raiders season would be if they didn’t have such a tough schedule to start the season. They’re really playing well, despite a gimpy Randy Moss, and that defense is tightening. Pick: Raiders –7
Green Bay at Philadelphia Who else is buying stock in the “Andy Reid accidentally ate Mike Martz, which explains his avoidance of the running game, and that directly attributed to McNabb’s season-ending injury” theory? Just me? Pick: Eagles –4 ½
NY Giants at Seattle The Seahawks can clinch the NFC West with a win this Sunday, which is pretty amazing seeing how we’re not even in December yet. More important, though, is that with a win over the Giants, coupled with the earlier win over Dallas, Seattle would have a virtual death-grip on the #1-seed and home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. With a 18-3 record at home the last three years, that’s huge. Pick: Seahawks – 4 ½
New Orleans at NY Jets FYI: Anne Heche and Tate Donovan star in the Hallmark Hall of Fame movie “Silver Bells”, this Sunday at 9pm on…CBS. Pick: Saints –1 ½ (and Anne Heche –3 ½)
Pittsburgh at Indianapolis Expect a lot of late-night calls on Monday from members of the ’72 Dolphins, because after this one, they’ll really start to get nervous. Pick: Colts –5 (and don’t worry, those ’72 Dolphins are going to get a nice Christmas present from Mike Holmgren & Co.)
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Happy Tryptophan Day, Everybody!
Since tomorrow will be spent in a tryptophan fog, I just wanted to list a couple of things that I'm thankful for (besides family, friends, health, which are always implied and never funny) this Thanksgiving:
Josh Beckett in a Red Sox uniform for the next decade or so
Seahawks are 8-2 and on their way to homefield advantage throughout the playoffs
Constant pressure on the Bush administration (2008 elections are less than 3 years away!)
Keira Knightley
My Name is Earl
Rachel Ray's man hands
Al Gore, for creating the Internet
John Kerry winning an election (as jury foreman, but a win's a win)
Debbie Lafave being spared jailtime (and her eventual pictorial in Playboy)
All the vapid Myspace whores whose only means for getting attention is to post pictures of their cleavage
The Peyton Manning/Kenny Chesney rumors
The NFL Network
Captain Stabbin'
Captain Crunch
Mocking emo kids and their Peppermint Patty haircuts
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody. Gobble, gobble.
Josh Beckett in a Red Sox uniform for the next decade or so
Seahawks are 8-2 and on their way to homefield advantage throughout the playoffs
Constant pressure on the Bush administration (2008 elections are less than 3 years away!)
Keira Knightley
My Name is Earl
Rachel Ray's man hands
Al Gore, for creating the Internet
John Kerry winning an election (as jury foreman, but a win's a win)
Debbie Lafave being spared jailtime (and her eventual pictorial in Playboy)
All the vapid Myspace whores whose only means for getting attention is to post pictures of their cleavage
The Peyton Manning/Kenny Chesney rumors
The NFL Network
Captain Stabbin'
Captain Crunch
Mocking emo kids and their Peppermint Patty haircuts
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody. Gobble, gobble.
Friday, November 18, 2005
NFL Week 11 - Mac's Picks
NFL Week 11 – Mac’s Picks
Last week: A rain-soaked 8-6
Overall: 78-64-2
Arizona at St. Louis The Cardinals allowed Joey Harrington to have a career day against them, which begs the following question: Where are all those people that predicted that the Cardinals were going to win the NFC West hiding at the moment? Pick: Cardinals +9 ½ (I have no faith in the Rams)
Carolina at Chicago The longest play in NFL history (Nathan Vasher’s return of a missed field goal) was pretty impressive. Even more impressive were all the blocks in the back that the Bears committed during it. I counted at least 3. Pick: Panthers –2 ½
(Speaking of the Panthers, before we start booking hotel rooms in Detroit for them, remember that their opponents are a combined 30-51, and they only recently started blowing out such powerhouse teams like the Vikings, Bucs, and Jets. If you’re keeping score, the combined record of Seahawks’ opponents is 30-33.)
Detroit at Dallas Joey Harrington’s career day against the Cardinals won’t keep him from making consecutive starts. Since “Crisp” is healthy, he’s Mooch’s choice to start at Dallas. Harrington doesn’t realize it, but it’s probably a blessing in disguise. Pick: Cowboys –8
Jacksonville at Tennessee Thanks to the terrible state of the Baltimore Ravens, the Jaguars reached the 30-point mark for the first time since the early days of the current Bush administration. Pick: Jaguars –3 ½
(By the way, the Jaguars are my “lock” to be in the playoffs this year. Have you seen their schedule the rest of the way? It’s Snuggle-soft.)
Miami at Cleveland Gus Frerotte, the Dolphins starting QB, has a career road record of 7-31. I have no idea if that’s accurate, but it’s probably pretty close. Actually, Frerotte might not even play, which means Sage Rosenfels gets his 2nd career start in 5 years. Either way, it’s a good week to be a Browns fan. Pick: Browns –2
New Orleans at New England Since I’m full of nuggets of wisdom (and shit), did you know that the Patriots haven’t won consecutive games this season? It’s true, look it up. In fact, that includes the pre-season games, as well. That’ll change this week, though, and if the Patriots get healthy, I think they’ll cruise to an 11-5 record, since they got nothing but cupcakes through January. Pick: Patriots –10
Oakland at Washington Ok, who had Week 11 in the “When Will Randy Moss Undermine Norv Turner” sweepstakes? I know he’s a talented guy, but Moss hasn’t produced enough to question anybody. 32 catches at this point of the season places him 3rd in that category…on his own team. Pick: Oakland +6
Philadelphia at NY Giants McNabb was told he needs surgery immediately for his hernia/groin injuries, which pretty much drives the final nail in the coffin for the 2005 Philadelphia Eagles. It’s interesting that the Eagles were having success on the ground all game long, and in a point in the game where you want, and should, be handing the ball off, Andy Reid calls a pass play. Inexplicable play call, inexplicable pass by McNabb and we all know what the results of all that are. Or is it still all T.O.’s fault? Pick: Giants –7
Pittsburgh at Baltimore Tommy Maddox is starting a road game, and despite that bit of information, I’m still taking the Steelers. Either I’ve recently suffered a massive head injury, or they’re playing the Baltimore Ravens. Pick: Steelers –4
Tampa Bay at Atlanta Even though the Buccaneers usually do a good job of bottling up Michael Vick, the fact of the matter is I’m still of the opinion that Tampa is a bit fraudulent. Plus, Jim Mora, Jr. is prettier than Gruden. Pick: Falcons –6
Seattle at San Francisco I’ll put as simply as I possibly can: In the NFC, the road to Detroit will go be going through Seattle. They’re 7-2, have the best offense in the NFL, and the defense is improving by the week. Pick: Seahawks –12 ½
Buffalo at San Diego JP Losman, on the road, against a better and well-rested opponent that is fighting for its playoff life? Sounds good to me! Pick: Chargers –10 ½
Indianapolis at Cincinnati I made a bold prediction earlier about the Jaguars being a “lock” for the playoffs. Well, I’ll go even further: Cincinnati, despite being 7-2, will fail to secure the other playoff spot (since we know they won’t beat out Pittsburgh for the AFC North title). Why do I say that? Well, they’ve played two tough opponents this year (Jacksonville and Pittsburgh), and lost them both, and they’ve been struggling against teams they should be beating soundly. Pick: Colts –4 ½
NY Jets at Denver I’m saying it every week, but I was completely wrong about the Denver Broncos this year. I thought they’d be terrible, and it turns out, they might be the team that most poised to beat the Colts in the AFC. Pick: Broncos –12 ½
Kansas City at Houston When you lose a game like the Chiefs did a week ago, it must be comforting to glance at the schedule and see the Houston Texans are your next opponent. Yep, it’s a real pick-me-up. Pick: Chiefs –6 ½
Minnesota at Green Bay Ok, it’s time to be honest:
- Who here laughed out loud when Mike Tice had his legs cut out from underneath him on the sidelines last week?
- Who the hell is Samkon Gado?
The scariest part in all this is that with the Bears and Lions likely to lose this Sunday, the Vikings can pull within a game of the division lead with a win in Lambeau. However, you know a group this dysfunctional is bound to screw it up. Pick: Packers –4 ½
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
NFL Week 10 - Mac's Picks
NFL Week 10 – Mac’s Picks
Last Week: an improbable 10-3-1
Overall: 70-58-2
Arizona at Detroit Are you telling me that nobody in the Cardinals organization has reminded Dennis Green that he’s never won a game in the desert with a starting QB not named Josh McCown?
With the situation in Detroit, this is easily the “Dysfunctional Game of the Week”. Both head coaches are well respected, but both are struggling in an effort to turn around the fortunes of some tortured franchises. In a game like this, it’s best to go with the home team. Pick: Lions –4
Baltimore at Jacksonville Nothing is going right in Baltimore, and you know that’s usually the case when there’s a Kordell Stewart sighting.
Jacksonville still doesn’t impress me, but at home, they should win by more than a TD. Pick: Jaguars –6 ½
Houston at Indianapolis As if you weren’t already convinced the NFL schedule makers lived in the greater Indianapolis area, the Colts get yet another member of the Betty Crocker division immediately after their first tough game of the year. Pick: Indianapolis –17
Kansas City at Buffalo I’ll never take another shot at Dick Vermeil in this space again. To go for the win last week was a ballsy call, and the Chiefs were rewarded for it.
For the Bills, not much is going right this season, and drawing a rejuvenated Chiefs team isn’t going to help matters. Pick: Chiefs +2
Minnesota at NY Giants I’m sure the Giants fans will be mum about the off-field incidents that the Vikings have been involved in this season. Surely, a classy group of people will take the high road when it comes to that.
I still don’t know the answer to this question, so I’ll ask again: Do the Giants even own road uniforms? Pick: Giants –9 ½
New England at Miami Ok, you’re not invincible anymore, New England. The shine has worn off a bit, and no one is afraid to play you. Deal with it. The fact is, you’ll still win your division, host a playoff game, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll ride that January experience a bit. Not bad for a team that currently ranks 31st defensively, and is that banged up.
Sorry, I just had to say that. Pick: Patriots -3
San Francisco at Chicago Ok, I am patting myself on the back for calling that Kyle Orton would be much better than people expect, but in a game like this, I can’t pass up nearly 2 TDs. Pick: 49ers +13
Denver at Oakland How many demoralizing losses can one team suffer through? If it’s happening to the Oakland Raiders, does anyone really care?
While I am patting myself on the back about the Orton prediction, I will confess that I was dead wrong about the Denver Broncos. Pick: Broncos –3
NY Jets at Carolina It’s about time the Panthers started playing up their ability. They’re now blowing teams out, which should’ve been happening all along. Right now, they’re the best team in the NFC.
As for the Jets, it was nice to make the game interesting, but Brooks Bollinger isn’t the answer. Pick: Carolina –8
Green Bay at Atlanta Do you think Brett Favre would’ve returned this year if he thought he’d be handing the ball to Samkon Gado and throwing to Antonio Chatman in November? Me neither. Pick: Falcons –9
St. Louis at Seattle A few weeks ago, this one looked like another easy home win for the Seahawks. Then the Rams welcomed Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Marc Bulger and Leonard Little back to practice. In other words, they’re not ready to concede the NFC West just yet.
For Seattle, there’s no doubt that this is the biggest game of the year. A win essentially clinches the division, since they’d be 4 games up with only 7 to play, and two of those games are with the 49ers. They’d own every imaginable tiebreaker over the Rams, as well. Pick: Seahawks –6 ½ (Did I mention I’ll be at this game?)
Washington at Tampa Bay I’m no longer skeptical about the Buccaneers. I flat-out think they’re fraudulent. They got off to a great start, but without Brian Griese, they’re horrible on offense.
This is the sort of line that Vegas actually got right. Both teams have very good defenses, and offenses that can be rattled. Going with Washington, since they’re the more experienced group. Pick: Redskins -1
Cleveland at Pittsburgh I’m sure this isn’t what ESPN had in mind when they tabbed this game for their Sunday night broadcast.
How willJoe Theismann keep a straight face when he says the following line? “When I sat down with Charlie Batch last night, the poise in which he answered my questions reminded me of how good he was leading the Detroit Lions to a 9-7 record in 2000.”
Fortunately for Batch, the Browns defense is horrible. But if Green Bay can keep it close, so can Cleveland. Pick: Browns +8
Dallas at Philadelphia (in best attempt at John Madden’s voice) “Andy Reid. Now Andy Reid…is a great coach. And if Andy Reid can’t get a guy…if he can’t get a guy to sort of buy into what he’s doing…then there’s…then there’s…a problem. Now Brett Favre. Brett Favre is a guy that could probably keep a guy like…Owens…Terrell Owens…he’d keep him…he’d keep him…in line. And Donovan McNabb…McNabb is the type of guy that doesn’t do a lot of hoopin’ and hollerin’ from the quarterback position…But the Eagles…with Andy Reid…they’ll be…they’ll be…they’ll be alright.”
Pick: Cowboys +3
Last Week: an improbable 10-3-1
Overall: 70-58-2
Arizona at Detroit Are you telling me that nobody in the Cardinals organization has reminded Dennis Green that he’s never won a game in the desert with a starting QB not named Josh McCown?
With the situation in Detroit, this is easily the “Dysfunctional Game of the Week”. Both head coaches are well respected, but both are struggling in an effort to turn around the fortunes of some tortured franchises. In a game like this, it’s best to go with the home team. Pick: Lions –4
Baltimore at Jacksonville Nothing is going right in Baltimore, and you know that’s usually the case when there’s a Kordell Stewart sighting.
Jacksonville still doesn’t impress me, but at home, they should win by more than a TD. Pick: Jaguars –6 ½
Houston at Indianapolis As if you weren’t already convinced the NFL schedule makers lived in the greater Indianapolis area, the Colts get yet another member of the Betty Crocker division immediately after their first tough game of the year. Pick: Indianapolis –17
Kansas City at Buffalo I’ll never take another shot at Dick Vermeil in this space again. To go for the win last week was a ballsy call, and the Chiefs were rewarded for it.
For the Bills, not much is going right this season, and drawing a rejuvenated Chiefs team isn’t going to help matters. Pick: Chiefs +2
Minnesota at NY Giants I’m sure the Giants fans will be mum about the off-field incidents that the Vikings have been involved in this season. Surely, a classy group of people will take the high road when it comes to that.
I still don’t know the answer to this question, so I’ll ask again: Do the Giants even own road uniforms? Pick: Giants –9 ½
New England at Miami Ok, you’re not invincible anymore, New England. The shine has worn off a bit, and no one is afraid to play you. Deal with it. The fact is, you’ll still win your division, host a playoff game, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll ride that January experience a bit. Not bad for a team that currently ranks 31st defensively, and is that banged up.
Sorry, I just had to say that. Pick: Patriots -3
San Francisco at Chicago Ok, I am patting myself on the back for calling that Kyle Orton would be much better than people expect, but in a game like this, I can’t pass up nearly 2 TDs. Pick: 49ers +13
Denver at Oakland How many demoralizing losses can one team suffer through? If it’s happening to the Oakland Raiders, does anyone really care?
While I am patting myself on the back about the Orton prediction, I will confess that I was dead wrong about the Denver Broncos. Pick: Broncos –3
NY Jets at Carolina It’s about time the Panthers started playing up their ability. They’re now blowing teams out, which should’ve been happening all along. Right now, they’re the best team in the NFC.
As for the Jets, it was nice to make the game interesting, but Brooks Bollinger isn’t the answer. Pick: Carolina –8
Green Bay at Atlanta Do you think Brett Favre would’ve returned this year if he thought he’d be handing the ball to Samkon Gado and throwing to Antonio Chatman in November? Me neither. Pick: Falcons –9
St. Louis at Seattle A few weeks ago, this one looked like another easy home win for the Seahawks. Then the Rams welcomed Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Marc Bulger and Leonard Little back to practice. In other words, they’re not ready to concede the NFC West just yet.
For Seattle, there’s no doubt that this is the biggest game of the year. A win essentially clinches the division, since they’d be 4 games up with only 7 to play, and two of those games are with the 49ers. They’d own every imaginable tiebreaker over the Rams, as well. Pick: Seahawks –6 ½ (Did I mention I’ll be at this game?)
Washington at Tampa Bay I’m no longer skeptical about the Buccaneers. I flat-out think they’re fraudulent. They got off to a great start, but without Brian Griese, they’re horrible on offense.
This is the sort of line that Vegas actually got right. Both teams have very good defenses, and offenses that can be rattled. Going with Washington, since they’re the more experienced group. Pick: Redskins -1
Cleveland at Pittsburgh I’m sure this isn’t what ESPN had in mind when they tabbed this game for their Sunday night broadcast.
How willJoe Theismann keep a straight face when he says the following line? “When I sat down with Charlie Batch last night, the poise in which he answered my questions reminded me of how good he was leading the Detroit Lions to a 9-7 record in 2000.”
Fortunately for Batch, the Browns defense is horrible. But if Green Bay can keep it close, so can Cleveland. Pick: Browns +8
Dallas at Philadelphia (in best attempt at John Madden’s voice) “Andy Reid. Now Andy Reid…is a great coach. And if Andy Reid can’t get a guy…if he can’t get a guy to sort of buy into what he’s doing…then there’s…then there’s…a problem. Now Brett Favre. Brett Favre is a guy that could probably keep a guy like…Owens…Terrell Owens…he’d keep him…he’d keep him…in line. And Donovan McNabb…McNabb is the type of guy that doesn’t do a lot of hoopin’ and hollerin’ from the quarterback position…But the Eagles…with Andy Reid…they’ll be…they’ll be…they’ll be alright.”
Pick: Cowboys +3
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Brian Goes to the Doctor
I'll just come right out and say it: I hate going to the doctor.
I'm aware that nobody enjoys it, but I hate going to the doctors with the heat of 10,000 suns. So when I actually made an appointment with one, and showed up, it was quite a thing for me.
I was only mildly concerned about why I made the appointment. After all, a tumor growing out of your neck isn't what you want. I had done my research, and after speaking with some health care professionals, I had determined that it was a "skin tag", which is as harmless as Duane Starks in press coverage.
After filling out more forms than could possibly be necessary, I finally got in to the see the dermatologist. Ten minutes later, the door opens and in walks a 5-foot tall guy in a white lab coat and a bowtie. I'm looking for cameras, Peter Funt, or possibly Ashton Kutcher.
He immediately hones in on the tumor like Star Jones at a Krispy Kreme, and is examining it from every angle. The following conversation takes place:
Dr. PimplePopper: "Oh my, you must've had that thing for 10 years!"
Mac: "Actually no. It's more recent than that"
Dr. PimplePopper: "Five. Gosh, that almost looks like a birthmark"
Mac: "Well, I didn't have it two years ago, I know that much"
Dr. PimplePopper: (excitedly) "Oh, you've got a few of them!"
He tells me that he can remove them immediately, but there's one catch. And in the most effeminate voice imaginable, he whispers "But there's going to be a scar".
"That's ok...chicks dig scars" was my response, to which he gives a mild laugh. I'm sure I'm not the only Patrick Swayze fan he's had in his office. After injecting me with a numbing agent, he sliced the fuckers (there were a few) right off. I didn't feel a damn thing.
My appointment was at 11, and I was back to work by 11:15. Seriously, it all took less than 15 minutes, so I'm kicking myself for waiting this long to have this done. I have to wear a band-aid for a day or two, and have to avoid shaving for a few days (darn it, right when my vacation begins), but pending the lab results, everything should be a-ok. The only thing is, the numbing agent has worn off, the bandage he put on is itchy as all hell, and the part of my neck he removed is starting to hurt in the "Yes, a surgical-sharp scalpel just removed some skin from my neck" sort of way.
The good news is this: "Winter Beard" returns in 2005! The tumor (I called him Frank) prevented Winter Beard from appearing in 2003 and 2004, so it'll be a nice addition to this Holiday season.
I'm aware that nobody enjoys it, but I hate going to the doctors with the heat of 10,000 suns. So when I actually made an appointment with one, and showed up, it was quite a thing for me.
I was only mildly concerned about why I made the appointment. After all, a tumor growing out of your neck isn't what you want. I had done my research, and after speaking with some health care professionals, I had determined that it was a "skin tag", which is as harmless as Duane Starks in press coverage.
After filling out more forms than could possibly be necessary, I finally got in to the see the dermatologist. Ten minutes later, the door opens and in walks a 5-foot tall guy in a white lab coat and a bowtie. I'm looking for cameras, Peter Funt, or possibly Ashton Kutcher.
He immediately hones in on the tumor like Star Jones at a Krispy Kreme, and is examining it from every angle. The following conversation takes place:
Dr. PimplePopper: "Oh my, you must've had that thing for 10 years!"
Mac: "Actually no. It's more recent than that"
Dr. PimplePopper: "Five. Gosh, that almost looks like a birthmark"
Mac: "Well, I didn't have it two years ago, I know that much"
Dr. PimplePopper: (excitedly) "Oh, you've got a few of them!"
He tells me that he can remove them immediately, but there's one catch. And in the most effeminate voice imaginable, he whispers "But there's going to be a scar".
"That's ok...chicks dig scars" was my response, to which he gives a mild laugh. I'm sure I'm not the only Patrick Swayze fan he's had in his office. After injecting me with a numbing agent, he sliced the fuckers (there were a few) right off. I didn't feel a damn thing.
My appointment was at 11, and I was back to work by 11:15. Seriously, it all took less than 15 minutes, so I'm kicking myself for waiting this long to have this done. I have to wear a band-aid for a day or two, and have to avoid shaving for a few days (darn it, right when my vacation begins), but pending the lab results, everything should be a-ok. The only thing is, the numbing agent has worn off, the bandage he put on is itchy as all hell, and the part of my neck he removed is starting to hurt in the "Yes, a surgical-sharp scalpel just removed some skin from my neck" sort of way.
The good news is this: "Winter Beard" returns in 2005! The tumor (I called him Frank) prevented Winter Beard from appearing in 2003 and 2004, so it'll be a nice addition to this Holiday season.
Question Answered: Colts Are Best in AFC
"To be the man, you've got to beat the man"
If you believe with that quote, last night erased any doubts you may have had about the Indianapolis Colts.
I'm sure many Patriots fans are licking their wounds this morning, and I've already heard some of them say "Wait until January". Please people, before you embarass yourselves, just shut up. These two teams could line up 10 times right now, and the Colts would win every single time. They've got more talent, on both sides of the ball now, than anyone else in the league.
And if these two teams meet in January, it's going to be in the cozy confinds of the RCA Dome, where the temperature is always 72 degrees with no wind, snow or rain to interfere with their high-powered offense.
The news isn't all grim for the Patriots. At 4-4, they're still in 1st place in the AFC East. They have a very easy schedule the rest of the way, so 10-6 isn't entirely out of the question, even though 9-7 (or 8-8) could win the weak AFC East. As a division winner, they'd still host a playoff game and if they get a few of the walking wounded back, and correct some obvious problems (Duane Starks), nobody would be surprised if they won a game or two in the playoffs.
Funniest Line of the Night
"If my son signed Terrell Owens, I'd disown him" - Jim Mora, on NFL Total Access, in response to the question of where Terrell Owens plays next season. Mora's son (Jim Mora, Jr) is the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, a team Owens has expressed a desire to play for.
If you believe with that quote, last night erased any doubts you may have had about the Indianapolis Colts.
I'm sure many Patriots fans are licking their wounds this morning, and I've already heard some of them say "Wait until January". Please people, before you embarass yourselves, just shut up. These two teams could line up 10 times right now, and the Colts would win every single time. They've got more talent, on both sides of the ball now, than anyone else in the league.
And if these two teams meet in January, it's going to be in the cozy confinds of the RCA Dome, where the temperature is always 72 degrees with no wind, snow or rain to interfere with their high-powered offense.
The news isn't all grim for the Patriots. At 4-4, they're still in 1st place in the AFC East. They have a very easy schedule the rest of the way, so 10-6 isn't entirely out of the question, even though 9-7 (or 8-8) could win the weak AFC East. As a division winner, they'd still host a playoff game and if they get a few of the walking wounded back, and correct some obvious problems (Duane Starks), nobody would be surprised if they won a game or two in the playoffs.
Funniest Line of the Night
"If my son signed Terrell Owens, I'd disown him" - Jim Mora, on NFL Total Access, in response to the question of where Terrell Owens plays next season. Mora's son (Jim Mora, Jr) is the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, a team Owens has expressed a desire to play for.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Extra Points - November 7th, 2005
Ok, perhaps the best story of the weekend was the one where two Carolina Panthers cheerleaders (the TopCats) were arrested after an altercation, when another woman discovered the pair having a little "hey-hey-hey-hey" in the bathroom of a Banana Joe's in Tampa, FL.
Now, my initial reaction was "Wow...that's hot", especially after seeing the saucy dish on the left:
The sad part about this is that it ended in handcuffs, but not in a "sexy" way, but in the "Miranda rights" sense. That's the real tragedy in all this. We live in a society where these poor, young women were reduced to hiding their sexual activity in a bathroom stall, when that sort of thing should take place out in the open, preferably at the Mac Mansion.
******
Speaking of the Mac Mansion, things are going pretty well for the now 6-2 Seattle Seahawks. Yesterday's win was expected, since Arizona hasn't quite gotten their act together yet. Another big game for Shaun Alexander, who ran for 173 and a pair of TDs, most of which in the second half. He left the game with 3:31 to play in the first half due to an "upset stomach", and when he returned, he said he felt lighter. Read into that what you will...
Oh, and I love karma. 2 years ago, the Seahawks took a chance on a little known DE named Chike Okeafor who wasn't get a lot of action on the free agent market. Okeafor ended up leading the team in sacks the last two seasons (8.5 in 2004) and then he spurned the Seahawks offer (5 years/$26M) to sign with the Arizona Cardinals, claiming that nobody in Seattle shared his passion to win.
Fast forward 8 months, and Okeafor has 3 sacks for the 2-6 Arizona Cardinals. The guy the Seahawks signed to replace Okeafor, Bryce Fisher, has 7 sacks for the 6-2 Seahawks. Karma's a bitch, eh Chike? Oh, and Fisher signed for less than half of what Okeafor turned down and is a Captain in the Washington Air National Guard. Sometimes nice guys don't finish last.
****
Real Quick Recap of Sunday's Action
The most shocking aspect of this Sunday was my predictions: I went 9-3-1 yesterday, which is a minor miracle.
Oakland at Kansas City I will never mock Dick Vermeil's emotional outbursts again. That took a lot of balls to go for the win instead of playing for the tie and overtime. Great call, Coach Vermeil.
Houston at Jacksonville I knew the Jags weren't covering that 13-point spread, but to almost lose to the Texans at home showed me that Jacksonville is still far away from being a dangerous team in the AFC. And yesterday was the first time I saw Dom Capers with his hat off, and it's clear that it's time for Houston owner Bob McNair to tell Dom to "comb over" so he can fire him.
Tennessee at Cleveland Steve McNair used to be able to win these games by himself. Without Eddie George, Derrick Mason and Drew Bennett, it's not going to happen for the Titans...Nice hit on Pacman Jones by Rueben Droughns. That was a "welcome to the NFL" type of thing.
Cincinnati at Baltimore It may have been caused by an injury to Anthony Wright, but good things don't usually happen when Kordell Stewart is seeing time at QB.
Carolina at Tampa Bay That's right, Cadillac, the NFL keeps playing in October and November. With Chris Simms at QB, the Bucs are going to sink like stone.
San Diego at NY Jets Did you see that move that LT put on Ty Law? As much as I like Shaun Alexander, Tomlinson is the best RB in the NFL. Kid can do it all.
Detroit at Minnesota After another Lions loss, CEO Bill Ford gave Matt Millen a 30-year contract extension. Honestly, everyone wonders what Mike Tice has to do to get fired, but what about Millen? The guy is given chance after chance to build a good team, and they've got nothing to show for it.
Atlanta at Miami Ron Mexico thinks that one decent game of sticking in the pocket and completing passes should be enough to silence his critics. Uh, not so fast, Mike.
NY Giants at San Francisco I'll come out and say this right now: San Francisco is closer to becoming a winning football team than Arizona is (and ever will be?).
Seattle at Arizona Nothing more about the Seahawks, don't worry. Hey Dennis Green, you're 8-16 as a head coach in the desert. All 8 of those wins are when you started Josh McCown. Do you need to know anything else?
Chicago at New Orleans 32,000 people in attendance, which tells me that Baton Rouge is not a viable alternative if the Superdome isn't ready in 2006. Just put this team in Los Angeles immediately. So you piss of New Orleans, big deal. Give them a Super Bowl every 3 years and be done with that city.
Pittsburgh at Green Bay When your RB is named Samkon Gado, it's not hard to find the reason you're 1-7. I really hope Favre doesn't allow his career to end like this.
Philadelphia at Washington He's the biggest distraction in the history of players distracting their teams from things, but it isn't entirely Owens fault that the Eagles are 4-4 right now. 26 carries for 45 yards, anyone? Bad run defense? There's a lot wrong with the Eagles, and not all of it is T.O.'s fault.
Fearless Monday Night Prediction
New England 31, Indianapolis 30
A late Adam Vinateiri field goal dashes Peyton Manning's hopes of an undefeated season. It's a good thing Kenny Chesney is nearby....
Now, my initial reaction was "Wow...that's hot", especially after seeing the saucy dish on the left:
The sad part about this is that it ended in handcuffs, but not in a "sexy" way, but in the "Miranda rights" sense. That's the real tragedy in all this. We live in a society where these poor, young women were reduced to hiding their sexual activity in a bathroom stall, when that sort of thing should take place out in the open, preferably at the Mac Mansion.
******
Speaking of the Mac Mansion, things are going pretty well for the now 6-2 Seattle Seahawks. Yesterday's win was expected, since Arizona hasn't quite gotten their act together yet. Another big game for Shaun Alexander, who ran for 173 and a pair of TDs, most of which in the second half. He left the game with 3:31 to play in the first half due to an "upset stomach", and when he returned, he said he felt lighter. Read into that what you will...
Oh, and I love karma. 2 years ago, the Seahawks took a chance on a little known DE named Chike Okeafor who wasn't get a lot of action on the free agent market. Okeafor ended up leading the team in sacks the last two seasons (8.5 in 2004) and then he spurned the Seahawks offer (5 years/$26M) to sign with the Arizona Cardinals, claiming that nobody in Seattle shared his passion to win.
Fast forward 8 months, and Okeafor has 3 sacks for the 2-6 Arizona Cardinals. The guy the Seahawks signed to replace Okeafor, Bryce Fisher, has 7 sacks for the 6-2 Seahawks. Karma's a bitch, eh Chike? Oh, and Fisher signed for less than half of what Okeafor turned down and is a Captain in the Washington Air National Guard. Sometimes nice guys don't finish last.
****
Real Quick Recap of Sunday's Action
The most shocking aspect of this Sunday was my predictions: I went 9-3-1 yesterday, which is a minor miracle.
Oakland at Kansas City I will never mock Dick Vermeil's emotional outbursts again. That took a lot of balls to go for the win instead of playing for the tie and overtime. Great call, Coach Vermeil.
Houston at Jacksonville I knew the Jags weren't covering that 13-point spread, but to almost lose to the Texans at home showed me that Jacksonville is still far away from being a dangerous team in the AFC. And yesterday was the first time I saw Dom Capers with his hat off, and it's clear that it's time for Houston owner Bob McNair to tell Dom to "comb over" so he can fire him.
Tennessee at Cleveland Steve McNair used to be able to win these games by himself. Without Eddie George, Derrick Mason and Drew Bennett, it's not going to happen for the Titans...Nice hit on Pacman Jones by Rueben Droughns. That was a "welcome to the NFL" type of thing.
Cincinnati at Baltimore It may have been caused by an injury to Anthony Wright, but good things don't usually happen when Kordell Stewart is seeing time at QB.
Carolina at Tampa Bay That's right, Cadillac, the NFL keeps playing in October and November. With Chris Simms at QB, the Bucs are going to sink like stone.
San Diego at NY Jets Did you see that move that LT put on Ty Law? As much as I like Shaun Alexander, Tomlinson is the best RB in the NFL. Kid can do it all.
Detroit at Minnesota After another Lions loss, CEO Bill Ford gave Matt Millen a 30-year contract extension. Honestly, everyone wonders what Mike Tice has to do to get fired, but what about Millen? The guy is given chance after chance to build a good team, and they've got nothing to show for it.
Atlanta at Miami Ron Mexico thinks that one decent game of sticking in the pocket and completing passes should be enough to silence his critics. Uh, not so fast, Mike.
NY Giants at San Francisco I'll come out and say this right now: San Francisco is closer to becoming a winning football team than Arizona is (and ever will be?).
Seattle at Arizona Nothing more about the Seahawks, don't worry. Hey Dennis Green, you're 8-16 as a head coach in the desert. All 8 of those wins are when you started Josh McCown. Do you need to know anything else?
Chicago at New Orleans 32,000 people in attendance, which tells me that Baton Rouge is not a viable alternative if the Superdome isn't ready in 2006. Just put this team in Los Angeles immediately. So you piss of New Orleans, big deal. Give them a Super Bowl every 3 years and be done with that city.
Pittsburgh at Green Bay When your RB is named Samkon Gado, it's not hard to find the reason you're 1-7. I really hope Favre doesn't allow his career to end like this.
Philadelphia at Washington He's the biggest distraction in the history of players distracting their teams from things, but it isn't entirely Owens fault that the Eagles are 4-4 right now. 26 carries for 45 yards, anyone? Bad run defense? There's a lot wrong with the Eagles, and not all of it is T.O.'s fault.
Fearless Monday Night Prediction
New England 31, Indianapolis 30
A late Adam Vinateiri field goal dashes Peyton Manning's hopes of an undefeated season. It's a good thing Kenny Chesney is nearby....
Friday, November 04, 2005
"I Wish Tedy Bruschi Was My Dad"
Courtesy of the fine folks at WGR-550AM in Buffalo. If you watched the Bills-Patriots game on Sunday night, this isn't far off.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
NFL Week 9 - Mac's Picks
NFL Week 9 – Mac’s Picks
Last week: 6-8
Overall: 60-55-1
Ok, I rarely mention other sports, but I was just watching the Celtics season-opener against the Knicks, and the Celtics can’t feel good about Mark Blount changing the pronunciation of his last name from Blount (rhymes with count) to blunt after they gave him a 6-years/$42M contract. The real life equivalent to that would be spending tens of thousands of dollars flying in all of your family and friends for your wedding, and on your honeymoon your wife tells you that her real name is Jim.
Anyway, let’s just move on to this week’s picks!
Atlanta at Miami When are the Falcons just going to go with the wishbone formation and run QB sweeps all game? If it weren’t for Joey Harrington, Vick would have the lowest passer rating in the NFC. Pick: Falcons –1 ½ (Hey, whatever works, right?)
Carolina at Tampa Bay Am I the only one that would give Steve Smith the MVP award simply for pretending he was in a row boat after prematurely celebrating what he thought was a TD (he was ruled down at the 1-yard line) against the Minnesota Vikings? Rowboat, Vikings-do you get it?
The loud noise you heard late Sunday afternoon was every sportswriter and NFL analyst leaping off the Buccaneer bandwagon. Who would’ve thought that a team would actually take a step backwards after Brian Griese suffered a season-ending injury? Pick: Panthers –1 ½
Cincinnati at Baltimore I’m sorry, but when Brett Favre has one of the worst games of his professional career and throws 5 interceptions, the other team should massacre the Packers. That didn’t happen for the Bengals last week, and I’d very concerned about the state of that team. When they can’t blow out a bad team (sorry, Bronk) at home, it’s not hard to find the answer to the “Who dey think gonna beat the Bengals” question they keep asking.
As for the Ravens, when Kyle Boller is stepping up his rehab in an effort to salvage the season, things probably aren’t going well. Pick: Bengals –3
Detroit at Minnesota Who the starting QB is going to be for the Lions is turning into a weekly soap opera, and I can’t help but think this is shattering the confidence of Dan Orlovsky, the team’s rookie QB from UCONN. It must be disheartening for the rook to walk into the film room and see the guys ahead of him on the depth chart watching Will & Grace.
And what else can possibly happen to the Minnesota Vikings? Did you know that their 3rd QB this week is Koren Robinson, who is 5th on the WR depth chart. Whoops! Pick: Lions –1 ½
Houston at Jacksonville I hate this game. On one hand, I vowed never to take a team coached by Dom Capers. Sure, they won last week, but c’mon, that was a fluke. On the other hand, you have the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are giving away 13 points to an opponent.
To cover that spread, the Jaguars would likely have to put 30 points on the scoreboard. Do you know when the last time the Jags accomplished that feat? December of 2001, when Elvis Joseph had 8 carries for 86 yards in a 33-3 win over the Vikings, who soon afterwards, fired Dennis Green. Pick: Jaguars –13
Oakland at Kansas City Ok, let’s look at this sensibly. Rare, I know. What are the Raiders equipped to do? With Kerry Collins, Randy Moss, Jerry Porter, Doug Gabriel, that would be throw the ball deep. And the Chiefs are 31st in the NFL against the pass. Good thing the Chiefs revamped that defense (again), eh? Pick: Raiders +4 ½
San Diego at NY Jets Who gets the start at QB for the Jets this week? Richard Todd? Ken O’Brien. Fireman Ed? What does it tell you about a game, when the 3 best QBs on the field are all wearing Chargers uniforms (Brees, Rivers, and of course, Tomlinson)? Maybe the Jets could borrow AJ Feeley for a few hours. Pick: Chargers –6
Tennessee at Cleveland Ah, this week’s “Rebuilding Bowl” pits two teams that are young and mistake-prone against one another. Whoever messes up the least will win. Prepare for a sloppy, penalty-filled affair, and we may even have a Charlie Frye sighting. Pick: Titans +2
Chicago at New Orleans The Bears are a tough, physical defense that puts a lot of pressure on the opposing QB, which means it’s time to fire up that blooper reel, as this week they’ll be facing the King of the Miscue, Aaron Brooks! Pick: Bears –3
NY Giants at San Francisco Last week, I almost declared the 49ers over the Bucs as my “Upset Special” of the week. Then I remembered how poorly the 49ers played in Washington, and that Ken Dorsey was getting the start at QB. I don’t have the same “gut feeling” this week, but I thought I’d mention it anyways.
What I do like is Cody Pickett, who is likely to start for the 49ers this week, and in 1997-98, qualified for the National Rodeo Finals when he was just 16 years old. Last week, he was on the punt coverage team and actually made a tackle. If you need any more useless information, e-mail me at bmcintyre@verizon.net. Pick: Giants –10
Seattle at Arizona Word of warning: Under Mike Holmgren, the Seahawks are 0-6 in games following the bye week. I, however, shrug off such things. The 2005 Seahawks are making a habit of exorcising their demons, and with the Cardinals losing Anquan Boldin for a couple of weeks, and going back to Kurt Warner at QB, I think the Seahawks can cross another one of their list. Pick: Seahawks –4
Pittsburgh at Green Bay Favre threw 5 interceptions last week (6, if you count the one that knucklehead had before the final play of the game), so you’ve got to expect him to rebound from that performance and play out of his mind this week. At least that’s what you would normally expect. Without the weapons, even Favre can become human. Pick: Steelers –6
Philadelphia at Washington I’m calling this one the “Fraud Bowl”. Yes, both teams have winning records, but I’m not sold on either of them, even if many still are. Philadelphia refuses to run the football, and now Terrell Owens is declaring himself “out” of the team’s next two games.
Washington didn’t even get off the bus to play the Giants last week, so I can’t take a team that gets shut out by the then 31st-ranked defense too seriously. But, I have to take someone in this one, so I might as well go with the home team. Pick: Redskins –2
Indianapolis at New England It’s true that Bill Belichick holds the title on Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. It’s also true that the Colts 7-0 record has been padded by a Snuggle-soft schedule consisting of NFL doormats. Still, one cannot ignore that the Colts are pretty talented football team.
With the injuries and inconsistent play of the Patriots secondary, the Colts laying 3 to the Patriots in Gillette Stadium really isn’t that shocking. Pick: Colts –3
Last week: 6-8
Overall: 60-55-1
Ok, I rarely mention other sports, but I was just watching the Celtics season-opener against the Knicks, and the Celtics can’t feel good about Mark Blount changing the pronunciation of his last name from Blount (rhymes with count) to blunt after they gave him a 6-years/$42M contract. The real life equivalent to that would be spending tens of thousands of dollars flying in all of your family and friends for your wedding, and on your honeymoon your wife tells you that her real name is Jim.
Anyway, let’s just move on to this week’s picks!
Atlanta at Miami When are the Falcons just going to go with the wishbone formation and run QB sweeps all game? If it weren’t for Joey Harrington, Vick would have the lowest passer rating in the NFC. Pick: Falcons –1 ½ (Hey, whatever works, right?)
Carolina at Tampa Bay Am I the only one that would give Steve Smith the MVP award simply for pretending he was in a row boat after prematurely celebrating what he thought was a TD (he was ruled down at the 1-yard line) against the Minnesota Vikings? Rowboat, Vikings-do you get it?
The loud noise you heard late Sunday afternoon was every sportswriter and NFL analyst leaping off the Buccaneer bandwagon. Who would’ve thought that a team would actually take a step backwards after Brian Griese suffered a season-ending injury? Pick: Panthers –1 ½
Cincinnati at Baltimore I’m sorry, but when Brett Favre has one of the worst games of his professional career and throws 5 interceptions, the other team should massacre the Packers. That didn’t happen for the Bengals last week, and I’d very concerned about the state of that team. When they can’t blow out a bad team (sorry, Bronk) at home, it’s not hard to find the answer to the “Who dey think gonna beat the Bengals” question they keep asking.
As for the Ravens, when Kyle Boller is stepping up his rehab in an effort to salvage the season, things probably aren’t going well. Pick: Bengals –3
Detroit at Minnesota Who the starting QB is going to be for the Lions is turning into a weekly soap opera, and I can’t help but think this is shattering the confidence of Dan Orlovsky, the team’s rookie QB from UCONN. It must be disheartening for the rook to walk into the film room and see the guys ahead of him on the depth chart watching Will & Grace.
And what else can possibly happen to the Minnesota Vikings? Did you know that their 3rd QB this week is Koren Robinson, who is 5th on the WR depth chart. Whoops! Pick: Lions –1 ½
Houston at Jacksonville I hate this game. On one hand, I vowed never to take a team coached by Dom Capers. Sure, they won last week, but c’mon, that was a fluke. On the other hand, you have the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are giving away 13 points to an opponent.
To cover that spread, the Jaguars would likely have to put 30 points on the scoreboard. Do you know when the last time the Jags accomplished that feat? December of 2001, when Elvis Joseph had 8 carries for 86 yards in a 33-3 win over the Vikings, who soon afterwards, fired Dennis Green. Pick: Jaguars –13
Oakland at Kansas City Ok, let’s look at this sensibly. Rare, I know. What are the Raiders equipped to do? With Kerry Collins, Randy Moss, Jerry Porter, Doug Gabriel, that would be throw the ball deep. And the Chiefs are 31st in the NFL against the pass. Good thing the Chiefs revamped that defense (again), eh? Pick: Raiders +4 ½
San Diego at NY Jets Who gets the start at QB for the Jets this week? Richard Todd? Ken O’Brien. Fireman Ed? What does it tell you about a game, when the 3 best QBs on the field are all wearing Chargers uniforms (Brees, Rivers, and of course, Tomlinson)? Maybe the Jets could borrow AJ Feeley for a few hours. Pick: Chargers –6
Tennessee at Cleveland Ah, this week’s “Rebuilding Bowl” pits two teams that are young and mistake-prone against one another. Whoever messes up the least will win. Prepare for a sloppy, penalty-filled affair, and we may even have a Charlie Frye sighting. Pick: Titans +2
Chicago at New Orleans The Bears are a tough, physical defense that puts a lot of pressure on the opposing QB, which means it’s time to fire up that blooper reel, as this week they’ll be facing the King of the Miscue, Aaron Brooks! Pick: Bears –3
NY Giants at San Francisco Last week, I almost declared the 49ers over the Bucs as my “Upset Special” of the week. Then I remembered how poorly the 49ers played in Washington, and that Ken Dorsey was getting the start at QB. I don’t have the same “gut feeling” this week, but I thought I’d mention it anyways.
What I do like is Cody Pickett, who is likely to start for the 49ers this week, and in 1997-98, qualified for the National Rodeo Finals when he was just 16 years old. Last week, he was on the punt coverage team and actually made a tackle. If you need any more useless information, e-mail me at bmcintyre@verizon.net. Pick: Giants –10
Seattle at Arizona Word of warning: Under Mike Holmgren, the Seahawks are 0-6 in games following the bye week. I, however, shrug off such things. The 2005 Seahawks are making a habit of exorcising their demons, and with the Cardinals losing Anquan Boldin for a couple of weeks, and going back to Kurt Warner at QB, I think the Seahawks can cross another one of their list. Pick: Seahawks –4
Pittsburgh at Green Bay Favre threw 5 interceptions last week (6, if you count the one that knucklehead had before the final play of the game), so you’ve got to expect him to rebound from that performance and play out of his mind this week. At least that’s what you would normally expect. Without the weapons, even Favre can become human. Pick: Steelers –6
Philadelphia at Washington I’m calling this one the “Fraud Bowl”. Yes, both teams have winning records, but I’m not sold on either of them, even if many still are. Philadelphia refuses to run the football, and now Terrell Owens is declaring himself “out” of the team’s next two games.
Washington didn’t even get off the bus to play the Giants last week, so I can’t take a team that gets shut out by the then 31st-ranked defense too seriously. But, I have to take someone in this one, so I might as well go with the home team. Pick: Redskins –2
Indianapolis at New England It’s true that Bill Belichick holds the title on Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. It’s also true that the Colts 7-0 record has been padded by a Snuggle-soft schedule consisting of NFL doormats. Still, one cannot ignore that the Colts are pretty talented football team.
With the injuries and inconsistent play of the Patriots secondary, the Colts laying 3 to the Patriots in Gillette Stadium really isn’t that shocking. Pick: Colts –3
The Theo Conference...
I haven't been that disappointed after 45 minutes since I listened to Bronson Arroyo's CD. Ok, maybe that was out of bounds. After all, I didn't waste the $15 on that.
I had hope that yesterday's press conference would resemble something Don King would be involved in. Start off with some posturing by both sides, toss in some below-the-belt digs at one another, overturn a few chairs in a minor scuffle, and close it out with a fistfight between each sides entourages. With these two groups, though, it likely would've been more of a slapfight.
Everyone knew that Epstein was going to take the high road yesterday. After all, he's an intelligent, thoughtful man with a bright future ahead of him. He wasn't about to tarnish his own image by outing those above him, whom he actually spoke of quite glowingly. He acknowledged that it was Lucchino who discovered him and gave him the opportunity to learn the ropes at the age of 18. He didn't shy away from the importance that Lucchino played in the the rapid development of Epstein's career.
And regardless of whether or not Lucchino's meddling was at the root of Theo's decision to leave the Red Sox (it probably was), burning that bridge wouldn't have been appropriate. As detestable a figure Lucchino appears to be, the fact is he played a huge role in getting Epstein to where he is today. That cannot be overlooked.
"I would hope that my answers help you get there in some way", was his response to Bob Ryan's question on why he was leaving. The most telling statements that Theo made were involving the "leaks" regarding the negotiations, and that that because those negotiations are contentious, both sides took steps to ensure they remained private. Theo referred to the leak as "unfortunate", which tells me that Epstein was indeed bothered by the details of those negotations becoming public, and it can be surmised that it played a part in his decision to move on.
That's the smoking gun right there, folks. Epstein knew where that information came from, so how could be put his "heart and soul" into a job when he knew he couldn't trust the people above him?
In an age where people will sell their souls for a chance to be famous, if only for an instant, what Epstein chose to do is truly stunning. He's walked away from his "dream job", that would've paid him in excess of $1M per year, because fame and money are not as important to him as his principles.
Red Sox Nation lost a good (not great) GM yesterday. But the loss of a great man is what really is going to hurt the organization down the line.
I had hope that yesterday's press conference would resemble something Don King would be involved in. Start off with some posturing by both sides, toss in some below-the-belt digs at one another, overturn a few chairs in a minor scuffle, and close it out with a fistfight between each sides entourages. With these two groups, though, it likely would've been more of a slapfight.
Everyone knew that Epstein was going to take the high road yesterday. After all, he's an intelligent, thoughtful man with a bright future ahead of him. He wasn't about to tarnish his own image by outing those above him, whom he actually spoke of quite glowingly. He acknowledged that it was Lucchino who discovered him and gave him the opportunity to learn the ropes at the age of 18. He didn't shy away from the importance that Lucchino played in the the rapid development of Epstein's career.
And regardless of whether or not Lucchino's meddling was at the root of Theo's decision to leave the Red Sox (it probably was), burning that bridge wouldn't have been appropriate. As detestable a figure Lucchino appears to be, the fact is he played a huge role in getting Epstein to where he is today. That cannot be overlooked.
"I would hope that my answers help you get there in some way", was his response to Bob Ryan's question on why he was leaving. The most telling statements that Theo made were involving the "leaks" regarding the negotiations, and that that because those negotiations are contentious, both sides took steps to ensure they remained private. Theo referred to the leak as "unfortunate", which tells me that Epstein was indeed bothered by the details of those negotations becoming public, and it can be surmised that it played a part in his decision to move on.
That's the smoking gun right there, folks. Epstein knew where that information came from, so how could be put his "heart and soul" into a job when he knew he couldn't trust the people above him?
In an age where people will sell their souls for a chance to be famous, if only for an instant, what Epstein chose to do is truly stunning. He's walked away from his "dream job", that would've paid him in excess of $1M per year, because fame and money are not as important to him as his principles.
Red Sox Nation lost a good (not great) GM yesterday. But the loss of a great man is what really is going to hurt the organization down the line.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
AROD Told to Stay Out of Illegal Poker Clubs
I first heard about this this morning on ESPN Radio, and it immediately confirmed what I had known for a number of years: Poker is gay.
After all, if Alex Rodriguez is doing it....
ESPN Article
After all, if Alex Rodriguez is doing it....
ESPN Article
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Extra Points
On tonight's "Hardball" with Chris Matthews, Trent Lott (R-Hell) made an alarming statement. Basically, he questioned whether or not Karl Rove should remain employed at the White House as Deputy Chief of Staff.
This is kind of shocking coming from a guy like Trent Lott, since it's no secret that Rove is widely regarded as being Bush's "brain". After all, do you know how hard it is to get an idiot like George Bush elected (twice), when it's widely believed that his running mate (Dick Cheney) died about 8 years ago?
Take a look at this picture of Rove. Doesn't he look like the type of guy that likes to lie in a bathtub and have conservative men pee on him?
What's really alarming isn't what Lott said, it's that he said anything at all! We can't forget that Trent Lott is the same guy who was forced to resign as Senate Majority Leader when he made the following statement at Strom Thurmond's 800th birthday party:
"I want to say this about my state. When Strom Thurmond ran for president, we voted for him. We're proud of it. And if the rest of the country had followed our lead, we wouldn't have had all these problems over all these years either."
And we all know what Strom Thurmond's record is on things like, oh I don't know, civil rights and equality, so we know what side of those issue Lott tends to fall on. Especially when he provides even better quotes like:
"Racial discrimination does not always violate public policy."
Someone doesn't know when to shut up, eh?
More Theo Fallout
After watching the local (Boston) news tonight, it's clear who Larry Lucchino's "curly-haired boyfriend" is, and that would be Dan Shaughnessy of the Boston Globe.
Now, I'm not nearly as big of a Red Sox fan than most people in this area. I'll admit that, freely. So, for comments about Theogate, I'll refer to people like Bill Simmons and my good friend, Gorm, who are more in tune with what goes on in Fenway than I'll ever be.
Ken Hamlin's Season Comes to an End
I'm not at all surprised to hear this, but today the Seahawks officially put an end to FS Ken Hamlin's season due to the injuries he sustained in a nightclub fracas in Seattle on October 17th.
A fractured skull and brain "injuries" were enough to tell me that Hamlin wasn't going to return in 2005, and right now, I'm still just hopeful the young man can have a normal life. He's reportedly improving, but football really is on the backburner at this moment.
The sad thing in all this is he was having a "breakout" year, and while I always predict good things for the Seahawks, this current team has a real chance to be super, if you know what I mean. It's a shame that Hamlin will be a spectator for it.
Some Upcoming Topics
There are some more essays and musings that have nothing to do with sports, football, or even the Seahawks coming down the pike. Got one nearly done on music, got another one nearly completed on religion, and another topic I'm going to touch upon is the difference in how married people have advantages in the workplace over the single person.
This is kind of shocking coming from a guy like Trent Lott, since it's no secret that Rove is widely regarded as being Bush's "brain". After all, do you know how hard it is to get an idiot like George Bush elected (twice), when it's widely believed that his running mate (Dick Cheney) died about 8 years ago?
Take a look at this picture of Rove. Doesn't he look like the type of guy that likes to lie in a bathtub and have conservative men pee on him?
What's really alarming isn't what Lott said, it's that he said anything at all! We can't forget that Trent Lott is the same guy who was forced to resign as Senate Majority Leader when he made the following statement at Strom Thurmond's 800th birthday party:
"I want to say this about my state. When Strom Thurmond ran for president, we voted for him. We're proud of it. And if the rest of the country had followed our lead, we wouldn't have had all these problems over all these years either."
And we all know what Strom Thurmond's record is on things like, oh I don't know, civil rights and equality, so we know what side of those issue Lott tends to fall on. Especially when he provides even better quotes like:
"Racial discrimination does not always violate public policy."
Someone doesn't know when to shut up, eh?
More Theo Fallout
After watching the local (Boston) news tonight, it's clear who Larry Lucchino's "curly-haired boyfriend" is, and that would be Dan Shaughnessy of the Boston Globe.
Now, I'm not nearly as big of a Red Sox fan than most people in this area. I'll admit that, freely. So, for comments about Theogate, I'll refer to people like Bill Simmons and my good friend, Gorm, who are more in tune with what goes on in Fenway than I'll ever be.
Ken Hamlin's Season Comes to an End
I'm not at all surprised to hear this, but today the Seahawks officially put an end to FS Ken Hamlin's season due to the injuries he sustained in a nightclub fracas in Seattle on October 17th.
A fractured skull and brain "injuries" were enough to tell me that Hamlin wasn't going to return in 2005, and right now, I'm still just hopeful the young man can have a normal life. He's reportedly improving, but football really is on the backburner at this moment.
The sad thing in all this is he was having a "breakout" year, and while I always predict good things for the Seahawks, this current team has a real chance to be super, if you know what I mean. It's a shame that Hamlin will be a spectator for it.
Some Upcoming Topics
There are some more essays and musings that have nothing to do with sports, football, or even the Seahawks coming down the pike. Got one nearly done on music, got another one nearly completed on religion, and another topic I'm going to touch upon is the difference in how married people have advantages in the workplace over the single person.
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