By now endless columns and commentaries have been written hashing out the year in sports, 2007 style. It was another year to remember. From a historic Super Bowl to scandals (NBA referee Tim Donaghy, Tour de France, MLB Mitchell findings), legal troubles of Michael Vick, and fans watching helplessly as a hallow record was tarnished; the year was filled with drama.
However, 2007 was also a year for the little sports. Between racket dominance on Centre Court, an arrogant golfer running his mouth (sorry Rory), a surprising U.S. upset on the world stage and more Americans paid attention to football...I mean soccer than ever. This year certainly ran the gamut.
Rather than rambling on about some profound thoughts about 2007, the year of Blue (and Orange) is coming to close, thank goodness. To celebrate turning a new leaf here are the Most Surprising Athletes of 2007 picked by the FPS staff of one. In no particular order…
RB Adrian Peterson Minnesota – Quietly became an NFL athlete getting passed over by six teams when he was selected seventh overall. Peterson had those other teams shaking their heads throughout his electrifying year. On the field, Peterson set the NFL single-game rushing record (296 yards) and finished second in the NFC with 1,341 yards.
P Fausto Carmona Cleveland – Carmona came out of the shadows, helping the Indians win the AL Central. In 2006, the flamethrower went 1-10 with a 5.42 ERA. One year later, Carmona was a Cy Young contender finishing with a 19-8 record, 3.01 ERA with two complete games.
SG Brandon Roy Portland – The most complete player in the 2006 NBA Draft wasn’t taken until the sixth pick. After a Draft night trade shipped Roy to Portland, the guard wasted no time becoming Rookie of Year and has the Blazers poised for great 2008.
QB Dennis Dixon Oregon – Dixon entered the season under a microscope after playing baseball over the summer. Aside from running a fake Statue of Liberty play, Dixon guided the Ducks and their potent offense (averaging 42.3 ppg) to No. 2 spot in the BCS. Dixon’s true value was only realized after his season ending injury; the Ducks averaged two touchdowns less a game.
SS Troy Tulowitzki Colorado – It’s hard to believe Tulowitzki didn’t win Rookie of Year honors. The shortstop and defensive stalwart was instrumental during the Rockies charge to the World Series. On the season Tulowitzki hit .291 with 24 home runs and 99 RBIs with 11 errors in 155 games.
C Dwight Howard Orlando – Howard has come into his own in his third year as a profession. Howard is a ferocious dunker and his dominating the paint averaging a double-double. People knew he’d be good, but Howard has matured quickly and could easily become great.
M David Beckham LA Galaxy – It was really surprising that Beckham actually came to America. Unfortunately, Alexi Lalas bilked fans into thinking the star was a goal scorer. MLS games were sold out everywhere Beckham went and when the midfielder played he did what he does best, set up his teammates.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Bowl week equals beauty
Today marks the start of the best season of the year. This is the time when you can sit down and catch meaningless college football bowl games every night for the next three weeks.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but people don’t care about the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl unless you're from either of the schools playing. With that said, I love watching these games. It’s the culmination of a “successful” season and the games are just old fashioned fun. And no, having a 6-6 record doesn’t count as being successful.
Probably the hardest thing about bowl week is keeping up with the ever-changing names and sponsors of the games. At some point the Peach Bowl morphed into the Chick-fil-A Bowl, and Humanitarian Bowl in Boise changed to some dumb computer bowl and then changed back to the Humanitarian Bowl.
So, today we start off with the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl and finish up on Jan. 7 with the Allstate BCS National Championship. In between we have a few of my personal favorites. They include the Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl, which has the funniest name; the Rose Bowl presented by Citi just screams we aren’t selling out to commercialism (but we really are); and the PetroSun Independence Bowl, because nothing says independence better than the search for some good ole’ fossil fuels.
Good luck keeping track of everything and most importantly enjoy the games. Now here are the FPS Fearless Predictions…
Poinsettia: Utah – Navy is missing their admiral, Utes all the way. Bowl update
New Orleans: Memphis – I still can’t believe FAU made a bowl game. Bowl update
Papajohns.com: Cincinnati – Bowl update
New Mexico: New Mexico – Can’t pick against the home team. Bowl update
Las Vegas: BYU – Cougs are rolling and will win the early season rematch. Bowl update
Hawaii: Boise State – Just can’t pick against the Broncos in December (as much as it pains me). Bowl update
Motor City: Purdue – Boilermakers cap off disappointing season crushing CMU again. Bowl update
Holiday: Arizona State. Bowl update
Champs Sports: Boston College – Is this even going to be a game? Bowl update
Emerald: Oregon State – Picking the West coast in this West coast bowl. Bowl update
Texas: TCU. Bowl update
Meineke: Wake Forest – Deacs follow up magic from ’06 with more magic. Bowl update
Liberty: UCF. Bowl update
Alamo: Penn State. Bowl update
Independence: Colorado – Saban will enter the off-season on a hot seat. Bowl update
Armed Forces: Air Force – Duh. Bowl update
Sun: South Florida – Injuries slow an Oregon team that should be playing elsewhere. Bowl update
Humanitarian: Fresno State – This is the punishment game for ACC teams, Georgia Tech doesn’t show up. Bowl update
Music City: Kentucky – Cats beat what’s left of Noles. Bowl update
Insight: Oklahoma State. Bowl update
Chick-fil-A: Auburn – Ten wins in a season remains elusive for Clemson. Bowl update
Outback: Tennessee. Bowl update
Cotton: Missouri – Tigers got slighted and will take it out on the Hogs. Bowl update
Capital One: Michigan – Heisman winners don’t fair well in their next game, Michigan’s seniors get one last win. Bowl update
Gator: Texas Tech – Offense beats defense in bowl games. Tech's got plenty of offense. Bowl update
Rose: Illinois – Illini pull off a shocker and prove they belong. Bowl update
Sugar: Hawaii – The newest BCS buster will make its mark too. Bowl update
Fiesta: Oklahoma – Probably playing the best football at the end of the year, Sooners are too good. Bowl update
Orange: Virginia Tech – Hokies win a wild one and cap off an emotional season. Bowl update
International: Rutgers. Bowl update
GMAC: Tulsa. Bowl update
National Championship: Ohio State – Buckeyes win another title, redeem last year's team and show Michigan why they didn’t really want Les Miles. Bowl update
Blogger’s Note: Throughout Bowl Week I kept track of my predictions and ESPN’s expert analysts. I picked the guys from College Gameday and Pat Forde. Had I opted to check my man at the door, I could have won the unofficial competition. However, I’ll have to settle for third place. At least I’m not the first loser. Final Results: 1. Lee Corso 20-10 (.667), 2. Pat Forde 21-11 (.656), 3. FPS 20-12 (. 625), 4. Kirk Herbstreit 14-14 (.500)
Don’t take this the wrong way, but people don’t care about the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl unless you're from either of the schools playing. With that said, I love watching these games. It’s the culmination of a “successful” season and the games are just old fashioned fun. And no, having a 6-6 record doesn’t count as being successful.
Probably the hardest thing about bowl week is keeping up with the ever-changing names and sponsors of the games. At some point the Peach Bowl morphed into the Chick-fil-A Bowl, and Humanitarian Bowl in Boise changed to some dumb computer bowl and then changed back to the Humanitarian Bowl.
So, today we start off with the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl and finish up on Jan. 7 with the Allstate BCS National Championship. In between we have a few of my personal favorites. They include the Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl, which has the funniest name; the Rose Bowl presented by Citi just screams we aren’t selling out to commercialism (but we really are); and the PetroSun Independence Bowl, because nothing says independence better than the search for some good ole’ fossil fuels.
Good luck keeping track of everything and most importantly enjoy the games. Now here are the FPS Fearless Predictions…
Poinsettia: Utah – Navy is missing their admiral, Utes all the way. Bowl update
New Orleans: Memphis – I still can’t believe FAU made a bowl game. Bowl update
Papajohns.com: Cincinnati – Bowl update
New Mexico: New Mexico – Can’t pick against the home team. Bowl update
Las Vegas: BYU – Cougs are rolling and will win the early season rematch. Bowl update
Hawaii: Boise State – Just can’t pick against the Broncos in December (as much as it pains me). Bowl update
Motor City: Purdue – Boilermakers cap off disappointing season crushing CMU again. Bowl update
Holiday: Arizona State. Bowl update
Champs Sports: Boston College – Is this even going to be a game? Bowl update
Emerald: Oregon State – Picking the West coast in this West coast bowl. Bowl update
Texas: TCU. Bowl update
Meineke: Wake Forest – Deacs follow up magic from ’06 with more magic. Bowl update
Liberty: UCF. Bowl update
Alamo: Penn State. Bowl update
Independence: Colorado – Saban will enter the off-season on a hot seat. Bowl update
Armed Forces: Air Force – Duh. Bowl update
Sun: South Florida – Injuries slow an Oregon team that should be playing elsewhere. Bowl update
Humanitarian: Fresno State – This is the punishment game for ACC teams, Georgia Tech doesn’t show up. Bowl update
Music City: Kentucky – Cats beat what’s left of Noles. Bowl update
Insight: Oklahoma State. Bowl update
Chick-fil-A: Auburn – Ten wins in a season remains elusive for Clemson. Bowl update
Outback: Tennessee. Bowl update
Cotton: Missouri – Tigers got slighted and will take it out on the Hogs. Bowl update
Capital One: Michigan – Heisman winners don’t fair well in their next game, Michigan’s seniors get one last win. Bowl update
Gator: Texas Tech – Offense beats defense in bowl games. Tech's got plenty of offense. Bowl update
Rose: Illinois – Illini pull off a shocker and prove they belong. Bowl update
Sugar: Hawaii – The newest BCS buster will make its mark too. Bowl update
Fiesta: Oklahoma – Probably playing the best football at the end of the year, Sooners are too good. Bowl update
Orange: Virginia Tech – Hokies win a wild one and cap off an emotional season. Bowl update
International: Rutgers. Bowl update
GMAC: Tulsa. Bowl update
National Championship: Ohio State – Buckeyes win another title, redeem last year's team and show Michigan why they didn’t really want Les Miles. Bowl update
Blogger’s Note: Throughout Bowl Week I kept track of my predictions and ESPN’s expert analysts. I picked the guys from College Gameday and Pat Forde. Had I opted to check my man at the door, I could have won the unofficial competition. However, I’ll have to settle for third place. At least I’m not the first loser. Final Results: 1. Lee Corso 20-10 (.667), 2. Pat Forde 21-11 (.656), 3. FPS 20-12 (. 625), 4. Kirk Herbstreit 14-14 (.500)
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Jordan's legacy grows
Michael Jordan's status as a player remains; he is a legend, one of the NBA's all-time greats.
But as an executive, Jordan is proving to be mediocre at best.
During his first exec stint, he drafted Kwame Brown with the first overall pick in the 2001 draft. That’s the same Kwame Brown who currently sits third on the LA Lakers depth chart. The 2001 class happened to include All-Stars Pau Gasol, Joe Johnson, Tony Parker, current Wizard Gilbert Arenas and Mehmet Okur, not to mention Richard Jefferson and Jason Richardson.
Now in his second stint as an NBA executive (Jordan joined the Bobcats in June 2006) the results of his decisions remain mixed.
Picking Gonzaga forward Adam Morrison third overall isn't looking like a brilliant selection, especially considering the play of Portland's Brandon Roy. Morrison's numbers weren't terrible for a rookie averaging over 11 points a game, but his 37 percent shooting was heinous.
Jordan gave up UNC star Brandan Wright to Golden State during the '07 draft for a veteran in Jason Richardson. A move widely criticized by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith; however Richardson is proving his worth and helped get the Bobcats off to the best start in their brief history.
However, Jordan’s most recent move is another questionable one.
Jordan traded Primoz Brezec and Walter Herrmann to the Detroit Pistons for center Nazr Mohammed, adding about $19.6 million to their payroll over the next three years. Mohammed is less than stellar averaging just 6.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 0.7 blocks for his career and played his best NBA season nearly five years ago.
SI.com’s Marty Burns wrote the move seemed reasonable, but the Bobcats are truly hoping Nazr can provide an inside presence. Dumping Brezec who’s imploded this year is fine, but letting Herrmann was stupid. Herrmann looks like a solid role player and consistent bench scorer for the future, which Jordan and Bobcats should start planning for.
The NBA legend who rewrote the league’s record book, is forging a new legacy that depends on winning games. Unfortunately for Jordan, he can’t take the shots.
But as an executive, Jordan is proving to be mediocre at best.
During his first exec stint, he drafted Kwame Brown with the first overall pick in the 2001 draft. That’s the same Kwame Brown who currently sits third on the LA Lakers depth chart. The 2001 class happened to include All-Stars Pau Gasol, Joe Johnson, Tony Parker, current Wizard Gilbert Arenas and Mehmet Okur, not to mention Richard Jefferson and Jason Richardson.
Now in his second stint as an NBA executive (Jordan joined the Bobcats in June 2006) the results of his decisions remain mixed.
Picking Gonzaga forward Adam Morrison third overall isn't looking like a brilliant selection, especially considering the play of Portland's Brandon Roy. Morrison's numbers weren't terrible for a rookie averaging over 11 points a game, but his 37 percent shooting was heinous.
Jordan gave up UNC star Brandan Wright to Golden State during the '07 draft for a veteran in Jason Richardson. A move widely criticized by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith; however Richardson is proving his worth and helped get the Bobcats off to the best start in their brief history.
However, Jordan’s most recent move is another questionable one.
Jordan traded Primoz Brezec and Walter Herrmann to the Detroit Pistons for center Nazr Mohammed, adding about $19.6 million to their payroll over the next three years. Mohammed is less than stellar averaging just 6.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 0.7 blocks for his career and played his best NBA season nearly five years ago.
SI.com’s Marty Burns wrote the move seemed reasonable, but the Bobcats are truly hoping Nazr can provide an inside presence. Dumping Brezec who’s imploded this year is fine, but letting Herrmann was stupid. Herrmann looks like a solid role player and consistent bench scorer for the future, which Jordan and Bobcats should start planning for.
The NBA legend who rewrote the league’s record book, is forging a new legacy that depends on winning games. Unfortunately for Jordan, he can’t take the shots.
Kings of the Mountain
APP. STATE WINS THIRD STRAIGHT TITLE
After a controversial goal line stand by the Appalachian State defense, Mountaineers sophomore Devon Moore essentially ended the I-AA (also known as FCS) championship game by breaking off a 46-yard touchdown. The score capped a five play 99-yard drive which extended Appalachian State's lead to 14-0.
Fresh off his record setting performance, QB Armanti Edwards threw for 198 yards passing with three touchdowns and 89 yards rushing as the Mountaineers routed Delaware 49-21 to claim their third straight national championship.
The Friday before, during the semifinals, Edwards set an NCAA Division I record for rushing yards by a quarterback with 313. Edward's truly epic performance also included four rushing touchdowns and a 14-of-16 passing day for 182 yards and three TDs.
In fact, SI.com's Stewart Mandel says Tim Tebow should watch out and that fleet-footed Edwards is a new competitor for the 2008 Heisman. Mandel may just be right.
So the season that began with a monumental upset in the Big House, ends by making history by winning three titles in a row.
But were the Mountaineers truly the best I-AA team in the championship? Arguably not.
That's the problem with any tournament. Sure the Mountaineers won the four-game playoff, but there's another story.
App. State definitely won their second two games, crushing both Richmond and Delaware. But, the Mountaineers were gift-wrapped two games, played three of the four games at home and they never faced one of the top four seeds (Northern Iowa, McNeese State, Montana, So. Illinois). Hardly a tarnished title by any means, but nothing truly amazing either.
Mountaineer fans are quickly becoming insufferable. That obnoxiousness could certainly grow as Edwards, only a sophomore, will have two more chances to lead the Mountaineers to other championships.
After a controversial goal line stand by the Appalachian State defense, Mountaineers sophomore Devon Moore essentially ended the I-AA (also known as FCS) championship game by breaking off a 46-yard touchdown. The score capped a five play 99-yard drive which extended Appalachian State's lead to 14-0.
Fresh off his record setting performance, QB Armanti Edwards threw for 198 yards passing with three touchdowns and 89 yards rushing as the Mountaineers routed Delaware 49-21 to claim their third straight national championship.
The Friday before, during the semifinals, Edwards set an NCAA Division I record for rushing yards by a quarterback with 313. Edward's truly epic performance also included four rushing touchdowns and a 14-of-16 passing day for 182 yards and three TDs.
In fact, SI.com's Stewart Mandel says Tim Tebow should watch out and that fleet-footed Edwards is a new competitor for the 2008 Heisman. Mandel may just be right.
So the season that began with a monumental upset in the Big House, ends by making history by winning three titles in a row.
But were the Mountaineers truly the best I-AA team in the championship? Arguably not.
That's the problem with any tournament. Sure the Mountaineers won the four-game playoff, but there's another story.
App. State definitely won their second two games, crushing both Richmond and Delaware. But, the Mountaineers were gift-wrapped two games, played three of the four games at home and they never faced one of the top four seeds (Northern Iowa, McNeese State, Montana, So. Illinois). Hardly a tarnished title by any means, but nothing truly amazing either.
Mountaineer fans are quickly becoming insufferable. That obnoxiousness could certainly grow as Edwards, only a sophomore, will have two more chances to lead the Mountaineers to other championships.
Friday, December 14, 2007
The Ugly
MITCHELL REPORT IMPLICATES GAME'S ELITE
From Cy Young winners to MVP recipients, past and present, Major League Baseball was rocked by the publication of the Mitchell Report.
The report concluded a 20-month investigation by former Senator George Mitchell, and identified 85 players who took performance enhancing substances to differing degrees during MLB’s Steroid Era.
The players who allegedly used steroids included Cy Young winners Roger Clemens and Eric Gagne, Clemens’ workout partner Andy Pettitte, MVP winners Barry Bonds, Miguel Tejada and Mo Vaughn. Not to mention the plethora of All-Stars including Brian Roberts, Paul Lo Duca and Kevin Brown to name a few. Clemens is vehemently denying the allegations.
While the report is not comprehensive, commissioner Bud Selig, who promised to take action, must take action. After all Selig’s entire legacy is just as tarnished and warped as the players.
However, I doubt Selig and his baseball cronies will do anything substantial.
What MLB should do first is adopt a zero tolerance policy toward future substance abuse. The new steroid policy should mirror its Minor League counterpart. Being a believer in second chances, upon the first positive steroid test the player should earn an 82-game suspension without pay. Upon a second positive test, the player should receive a lifetime ban.
The record books must also be addressed. I believe it would be impossible to re-write the records; therefore records by named players should not be erased. Baseball should include a permanent footnote, saying between the mid-1980s and 2007 steroid usage was rampant in baseball and some individual numbers are inflated. This must be included for future generations.
Finally, to denounce the past use of steroids, MLB should strip known users of their MVP and Cy Young awards. Take Roger Clemens for instance. Former strength and conditioning coach Brian McNamee said he gave steroids to Clemens in 2002, therefore Clemens 2004 Cy Young should be forfeited.
Fallout from the Mitchell Report is pending, but I hope 2008 will bring drastic changes to baseball.
For other commentary and analysis on the Mitchell Report check out these columns...
ESPN.com
Jerry Crasnick: Clemens' Hall of Fame chances?
Jayson Stark: Indelible impact on the game
Gene Wojciechowski: Thaw needed in cold war
Howard Bryant: Mitchell report flat without feds
Mark Fainaru-Wada: Report sheds light on Bonds
Yahoo Sports
Josh Peter: Mitchell's findings
Jeff Passan: Gossip, not solutions
Dan Wetzel: Clemens like Bonds
Tim Brown: 3 men and a bombshell
Jonathan Littman: It's a whitewash
Fox Sports
Mark Kriegel: What Selig didn't say
Ken Rosenthal: Report misses mark
From Cy Young winners to MVP recipients, past and present, Major League Baseball was rocked by the publication of the Mitchell Report.
The report concluded a 20-month investigation by former Senator George Mitchell, and identified 85 players who took performance enhancing substances to differing degrees during MLB’s Steroid Era.
The players who allegedly used steroids included Cy Young winners Roger Clemens and Eric Gagne, Clemens’ workout partner Andy Pettitte, MVP winners Barry Bonds, Miguel Tejada and Mo Vaughn. Not to mention the plethora of All-Stars including Brian Roberts, Paul Lo Duca and Kevin Brown to name a few. Clemens is vehemently denying the allegations.
While the report is not comprehensive, commissioner Bud Selig, who promised to take action, must take action. After all Selig’s entire legacy is just as tarnished and warped as the players.
However, I doubt Selig and his baseball cronies will do anything substantial.
What MLB should do first is adopt a zero tolerance policy toward future substance abuse. The new steroid policy should mirror its Minor League counterpart. Being a believer in second chances, upon the first positive steroid test the player should earn an 82-game suspension without pay. Upon a second positive test, the player should receive a lifetime ban.
The record books must also be addressed. I believe it would be impossible to re-write the records; therefore records by named players should not be erased. Baseball should include a permanent footnote, saying between the mid-1980s and 2007 steroid usage was rampant in baseball and some individual numbers are inflated. This must be included for future generations.
Finally, to denounce the past use of steroids, MLB should strip known users of their MVP and Cy Young awards. Take Roger Clemens for instance. Former strength and conditioning coach Brian McNamee said he gave steroids to Clemens in 2002, therefore Clemens 2004 Cy Young should be forfeited.
Fallout from the Mitchell Report is pending, but I hope 2008 will bring drastic changes to baseball.
For other commentary and analysis on the Mitchell Report check out these columns...
ESPN.com
Jerry Crasnick: Clemens' Hall of Fame chances?
Jayson Stark: Indelible impact on the game
Gene Wojciechowski: Thaw needed in cold war
Howard Bryant: Mitchell report flat without feds
Mark Fainaru-Wada: Report sheds light on Bonds
Yahoo Sports
Josh Peter: Mitchell's findings
Jeff Passan: Gossip, not solutions
Dan Wetzel: Clemens like Bonds
Tim Brown: 3 men and a bombshell
Jonathan Littman: It's a whitewash
Fox Sports
Mark Kriegel: What Selig didn't say
Ken Rosenthal: Report misses mark
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
One hit wonder?
CAPTAIN JACK AND WARRIORS ARE BACK
Entering the seventh game of the season, the Golden State Warriors were 0-6 and looking like a joke. Could they really have gone from last season’s surprise to this year’s disappointment during the off-season?
Golden State was missing something, more like someone. Warriors’ coach Don Nelson insanely named forward Stephen Jackson team captain. He was missing from the team.
Saying Jackson is troubled, is an understatement. The forward was serving a seven-game suspension for shooting a gun outside a strip club.
However, the Warriors finally cracked the win column in their seventh game, defeating the LA Clippers 122-105. Golden State center Al Harrington said, “Now we get Captain Jack back, and hopefully start to make some noise.”
That’s exactly what Golden State has done. Since Jackson’s return, the Warriors have won 11 of 14 games, including handing San Antonio just its fourth loss tonight. With Golden State’s turn-around, ESPN’s John Hollinger predicts the Warriors will return to the NBA playoffs.
Jackson is proving to be a good choice, as he’s leading this young team. His presence improved the defensive effort of all players. Golden State allowed 109.3 points per game and 49.6 percent shooting without Jackson, compared to 102.2 points and 44.2 percent shooting since Captain Jack return.
Most importantly teammates, fans and sports writers are embracing him.
At least for now Jackson is coming up big on the court, where he is averaging 21.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists.
ANOTHER NOTE: While Golden State surges above the .500 mark, the NBA’s other blue and orange team got a slight reprieve.
The New York Knicks are a joke, but fans in Madison Square Garden let up momentarily yesterday. Mets pitchers John Maine and Oliver Perez, members of the team that had an epic September collapse, were booed when they were shown on the overhead scoreboard during the third quarter.
New Yorkers sharing the love for all sports teams.
Entering the seventh game of the season, the Golden State Warriors were 0-6 and looking like a joke. Could they really have gone from last season’s surprise to this year’s disappointment during the off-season?
Golden State was missing something, more like someone. Warriors’ coach Don Nelson insanely named forward Stephen Jackson team captain. He was missing from the team.
Saying Jackson is troubled, is an understatement. The forward was serving a seven-game suspension for shooting a gun outside a strip club.
However, the Warriors finally cracked the win column in their seventh game, defeating the LA Clippers 122-105. Golden State center Al Harrington said, “Now we get Captain Jack back, and hopefully start to make some noise.”
That’s exactly what Golden State has done. Since Jackson’s return, the Warriors have won 11 of 14 games, including handing San Antonio just its fourth loss tonight. With Golden State’s turn-around, ESPN’s John Hollinger predicts the Warriors will return to the NBA playoffs.
Jackson is proving to be a good choice, as he’s leading this young team. His presence improved the defensive effort of all players. Golden State allowed 109.3 points per game and 49.6 percent shooting without Jackson, compared to 102.2 points and 44.2 percent shooting since Captain Jack return.
Most importantly teammates, fans and sports writers are embracing him.
At least for now Jackson is coming up big on the court, where he is averaging 21.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists.
ANOTHER NOTE: While Golden State surges above the .500 mark, the NBA’s other blue and orange team got a slight reprieve.
The New York Knicks are a joke, but fans in Madison Square Garden let up momentarily yesterday. Mets pitchers John Maine and Oliver Perez, members of the team that had an epic September collapse, were booed when they were shown on the overhead scoreboard during the third quarter.
New Yorkers sharing the love for all sports teams.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Heisman hoopla
On the eve the Heisman Trophy presentation, Yahoo Sports reported about a potential Heisman Trophy controversy.
Nearly two years after Reggie Bush won the Heisman, a book detailing improper benefits he allegedly received while playing for USC, “Tarnished Heisman,” could damage his chances of keeping the most prestigious award in college sports.
Bush’s alleged improprieties only added to the Heisman hoopla surrounding this year’s award, which is guaranteed a first.
Running back Darren McFadden of Arkansas and quarterbacks Colt Brennan of Hawaii and Chase Daniel of Missouri could all become the first player from their respective school to win the Heisman. And quarterback Tim Tebow of Florida, a sophomore, would be the first underclassman to win the award.
Bruce Feldman of ESPN The Magazine gives a decent, quick look at the four finalists.
However, there’s been a heated debate in the build up to today’s trophy announcement. What is a “system” quarterback?
ESPN.com’s Ivan Maisel reported Hawaii coach June Jones said Tebow is more of a system quarterback than Brennan.
"My quarterback [Brennan] has been labeled a 'system quarterback' for three years," Jones said Monday, according to a transcription on the school's Web site. "He is the best passer in college history. He is. There is no question about it. Tim Tebow is in a system. … Colt Brennan plays in an NFL passing game. You can dial it up and see that it is not a system. Tim Tebow's system is a college system."
Here’s the deal June Jones is dead on. Tim Tebow’s 20-20 touchdown numbers are courtesy of a quarterback happy system. That’s why Tebow led the team in carries and had 92 more carries than the second leading rusher.
If you examine the statistics between Urban Meyer’s 2007 Florida spread-option offense and Meyer’s 2004 Utah spread-option offense, you’ll find eerie similarities.
The top three rushers for the Utes accounted for 2,087 yards, for the Gators 2,008 yards. Utah’s QB Alex Smith completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 2,952 yards and 32 touchdowns with just four interceptions. Florida’s Tebow completed 68.5 percent of his passes for 3,132 yards and 29 touchdowns with six interceptions.
I’m not saying Tebow is not good, because he is. But his ‘amazing numbers’ are thanks to Meyer’s system. Tebow’s accounted for more of the total offense than former No. 1 pick Smith, but that shouldn't equal a Heisman Trophy.
Everyone has his or her Heisman favorite. C. Brennan of USA Today likes, well, C. Brennan of Hawaii. And Robert Husseman, sports copy editor for the Oregon Daily Emerald, may be biased but thinks Ducks QB Dennis Dixon is still Heisman worthy.
I’m disappointed Dixon didn’t get an invite, especially since he ran a fake “Statue of Liberty” play successfully (watch it here). Dixon is college football’s MVP; Oregon went 8-1 and was in the national championship hunt when he was healthy and stumbled, 0-3, after his knee injury.
Who do I think should win this year’s Heisman?
Arkansas’ Darren McFadden, no doubt about it.
McFadden scored 15 rushing touchdowns, ran for 1,725 yards in the SEC on a one-dimensional team (better numbers than last season) and went 6-for-11 passing for 123 yards and four touchdowns. That’s a 268.5 QB rating (top that Tebow!). Plus, McFadden single-handedly kept Arkansas in the game during the Hogs upset of No. 1 LSU, which he spent roughly 40 percent of the game playing quarterback.
But who do I think will win?
Unfortunately, all indicators point to the ultimate "system" guy, Tim Tebow.
Nearly two years after Reggie Bush won the Heisman, a book detailing improper benefits he allegedly received while playing for USC, “Tarnished Heisman,” could damage his chances of keeping the most prestigious award in college sports.
Bush’s alleged improprieties only added to the Heisman hoopla surrounding this year’s award, which is guaranteed a first.
Running back Darren McFadden of Arkansas and quarterbacks Colt Brennan of Hawaii and Chase Daniel of Missouri could all become the first player from their respective school to win the Heisman. And quarterback Tim Tebow of Florida, a sophomore, would be the first underclassman to win the award.
Bruce Feldman of ESPN The Magazine gives a decent, quick look at the four finalists.
However, there’s been a heated debate in the build up to today’s trophy announcement. What is a “system” quarterback?
ESPN.com’s Ivan Maisel reported Hawaii coach June Jones said Tebow is more of a system quarterback than Brennan.
"My quarterback [Brennan] has been labeled a 'system quarterback' for three years," Jones said Monday, according to a transcription on the school's Web site. "He is the best passer in college history. He is. There is no question about it. Tim Tebow is in a system. … Colt Brennan plays in an NFL passing game. You can dial it up and see that it is not a system. Tim Tebow's system is a college system."
Here’s the deal June Jones is dead on. Tim Tebow’s 20-20 touchdown numbers are courtesy of a quarterback happy system. That’s why Tebow led the team in carries and had 92 more carries than the second leading rusher.
If you examine the statistics between Urban Meyer’s 2007 Florida spread-option offense and Meyer’s 2004 Utah spread-option offense, you’ll find eerie similarities.
The top three rushers for the Utes accounted for 2,087 yards, for the Gators 2,008 yards. Utah’s QB Alex Smith completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 2,952 yards and 32 touchdowns with just four interceptions. Florida’s Tebow completed 68.5 percent of his passes for 3,132 yards and 29 touchdowns with six interceptions.
I’m not saying Tebow is not good, because he is. But his ‘amazing numbers’ are thanks to Meyer’s system. Tebow’s accounted for more of the total offense than former No. 1 pick Smith, but that shouldn't equal a Heisman Trophy.
Everyone has his or her Heisman favorite. C. Brennan of USA Today likes, well, C. Brennan of Hawaii. And Robert Husseman, sports copy editor for the Oregon Daily Emerald, may be biased but thinks Ducks QB Dennis Dixon is still Heisman worthy.
I’m disappointed Dixon didn’t get an invite, especially since he ran a fake “Statue of Liberty” play successfully (watch it here). Dixon is college football’s MVP; Oregon went 8-1 and was in the national championship hunt when he was healthy and stumbled, 0-3, after his knee injury.
Who do I think should win this year’s Heisman?
Arkansas’ Darren McFadden, no doubt about it.
McFadden scored 15 rushing touchdowns, ran for 1,725 yards in the SEC on a one-dimensional team (better numbers than last season) and went 6-for-11 passing for 123 yards and four touchdowns. That’s a 268.5 QB rating (top that Tebow!). Plus, McFadden single-handedly kept Arkansas in the game during the Hogs upset of No. 1 LSU, which he spent roughly 40 percent of the game playing quarterback.
But who do I think will win?
Unfortunately, all indicators point to the ultimate "system" guy, Tim Tebow.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Another BCS fiasco
Two days after the Bowl Championship Series announced the pairings, and well, sports writers have a lot to talk about.
Why did Arizona State and Missouri get left out? Why did Illinois and Kansas get in? Are the most deserving teams really playing for the national championship, come on, Ohio State-LSU?
SI.com’s Stewart Mandel writes that an unappealing BCS slate should prompt change. ESPN’s Gene Wojciechowski writes that chaos doesn't legitimize the stupidity of flawed BCS system. CBS Sportline columnist Ray Ratto writes the BCS system hides the fact that nothing could solve this season, or sort out the best four, eight or even 16 teams.
In 2005, I argued in a For Pete’s Sake column that it was crazy that Division I college football was the only sport that didn’t have a playoff. The BCS was too inconsistent in picking the top two teams for a one-game championship year-after-year.
In 2006, I changed my opinion (partly to play devil’s advocate) and said a playoff system would harm the student-athletes especially in light of the physically brutal Auburn-LSU game that Auburn won 7-3. For weeks following that game neither team looked like they’d fully recovered.
A two-game playoff would be the best of both worlds. Here’s my idea on how you fix the BCS, because the series will not go away.
The BCS needs to shake up its schedule and add a sixth bowl game; the Cotton or Gator Bowl would both be adequate. The sixth game ensures that mid-major schools (Hawaii, Utah, Boise State, etc.) have continued access to compete.
But the national championship would take the top four teams and have them play the first round of a plus-one playoff around eight to 10 days before the championship game. The Rose Bowl can keep its traditional match-up on Jan. 1, but host the title game in a five-year cycle. Universities can keep the 12-game season, to earn their extra money, and conferences can keep their precious title games, for their extra bucks.
If the plus-one system were in play this year would see No. 1 Ohio State play No. 4 Oklahoma in say the Fiesta Bowl and No. 2 LSU play No. 3 Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 28, the two winners would play each other in New Orleans on Jan. 7.
This is probably too simple, but an eight or 16 team is never going to happen; there are $15 million pay-offs at stake.
BIGGEST BCS BEEF: LSU, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech all had compelling cases to play in the national championship game, but Missouri got snubbed the most this year. After being ranked No. 1 in the BCS with one week to go the Tigers were trounced by Oklahoma, fell to No. 6 in the final standings and were left out of all BCS bowls. Missouri’s body of work is better than conference rival Kansas, whom they defeated on a neutral field. But the Jayhawks will be playing in the Orange Bowl. It’s all the about the green and Kansas fans will travel.
Why did Arizona State and Missouri get left out? Why did Illinois and Kansas get in? Are the most deserving teams really playing for the national championship, come on, Ohio State-LSU?
SI.com’s Stewart Mandel writes that an unappealing BCS slate should prompt change. ESPN’s Gene Wojciechowski writes that chaos doesn't legitimize the stupidity of flawed BCS system. CBS Sportline columnist Ray Ratto writes the BCS system hides the fact that nothing could solve this season, or sort out the best four, eight or even 16 teams.
In 2005, I argued in a For Pete’s Sake column that it was crazy that Division I college football was the only sport that didn’t have a playoff. The BCS was too inconsistent in picking the top two teams for a one-game championship year-after-year.
In 2006, I changed my opinion (partly to play devil’s advocate) and said a playoff system would harm the student-athletes especially in light of the physically brutal Auburn-LSU game that Auburn won 7-3. For weeks following that game neither team looked like they’d fully recovered.
A two-game playoff would be the best of both worlds. Here’s my idea on how you fix the BCS, because the series will not go away.
The BCS needs to shake up its schedule and add a sixth bowl game; the Cotton or Gator Bowl would both be adequate. The sixth game ensures that mid-major schools (Hawaii, Utah, Boise State, etc.) have continued access to compete.
But the national championship would take the top four teams and have them play the first round of a plus-one playoff around eight to 10 days before the championship game. The Rose Bowl can keep its traditional match-up on Jan. 1, but host the title game in a five-year cycle. Universities can keep the 12-game season, to earn their extra money, and conferences can keep their precious title games, for their extra bucks.
If the plus-one system were in play this year would see No. 1 Ohio State play No. 4 Oklahoma in say the Fiesta Bowl and No. 2 LSU play No. 3 Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 28, the two winners would play each other in New Orleans on Jan. 7.
This is probably too simple, but an eight or 16 team is never going to happen; there are $15 million pay-offs at stake.
BIGGEST BCS BEEF: LSU, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech all had compelling cases to play in the national championship game, but Missouri got snubbed the most this year. After being ranked No. 1 in the BCS with one week to go the Tigers were trounced by Oklahoma, fell to No. 6 in the final standings and were left out of all BCS bowls. Missouri’s body of work is better than conference rival Kansas, whom they defeated on a neutral field. But the Jayhawks will be playing in the Orange Bowl. It’s all the about the green and Kansas fans will travel.
Monday, December 3, 2007
The Carr may be broken
BUT CAROLINA'S PROBLEMS RUN DEEPER THAN QB
There's been an awful finger-pointing occurring in Panthers camp these days.
Charlotte's weather last Monday following a 31-6 home defeat matched the mood of Carolina fans perfectly: foggy and gloomy.
The team had stumbled and bumbled its way to a 4-7 record and Charlotte Observer columnist Tom Sorensen wrote the Panthers “don't have the worst record in the NFC, but they have the worst team.” Sorensen also wrote he wanted a reason to watch the Panthers.
Well, the Panthers finally gave the fans something to cheer about on Sunday dismantling the San Francisco 49ers 31-14.
While, that victory may be enough to appease the fans, the Panthers problems run deep. A lot deeper than the target of most of their finger pointing: QB David Carr.
During Carolina’s 31-6 loss to the New Orleans Saints, the fans that remained in a nearly empty Bank of America Stadium erupted with the chant “We want Moore.” That would be rookie QB Matt Moore (Oregon State), who saw playing time in the fourth quarter. The following day, Columnist Scott Fowler wrote “for the rest of the season, [coach John] Fox's quarterback decision should be as easy as ABC [Anybody But Carr].”
This is a short-sided viewpoint that many fans have taken. David Carr is a problem. Carr’s had development issues since joining the league in 2002. But he’s only one problem in a slew that’s crippling Carolina.
First of all, the Panther defense has been soft. The “D” struggled all season and can’t get pressure on the opposing teams quarterbacks. The Panthers have a meager 15 sacks on the season; six sacks came against San Fran. The secondary hasn’t helped much either, gathering just 12 interceptions this year, half of those also coming against the Niners.
On offense, the O-line has been bipolar with porous pass protection one week and great protection the next. Running backs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams have only two 100-yard plus rushing games all season, albeit the backs are splitting carries. And wide receivers Steve Smith and Keary Colbert, No. 1 and 2 on the depth cart, are accountable for a dozen drops on the year. That’s something a quarterback can do nothing about.
Fowler and company have gotten their wish. It appears the Panthers will play the remainder of the season without Carr. However, things are going to get worse before they get better for Carolina team that’s lost its identity. The Panthers have a brutish stretch run starting with Jacksonville and containing Seattle, Dallas and Tampa Bay.
The Panthers’ long season is about to get longer.
There's been an awful finger-pointing occurring in Panthers camp these days.
Charlotte's weather last Monday following a 31-6 home defeat matched the mood of Carolina fans perfectly: foggy and gloomy.
The team had stumbled and bumbled its way to a 4-7 record and Charlotte Observer columnist Tom Sorensen wrote the Panthers “don't have the worst record in the NFC, but they have the worst team.” Sorensen also wrote he wanted a reason to watch the Panthers.
Well, the Panthers finally gave the fans something to cheer about on Sunday dismantling the San Francisco 49ers 31-14.
While, that victory may be enough to appease the fans, the Panthers problems run deep. A lot deeper than the target of most of their finger pointing: QB David Carr.
During Carolina’s 31-6 loss to the New Orleans Saints, the fans that remained in a nearly empty Bank of America Stadium erupted with the chant “We want Moore.” That would be rookie QB Matt Moore (Oregon State), who saw playing time in the fourth quarter. The following day, Columnist Scott Fowler wrote “for the rest of the season, [coach John] Fox's quarterback decision should be as easy as ABC [Anybody But Carr].”
This is a short-sided viewpoint that many fans have taken. David Carr is a problem. Carr’s had development issues since joining the league in 2002. But he’s only one problem in a slew that’s crippling Carolina.
First of all, the Panther defense has been soft. The “D” struggled all season and can’t get pressure on the opposing teams quarterbacks. The Panthers have a meager 15 sacks on the season; six sacks came against San Fran. The secondary hasn’t helped much either, gathering just 12 interceptions this year, half of those also coming against the Niners.
On offense, the O-line has been bipolar with porous pass protection one week and great protection the next. Running backs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams have only two 100-yard plus rushing games all season, albeit the backs are splitting carries. And wide receivers Steve Smith and Keary Colbert, No. 1 and 2 on the depth cart, are accountable for a dozen drops on the year. That’s something a quarterback can do nothing about.
Fowler and company have gotten their wish. It appears the Panthers will play the remainder of the season without Carr. However, things are going to get worse before they get better for Carolina team that’s lost its identity. The Panthers have a brutish stretch run starting with Jacksonville and containing Seattle, Dallas and Tampa Bay.
The Panthers’ long season is about to get longer.
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