Monday, October 31, 2005
Hoping Badgers, Spartans deliver
An article on Yahoo! Sports has the headline "Penn State, not Purdue, turning heads in Big Ten".
I guess Wisconsin (8-1, 5-1) isn't turning any heads. They're not even worth watching. We should just cancel the rest of the Big Ten season and award the BCS berth to PSU.
Give me a break! Victories over Illinois and Purdue are nothing to brag about. I really can't stand how PSU has become the national media's darling this year. With any luck, Wisconsin will crush the Nittany Lions, and Michigan State will finish PSU off the following week.
I guess Wisconsin (8-1, 5-1) isn't turning any heads. They're not even worth watching. We should just cancel the rest of the Big Ten season and award the BCS berth to PSU.
Give me a break! Victories over Illinois and Purdue are nothing to brag about. I really can't stand how PSU has become the national media's darling this year. With any luck, Wisconsin will crush the Nittany Lions, and Michigan State will finish PSU off the following week.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
SU football irrelevant
Why should they continue to bother with football at Syracuse University this season? With basketball starting up, that should be enough to keep SU fans occupied.
SU football is 1-6 overall and 0-4 in the Big East. It's a big-time loser in a big-name conference with very few teams worth watching. The presence of Cincinnati, Connecticut, Rutgers, and South Florida basically makes the Big East a mid-major conference.
It's amazing how in a relatively short time, SU has gone from a respectable football program to irrelevant.
SU football is 1-6 overall and 0-4 in the Big East. It's a big-time loser in a big-name conference with very few teams worth watching. The presence of Cincinnati, Connecticut, Rutgers, and South Florida basically makes the Big East a mid-major conference.
It's amazing how in a relatively short time, SU has gone from a respectable football program to irrelevant.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Buckeyes knock out Gophers, fans
Today, in college football, Ohio State knocked Minnesota out of the Big Ten race; the Buckeyes beat the Gophers 45-31 in Minneapolis.It seemed the fans had been knocked out of this game. When the game was tied at 17 early in the second half, the fans were so quiet and had none of the energy you'd expect from a big conference game on network television.
Perhaps, the Minnesota fans expected the Gophers to fold up like a cheap tent. That certainly happened today.
Logo courtesy of The Ohio State University.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Series not must-see TV
Viewers stayed away, in droves, from the 2005 World Series. The Associated Press is reporting this year's Fall Classic had the lowest television ratings of any World Series.
That's not surprising. I think the World Series was not compelling because:
-The whole "end the drought" story line became old news after the Boston Red Sox won the Series in 2004. Nobody outside Chicago seemed to care that the White Sox hadn't won it all since 1917. The White Sox also had fewer near-misses than Boston did.
-Neither team had any must-see stars. Most of us despise Barry Bonds, but you can't deny he has star power. This year's Series didn't offer us any dynamic personalities.
-The Yankees were not in it. This is similar to my point about Bonds. The Yanks have a large number of fans. On the other hand, the amount of people who hate the Yankees is about as big. Either way, the postseason picture is always more interesting anytime the Yankees are around.
That's not surprising. I think the World Series was not compelling because:
-The whole "end the drought" story line became old news after the Boston Red Sox won the Series in 2004. Nobody outside Chicago seemed to care that the White Sox hadn't won it all since 1917. The White Sox also had fewer near-misses than Boston did.
-Neither team had any must-see stars. Most of us despise Barry Bonds, but you can't deny he has star power. This year's Series didn't offer us any dynamic personalities.
-The Yankees were not in it. This is similar to my point about Bonds. The Yanks have a large number of fans. On the other hand, the amount of people who hate the Yankees is about as big. Either way, the postseason picture is always more interesting anytime the Yankees are around.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
End of the line for 'Stros
At this point, the only thing left for the Houston Astros is to try and win just one game to make their World Series effort somewhat respectable.
After winning a 14-inning marathon during the overnight, the Chicago White Sox have a 3-0 lead and appear poised to put the Series away. The Sox are getting the clutch hitting and pitching they need; all the right breaks seem to be going their way.
Sure, it's possible the 'Stros could come back and win the Series. But, just because something is possible doesn't mean it's likely. Their failure to deliver the winning run against El Duque in the bottom of the 9th last night is just one example of how inept the Astros have been.
After winning a 14-inning marathon during the overnight, the Chicago White Sox have a 3-0 lead and appear poised to put the Series away. The Sox are getting the clutch hitting and pitching they need; all the right breaks seem to be going their way.
Sure, it's possible the 'Stros could come back and win the Series. But, just because something is possible doesn't mean it's likely. Their failure to deliver the winning run against El Duque in the bottom of the 9th last night is just one example of how inept the Astros have been.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Yanks' deals up in air
Former Philadelphia Phillies manager Larry Bowa may become the next third-base coach of the New York Yankees. He said nothing has been finalized so far. Before his deal can be completed, Yanks general manager Brian Cashman must decide if he'll return in 2006.
If Cashman doesn't stay with the Yanks, it's their loss, not his. Cashman would be unemployed for only about 30 seconds, before some other team would snap him up. He'd probably make more money and take less abuse somewhere else.
Bowa would make third-base coaching interesting to watch. Hopefully, he'd have the same fire and mannerisms he did in Philly.
If Cashman doesn't stay with the Yanks, it's their loss, not his. Cashman would be unemployed for only about 30 seconds, before some other team would snap him up. He'd probably make more money and take less abuse somewhere else.
Bowa would make third-base coaching interesting to watch. Hopefully, he'd have the same fire and mannerisms he did in Philly.
Monday, October 24, 2005
'Stros still have a chance
If you're getting ready to celebrate Chicago's first World Series victory in seemingly 1,000 years, hold your horses.
Sure, the White Sox have a 2-0 lead on the Houston Astros. But, the Sox merely did what they should have done: make the most of their home-field advantage. After the Sox nearly choked away the American League Central Division title, anything is possible.
I've never heard World Series fans as loud as those who were at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago when Jermaine Dye hit a home run in the first inning of Game 1. Man, is that city ever starved for a Series victory!
Sure, the White Sox have a 2-0 lead on the Houston Astros. But, the Sox merely did what they should have done: make the most of their home-field advantage. After the Sox nearly choked away the American League Central Division title, anything is possible.
I've never heard World Series fans as loud as those who were at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago when Jermaine Dye hit a home run in the first inning of Game 1. Man, is that city ever starved for a Series victory!
Friday, October 21, 2005
Yankee escapees flourishing
The back page of today's Daily News in New York City shows El Duque, Jose Contreras, Roger Clemens, and Andy Pettitte - four pitchers who used to be in pinstripes. All four are on teams in this year's World Series. El Duque and Contreras play for the Chicago White Sox, while Pettitte and Clemens are on the Houston Astros.
That's got to be a kick in the you-know-what to George Steinbrenner. His Yankees didn't make it out of the division series. Now, he gets to watch his former players having success elsewhere.
I don't feel sorry for Steinbrenner at all. I hope he stews about this for the entire offseason.
That's got to be a kick in the you-know-what to George Steinbrenner. His Yankees didn't make it out of the division series. Now, he gets to watch his former players having success elsewhere.
I don't feel sorry for Steinbrenner at all. I hope he stews about this for the entire offseason.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Astros actually pulled it off
I didn't think they had it in them. The Houston Astros beat the St. Louis Cardinals last night to win the National League pennant. The Astros will face the Chicago White Sox in the World Series.
Both teams have one thing in common: they were able to avoid colossal choke jobs. I can just imagine one of these teams taking a 3-0 lead in the Series, then almost choking it away. It would seem only fitting.
I won't be watching most of this World Series. I'd rather watch Veronica Mars, Everwood, Forensic Files, or whatever else is on during prime time. If I had to choose one team, I guess I'd root for the White Sox because I can't stand Roger Clemens.
Both teams have one thing in common: they were able to avoid colossal choke jobs. I can just imagine one of these teams taking a 3-0 lead in the Series, then almost choking it away. It would seem only fitting.
I won't be watching most of this World Series. I'd rather watch Veronica Mars, Everwood, Forensic Files, or whatever else is on during prime time. If I had to choose one team, I guess I'd root for the White Sox because I can't stand Roger Clemens.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Returning for more managing, abuse
We've been expecting some shakeups in the New York Yankees organization since the team was recently bounced from the American League playoffs. However, there will be no change at manager.
Joe Torre is returning for the 2006 season. He really didn't deserve to be fired. It's not fully his fault that George Steinbrenner's high-priced stars didn't live up to all the hype come playoff time.
At this point, I'm surprised Torre wants to come back. Sure, the job pays very well. But, he has to deal with a tremendous amount of abuse from his boss. There's nothing left for Torre to accomplish anyway.
Joe Torre is returning for the 2006 season. He really didn't deserve to be fired. It's not fully his fault that George Steinbrenner's high-priced stars didn't live up to all the hype come playoff time.
At this point, I'm surprised Torre wants to come back. Sure, the job pays very well. But, he has to deal with a tremendous amount of abuse from his boss. There's nothing left for Torre to accomplish anyway.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Tough task for Astros
The Houston Astros still have two chances to wrap up a trip to the World Series, but I don't think they'll get the job done. Last night, they were one out away from winning the National League pennant, but Albert Pujols hit a massive home run to win the game for the St. Louis Cardinals.
This amazing turn of events reminded me of the following from 1986:
* The California Angels were this close to winning the American League title, but Donnie Moore gave up a game-winning home run to Dave Henderson. The Angels had to watch the World Series on television that year.
* The Boston Red Sox were just one strike away from finishing off the New York Mets in the World Series when we were treated to the infamous Game 6 comeback/choke job. Two nights later, the Mets won the Series.
It's deflating to be so close to achieving a goal only to watch it slip away. On top of that, the Astros are facing two games in St. Louis where the fans will certainly be fired up after watching their team virtually rise from the ashes. It doesn't look promising for Houston.
This amazing turn of events reminded me of the following from 1986:
* The California Angels were this close to winning the American League title, but Donnie Moore gave up a game-winning home run to Dave Henderson. The Angels had to watch the World Series on television that year.
* The Boston Red Sox were just one strike away from finishing off the New York Mets in the World Series when we were treated to the infamous Game 6 comeback/choke job. Two nights later, the Mets won the Series.
It's deflating to be so close to achieving a goal only to watch it slip away. On top of that, the Astros are facing two games in St. Louis where the fans will certainly be fired up after watching their team virtually rise from the ashes. It doesn't look promising for Houston.
Monday, October 17, 2005
More on PSU loss to Michigan
The following Joe Pa-ism can be found on CentreDaily.com:
"What do you want me to say, for crying out loud?" Paterno asked. "There was one second left, and they made a play and they scored and they won the game. What the hell do you want from me?"
He's commenting on Penn State's last-second loss to Michigan on Saturday. I'm guessing the media wanted insightful answers on how and why PSU blew an apparent victory over the Wolverines. I'm also thinking reporters wanted to hear about what's needed for the Nittany Lions to regroup and get past this devastating first loss of the season.
He didn't provide any of that. I hope Saturday was the start of a colossal tank job.
"What do you want me to say, for crying out loud?" Paterno asked. "There was one second left, and they made a play and they scored and they won the game. What the hell do you want from me?"
He's commenting on Penn State's last-second loss to Michigan on Saturday. I'm guessing the media wanted insightful answers on how and why PSU blew an apparent victory over the Wolverines. I'm also thinking reporters wanted to hear about what's needed for the Nittany Lions to regroup and get past this devastating first loss of the season.
He didn't provide any of that. I hope Saturday was the start of a colossal tank job.
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Buckeyes are back, sort of
The Ohio State Buckeyes got a much-needed win yesterday, defeating Michigan State 35-24 in Columbus. OSU benefited from a freak play at the end of the first half. After Nate Salley blocked a rush-job field goal attempt, Ashton Youboty took the ball 72 yards down the field for a Buckeye touchdown. Receivers Santonio Holmes and Ted Ginn, Jr. looked like their old selves, scoring touchdowns. I'd like to celebrate the return of the Buckeyes, but it seems premature. Even though the offense stepped up in the second half, it's still unpredictable and inconsistent. If OSU runs the table, it can win the Big Ten championship. I'd love to see that happen; however, I'm not sure if this group is really up to the task.
Logo courtesy of The Ohio State University.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Thank you, Wolverines!
Because so many people ragged on me following Ohio State's loss to Penn State, I'm really enjoying PSU's 27-25 loss to Michigan today. It's definitely worthy of a Jerry Seinfeld-like "That's a shame". I said before that I couldn't see Michigan losing two straight games at home, and I was right. However, I know the Wolverines needed a last-second miracle to pull this one out and hand PSU its first loss of the season.
According to the Associated Press, after the game, Nittany Lions head coach Joe Paterno didn't make his players available for comment. That's just weak. If PSU had won, Paterno would've let his guys talk smack to the press.
Michigan needed this win to save its season. A loss today would've been No. 4 for 2005, and likely led to a meltdown within the Wolverines' program.
Props to Sirius for carrying this game, as well as the Ohio State and Notre Dame games.
Logo courtesy of The University of Michigan.
Friday, October 14, 2005
Reward for class act
Ken Macha is back as the manager of the Oakland Athletics. This came just days after contract negotiations broke down and he left the team.
Macha called General Manager Billy Beane to say "thank you"; the conversation led to a new three-year deal for Macha.
This just goes to show that, many times, it pays to be classy.
Macha called General Manager Billy Beane to say "thank you"; the conversation led to a new three-year deal for Macha.
This just goes to show that, many times, it pays to be classy.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Instant replay needed
A controversial call didn't decide last night's game between the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the Chicago White Sox. But, that call did play an important role in the game's outcome.It's evident that A.J. Pierzynski struck out in the bottom of the ninth inning. But, it's anyone's guess whether the catcher caught or trapped the ball. In addition, it's not clear if umpire Doug Eddings called "strike three" or "three outs".
In any event, Pierzynski safely made it to first base, and his pinch runner scored the winning run.
This is a great example of why baseball needs instant replay. Is there a worse time than the postseason for a blown call? With so much at stake, these games should be affected by what the players do, not what the umpires do. We already know, for the most part, that umpires are unwilling and unable to consult each other to make sure the right call is made. So, why not allow someone off the field to use a machine to get the job done?
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Insults fly for Yankees
New York Yankees pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre, who has not been shy about saying he has one foot out the door, slammed team owner George Steinbrenner. Stottlemyre said his boss was ripping manager Joe Torre by congratulating the Angels for their division series victory.
Other than money, I don't think there's any reason for Stottlemyre or Torre to stick around. They've already won championships. And, the promise of more titles probably isn't enough to offset all the abuse they take from Steinbrenner. Just quit and let him pick up the pieces and rebuild.
Other than money, I don't think there's any reason for Stottlemyre or Torre to stick around. They've already won championships. And, the promise of more titles probably isn't enough to offset all the abuse they take from Steinbrenner. Just quit and let him pick up the pieces and rebuild.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Enjoy it now
Penn State is undefeated heading into Saturday's matchup with Michigan. Enjoy it now, PSU, because I don't really see the Wolverines losing two straight games in Ann Arbor. I'm also not sure the Lions have much left after the emotional win against Ohio State last weekend.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Yankees crash and burn
The outfield collision between Gary Sheffield and Bubba Crosby in Game 7 tonight was basically the defining moment of the Yankees' 2005 season. The Yanks crashed and burned, losing their division series to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
This should be a fun offseason in The Bronx. I can't wait to see who becomes the target of George Steinbrenner's wrath. He doesn't shell out $200 million a season just to win division championships. Two of his highest-priced investments, Jason Giambi and Alex Rodriguez, have turned out to be financial drains who haven't helped the Yanks win a World Series.
Although I'm a native New Yorker, I'm not sad to see the Yankees' season end. This team doesn't have anyone classy I can get behind. Randy Johnson's confrontation with a WCBS-TV news crew got his Yankee tenure off to the wrong start. Reports say Giambi is a juicer. Joe Torre is the only thing classy about this organization.
This should be a fun offseason in The Bronx. I can't wait to see who becomes the target of George Steinbrenner's wrath. He doesn't shell out $200 million a season just to win division championships. Two of his highest-priced investments, Jason Giambi and Alex Rodriguez, have turned out to be financial drains who haven't helped the Yanks win a World Series.
Although I'm a native New Yorker, I'm not sad to see the Yankees' season end. This team doesn't have anyone classy I can get behind. Randy Johnson's confrontation with a WCBS-TV news crew got his Yankee tenure off to the wrong start. Reports say Giambi is a juicer. Joe Torre is the only thing classy about this organization.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Beware of jerks
We could have seen this coming, I guess. Once again, in prime time, Ohio State took a gigantic crap on the field. This time, it happened against Penn State.
Fellow Buckeye fans, welcome back to the John Cooper era, during which OSU made an art of losing key games that were within its reach.
My wife has a slightly different take. She says OSU lacks the talent level to do anything significant this year. I totally agree.
What's even worse is that I have a few cohorts who seemingly have it out for me and for OSU, and live to see the Buckeyes lose. They'll never say anything to me when OSU wins. But, when OSU tanks, these guys love to crow about it.
My analysis: some of these so-called friends have never won anything in their lifetimes, so they have to live vicariously through teams to which they don't even have a connection.
They could take valuable life lessons from people like guest commentator Marty and my bowling coach Samir, two people who have won championships and don't use their successes as justification to put down anyone unnecessarily.
Fellow Buckeye fans, welcome back to the John Cooper era, during which OSU made an art of losing key games that were within its reach.
My wife has a slightly different take. She says OSU lacks the talent level to do anything significant this year. I totally agree.
What's even worse is that I have a few cohorts who seemingly have it out for me and for OSU, and live to see the Buckeyes lose. They'll never say anything to me when OSU wins. But, when OSU tanks, these guys love to crow about it.
My analysis: some of these so-called friends have never won anything in their lifetimes, so they have to live vicariously through teams to which they don't even have a connection.
They could take valuable life lessons from people like guest commentator Marty and my bowling coach Samir, two people who have won championships and don't use their successes as justification to put down anyone unnecessarily.
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Waiting one more day
Too bad the Yankees' game got rained out today. I was hoping to see them follow up on Friday's disaster with another loss. I've been bitter since they beat the Mets in the 2000 Subway Series. So, I'll be pulling hard for the Angels tomorrow.
Friday, October 07, 2005
OSU getting the shaft
The Buckeyes haven't even taken the field yet, and I'm annoyed already. It seems the entire country is rooting for Penn State to beat the Buckeyes. All week long, we've seen news stories about the resurgence of Penn State, and how a win over the Buckeyes would put PSU on the inside track to win the Big Ten title.
Yes, that's all true. But, PSU shouldn't have needed to make a resurgence. It never should've fallen off the radar screen in the first place.
The following is all true:
-Over the last few years, the Nittany Lions have seen Pittsburgh gain the upper hand when it comes to recruiting within Pennsylvania.
-Joe Paterno is regarded, by most people outside Pennsylvania, as a coach who's simply held on too long, as he's posted some losing records in the last few years.
-Penn State's arrival into the Big Ten was overhyped, and the Nittany Lions have only won the conference title once (1994).
A win tomorrow would be a big step for PSU, but they're not going to win a national championship.
Yes, that's all true. But, PSU shouldn't have needed to make a resurgence. It never should've fallen off the radar screen in the first place.
The following is all true:
-Over the last few years, the Nittany Lions have seen Pittsburgh gain the upper hand when it comes to recruiting within Pennsylvania.
-Joe Paterno is regarded, by most people outside Pennsylvania, as a coach who's simply held on too long, as he's posted some losing records in the last few years.
-Penn State's arrival into the Big Ten was overhyped, and the Nittany Lions have only won the conference title once (1994).
A win tomorrow would be a big step for PSU, but they're not going to win a national championship.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Not wild about tour's new name
Pro bowling has a new name. The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and Denny's recently announced a three-year, multi-million dollar title sponsorship deal. So, the tour will be called the Denny's PBA Tour through at least the 2007-08 season.I enjoy the food at Denny's, but I'm not wild about this whole concept. Having corporate names attached to tournaments is one thing. But, having a company's name attached to the tour itself is something else. I guess pro bowling really needs the sponsorship money.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Penn State lucks out
It seems that Penn State is good every other year. Apparently, this is going to be a good season for the Nittany Lions. They're undefeated and sitting at No. 16 as they get ready to host No. 8 Ohio State on Saturday.
Penn State looks good on paper, but it's only beaten one ranked team in 2005(Minnesota). The Lions should be thankful they don't have to go to Columbus. If this game was in the Horseshoe, the Lions would have almost no shot.
Penn State looks good on paper, but it's only beaten one ranked team in 2005(Minnesota). The Lions should be thankful they don't have to go to Columbus. If this game was in the Horseshoe, the Lions would have almost no shot.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Not a bad year for Mets
It doesn't take much for us to rip on the New York Mets. That task became even easier once the Mets faded from the National League playoff picture.But, the Mets didn't have such a horrible year. They finished above .500, with a record of 83-79.
Now, there's something positive to build on. Anything short of a playoff appearance next season should be considered a failure. For as much as this team spends on players, it has every reason to expect a winner. No excuses now!
Monday, October 03, 2005
No game in Philly today
The Philadelphia Phillies won't be taking the field today. That's because the Houston Astros wrapped up the National League's Wild Card spot yesterday, preventing a tiebreaker game which would've been played in Philly.It must suck big-time to be a Philadelphia fan. The Eagles got 2005 started by losing the Super Bowl to the New England Patriots. Now, the Phillies have, once again, missed the playoffs. Looks like the most surly fans in sports have even more reason to be surly.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Red Sox in the mix
The defending world champions are in Major League Baseball's 2005 playoffs. The Cleveland Indians' loss today clinched the American League's Wild Card spot for the Boston Red Sox.
While it was fun and interesting to see meaningful baseball games played in Cleveland again, I'm glad the Red Sox are in the mix. For years, New York Yankee fans have tried to make life hell for Red Sox fans. Turnabout is fair play, and it's been fun to see that since Boston won last year's World Series. I'd love to hear what Yankee fans would have to say if the Sox repeat.
While it was fun and interesting to see meaningful baseball games played in Cleveland again, I'm glad the Red Sox are in the mix. For years, New York Yankee fans have tried to make life hell for Red Sox fans. Turnabout is fair play, and it's been fun to see that since Boston won last year's World Series. I'd love to hear what Yankee fans would have to say if the Sox repeat.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Is new stadium necessary?
So much for the New York Jets moving into the city. The Jets and Giants agreed to build a stadium in New Jersey's Meadowlands; it will be the first NFL venue to be owned and operated by two teams. The new facility will be near state-owned Giants Stadium and the Meadowlands Racetrack (pictured).Why is a new stadium necessary? So the teams can have more overpriced suites and luxury boxes?
According to published reports, the Jets and Giants will split the cost of building the stadium. This is a step in the right direction. Too often, teams want new stadiums, and they expect taxpayers to pick up the costs.
New Jersey's governor praised the Jets/Giants stadium deal, saying it would create "tens of thousands of new jobs". That sounds like typical political bullsh** to me. I think his math is more than a little bit off. Savvy voters will hold him accountable for such an outlandish claim.
