NBA
Yesterday, Jerry Sloan resigned as Head Basketball Coach of the Utah Jazz. The currently longest tenured Coach in American professional sports just quit. Yup, one of the most respected (and defensive-minded) coaches stepped down during the middle of his 23rd season. This doesn't sound like the third "winningest" coach in NBA history, nor the most loyal (longest to coach for one team in NBA history), nor someone who just signed a contract extension (this season for the next). Sounds Fishy. Probably is...
Any further discussion of this particular issue is merely my opinion (speculation?) and by no means 100% the truth. The media have attempted to get a more conclusive response to why Sloan resigned. The best they're are going to get is the current response of "It's time to move on." That's because Sloan is classy, and despite being thrown under the bus himself, he won't do the same to someone else. You can't always fight fire with fire. Sometimes you're so powerless you can only hope it burns itself out.
Time to stop beating around the burning bush. Pop Quiz: What was my one "hate" in my most recent post? The Superstar Treatment. In case you're a newcomer, it's when players gain more leverage than the coach. Usually it's because of the extra zeros attached to the player's paycheck. Another instance of letting money ruin the sports that we truly love. Some alternatively defend the Treatment and say the player is more popular to the fans than the coach. Well, if we went by popularity, then American Idol would epitomize how we should run things. God help us! Others argue and claim the player is better than the coach. This argument is plain stupid.
Everyone knows that two heads are better than one (assuming they work together). In team sports, the players put in countless energy and time practicing, achieving tip-top shape, and learning how to play the game usually via a playbook. Who writes the playbook? The coach (duh!). Unsurprisingly, countless hours go into that as well. That playbook serves as the coach's bible and he religiously preaches it to his players so that THE WHOLE TEAM is on the same page. I'll use algebra to explain what wins championships (other than defense): Teamwork > Individual-work. Unless you are Peyton Manning and command control of all your troops, you're going to need an eye in the sky to coordinate the show. In fact, Manning only touches the clouds because of the structure of football allowing for game-breaks. It is much more difficult to both play and coach with efficiency unless you have ample time to coordinate with everyone. This is harder to achieve in the more free-flowing team sports like basketball, hockey and soccer. In these, coordination is best achieved beforehand by listening to one cooperative philosophy.
Unfortunately, the structure of basketball falsely highlights "what works". Fans, coaches, owners, etc. all observe individual stars dominate a team sport that is limited to five on-court players per team. When superstar players play in the K-12 or collegiate levels, their individual talents outclass what their competitors are prepared to stop. As a result, the player and the team benefit. This leads to inflated heads; sadly many won't deflate until they have washed-out, waking up to the realization that "me-first" doesn't translate to team success. This life lesson is too often too late, after a forfeited education and thus hopes for an alternate future.
Alternatively, the "successful" juiced-up egos lead into conflicts between coach and player. While not a new phenomenon, it is novel to see the roles reversed: Individual > Team (aka coach). Our media and society have idolizes individuals to such a degree that we crown Kings from undeserving men. If you haven't already done so, read my second-ever post, "No Defense for a King," to understand more clearly what individuals and entire cities sacrifice when they give in to false idols. I'd hate to see Salt Lake City follow Cleveland's blueprint for downfall, but I'd love to see Jerry Sloan lead another team to a title with a fortified defense. Leadership comes few and far between, but leads to far more impressive results than misguided shortcuts. If you believe in the God-gene, think of it instead as a leadership-gene and stop hating.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Dubs need to play D...
NBA
...If they (or any team) expect to win anything. That's Dubs, as in Ws, as in Warriors, as in the NBA's Golden State Warriors. University of Washington (excuse me, UDub) fans get it. (Sidebar--Don't get this blog's web address? ddubc = DWC = Defense Wins Championships.) Defense has greater adaptability, which results in sustainability. Thus, in the NBA, where defenses fly under the radar, the consistent-championship-caliber teams play defense. See the Spurs, this year's most dominant team and most consistent since "The Big Fundamental," aka Tim Duncan, entered the league almost 14 years ago. Wonder why those "King"-led Cavs were handled by the Magic in '09? Because NOTHING is more important than a team's ability to protect the rim. "Superman" Dwight Howard can block Lebron James, the most thunderous dunker in the league. Don't forget the most dominant center this generation in Shaquille O'Neal, "Shaq," "The Big Diesel," "Shaqtus," "Kazaam" or whatever-he-wants-to-be-called. In a professional sport that idolizes individuals, the unstoppable center literally can't be stopped (both on and off the court). This time I uncharacteristically praise such individual achievements because, like a quarterback's leadership, such individual success directly translates to team success.
You may surprise people with an offensive philosophy, but any long-lasting championship-caliber team plays defense, 'nough said! Yes, Lakers' fans, I know Kobe Bryant is the best finisher in the game, but how can he close unless a foundation of defense gets him within "Black Mamba's" ridiculous range? While Kobe is the deadliest scorer (offensive balance is crucial), Pau and friends are nonetheless why Hollywood fans were in position to see their biggest star shine since "Shaq Fu" was a teammate. We witnessed the Giants in the Fall, the Packers in the Winter, and I expect the next testimony this Spring will be heavily defensive.
Bay Area faithful, brace yourself--the Dubs won't win it all this year (if you thought otherwise, get your head out of the sand )... It's cool, don't worry, it'll be alright. We can ride the black and and orange love for a while. In fact, we should understand the patience it took for our G-men to win it all and put that faith into our other teams. We were so desperate (12-year playoff drought) the last time we tasted some success (playoffs '07) that we made hasty decisions--trading away our heart and soul in Jason "J-Rich" Richardson for a lottery pick... Anyone know the odds for lotteries? I can't express my love for J-Rich without digressing. To understand some, watch this video that my Wisconsin homeboy sent me shortly after the trade: J-Rich Tribute. I still tear up. Oh well, since we can't change the past, we can only thank and learn what J-Rich, Don Nelson, and Baron Davis and Co. taught us: "We Believe!"
This time let's not run too far with that belief and, instead, hone it on building a team (not buying one ASAP). When you live, like I do, in Laker country (or is it Clipper territory?), "a 1st round upset and 2nd round exit" is still a joke. Consistency and championships are no laughing matter. As of now, I think Coach Keith Smart is the intelligent choice (no pun intended). He instills good defense, fundamentals, and is loyal to his players and, more importantly, to the team. I assume his players believe in him too and, while we still got that feeling, I say we roll with it. I hate it when teams jettison a coach to appease some superstar player that believes he's better than the whole. Maybe it's because that "superstar" makes "mo' money" than the leader of the team. Hope you're taking notes kids...
As a loyal fan, I cannot support articles like today's front page of the Chronicle's Sports Section, the one beginning with the word "Crashing." This article discussed a lackluster performance for the Warriors in their loss the night before. I understand this may be true, but what bothers me was how the focus wasn't just on this game--it stated how this loss erases their past few games where they played excellent ball and excellent defense. Huh? Like I said, you can't change the past. Those wins still count in the 'W' column. Stop focusing on our failures! Instead, check out the other article, written by the same author and buried four pages deep in the six page section. This one highlights how the Dubs' effort almost closed the gap from their 1st quarter performance, specifically their defensive effort (my man!). While this article delves into the past as well, it instead shows how previous experience allowed the team to make successful defensive adjustments. How odd to discuss building on your foundation rather than tearing it down... It's tough to convince your fans that there is hope for progress when you highlight two steps backward on the front page and bury the one step forward near the much bigger (and unrelated) headline about the "largest-losing-streak-ever."
Furthermore, let's stop knocking on our backcourt (that's the two guard spots). Everyone says Ellis and Curry can't play together, they can't play D, they're too short, too weak, etc. Bullocks! They are one of the most productive backcourt duos in the league and they always perform more than their fare share on the offensive end to balance their defensive inequalities. With more coaching, they will start to pick people off like "The Answer." Some Kobe-esque plays are simply un-guardable and we gotta live with that. While you can't teach height, you can teach that even the best guards in the league don't shoot a high percentage. It's all about protecting the hoop (that's why behemoths play the positions close to the basket). As for guards, "size doesn't matter" and I hope Dubs' fans understand that simple proposition before we trade another Warrior only to see him blossom for his next team.
All great teams play under a philosophy (even if you rely on a star) maintained by the head honcho (No, not the owner, but the head coach). A personnel swap or upgrade may be in the future, but only after we accept the "Smart System" and the powers-to-be figure out which cavities need filling. Right now our starting guards are too sweet (in a good way). David Lee is our future power-forward and with less injuries (and less tooth impaling) he's our main scorer down low. We robbed the bank in signing Dorell Wright. Barring a superstar free-agent or drafted small-forward taking his spot, he's our perimeter shooter. Worst case scenario: with that contract, an elite 6th man. The oh-so-important center position is tough. We are financially committed to Andris Biedrins (3+ years on his huge contract). Luckily for us, our coach knows that too and has spent his time wisely on Biedrin's development (even leaving his family for 3 weeks this offseason to spend time in Biedrins home country of Latvia). Unfortunately, he fouls more than the Italian national futbol team (except he gets whistled). And when you are getting paid to play basketball, you must make your free-throws (or at least practice enough so your fundamentals look decent)! Because all that is the case, a complimentary defensive back-up center (or necessary starter) is our biggest need. Let's go general manager! Hey, maybe we'll get lucky in the lottery this time. Either way, let us Believe once again, but this time, I'm rooting for consistency instead of quick riches.
...If they (or any team) expect to win anything. That's Dubs, as in Ws, as in Warriors, as in the NBA's Golden State Warriors. University of Washington (excuse me, UDub) fans get it. (Sidebar
You may surprise people with an offensive philosophy, but any long-lasting championship-caliber team plays defense, 'nough said! Yes, Lakers' fans, I know Kobe Bryant is the best finisher in the game, but how can he close unless a foundation of defense gets him within "Black Mamba's" ridiculous range? While Kobe is the deadliest scorer (offensive balance is crucial), Pau and friends are nonetheless why Hollywood fans were in position to see their biggest star shine since "Shaq Fu" was a teammate. We witnessed the Giants in the Fall, the Packers in the Winter, and I expect the next testimony this Spring will be heavily defensive.
Bay Area faithful, brace yourself
This time let's not run too far with that belief and, instead, hone it on building a team (not buying one ASAP). When you live, like I do, in Laker country (or is it Clipper territory?), "a 1st round upset and 2nd round exit" is still a joke. Consistency and championships are no laughing matter. As of now, I think Coach Keith Smart is the intelligent choice (no pun intended). He instills good defense, fundamentals, and is loyal to his players and, more importantly, to the team. I assume his players believe in him too and, while we still got that feeling, I say we roll with it. I hate it when teams jettison a coach to appease some superstar player that believes he's better than the whole. Maybe it's because that "superstar" makes "mo' money" than the leader of the team. Hope you're taking notes kids...
As a loyal fan, I cannot support articles like today's front page of the Chronicle's Sports Section, the one beginning with the word "Crashing." This article discussed a lackluster performance for the Warriors in their loss the night before. I understand this may be true, but what bothers me was how the focus wasn't just on this game
Furthermore, let's stop knocking on our backcourt (that's the two guard spots). Everyone says Ellis and Curry can't play together, they can't play D, they're too short, too weak, etc. Bullocks! They are one of the most productive backcourt duos in the league and they always perform more than their fare share on the offensive end to balance their defensive inequalities. With more coaching, they will start to pick people off like "The Answer." Some Kobe-esque plays are simply un-guardable and we gotta live with that. While you can't teach height, you can teach that even the best guards in the league don't shoot a high percentage. It's all about protecting the hoop (that's why behemoths play the positions close to the basket). As for guards, "size doesn't matter" and I hope Dubs' fans understand that simple proposition before we trade another Warrior only to see him blossom for his next team.
All great teams play under a philosophy (even if you rely on a star) maintained by the head honcho (No, not the owner, but the head coach). A personnel swap or upgrade may be in the future, but only after we accept the "Smart System" and the powers-to-be figure out which cavities need filling. Right now our starting guards are too sweet (in a good way). David Lee is our future power-forward and with less injuries (and less tooth impaling) he's our main scorer down low. We robbed the bank in signing Dorell Wright. Barring a superstar free-agent or drafted small-forward taking his spot, he's our perimeter shooter. Worst case scenario: with that contract, an elite 6th man. The oh-so-important center position is tough. We are financially committed to Andris Biedrins (3+ years on his huge contract). Luckily for us, our coach knows that too and has spent his time wisely on Biedrin's development (even leaving his family for 3 weeks this offseason to spend time in Biedrins home country of Latvia). Unfortunately, he fouls more than the Italian national futbol team (except he gets whistled). And when you are getting paid to play basketball, you must make your free-throws (or at least practice enough so your fundamentals look decent)! Because all that is the case, a complimentary defensive back-up center (or necessary starter) is our biggest need. Let's go general manager! Hey, maybe we'll get lucky in the lottery this time. Either way, let us Believe once again, but this time, I'm rooting for consistency instead of quick riches.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Bru'in our Future
NCAAM
Wednesday, February 2nd, was "national signing day" for high school football recruits, a supposed future unveils on this day. I will not discuss my distaste for this circus. Instead, focus shall be on the "other" reason 2/2 was circled in our Bruin calendars: USC Trojans @ Pauley Pavilion. How un-Amerrrican of me to choose college basketball over college football during the college basketball season! Anyways, UCLA took care of business (woohoo!) on our beloved Wooden home court and the next UCLA match-up was introduced. St. John's @ UCLA. Steve Lavin vs. Ben Howland. The last UCLA coach vs. the current UCLA coach. Call me crazy for assuming that Lavin v. Howland will be the case everyone (aka media) will judge. Either way, I am here to play some preemptive defense for Coach Howland.
You can't talk UCLA basketball or coaching without thinking John Wooden. Wooden himself would say not to compare yourself with the past. Case closed. I wish... "They" will compare stats. It always starts with stats. Wins and Losses. Why? Because stats imply the results that everyone believes is the end-all. Again, an anti-Wooden philosophy. Mr. Wooden would stress the importance of how you got to winning, not just that you won. Stat comparisons incite conclusions with only part-information. More makeshift comparisons lead "the mob of fans" to second-guessing our Coach and question whether he is fit for the job (see last year).
We cannot live in the past (Lavin ain't coming back), and must proceed as fans of our team instead of critics. However, learning from the past so as to not make the same mistakes is key. While I'm not studied enough to judge properly Lavin's tenure, I do believe his termination was too hasty and possibly a mistake after one sub-par season. I know we have high standards, especially at traditionally successful programs, but we must adapt to what society has given us--the overwhelming desire to grab cold hard cash. It's why college athletes leave early for the Pros. Universities are supposed to be viewed as institutions for higher learning, yet we publicize how it would be "stupid" for students to stay in school, risk injury and miss out on million$. It's the ugly truth. (Trust me, Andrew Luck made the right decision to stay in school. Even if he gets hurt, he will have a degree from Stanford and have a good chance of surpassing the average NFL lifespan of 50 something.) Lavin was a casualty of the tragic trend for college athletes to jump ship.
Can you blame players like Baron Davis for deciding to leave early? No, that's his call. And you won't either after you see his UCLA highlights (and pre-injury reel): Baron Davis UCLA. However, this has been a recent trend and we judge and criticize faster than we adapt. The NBA saw too many high school "ballers" skip college and wash-out. Not everyone is Lebron James or Kobe Bryant. Too many were getting ill-advised perspectives to chase the money. So, the NBA instituted an age-limit rule that basically forced basketball stars to try college for at least a year. This rule has good intentions to guide young men on the right path, but it threw the college coaching system under the bus. The John Caliparis are getting credit for scooping up NBA-ready athletes to bring temporary success and quick cash to their programs. Such high recruiting pressures results in unethical and, consequently, illegal moves. Of course, you could always leave your school (let them take the punishment) and you could get paid elsewhere (for example: Derrick Rose, Reggie Bush and their respective coaches). Whatever happened to the idea of leading by example?
Before I get too carried away, time to channel my rage against greed into praise for one of my favorite coaches. Howland is an excellent college coach. One of the best defensive minds. My freshman year buddy once told me "college is where you learn to play defense." He was right. In high school, these teens outmatch almost everyone that they don't need to focus on being coached (or maybe their high school coach isn't equipped to). And who wants to learn when you're a teenager who "thinks" you're on top of the world? The NBA is the best of the best, and unless you are a machine like Lebron James, you need coaching, especially on the fundamentals. That's where Wooden painted his masterpiece and where Howland is doing his best impression.
Howland has gotten the best out of his cards. Three consecutive final fours were built beautifully. I'm glad Wooden got to see these teams. They played solid team D, worked together, stayed disciplined, and exceeded expectations. Each team got better as the year progressed, playing its best ball for the title run and each final four knock-out was reasonable. Florida (2 times) was simply stacked: arguably one of the best college teams ever, who rocked two current top-10 NBA centers. Memphis beat UCLA by the Derrick Rose factor and that win has since been forfeited. Even though UCLA didn't win it all, Howland and his young men did their best. Well done.
Howland then got punished for his success. He brought in a "heralded" recruiting class. This fabulous freshmen class had all the talent in the world. Dangerous. Their egos were through the roof and it resulted in UCLA's recent downfall. They didn't believe in their coach and UCLA tanked. Talent can't take you everywhere. You need to earn it, not be born with it. Good coaches don't stay down and neither will Howland.
UCLA's team is getting better each game and I'm excited for the future. My college roommate (former Bruins sports writer) told me to watch out for next year. We got all the pieces lining up: Reeves Nelson, arguably the hardest worker since Arron Afflalo; Tyler Honeycutt, an NBA-body who in a different system would be showcased and an early departure; Joshua Smith, a beastly freshman, who is only slowed by his lack of collegiate coaching and trainers; Malcolm Lee and Jerime Anderson, holdovers from "that recruiting class" who refused to quit; and our new point guard Lazeric "Zeek" Jones, a junior college transfer who has worked hard to overcome his lack of high school exposure because he backed up who? Derrick Rose. Our General in the backcourt has got the right feeling: "I felt like I wasn't a true Bruin, until I beat USC." LOVE it! Don't forget the rest of our team like Tyler Lamb, Anthony Stover and the Wear Twin Towers.
Even if we don't succeed next year, I guarantee you Howland grooms his players (like Wooden) to succeed. Howland has consistently produced excellent NBA players in Afflalo, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Darren Collison, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook. They all succeed because they play great defense, work hard, and have excellent fundamentals. I believe his most successful player will be one who won't ever make the NBA, Alfred Aboya. He never had the best physical tools, but he worked hard on and off the court (attending graduate school his senior season). I hope Aboya reaches his dream to become President of his native Cameroon.
There are still overwhelmingly successful players in the NBA who won't play defense. This may be good enough for them and the casual fan, but I want to see the best in people. It's tough to learn the basics unless you learn them properly and early. Let college coaches teach higher education and stop trying to turn them into NBA puppets. Monta Ellis would be Allen Iverson if he learned D and Amare Stoudemire could have been the best power forward in the league right now if he learned defense (both skipped college).
Judging a college coach should be more than about the wins and losses, especially at UCLA! A college coach should be judged on one criterion: how he or she coaches the young men and women. Sports exist because people love to play and through this love you can learn great values. Everyone feels warmed by the stories of impoverished kids turning their life around through sports (see the Packers' Donald Driver's story this Super Bowl weekend). Sports is the one tool society has blessed us with that pierces through all our hatred, biases, and economical disadvantages to bring joy to so many. Unfortunately, in recent decades we have lost this belief. We have become blinded by our greed for money. Think about any kid who dreams of a world series homer, an NBA finals game-winner, a Super Bowl touchdown, or a World Cup goal. That dream is beautiful and amazing. It's not because of the endorsements that follow or the fat pay-check from your next free-agent signing. It's because everyone dreams to do what they love.
Wednesday, February 2nd, was "national signing day" for high school football recruits, a supposed future unveils on this day. I will not discuss my distaste for this circus. Instead, focus shall be on the "other" reason 2/2 was circled in our Bruin calendars: USC Trojans @ Pauley Pavilion. How un-Amerrrican of me to choose college basketball over college football during the college basketball season! Anyways, UCLA took care of business (woohoo!) on our beloved Wooden home court and the next UCLA match-up was introduced. St. John's @ UCLA. Steve Lavin vs. Ben Howland. The last UCLA coach vs. the current UCLA coach. Call me crazy for assuming that Lavin v. Howland will be the case everyone (aka media) will judge. Either way, I am here to play some preemptive defense for Coach Howland.
You can't talk UCLA basketball or coaching without thinking John Wooden. Wooden himself would say not to compare yourself with the past. Case closed. I wish... "They" will compare stats. It always starts with stats. Wins and Losses. Why? Because stats imply the results that everyone believes is the end-all. Again, an anti-Wooden philosophy. Mr. Wooden would stress the importance of how you got to winning, not just that you won. Stat comparisons incite conclusions with only part-information. More makeshift comparisons lead "the mob of fans" to second-guessing our Coach and question whether he is fit for the job (see last year).
We cannot live in the past (Lavin ain't coming back), and must proceed as fans of our team instead of critics. However, learning from the past so as to not make the same mistakes is key. While I'm not studied enough to judge properly Lavin's tenure, I do believe his termination was too hasty and possibly a mistake after one sub-par season. I know we have high standards, especially at traditionally successful programs, but we must adapt to what society has given us--the overwhelming desire to grab cold hard cash. It's why college athletes leave early for the Pros. Universities are supposed to be viewed as institutions for higher learning, yet we publicize how it would be "stupid" for students to stay in school, risk injury and miss out on million$. It's the ugly truth. (Trust me, Andrew Luck made the right decision to stay in school. Even if he gets hurt, he will have a degree from Stanford and have a good chance of surpassing the average NFL lifespan of 50 something.) Lavin was a casualty of the tragic trend for college athletes to jump ship.
Can you blame players like Baron Davis for deciding to leave early? No, that's his call. And you won't either after you see his UCLA highlights (and pre-injury reel): Baron Davis UCLA. However, this has been a recent trend and we judge and criticize faster than we adapt. The NBA saw too many high school "ballers" skip college and wash-out. Not everyone is Lebron James or Kobe Bryant. Too many were getting ill-advised perspectives to chase the money. So, the NBA instituted an age-limit rule that basically forced basketball stars to try college for at least a year. This rule has good intentions to guide young men on the right path, but it threw the college coaching system under the bus. The John Caliparis are getting credit for scooping up NBA-ready athletes to bring temporary success and quick cash to their programs. Such high recruiting pressures results in unethical and, consequently, illegal moves. Of course, you could always leave your school (let them take the punishment) and you could get paid elsewhere (for example: Derrick Rose, Reggie Bush and their respective coaches). Whatever happened to the idea of leading by example?
Before I get too carried away, time to channel my rage against greed into praise for one of my favorite coaches. Howland is an excellent college coach. One of the best defensive minds. My freshman year buddy once told me "college is where you learn to play defense." He was right. In high school, these teens outmatch almost everyone that they don't need to focus on being coached (or maybe their high school coach isn't equipped to). And who wants to learn when you're a teenager who "thinks" you're on top of the world? The NBA is the best of the best, and unless you are a machine like Lebron James, you need coaching, especially on the fundamentals. That's where Wooden painted his masterpiece and where Howland is doing his best impression.
Howland has gotten the best out of his cards. Three consecutive final fours were built beautifully. I'm glad Wooden got to see these teams. They played solid team D, worked together, stayed disciplined, and exceeded expectations. Each team got better as the year progressed, playing its best ball for the title run and each final four knock-out was reasonable. Florida (2 times) was simply stacked: arguably one of the best college teams ever, who rocked two current top-10 NBA centers. Memphis beat UCLA by the Derrick Rose factor and that win has since been forfeited. Even though UCLA didn't win it all, Howland and his young men did their best. Well done.
Howland then got punished for his success. He brought in a "heralded" recruiting class. This fabulous freshmen class had all the talent in the world. Dangerous. Their egos were through the roof and it resulted in UCLA's recent downfall. They didn't believe in their coach and UCLA tanked. Talent can't take you everywhere. You need to earn it, not be born with it. Good coaches don't stay down and neither will Howland.
UCLA's team is getting better each game and I'm excited for the future. My college roommate (former Bruins sports writer) told me to watch out for next year. We got all the pieces lining up: Reeves Nelson, arguably the hardest worker since Arron Afflalo; Tyler Honeycutt, an NBA-body who in a different system would be showcased and an early departure; Joshua Smith, a beastly freshman, who is only slowed by his lack of collegiate coaching and trainers; Malcolm Lee and Jerime Anderson, holdovers from "that recruiting class" who refused to quit; and our new point guard Lazeric "Zeek" Jones, a junior college transfer who has worked hard to overcome his lack of high school exposure because he backed up who? Derrick Rose. Our General in the backcourt has got the right feeling: "I felt like I wasn't a true Bruin, until I beat USC." LOVE it! Don't forget the rest of our team like Tyler Lamb, Anthony Stover and the Wear Twin Towers.
Even if we don't succeed next year, I guarantee you Howland grooms his players (like Wooden) to succeed. Howland has consistently produced excellent NBA players in Afflalo, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Darren Collison, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook. They all succeed because they play great defense, work hard, and have excellent fundamentals. I believe his most successful player will be one who won't ever make the NBA, Alfred Aboya. He never had the best physical tools, but he worked hard on and off the court (attending graduate school his senior season). I hope Aboya reaches his dream to become President of his native Cameroon.
There are still overwhelmingly successful players in the NBA who won't play defense. This may be good enough for them and the casual fan, but I want to see the best in people. It's tough to learn the basics unless you learn them properly and early. Let college coaches teach higher education and stop trying to turn them into NBA puppets. Monta Ellis would be Allen Iverson if he learned D and Amare Stoudemire could have been the best power forward in the league right now if he learned defense (both skipped college).
Judging a college coach should be more than about the wins and losses, especially at UCLA! A college coach should be judged on one criterion: how he or she coaches the young men and women. Sports exist because people love to play and through this love you can learn great values. Everyone feels warmed by the stories of impoverished kids turning their life around through sports (see the Packers' Donald Driver's story this Super Bowl weekend). Sports is the one tool society has blessed us with that pierces through all our hatred, biases, and economical disadvantages to bring joy to so many. Unfortunately, in recent decades we have lost this belief. We have become blinded by our greed for money. Think about any kid who dreams of a world series homer, an NBA finals game-winner, a Super Bowl touchdown, or a World Cup goal. That dream is beautiful and amazing. It's not because of the endorsements that follow or the fat pay-check from your next free-agent signing. It's because everyone dreams to do what they love.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
We Demand Football!
NFL
After the NFC and AFC championship games are played, the Super Bowl usually takes center-stage. While this will certainly happen to some degree this year, there is a bigger topic of discussion (bigger than a Super Bowl in Dallas?). Yes, it's much more important: it's the negotiations surrounding a possible NFL lockout next season. The dispute focuses on finances (of course). It's between the owners (of million-dollar-teams) and the NFL Players Association (they're rich too, right?). While I think the minimum salary for players is somewhere in the "meager" six-figure range, at least they earned it by risking their well-being to bring joy to countless fans (and themselves, of course).
Sports have become integrated with business because in order to survive these days, you need financial SUPPORT. That's all, greed is unnecessary. If you don't think the greed card is being played, then ask yourself why the talks are centered on finances, yet no one has the guts to make these "financial differences" public. It's because even "they" know what's right and what's wrong and hiding the truth is the only effective way to get what you want at the expense of others.
I must point out that there have been commendable attempts for resolution. The man in charge, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, promised to cut his salary to $1. Why give up $10 million when you're the boss? Because the 'top dog' knows his responsibility to maintain the league's wonderful service to millions: entertainment and inspiration. If he can't get his job done, then why get paid for it?
How about Antonio Cromartie? While his past has been riddled with plenty of mistakes his present is in the right. He will not back down from speaking his mind about the labor dispute. He cites lost jobs, lost health-care and rehab for the injured, lack of open communication, and rightfully complains that it's all too much about money. He may have used different word choices than I, but it's all there. In fact, these statements were made after his initial remarks were challenged by fellow respected players. That didn't stop him from saying what we're all feeling.
It will be an awful shame if a work-stoppage occurs in the NFL next season (or ever). The sad truth is that if it all boils down to money then we as fans should boycott attending or watching NFL games. The wallet would be hurting and it would do the trick. This won't happen because fans can't help themselves from doing what is right: supporting what they love.
After the NFC and AFC championship games are played, the Super Bowl usually takes center-stage. While this will certainly happen to some degree this year, there is a bigger topic of discussion (bigger than a Super Bowl in Dallas?). Yes, it's much more important: it's the negotiations surrounding a possible NFL lockout next season. The dispute focuses on finances (of course). It's between the owners (of million-dollar-teams) and the NFL Players Association (they're rich too, right?). While I think the minimum salary for players is somewhere in the "meager" six-figure range, at least they earned it by risking their well-being to bring joy to countless fans (and themselves, of course).
Sports have become integrated with business because in order to survive these days, you need financial SUPPORT. That's all, greed is unnecessary. If you don't think the greed card is being played, then ask yourself why the talks are centered on finances, yet no one has the guts to make these "financial differences" public. It's because even "they" know what's right and what's wrong and hiding the truth is the only effective way to get what you want at the expense of others.
I must point out that there have been commendable attempts for resolution. The man in charge, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, promised to cut his salary to $1. Why give up $10 million when you're the boss? Because the 'top dog' knows his responsibility to maintain the league's wonderful service to millions: entertainment and inspiration. If he can't get his job done, then why get paid for it?
How about Antonio Cromartie? While his past has been riddled with plenty of mistakes his present is in the right. He will not back down from speaking his mind about the labor dispute. He cites lost jobs, lost health-care and rehab for the injured, lack of open communication, and rightfully complains that it's all too much about money. He may have used different word choices than I, but it's all there. In fact, these statements were made after his initial remarks were challenged by fellow respected players. That didn't stop him from saying what we're all feeling.
It will be an awful shame if a work-stoppage occurs in the NFL next season (or ever). The sad truth is that if it all boils down to money then we as fans should boycott attending or watching NFL games. The wallet would be hurting and it would do the trick. This won't happen because fans can't help themselves from doing what is right: supporting what they love.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Why I LOVE this season's NFL playoffs
NFL
I have found this year's NFL playoffs just delightful. But how can that be if I'm a fan in the "anemic" NFC West? Wait (be patient there's a lot more). Listen (correction: read), and you might share my opinion. If nothing else, for you quasi-sports fans, you'll get a unique highlight reel so you can "act cool" at your next party knowing how the NFL playoffs shaped up.
At the beginning of the season, like any true football fan, I believed in my team and hoped for a playoff berth, maybe more. This year, I felt such goals were attainable. Them experts got me going, yet again... Even with an 0-5 start, I still believed because I'm a loyal fan and it's not over 'til it's over. Unfortunately and eventually, reality kicked in and even a 7-9 NFC West crown was unattainable for the Niners.
Luckily for me, I was able to turn my sports addiction into an appreciation of the sport (half-truth, I can't kick the dependency). My focus shifted from rooting for my home team to simply enjoying the most competitively balanced professional American sport. A rarity when there's so much moolah at stake to win. You can't say the same about MLB (America's pastime) or the NBA (where one player IS the franchise). Too often, the rich stay rich and buyout the rest unlike the NFC South, where turnarounds surface in only a year. However, one cannot be too greedy. I'm still shaking from that November orange and black parade and too much confetti may just end up blinding me.
I had to enjoy what NFL postseason offers other than your own team's success: amazing games, awesome plays, and infinite surprises. Thanks to DVRs, weekends, and sticking to doing what I love, I was able to catch at least a majority of all the games. Let's recount history the old fashion way, chronologically.
The Wild Card Round
- New Orleans Saints @ Seattle Seahawks
This game wouldn't have been as amazing if it weren't for the pregame buildup. I had to eat my own words of a St. Louis Rams 8-8 playoff prediction. I told the "east coast bias" haters to go away because 8-8 had been done before. With the 7-9 Seahawks clinching, Jon Gruden and fellow experts got to tear into the NFC West champ. This was the first sub .500 playoff team (so what!) and many believed the Seahawks didn't deserve a shot. Who decided that golden rule all of a sudden? They earned it within the current rules (and more importantly to the critics) they backed it up.
Even as the host team, the Seahawks were written off. "They" said "no chance" against the defending Super Bowl champs. Hasselback, Carlson, Lynch, and the entire Seahawks team and fan-base proved otherwise. In fact, Lynch's epic 67-yard TD run registered a disturbance to the nearby seismic monitoring station. I know Lynch is a beast, but that energy is all 12th man. Home Field Advantage.
- New York Jet's @ Indianapolis Colts
They say defense travels well. That better be the case if you're playing Peyton Manning on his turf. Containing the best leader in football to 16 points is exactly what the Jets needed to do. Manning led a go-ahead field goal drive with 53 seconds remaining. However, "The Cardiac Kids" kept their season pumping and responded with a game winning field goal drive of their own. It just shows that there is only so much one man can do in a TEAM sport.
- Baltimore Ravens @ Kansas City Chiefs
I told you defense travels well and I told you it was a team sport. Boom, roasted. Game, Ravens. Honestly, I didn't catch much of this game and I bet the home side wishes it hadn't either. At least Kansas City got a home playoff game. A big improvement over the recent Chargers' stranglehold on their division.
- Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles
This one was a doozie to predict. My friends and I felt that whoever won this game could wind up winning the whole shebang (by the way, the verdict is still out). Rodgers vs. Vick was the marquee match-up and I went with Vick and the Eagles. My family probably would joke and quote the Grail Knight from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: "He chose poorly." I picked the glitzy offense instead of the one led by a man I knew was rock-solid since his days at Cal. Maybe I couldn't handle seeing success stem from the player that the Niners passed on for a guy who had "better physical tools." Let's underestimate the brain, that's smart... (don't do it again Niners!!!)
Whatever, my selfish reasoning didn't matter. The game was exciting and the deciding play didn't drop until the last minute. Defense stepped up again and took advantage of a mistake made "between the ears" by Vick. After earning enough yards to get within striking distance, Vick decided to rush an "All-Go" play instead of spiking the ball to regroup. As a result, he chucked a ball towards an end zone bound Riley Cooper (who?) and Tramon Williams came down with it instead. Game Packers.
The Division Round
- Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers
What was expected to be a heavyweight bout was exactly that, a slugfest. The Ravens and Terrell Suggs came out strong, but in the end Steel City dropped the hammer on their rivals. My fantasy football aspirations took a hurting along with the Ravens. They couldn't hold off Ben Roethlisberger and his desire to win. The highlight play? A 58 yard gain on a third-and-19 bomb from "Big Ben" to a one-handed catch by Antonio Brown (who again?). This set up the game winning score to complete the Steelers' comeback.
- Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons
"Whoa" à la Keanu Reeves in The Matrix. Did anyone expect such domination from the Pack playing at the number-one-seed Atlanta? I doubt it. "Matty Ice" and Co. had been pushing records with their play at home for three years now. I stopped watching this game in the second half when the blowout was in full force. The Packers' punter had the day off too. The Packer's defense certainly flew under the radar in this one. Yes, "A-Rod" was great (a dome and turf sneak-peak for Dallas), but the Packer's D held Turner to 39 yards rushing, picked off Ryan twice (one for a TD), and gave up only two touchdowns, one of which was basically in "garbage time." I don't know if Rodgers was unstoppable or whether the Falcon's left their D somewhere other than at home. I do know that the result was unexpected.
- Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears
The Bears crushed any underdog hopes for the Seahawks this time (Hey Seattle, wasn't the week-long ride fun though?). Urlacher's-led-defense looked focused and like the Falcons/Packers game, "garbage time" allowed the Seahawks to make it seem closer than it really was. Injuries hurt Seattle, and Carlson going down was mammoth. Maybe knowing their rival Pack would come to town made Da Bears hungry to take care of business. Tuning out most of this game was crucial to rest my brain from playoff football delirium.
- New York Jets @ New England Patriots
J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets! (I envy their cheer) Boy, was I ecstatic that the Jets took down the Patriot Empire. I have been amused with the Jets this season from their Hard Knocks training camp to their calculated trash talking. The problem with trash talk: you must do it well and then you got to back it up. The Patriots played into the Jet's game and did neither. Tom Brady, don't forget karma when you taunt an opposing coach next time. The Jets' excitement only carried me so far. I have to admit, I felt like some Presidential elections (not '08's). I voted for one team, not because I truly wanted it to win, but because I really, really, didn't want the other team on top. Sadly, that belief paid off in my fantasy football playoff redemption league. I refused to select any Patriots for the playoffs and not surprisingly I was in the minority. The minority opinion does succeed if it's truly the right one.
As for the game, team play is greater than "expert" opinion. It appeared as if the Patriots were winning early, but that Jets' defense harassed Brady and controlled most of the game. An "abominable snowman rare" pick of Brady occurred early and an ideal Jets' run-TD by Shonn Greene sealed it late. A 3-0 lead was all the Patriots got and although it was close the entire game, defense led the way to a New York victory.
The Jets' truly willed their way to winning this game. It was evident in their post game interviews and uncontrollable exuberance. The Jets' happiness had to punch through all the hatred between the teams that had been showcased by the media. However, celebrating at the cost of a penalty to your team is a no-no. Shonn Greene better have his head on a swivel in the next division rematch. People don't forget (ask any baseball player who's gotten "chin music"). C'mon Man! Respect your opponent. What's wrong with the simple fist pump? The "No Fun League's" rule to curtail excessive celebration is necessary to stop individual spotlighting. That's why running off the field of play and celebrating with your team or your fans is allowed.
The Championship Round
- Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears
The Pack are still rolling. They came in prepared, taking control early with a Rodgers-esque drive and their defense kept them in control. You could feel that sense in Soldier Field's quietest moment after a B.J. Raji pick six. My favorite defensive play was executed by Rodgers, making a touchdown saving tackle on an Urlacher interception return. Even QBs know the importance of D. An ineffective Jay Cutler and a subsequently truly injured Cutler couldn't keep up. At least, Maurice Jones-Drew (UCLA!!) apologized and his joke wasn't aimed at questioning Cutler's toughness like everyone and their mother was doing. While you can't play on a sprained MCL you can hope that your team prepares well-enough and your second, nay, third-string quarterback can make things interesting. Caleb Hanie did exactly that and brought a glimmer of hope to the Bear's faithful. There's always next season (unless the filthy rich are greedy for a lockout).
- New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Yet again I rooted for the losing team, but good football still brought me joy. I'm glad the Jets and Sanchez never gave up and made the biggest comeback in championship history a possibility. When we all thought it was over at 24-zip; surprise surprise, touchdowns and a safety made the Steelers' huge lead vulnerable. As expected, the Steelers were trying to run out the clock by running the ball, but unexpectedly a third down shotgun formation and empty backfield resulted in an another Antonio Brown (who is this guy?) catch for the game sealer. In what was a match-up of defense, I'm glad the most exciting and instinctive defensive player is going to the Super Bowl. Yes, I am glad for, uh, a USC Trojan: Troy Polamalu. I also have praise for Mike Tomlin and the rest of the Pittsburgh coaching staff: a blueprint for ownership and coaching. On to Dallas for Pittsburgh and their fans.
THE Superbowl
- Green Bay Packers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers.
If you've read this far then you know I ain't watching the Super Bowl for the commercials (even though they are entertaining for a change). I will watch because I am a SPORTS FAN. I could be an "expert" here and expect certain results. The best part is if I did, it would only cause me to be more surprised. Maybe Rodgers will dominate the dome, maybe Big Ben will be taller than the rest, or maybe defense will bring home the Lombardi Trophy. I do not know!!!! I only have one true expectation that I know will happen. I'm going to have a big smile on my face enjoying the game and knowing millions of others will have an even bigger smile when THEIR team wins it all this year.
I have found this year's NFL playoffs just delightful. But how can that be if I'm a fan in the "anemic" NFC West? Wait (be patient there's a lot more). Listen (correction: read), and you might share my opinion. If nothing else, for you quasi-sports fans, you'll get a unique highlight reel so you can "act cool" at your next party knowing how the NFL playoffs shaped up.
At the beginning of the season, like any true football fan, I believed in my team and hoped for a playoff berth, maybe more. This year, I felt such goals were attainable. Them experts got me going, yet again... Even with an 0-5 start, I still believed because I'm a loyal fan and it's not over 'til it's over. Unfortunately and eventually, reality kicked in and even a 7-9 NFC West crown was unattainable for the Niners.
Luckily for me, I was able to turn my sports addiction into an appreciation of the sport (half-truth, I can't kick the dependency). My focus shifted from rooting for my home team to simply enjoying the most competitively balanced professional American sport. A rarity when there's so much moolah at stake to win. You can't say the same about MLB (America's pastime) or the NBA (where one player IS the franchise). Too often, the rich stay rich and buyout the rest unlike the NFC South, where turnarounds surface in only a year. However, one cannot be too greedy. I'm still shaking from that November orange and black parade and too much confetti may just end up blinding me.
I had to enjoy what NFL postseason offers other than your own team's success: amazing games, awesome plays, and infinite surprises. Thanks to DVRs, weekends, and sticking to doing what I love, I was able to catch at least a majority of all the games. Let's recount history the old fashion way, chronologically.
The Wild Card Round
- New Orleans Saints @ Seattle Seahawks
This game wouldn't have been as amazing if it weren't for the pregame buildup. I had to eat my own words of a St. Louis Rams 8-8 playoff prediction. I told the "east coast bias" haters to go away because 8-8 had been done before. With the 7-9 Seahawks clinching, Jon Gruden and fellow experts got to tear into the NFC West champ. This was the first sub .500 playoff team (so what!) and many believed the Seahawks didn't deserve a shot. Who decided that golden rule all of a sudden? They earned it within the current rules (and more importantly to the critics) they backed it up.
Even as the host team, the Seahawks were written off. "They" said "no chance" against the defending Super Bowl champs. Hasselback, Carlson, Lynch, and the entire Seahawks team and fan-base proved otherwise. In fact, Lynch's epic 67-yard TD run registered a disturbance to the nearby seismic monitoring station. I know Lynch is a beast, but that energy is all 12th man. Home Field Advantage.
- New York Jet's @ Indianapolis Colts
They say defense travels well. That better be the case if you're playing Peyton Manning on his turf. Containing the best leader in football to 16 points is exactly what the Jets needed to do. Manning led a go-ahead field goal drive with 53 seconds remaining. However, "The Cardiac Kids" kept their season pumping and responded with a game winning field goal drive of their own. It just shows that there is only so much one man can do in a TEAM sport.
- Baltimore Ravens @ Kansas City Chiefs
I told you defense travels well and I told you it was a team sport. Boom, roasted. Game, Ravens. Honestly, I didn't catch much of this game and I bet the home side wishes it hadn't either. At least Kansas City got a home playoff game. A big improvement over the recent Chargers' stranglehold on their division.
- Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles
This one was a doozie to predict. My friends and I felt that whoever won this game could wind up winning the whole shebang (by the way, the verdict is still out). Rodgers vs. Vick was the marquee match-up and I went with Vick and the Eagles. My family probably would joke and quote the Grail Knight from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: "He chose poorly." I picked the glitzy offense instead of the one led by a man I knew was rock-solid since his days at Cal. Maybe I couldn't handle seeing success stem from the player that the Niners passed on for a guy who had "better physical tools." Let's underestimate the brain, that's smart... (don't do it again Niners!!!)
Whatever, my selfish reasoning didn't matter. The game was exciting and the deciding play didn't drop until the last minute. Defense stepped up again and took advantage of a mistake made "between the ears" by Vick. After earning enough yards to get within striking distance, Vick decided to rush an "All-Go" play instead of spiking the ball to regroup. As a result, he chucked a ball towards an end zone bound Riley Cooper (who?) and Tramon Williams came down with it instead. Game Packers.
The Division Round
- Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers
What was expected to be a heavyweight bout was exactly that, a slugfest. The Ravens and Terrell Suggs came out strong, but in the end Steel City dropped the hammer on their rivals. My fantasy football aspirations took a hurting along with the Ravens. They couldn't hold off Ben Roethlisberger and his desire to win. The highlight play? A 58 yard gain on a third-and-19 bomb from "Big Ben" to a one-handed catch by Antonio Brown (who again?). This set up the game winning score to complete the Steelers' comeback.
- Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons
"Whoa" à la Keanu Reeves in The Matrix. Did anyone expect such domination from the Pack playing at the number-one-seed Atlanta? I doubt it. "Matty Ice" and Co. had been pushing records with their play at home for three years now. I stopped watching this game in the second half when the blowout was in full force. The Packers' punter had the day off too. The Packer's defense certainly flew under the radar in this one. Yes, "A-Rod" was great (a dome and turf sneak-peak for Dallas), but the Packer's D held Turner to 39 yards rushing, picked off Ryan twice (one for a TD), and gave up only two touchdowns, one of which was basically in "garbage time." I don't know if Rodgers was unstoppable or whether the Falcon's left their D somewhere other than at home. I do know that the result was unexpected.
- Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears
The Bears crushed any underdog hopes for the Seahawks this time (Hey Seattle, wasn't the week-long ride fun though?). Urlacher's-led-defense looked focused and like the Falcons/Packers game, "garbage time" allowed the Seahawks to make it seem closer than it really was. Injuries hurt Seattle, and Carlson going down was mammoth. Maybe knowing their rival Pack would come to town made Da Bears hungry to take care of business. Tuning out most of this game was crucial to rest my brain from playoff football delirium.
- New York Jets @ New England Patriots
J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets! (I envy their cheer) Boy, was I ecstatic that the Jets took down the Patriot Empire. I have been amused with the Jets this season from their Hard Knocks training camp to their calculated trash talking. The problem with trash talk: you must do it well and then you got to back it up. The Patriots played into the Jet's game and did neither. Tom Brady, don't forget karma when you taunt an opposing coach next time. The Jets' excitement only carried me so far. I have to admit, I felt like some Presidential elections (not '08's). I voted for one team, not because I truly wanted it to win, but because I really, really, didn't want the other team on top. Sadly, that belief paid off in my fantasy football playoff redemption league. I refused to select any Patriots for the playoffs and not surprisingly I was in the minority. The minority opinion does succeed if it's truly the right one.
As for the game, team play is greater than "expert" opinion. It appeared as if the Patriots were winning early, but that Jets' defense harassed Brady and controlled most of the game. An "abominable snowman rare" pick of Brady occurred early and an ideal Jets' run-TD by Shonn Greene sealed it late. A 3-0 lead was all the Patriots got and although it was close the entire game, defense led the way to a New York victory.
The Jets' truly willed their way to winning this game. It was evident in their post game interviews and uncontrollable exuberance. The Jets' happiness had to punch through all the hatred between the teams that had been showcased by the media. However, celebrating at the cost of a penalty to your team is a no-no. Shonn Greene better have his head on a swivel in the next division rematch. People don't forget (ask any baseball player who's gotten "chin music"). C'mon Man! Respect your opponent. What's wrong with the simple fist pump? The "No Fun League's" rule to curtail excessive celebration is necessary to stop individual spotlighting. That's why running off the field of play and celebrating with your team or your fans is allowed.
The Championship Round
- Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears
The Pack are still rolling. They came in prepared, taking control early with a Rodgers-esque drive and their defense kept them in control. You could feel that sense in Soldier Field's quietest moment after a B.J. Raji pick six. My favorite defensive play was executed by Rodgers, making a touchdown saving tackle on an Urlacher interception return. Even QBs know the importance of D. An ineffective Jay Cutler and a subsequently truly injured Cutler couldn't keep up. At least, Maurice Jones-Drew (UCLA!!) apologized and his joke wasn't aimed at questioning Cutler's toughness like everyone and their mother was doing. While you can't play on a sprained MCL you can hope that your team prepares well-enough and your second, nay, third-string quarterback can make things interesting. Caleb Hanie did exactly that and brought a glimmer of hope to the Bear's faithful. There's always next season (unless the filthy rich are greedy for a lockout).
- New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Yet again I rooted for the losing team, but good football still brought me joy. I'm glad the Jets and Sanchez never gave up and made the biggest comeback in championship history a possibility. When we all thought it was over at 24-zip; surprise surprise, touchdowns and a safety made the Steelers' huge lead vulnerable. As expected, the Steelers were trying to run out the clock by running the ball, but unexpectedly a third down shotgun formation and empty backfield resulted in an another Antonio Brown (who is this guy?) catch for the game sealer. In what was a match-up of defense, I'm glad the most exciting and instinctive defensive player is going to the Super Bowl. Yes, I am glad for, uh, a USC Trojan: Troy Polamalu. I also have praise for Mike Tomlin and the rest of the Pittsburgh coaching staff: a blueprint for ownership and coaching. On to Dallas for Pittsburgh and their fans.
THE Superbowl
- Green Bay Packers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers.
If you've read this far then you know I ain't watching the Super Bowl for the commercials (even though they are entertaining for a change). I will watch because I am a SPORTS FAN. I could be an "expert" here and expect certain results. The best part is if I did, it would only cause me to be more surprised. Maybe Rodgers will dominate the dome, maybe Big Ben will be taller than the rest, or maybe defense will bring home the Lombardi Trophy. I do not know!!!! I only have one true expectation that I know will happen. I'm going to have a big smile on my face enjoying the game and knowing millions of others will have an even bigger smile when THEIR team wins it all this year.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Next Big Teen Movie: "Tucker Carlson Must Die"
NFL
For legal clarification I must immediately state that I do not wish any bodily harm to Tucker Carlson. I merely thought the title was an appropriate correlation between a '06 flick and statements made by Tucker Carlson himself (haven't seen John Tucker Must Die, but honestly the title is terrible enough). Call me a sell-out, but I gotta grab the female readers somehow... What I will stand by is that Tucker Carlson's comments about Michael Vick were completely out-of-line. Here's the highlight reel:
I have to admit that despite all the wrongdoings Vick committed (there's quite a few, check Wikipedia) he has been the definition of a second-chance opportunity. I've been impressed with his turnaround from what I hope is his last ultimate blunder. Before the fall of the Vick, he was a celebrated athlete, relying on his "inhuman" physical tools to carry him to be a moderately successful quarterback, albeit a very wealthy NFL player. Then his dog fighting operation was exposed and Vick paid the price according to our legal system. Some people may argue that the punishment should have been harsher, that he should never be able to play in the NFL, etc. Let the debate continue, but stop before you go as far as to wish death upon another person. That's wrong and you know it! I'm also intrigued to learn why Vick made such mistakes and what we can understand from such vile behavior so that others do not follow the same misled path. A sort of historical defense.
7 or 8 years old. That's the age Michael Vick said he was when he was exposed to dog fighting. He was ingrained with this "acceptable" violence as a child! I'm not certain that this reason, or any other explanation is an adequate defense for his cruel acts of torture. I cannot elaborate on these misdeeds as they make me sick to my stomach. However, I am certain that to blame this entire situation on one man and his personal decisions would be simply unwise. There are some clear negative influences that have clouded Vick his entire life. Look no further than his younger brother. Anyone remember Marcus Vick stomping on the leg of Elvis Dumervil while attempting to follow his brother's footsteps as QB at Virginia Tech? That was one of the more despicable acts of bad sportsmanship that I've ever witnessed (behind Albert Haynesworth's head stomp). The Vicks clearly grew up troubled. Whatever the cause; family, neighborhood, peer influences, etc., we need to address repairing those rather than scapegoating the end results after the fact.
Because of his status, Vick got lucky and got help while many others (mostly because of financial reasons) are not so fortunate. Props to Tony Dungy and Andy Reid. I can only imagine that their experiences with their own troubled children gave them the compassion necessary to help Vick when no one else would. Vick was patient, observed and studied from an excellent QB in Donovan McNabb, and learned to play the quarterback position "between the ears" complimenting his physical gifts instead of relying on them. After proper preparation and an injury to Kevin Kolb, Vick was given the starting QB opportunity and never looked back. He took control showing newfound leadership ignited an explosive offense, ran away with the Comeback Player of the Year Award, and made a strong case for MVP. Nice Start.
I believe losing to an impressive Aaron Rodgers is a good result. I don't think America nor Vick is ready for the idolization that accompanies NFL playoff success. He needs more time to heal and for us to forgive. Whether or not you believe in Michael Vick's comeback, believe in his statements about his desire to own a dog again:
Last, I cannot forget to explain my leading man Tucker Carlson. What irks me about his comments was the "convenient" timing and proximity to our President's own appraisal of the Philadelphia Eagles and their efforts with Michael Vick's return. If Carlson truly wanted to spark the Vick discussion, Tucker could have said comments after Vick's verdict, after he got reinstated to the NFL, after he served his suspension, after he became starter, or after he captured the limelight this season. Instead, his agenda was rooted in a political circus attacking a man unjustly at the expense of a potentially educational debate.
As my roommate informed me, these days you need money to trump money. Until we have enough financial influence to create good change, at least I'm having a blast calling out these indiscretions. I hope others do too. If you agree with what I'm promoting, maybe something crazy might happen, like getting paid to do good...
For legal clarification I must immediately state that I do not wish any bodily harm to Tucker Carlson. I merely thought the title was an appropriate correlation between a '06 flick and statements made by Tucker Carlson himself (haven't seen John Tucker Must Die, but honestly the title is terrible enough). Call me a sell-out, but I gotta grab the female readers somehow... What I will stand by is that Tucker Carlson's comments about Michael Vick were completely out-of-line. Here's the highlight reel:
"I'm a Christian, I've made mistakes myself, I believe fervently in second chances. But Michael Vick killed dogs, and he did in a heartless and cruel way. And I think, personally, he should've been executed for that."For those of you familiar with internet speech, WTF? Did Carlson actually preface a statement about KILLING a human-being for making a mistake (a horrific one, I agree) with saying how he believes in second chances? The contradictions are too laughable. I'm not going to guess which network allowed for such a statement to be broadcast. Tucker Carlson both regretted and backed off wishing execution upon Vick. My beef isn't with Tucker Carlson anymore (I'm a softy for apologies), but rather why he was pushed to make such a statement.
I have to admit that despite all the wrongdoings Vick committed (there's quite a few, check Wikipedia) he has been the definition of a second-chance opportunity. I've been impressed with his turnaround from what I hope is his last ultimate blunder. Before the fall of the Vick, he was a celebrated athlete, relying on his "inhuman" physical tools to carry him to be a moderately successful quarterback, albeit a very wealthy NFL player. Then his dog fighting operation was exposed and Vick paid the price according to our legal system. Some people may argue that the punishment should have been harsher, that he should never be able to play in the NFL, etc. Let the debate continue, but stop before you go as far as to wish death upon another person. That's wrong and you know it! I'm also intrigued to learn why Vick made such mistakes and what we can understand from such vile behavior so that others do not follow the same misled path. A sort of historical defense.
7 or 8 years old. That's the age Michael Vick said he was when he was exposed to dog fighting. He was ingrained with this "acceptable" violence as a child! I'm not certain that this reason, or any other explanation is an adequate defense for his cruel acts of torture. I cannot elaborate on these misdeeds as they make me sick to my stomach. However, I am certain that to blame this entire situation on one man and his personal decisions would be simply unwise. There are some clear negative influences that have clouded Vick his entire life. Look no further than his younger brother. Anyone remember Marcus Vick stomping on the leg of Elvis Dumervil while attempting to follow his brother's footsteps as QB at Virginia Tech? That was one of the more despicable acts of bad sportsmanship that I've ever witnessed (behind Albert Haynesworth's head stomp). The Vicks clearly grew up troubled. Whatever the cause; family, neighborhood, peer influences, etc., we need to address repairing those rather than scapegoating the end results after the fact.
Because of his status, Vick got lucky and got help while many others (mostly because of financial reasons) are not so fortunate. Props to Tony Dungy and Andy Reid. I can only imagine that their experiences with their own troubled children gave them the compassion necessary to help Vick when no one else would. Vick was patient, observed and studied from an excellent QB in Donovan McNabb, and learned to play the quarterback position "between the ears" complimenting his physical gifts instead of relying on them. After proper preparation and an injury to Kevin Kolb, Vick was given the starting QB opportunity and never looked back. He took control
I believe losing to an impressive Aaron Rodgers is a good result. I don't think America nor Vick is ready for the idolization that accompanies NFL playoff success. He needs more time to heal and for us to forgive. Whether or not you believe in Michael Vick's comeback, believe in his statements about his desire to own a dog again:
"I miss having a dog right now. I wish I could. My daughters miss having one, and that's the hardest thing: Telling them that we can't have one because of my actions"I hope that one day Michael Vick will do enough good to right his wrongs and be able to do what many Americans fail to even attempt: make his children happy and proud of what he did with his life. I wish him the best of luck and I hope the city of brotherly love does too. Philly, you could jettison him like the last guy and maybe he will land in the city by the bay! (I'd love to land Donovan as well)
Last, I cannot forget to explain my leading man Tucker Carlson. What irks me about his comments was the "convenient" timing and proximity to our President's own appraisal of the Philadelphia Eagles and their efforts with Michael Vick's return. If Carlson truly wanted to spark the Vick discussion, Tucker could have said comments after Vick's verdict, after he got reinstated to the NFL, after he served his suspension, after he became starter, or after he captured the limelight this season. Instead, his agenda was rooted in a political circus attacking a man unjustly at the expense of a potentially educational debate.
As my roommate informed me, these days you need money to trump money. Until we have enough financial influence to create good change, at least I'm having a blast calling out these indiscretions. I hope others do too. If you agree with what I'm promoting, maybe something crazy might happen, like getting paid to do good...
Monday, January 10, 2011
The Rose Bowl... The Rose bowl!!!!!
NCAAF
If you watched the Rose Bowl kicking off 2011, you were witness to another excellent defensive performance. I had planned not to watch the bowl season, an act of mourning for a Bruins' fan. However, I was enticed to catch the match-up at the Rose Bowl between TCU and Wisconsin. One of my best buddies attended the university in Madison and was in fact going to the game. For his sake, I was a Badgers' fan but I was also intrigued with the classic duel between speed and power. The New Year's day game was advertised as such: TCU's speed and "little guys" title against the Wisconsin power and "big school" label. A Horned Frog's quick defensive instincts vs. a Badger's ginormous wall.
Much to my chagrin, defense was non-existent in the 1st quarter. In fact, I think it was the highest scoring 1st quarter in Rose Bowl history. As the game continued and settled-down, it was clear it was coming down to the wire. Late into the 4th, the Badgers made an impressive drive, scoring a touchdown that put them within a 2-point conversion of tying the game. It was during this 2-point conversion attempt in which the defensive instincts kicked in for a Horned Frog named Tank Carder. He made a beautiful play on the ball that swatted Tolzien's pass and dashed Wisconsin's hopes for another Rose Bowl victory (Sorry AA, shout out to my homie).
Speed > Power. That's what was taught. Power, although powerful, has only one gear: Full Power. Speed is more carefully graded. While you can always "put the pedal to the metal" and hit your full speed, the beauty about speed is that it allows you to adjust. You have ability to make up for lost positioning through superior speed, but you don't have to use full speed in order to be in the best position (coaching helps that one). It's why I love Defense--its adaptability. In football, the offense comes at you, often with power, but the defense makes the right read and adjusts the speed dial appropriately. Well done, TCU.
I was also impressed with how TCU finished the game. The Horned Frogs finished on offense, gaining a first down to seal the game. As they were kneeling to run out the clock (officially ending the game), Gary Patterson, predicting a Gatorade splashdown turned and faced his players who were sneaking up on him with the oh-so-common orange bucket. He told them to knock it off. Not because he didn't want to celebrate or get wet (don't worry he got doused), but because they were going to splash him before the clock hit zero. He told them to keep their cool and wait for "the fat lady to sing." Sang she did and the players got their sweet revenge for all those wind-sprints in the form of an ice-cold sticky bath.
The Rose Bowl game was one that ought to be remembered. It was the only bowl in which TCU had never played before. Although TCU went undefeated and won the "Granddaddy of Them All," they will not win a national championship. A team did all it could in every game they played. The players came together as a team and won each battle. I guarantee you, they loved this season despite their final ranking. A favorite scene of mine from Remember the Titans illustrates what true teamwork achieves.
If you watched the Rose Bowl kicking off 2011, you were witness to another excellent defensive performance. I had planned not to watch the bowl season, an act of mourning for a Bruins' fan. However, I was enticed to catch the match-up at the Rose Bowl between TCU and Wisconsin. One of my best buddies attended the university in Madison and was in fact going to the game. For his sake, I was a Badgers' fan but I was also intrigued with the classic duel between speed and power. The New Year's day game was advertised as such: TCU's speed and "little guys" title against the Wisconsin power and "big school" label. A Horned Frog's quick defensive instincts vs. a Badger's ginormous wall.
Much to my chagrin, defense was non-existent in the 1st quarter. In fact, I think it was the highest scoring 1st quarter in Rose Bowl history. As the game continued and settled-down, it was clear it was coming down to the wire. Late into the 4th, the Badgers made an impressive drive, scoring a touchdown that put them within a 2-point conversion of tying the game. It was during this 2-point conversion attempt in which the defensive instincts kicked in for a Horned Frog named Tank Carder. He made a beautiful play on the ball that swatted Tolzien's pass and dashed Wisconsin's hopes for another Rose Bowl victory (Sorry AA, shout out to my homie).
Speed > Power. That's what was taught. Power, although powerful, has only one gear: Full Power. Speed is more carefully graded. While you can always "put the pedal to the metal" and hit your full speed, the beauty about speed is that it allows you to adjust. You have ability to make up for lost positioning through superior speed, but you don't have to use full speed in order to be in the best position (coaching helps that one). It's why I love Defense
I was also impressed with how TCU finished the game. The Horned Frogs finished on offense, gaining a first down to seal the game. As they were kneeling to run out the clock (officially ending the game), Gary Patterson, predicting a Gatorade splashdown turned and faced his players who were sneaking up on him with the oh-so-common orange bucket. He told them to knock it off. Not because he didn't want to celebrate or get wet (don't worry he got doused), but because they were going to splash him before the clock hit zero. He told them to keep their cool and wait for "the fat lady to sing." Sang she did and the players got their sweet revenge for all those wind-sprints in the form of an ice-cold sticky bath.
The Rose Bowl game was one that ought to be remembered. It was the only bowl in which TCU had never played before. Although TCU went undefeated and won the "Granddaddy of Them All," they will not win a national championship. A team did all it could in every game they played. The players came together as a team and won each battle. I guarantee you, they loved this season despite their final ranking. A favorite scene of mine from Remember the Titans illustrates what true teamwork achieves.
TCU's season record = perfect. Yet the winner of Auburn vs. Oregon will take home the national championship trophy instead. That winner may be better than the Horned Frogs, but how can TCU not even be considered? Because of the BS structure of the BCS. If you want to keep your bowls as they traditionally were, that's fine. Pac-10 vs. Big Ten was classic. But don't you dare crown a national championship based on the judgment of "experts." Probably the same "brilliant minds" that "knew" Wisconsin would win the Rose Bowl. In fair sporting competitions, championships are decided by teams of players, playing the game they love. Let their play decide who deserves it and stop ending their dreams because they didn't go to a powerhouse school.Coach Boone: "It's all right. We're in a fight. You boys are doing all that you can do. Anybody can see that. Win or lose... We gonna walk out of this stadium tonight with our heads held high. Do your best. That's all anybody can ask for"
Big Ju: "No, it ain't Coach. With all due respect, uh, you demanded more of us. You demanded perfection. Now, I ain't saying that I'm perfect, 'cause I'm not. And I ain't gonna never be. None of us are. But we have won every single game we have played till now. So this team is perfect. We stepped out on that field that way tonight. And, uh, if it's all the same to you, Coach Boone, that's how we want to leave it."
Coach Yoast: "Yeah. I hope you boys have learned as much from me this year as I've learned from you. You've taught this city how to trust the soul of a man rather than the look of him. And I guess it's about time I joined the club."
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