....to make fun of!
I will try to follow the Ohio Valley conference all year. We'll see how long this lasts.
Picks for 11/13 - and feel free to make fun of them:
Morehead +26 vs Kentucky
Austin Peay +23 vs Tennessee
Minnesota -19 vs Tenn Tech
Siena -10.5 at Tenn St
Bonus:
Youngstown St +20 vs Xavier
Nov 12, 2009
Nov 7, 2009
NFL Week 9: Carolina Cherry
The 9th hole is where things start to get serious at the Masters. You start to settle in for the long haul - you get your bowl of radishes and the beer nearby - and when the leaders approach the 9th, that's the start of 3 hours where you don't move from the couch. It's the start of the stretch where you know the lay of the land for each hole - and where not to hit it.
For instance, who will leave it short on 9 and have it spin back off the false front? Who will be abvoe the hole and have a 60 foot putt where you aim 90 degrees away from the hole?
It's where the tournament starts to take shape. This is where Norman spun the ball off the green and made double to lose his lead in the 1996 Masters. It's where Nicklaus started his birdie barrage of 3 in a row in 86.
And - look at the games this week - this week is where the NFL season will start to really shape itself. Look at all the key games! Many games feature two contenders going head to head that will start to decide things. Mia-NE. Hou-Ind. Bal-Cin. SD-NYG. Dal-Phi. Pit-Den. We're starting to play important games here that will form the concrete memories of the 2009 season.
Talking about memories, one of the greatest golf lines ever was spoken on the 9th hole. Back in the late 90s, Steve, Kermit and I would meet in Columbus 5-6 times every spring and summer to meet up and play a round. One April day - it was cold and windy - we met at Bent Tree, just north of Columbus.
Steve and I were teammates - and we were playing Kermit and Ken ( I think). The weather being 45 degrees, Kermit was in hs customary T-shirt and shorts attire.
Anyway, we were playing our normal game - $2, 2-down auto presses - and a new bet started on the 9th hole. We get to the 9th, and I think Steve and I were both in with bogies.
Kermit had about a 9 footer left for par to win the hole and (at that time) a lot of money.
Steve and I tried to psych him out - "look out for that break! Mine broke left but Eric's broke right". Kermit would have none of it.
He rose from his crouch after reading the putt and said, loudly and clearly:
"This putt is as straight as my long, hard, erect dick".
There was no doubt in my mind that we lost at that moment. I think Kermit even putted it in left handed just for emphasis.
With that visual, the games for week 9:
GB 27, TB 10. I don't have a lot of faith in the Packers - with the young offensive line - but geesh, Tampa is horrid.
NE 31, Mia 16. I think this is a let down game for the Dolphins - and Belichick won't let the Pats forget last year.
Jax 20, KC 13. Yikes. How many people will show up for this one in Jacksonville?
Ind 34, Hou 17. It's time to go against the Texans again. And I think this is a statement game for the Colts - to make sure everyone know who's still boss in the AFC South.
Cin 27, Bal 24. I still have a lot of questions about Baltimore's pass defense. Palmer will be able to move the ball against them.
Az 23, Chi 16. Boy, for winning 30-6, the Bears were thoroughly unimpressive against us last week. And I have benched Forte for good.
Atl 24, Was 13. I keep being disappointed in the Falcons. Something tells me they should be better than they are.....but they aren't.
Sea 23, Det 20, OT. Just a wild hunch.
NO 27, Car 20. I think this is the real Carolina - they are not a bad team if Delhomme doesn't shoot them in the foot.
SF 27, Ten 13. Nope - not buying Vince against a decent 49ers team.
NYG 31, SD 20. I just can't see Norv coming to NY and beating a Tom Coughlin-coaached team that is angry and has lost 3 in a row.
Phi 26, Dal 17. I give up with the Cowboys. Going with my heart and sayign the Eagles' pressure will force too many mistakes by Romo.
Den 27, Pit 20. A high scoring game here, especially with Pittsburgh's offense. I think McDaniel will have them ready at home on Monday night. Just like next week, right? The home team will be ready to go next Monday night? Right? Right? Hello? Is this thing on?
Best bets: 16 of them this week. 7-5 last week; 51-49-2 overall.
GB -9.5
GB/TB under 43.5
NE -10.5
KC/Jax under 41.5
Ind -8.5
Cin +2.5
Bal/Cin over 44.5
Az +2.5
Det +10
Car +13
SF -4
NYG -4.5
Phi -2.5
Dal/Phi under 50
Den +2.5
Pit/Den over 40
Nov 6, 2009
Monopoly
Lee and I were chatting last night about what is something new that we can do out in Vegas for our March trip and while we already decided on Monopoly tourney, Lee added a wonderful component that could take it to the next level. Instead of using play money, we use real money instead. We are still working out the details and how much money will need to be put up to support the bank (maybe we can contact the Feds who can help out) but holy crap this would be exciting.
We got Eric on the horn to help us out with details and all we heard from him was "you guys are idiots." No solutions.
So we need some assistance on how we can keep the entry fee within reason but still play with real money.
We got Eric on the horn to help us out with details and all we heard from him was "you guys are idiots." No solutions.
So we need some assistance on how we can keep the entry fee within reason but still play with real money.
Nov 2, 2009
Election Day Preview
So many things going on right now - for example: George Kokinis, the GM of the Browns, being escorted out of the building.....
.....but it's time for a quick Election day 2009 Preview! Some very interesting races to watch tomorrow:
1. Virginia Governor: Obama won this state and officially made it "purple"; it may have even been purple when Jim Webb defeated George Allen in 2006 (with the help of the Macaca comment and the Washington Post).
However, the Republican (McDonnell) is solidly ahead of the Democrat (Deeds). Off-the-record reporting has the White House already complaining about the campaigning style of Deeds.
This race was close for a while - but now it seems that the Republican is pulling ahead. If the margin is 12-15%, this should send shivers down the spines of many Democrtic senators and reps that were elected from purple states like Virginia.
A McDonnell win of 14% or more signifies a massive vote against Obama in VA; a win of 6-7% or less can be spun favorably for the White House.
EZ line: McDonnell -10.3%
2. New Jersey Governor: Jon Corzine (D) is one of the most unpopular governors in the country - and still may win tomorrow. His ceiling for hte vote is about 43-45%; the race is complicated, as a moderate, heavy-set Republican (Chris Christie) is running as well as a rich Independent. The Indepedent is consisntely polling over 10%.
( I call out Christie's weight because - well, he has done so himself. He has challneged Corzine to stop with the snide comments on his weight and said "Man Up, Governor - Call me Fat!")
The polls are all right around 44-44-12; this is a classic race where the independent voters will decide it and figure out who to vote for - and whether they feel like making a statement by voting for the independent. If the independent gets over 15%, Corzine wins; if he gets less than 10%, Christie wins. It will be fascinating to see how many people say "to hell with both parties" and vote for the Independent.
EZ Line: Corzine -1.0%
3. New York 23rd Congressional: Wow. Where do I start here? This is a special election for a representative in Congress in a traditional Republican district. The parties' nominees were determined by the parties, not by a primary - and the Republicans nomintes a moderate- to - liberal woman, Dede Scozzafava.
Well, the Conservative Party in New York - who usually also nominates the person nominated by the R's - decided not to back Dede, but a conservative, Doug Hoffman. (Just don't ask about New York's wild election rules/parties).
The Conservative party is dominated by the "Tea Party" activists - those for less spending, less taxes, and less government intervention.
Most of the R leadership - but not all - supported Dede to begin with, but some signifncant others, like Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin, supported Hoffman.
As of last week, this was a very tight 3-way race, with Hoffman gaining momentum.
Then on Saturday, Dede dropped out - and today, she threw her support to.....the Democrat, Bill Owens!
There really isn't a precedent for a race like this in American politics, so it's impossible to figure out what is really going on or predict what will happen. Nonetheless, this is a fight for the Republican party and its principles - and how powerful the Tea Party movement really is.
This race can give many clues for 2010 and beyond. How poluar is the Tea Party? Should the Republicans really stand for something distinct from the last 6-8 years? Do voters really see much of a difference between the two parties - and are they comfortable going otuside the box?
EZ Line: Hoffman -1.5%.
4. Ohio Issue 3. This is like the Cleveland Browns of the 1980s- 3 times the Browns were within one step of the Super Bowl - and 3 times they were turned away.
This is the third attempt to pass legalize Casino gaming on Ohio in the past 4 years. Is this the year? Polls say it will pass....but we have heard this before. I will not get my hopes up.
EZ Line: No, -3.3%
5. Ohio Issue 2. Frankly, I don't care about this - but I did a little vote trading with my mother-in-law. She is a big Issue 2 supporter; I said I would support it if she voted yes on Issue 3. We have a deal!
EZ Line: Yes, -5.6%
.....but it's time for a quick Election day 2009 Preview! Some very interesting races to watch tomorrow:
1. Virginia Governor: Obama won this state and officially made it "purple"; it may have even been purple when Jim Webb defeated George Allen in 2006 (with the help of the Macaca comment and the Washington Post).
However, the Republican (McDonnell) is solidly ahead of the Democrat (Deeds). Off-the-record reporting has the White House already complaining about the campaigning style of Deeds.
This race was close for a while - but now it seems that the Republican is pulling ahead. If the margin is 12-15%, this should send shivers down the spines of many Democrtic senators and reps that were elected from purple states like Virginia.
A McDonnell win of 14% or more signifies a massive vote against Obama in VA; a win of 6-7% or less can be spun favorably for the White House.
EZ line: McDonnell -10.3%
2. New Jersey Governor: Jon Corzine (D) is one of the most unpopular governors in the country - and still may win tomorrow. His ceiling for hte vote is about 43-45%; the race is complicated, as a moderate, heavy-set Republican (Chris Christie) is running as well as a rich Independent. The Indepedent is consisntely polling over 10%.
( I call out Christie's weight because - well, he has done so himself. He has challneged Corzine to stop with the snide comments on his weight and said "Man Up, Governor - Call me Fat!")
The polls are all right around 44-44-12; this is a classic race where the independent voters will decide it and figure out who to vote for - and whether they feel like making a statement by voting for the independent. If the independent gets over 15%, Corzine wins; if he gets less than 10%, Christie wins. It will be fascinating to see how many people say "to hell with both parties" and vote for the Independent.
EZ Line: Corzine -1.0%
3. New York 23rd Congressional: Wow. Where do I start here? This is a special election for a representative in Congress in a traditional Republican district. The parties' nominees were determined by the parties, not by a primary - and the Republicans nomintes a moderate- to - liberal woman, Dede Scozzafava.
Well, the Conservative Party in New York - who usually also nominates the person nominated by the R's - decided not to back Dede, but a conservative, Doug Hoffman. (Just don't ask about New York's wild election rules/parties).
The Conservative party is dominated by the "Tea Party" activists - those for less spending, less taxes, and less government intervention.
Most of the R leadership - but not all - supported Dede to begin with, but some signifncant others, like Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin, supported Hoffman.
As of last week, this was a very tight 3-way race, with Hoffman gaining momentum.
Then on Saturday, Dede dropped out - and today, she threw her support to.....the Democrat, Bill Owens!
There really isn't a precedent for a race like this in American politics, so it's impossible to figure out what is really going on or predict what will happen. Nonetheless, this is a fight for the Republican party and its principles - and how powerful the Tea Party movement really is.
This race can give many clues for 2010 and beyond. How poluar is the Tea Party? Should the Republicans really stand for something distinct from the last 6-8 years? Do voters really see much of a difference between the two parties - and are they comfortable going otuside the box?
EZ Line: Hoffman -1.5%.
4. Ohio Issue 3. This is like the Cleveland Browns of the 1980s- 3 times the Browns were within one step of the Super Bowl - and 3 times they were turned away.
This is the third attempt to pass legalize Casino gaming on Ohio in the past 4 years. Is this the year? Polls say it will pass....but we have heard this before. I will not get my hopes up.
EZ Line: No, -3.3%
5. Ohio Issue 2. Frankly, I don't care about this - but I did a little vote trading with my mother-in-law. She is a big Issue 2 supporter; I said I would support it if she voted yes on Issue 3. We have a deal!
EZ Line: Yes, -5.6%
Short Rest
OK, I get having CC pitch on short rest - he has a proven record of pitching well on short rest. However, once you go down that road - now you are forced to bring back Burnett on short rest. And forced to bring back Pettitte on short rest. Do we know how they will perform on short rest? Burnett who has had TJ surgery in his career, and Pettitte pitching HGH-free at this advanced stage in his career?
All I am saying is that this series ain't over! :)
All I am saying is that this series ain't over! :)
Nov 1, 2009
NFL Week 8: Yellow Jasmine
OK, I'll say it: this hole is porbably the most boring hole on the course. An uphill par 5 with one fairway bunker on the right and a blind shot to teh green which is well guarded by - mounds. Mounds! When you think par 5's at Augusta, you think Water. Rae's creek. The Sarazen bridge.
Here? You think of a big mound to the right of the green - which today's players, with their creativity and prowess, can handle very well.
This is a perfect hole for the players to catch their breath; eagles are extremely rare, and you won't be passed by the field if you par. Just don't make a big mistake and move on.
That's what this week is in the NFL - another "big" bye week, with 6 of the teams sitting out (including my second favorite team this year, the Kansas City Chiefs). There is one marquee game - the Packers-Vikings showdown - but this is so overhyped it's sad. It's like Tiger and Phil walking through #8 - in the 11th group off the tee. Yeah, it's big, but there's so much more going on out there (like the World Series, NBA, the big NY-23 Special Election.....)
It's a boring hole representing a boring NFL week. It was hard for me to remember any 8th holes that are par 5's and fit this bill. The only one I could think of is the 8th at Moraine CC in Dayton, which of course probably none of you have played. It's a downhill, open, 580 yard par 5 that is devoid of any distinguishing characteristics. It's a space filler to get you from the 7th green to the 9th tee.
It's 4 in the morning. I can't do much better than that right now. On to the games:
Bal 27, Den 17. This should be an interesting game; I have to believe the Ravens will come out ready to play for this one.
Chi 28, Cle 10. Ugh.
Hou 24, Buf 16 The Ryan Fitzpatrick tour for the Bills has got to come to an end, right? And it's Houston's turn for a good week.
Ind 33, SF 16. Really - who can stop the Colts right now? Anyone?
Mia 24, NYJ 21 The Dolphins will force Sanchez to try to beat them - and he can't. That's how the saints won last week against Miami - through the air; the Jets don't have the passing game righ tnow to do that. They are very one-dimensional. Miami will take advantage and sweep the series.
StL 27, Det 26. I just can't believe the love the Lions are getting. They still are a 1 win team, you know. People see the Lions as one of the "better" bad teams in teh league. They still have no defense - and the Rams have weapons. I'm calling the upset.
Dal 28, Sea 20. Two teams I have no handle on.
NYG 27, Phi 20. I just don't think the Eagles are that good. I mean, they are good - but not at a high level. And the Giants will be pissed.
SD 27, Oak 10. I don't trust the Chargers to cover this large spread here.
Jax 23, Ten 13. Vince Young returns! please form a line if you are picking him up for your fantasy team.......
Min 28, GB 24. Just a hunch here. Allen vs the Packers' young offensive line, take 2.
Az 27, Car 10. Wow - I do not fathom how the panthers are this awful.
NO 31, Atl 26. Atlanta is a good team. They won't be embarrassed for a second straight week - especially not on Monday night.
Best bets: 12 of them. Bad week last week: 5-8-1; overall: 44-44-1
Bal -3.5
Hou -3
Hou -3
Ind -13
Mia +3.5
StL +4
StL/Det over 43.5
NYG -1
Jax +3
Jax/Ten under 44.5
Min +3
Az -10
Atl +11
Oct 30, 2009
Oct 29, 2009
Lots of action
Love these short little posts everyone is going with. Feels like I'm twittering but a little more cumbersome. Almost like when email came about and you had that one friend that continued to send letters. Classic.
Anyway, had to complete 2 hours of Sexual Harassment training yesterday and they had skit that hit a little too close for home. They had this thing about blogging and the content that is posted and how that cane come back on you at work. Hmmm. Better be careful.
Anyway, had to complete 2 hours of Sexual Harassment training yesterday and they had skit that hit a little too close for home. They had this thing about blogging and the content that is posted and how that cane come back on you at work. Hmmm. Better be careful.
Fashion Question
So today, I see someone walking down our hallway in blue jeans....and a formal dark blue blazer.
Quick poll: Is this fashionable or douchy? I say douchy, but most of you know my taste in fashion lacks a lot.
Quick poll: Is this fashionable or douchy? I say douchy, but most of you know my taste in fashion lacks a lot.
I'm Torn...
I hate the Yankees, but I also hate the National League and all things Philadelphia (minus the cheesesteaks). So, short of the stadium collapsing, I'm not sure what to root for.
Clearly, Schillzilla has let his Yankee hatred make his pick for him. I think that that's an easier call when you're a Red Sawx fan, but it's not that cut and dried for me. I watched the game last night and figured that I would just naturally root for one team that would just be what it was. I found myself rooting against both teams, hating it when either was successful, unable to enjoy either team's success.
Can anyone help me make this decision? Or should I just start my Patriot league college hoops prep now and write off baseball all together?
Clearly, Schillzilla has let his Yankee hatred make his pick for him. I think that that's an easier call when you're a Red Sawx fan, but it's not that cut and dried for me. I watched the game last night and figured that I would just naturally root for one team that would just be what it was. I found myself rooting against both teams, hating it when either was successful, unable to enjoy either team's success.
Can anyone help me make this decision? Or should I just start my Patriot league college hoops prep now and write off baseball all together?
Its good to have Pedro back
In the spirit of Pedro, I think I might be the most influential blogger on the Internet.
I hope Burnett craps all over himself tonight. Mwuhahahah!
I hope Burnett craps all over himself tonight. Mwuhahahah!
Oct 27, 2009
What's worse?
Listening to people complain about bad beats in poker or people complaining about fantasy football.
Oct 26, 2009
Let's go Skins.
Wow the Skins are bad. And I know it was hammered into the ground tonight by the announcing crew, but these players stink. Not too sure if it is the play calling.
1. Had a big integration presentation at one of the new company's office location today. Had to talk for 90 minutes while this fat older lady in the front row sat with her legs semi open in a mini skirt right in front of me. Sort of distracting. And not in a "Hmmm, what do we have here" way, but in a "WTF, close your legs woman!!!" type of way.
2. I've been wondering what products Trader Joes sells that attracts an insane amount of attractive women compared to other grocery stores. The answer after many mornings and evenings of research? Greek Yogurt and 29 cent apples.
3. Carol and I were discussing what to do for Thanksgiving and my wonderful wife wants to go to Vegas. Done and done. 4-1 odds that Carol will have the baby on the floor of the Mirage. Even odds that I won't walk away from a hot craps table if she is having the baby on the floor of the Mirage.
1. Had a big integration presentation at one of the new company's office location today. Had to talk for 90 minutes while this fat older lady in the front row sat with her legs semi open in a mini skirt right in front of me. Sort of distracting. And not in a "Hmmm, what do we have here" way, but in a "WTF, close your legs woman!!!" type of way.
2. I've been wondering what products Trader Joes sells that attracts an insane amount of attractive women compared to other grocery stores. The answer after many mornings and evenings of research? Greek Yogurt and 29 cent apples.
3. Carol and I were discussing what to do for Thanksgiving and my wonderful wife wants to go to Vegas. Done and done. 4-1 odds that Carol will have the baby on the floor of the Mirage. Even odds that I won't walk away from a hot craps table if she is having the baby on the floor of the Mirage.
A statement
At 2:45 this Sunday, I went outside and played football in the backyard with Freddie and Warren. It was a lot of fun - a nice, 65 degree day. Freddie is practicing punting - he loved to kick off to us - and then I would lateral to Warren and "hold" Freddie so Warren could run all the way across the yard.
Some of you think that this is a wonderful moment in the life of a father. And it is!
Some of you can also understand the hint of sadness as I write that.
Some of you think that this is a wonderful moment in the life of a father. And it is!
Some of you can also understand the hint of sadness as I write that.
Oct 25, 2009
NFL Week 7: Pampas
Many people say that the tournament at Augusta starts on Sunday on the 10th tee. I disagree. I think the 7th hole is where the pressure starts to mount and where the players are first fully tested. The 7th is where we start to figure out who is for real and who just got lucky for the first 6 holes.
Maybe it's because of the CBS TV coverage - where for many years, TV coverage on Saturday and Sunday was only limited to 3 hours - so the 7th was really the first hole that TV viewers got to see many golfers play.
It's a tight par 4 that now requires an accurate drive to thread the trees. What's left is a mid iron to a very narrow, sloped green that is well bunkered. A par is a good score - and it will punish any off line shots for those not on their games.
Think about it. You come out of commercial - and Jim Nantz tells you "Let's go to 7 - here is Justin Rose, making an early move...he's -3 thru the first 6. " And then whack - into the trees. He's done. You know it, Nantz knows in, Feherty knows it. The 7th is the first test for these pretenders. Rose is on his way to a 6, and you don't worry about him again.
It works the other way as well...."Here's Shingo Katayama with a delicate downhill putt.....and it's in! He's now 2 back!" Now you unconsciously consider him a contender.
The most appropriate equivalent hole for the 7th at Augusta is the 7th at Blue Ash. A medium length, tight hole - it requires a good drive. The 7th at Blue Ash has one fairway bunker - a bunker that I hit 6 straight times in 2006-07 that it is now known as the Zahn bunker.
(I made par from there 4 out of 6 times, however, much to the dismay of Don).
So - this is the week to separate the leaders from the possible contenders. Which teams at 4-2, 3-3, 3-2 will birdie and go up the leaderboard -and which will mess up here and not be heard from again on the telecast? This is a crucial week for Stephen Ames-like and Scott Verplank-like teams, such as Dallas, San Diego, Green Bay, NY Jets, Arizona, and Philly.
NE 34, TB 13. Will Belicheck be comfortable enough to run up the score for the Brits in London? I say yes. They will see more points here than in a season of Aston Villa games.
(Ha! I kill me....)
Ind 34, StL 19. St Louis can move the ball - I predict a couple of garbage touchdowns here for the Rams in the 4th quarter.
Pit 26, Min 24. NFL secret #1 that I told you last week: Baltimore's pass defense isn't very good.
Secret #2: Pittsburgh's isn't much better.
SD 22, KC 21. Cracks are showing in the Chargers' armour! LT vs Norv! Offense vs Defense! Will the Broncos clich the division by week 10?
SF 27, Hou 20. Gore is back - the 49ers are on a bye - and the zig-zag theory says the Texans are due for a bad game. This game may not even be this close.
Cle 20, GB 17. If I'm the Packers, I am scared of this game. The Browns play better at home (well, let's be clear - Derek Anderson plays better at home). The Browns are not as bad as they are made out to be (I believe we are 34th in the power rankings) because of our schedule (4 of the last 5 on the road, we've played 5 playoff contenders (2 of them undefeated), and the Browns have not quit/abandoned the coach. Mangini is made out to be the devil because he installs discipline- yet Rex Ryan is now starting to make the Jets run laps in New York and he's regarded as a genius who is bringing tough love at the right time.
Cleveland, though void of talent, will not beat itself. The Packers have weaknesses, and may be looking forward to next week's home game vs. Favre.
NYJ 20, Oak 10. I truly believe that last week represents the best that Oakland can play - and they still only won by 4 over an Eagles team willing to give them the game.
Car 24, Buf 10. Likewise, Buffalo played about as good as they could last week - and won in overtime against a team that threw 6 interceptions. That's not happening again. (you do know that Jake Delhomme is still the QB in Carolina, right? -ed.)
NO 20, Mia 17. Don't you think that Miami's strategy against the Saints will be the same one that almost worked against the Colts?
Atl 23, Dal 17. In Dallas - there's no "there" there. What does Dallas do well? Quickly......
They have no wins of note. They struggle vs. good defenses. I don't see it.
Cin 30, Chi 20. I think Cincinnati is another "zig-zag" team. They will bounce back.
NYG 28, Az 20. No real idea on what will happen here.
Phi 19, Was 16. The last stand for Zorn and the Skins. They will make a game of this.
Best bets: 14 this week. (Last week: 9-6-1; overall: 39-36-1)
NE -15
Ind/StL over 45.5
NE -15
Ind/StL over 45.5
Min +6
KC +5
SF +3
NYJ -6
Car -7
Mia +6
NO/Mia under 47.5
Atl +4.5
Atl/Dal under 48
Cin pk
Chi/Cin over 42.5
Was +7
Oct 21, 2009
What a racket
So - after months of using the gym for the treadmill, pool and hot tub (and the occasional pick-up basketball game), I got the courage to go to the personal training desk and ask for an initial consultation with a personal trainer. My goal was to see if I could get advice on exercises that I could do to get better in shape and improve my golf performance.
Wow - I really did not know what kind of shark-tank used-car salesman atmosphere I signed up for.
So, the initial meeting started off by me filling out a questionnaire. One of the first questions:
"How motivated are you to achieve your fitness goals?" (on a scale of 1-10)
Honestly? I mean, I could lie and put "10" - but I know that Sausage McMuffins with egg trumps that motivation every time. So I put "4". I think that's realistic.
"What do you eat for meals each day?" I mean, what kind of question is that? I don't eat the same thing for lunch or dinner. Breakfast? I was honest again and said "nothing, or a granola bar". Yeah, yeah, yeah, it's bad.
Snacks? Well, a cookie in the afternoon....
Then I did a series of tests. First was the upper body strength test. They gave me a bar (hooked up to a computer), and asked me to "curl" it like a bicep curl.
He said go - I pulled - and the bar did not move. After 2 seconds of panicing, he told me it was not supposed to move. Thanks for having me think I was as strong as a 10 year old girl.
Next was the flexibility test. I sat on the ground, feet straight out and against the wall, and my back at a 90 degree angle to the floor.
Then, I put my hands straight out. He then instructed me to bend forward and reach as far forward as I can.
I didn't miss a beat. I said "you mean, in addition to what I am doing now?" My arms went forward a good 3-4 inches more.
Next, the fat test. They were supposed to use that caliper thingy and pinch my fat to figure out a body percentage. I have no idea what that is supposed to do, or measure. They tried to get some skin in an area between my nipple and arm pit (would this be called the upper right chest area?)
Well, after 5 attempts at doing this, they couldn't "grab" a good enough sample, so they just took some measurements and said that was good enough. I wasn't sure if I should feel embarrased or thankful.
Finally, there was the heart rate/VO2 test....whatever VO2 stands for. I ran for five minutes on a treadmill without passing out.
The results came back. He reviewed them with me:
- Upper body strength came back as "average". I'm as shocked as anyone about this. I can't believe I am considered as high as average. Well, that's good!
- Flexibility was off the charts bad. Well, I shouldn't say off the charts. On the bar chart that showed where I stood in relation to people in my age group, I saw a slight sliver of the bar on the left. So I guess there is one or two 37 year olds in America that is less flexible than me.
- Body fat? Hoo boy. Let's just say my body fat percentage equals a good 9-hole golf score for me. Is this really right?
- I have average-to-above-average cardio performance.
I mean, you think about the above results - it's like I am four different people. How can I have that high body fat and yet run 6 miles a day?
Now came the hard sell.
"What's your target weight loss?" he asked. Wel, most of you can guess within 10 pounds or so on my weight. I said I would like to lose 20 pounds.
"Well, I think - in 10 months - we can get to you a target weight of 158 pounds".
I just laughed at him.
Next, he stressed the importance of understanding my heart rate and how it affects my workout. "Here are monitors that can give you that infomration during your workout" - starting from $200 to $400. I said no, I'll pass for now.
Now, the final sell.
"As far as a training plan, I can work with you 2 or 3 times a week, where we work on different areas to get you in shape.Maybe even have you run a mini-marathon!"
How much is each session, I wondered?
"Each session with me is $69. So that's a cost of..... $550-$800 dollars per month."
I was literally speechless for 30 seconds as I tried to process that information.
Am I expecting too much if my expectations are:
- to meet with a trainer once a month (or so)
- get some ideas for exercises from teh trainer
- I go off on my own and do them (let's be honest - maybe 8 times a month)
- check in with him every month to review progress
?
Is this not an option in their world?
Wow - I really did not know what kind of shark-tank used-car salesman atmosphere I signed up for.
So, the initial meeting started off by me filling out a questionnaire. One of the first questions:
"How motivated are you to achieve your fitness goals?" (on a scale of 1-10)
Honestly? I mean, I could lie and put "10" - but I know that Sausage McMuffins with egg trumps that motivation every time. So I put "4". I think that's realistic.
"What do you eat for meals each day?" I mean, what kind of question is that? I don't eat the same thing for lunch or dinner. Breakfast? I was honest again and said "nothing, or a granola bar". Yeah, yeah, yeah, it's bad.
Snacks? Well, a cookie in the afternoon....
Then I did a series of tests. First was the upper body strength test. They gave me a bar (hooked up to a computer), and asked me to "curl" it like a bicep curl.
He said go - I pulled - and the bar did not move. After 2 seconds of panicing, he told me it was not supposed to move. Thanks for having me think I was as strong as a 10 year old girl.
Next was the flexibility test. I sat on the ground, feet straight out and against the wall, and my back at a 90 degree angle to the floor.
Then, I put my hands straight out. He then instructed me to bend forward and reach as far forward as I can.
I didn't miss a beat. I said "you mean, in addition to what I am doing now?" My arms went forward a good 3-4 inches more.
Next, the fat test. They were supposed to use that caliper thingy and pinch my fat to figure out a body percentage. I have no idea what that is supposed to do, or measure. They tried to get some skin in an area between my nipple and arm pit (would this be called the upper right chest area?)
Well, after 5 attempts at doing this, they couldn't "grab" a good enough sample, so they just took some measurements and said that was good enough. I wasn't sure if I should feel embarrased or thankful.
Finally, there was the heart rate/VO2 test....whatever VO2 stands for. I ran for five minutes on a treadmill without passing out.
The results came back. He reviewed them with me:
- Upper body strength came back as "average". I'm as shocked as anyone about this. I can't believe I am considered as high as average. Well, that's good!
- Flexibility was off the charts bad. Well, I shouldn't say off the charts. On the bar chart that showed where I stood in relation to people in my age group, I saw a slight sliver of the bar on the left. So I guess there is one or two 37 year olds in America that is less flexible than me.
- Body fat? Hoo boy. Let's just say my body fat percentage equals a good 9-hole golf score for me. Is this really right?
- I have average-to-above-average cardio performance.
I mean, you think about the above results - it's like I am four different people. How can I have that high body fat and yet run 6 miles a day?
Now came the hard sell.
"What's your target weight loss?" he asked. Wel, most of you can guess within 10 pounds or so on my weight. I said I would like to lose 20 pounds.
"Well, I think - in 10 months - we can get to you a target weight of 158 pounds".
I just laughed at him.
Next, he stressed the importance of understanding my heart rate and how it affects my workout. "Here are monitors that can give you that infomration during your workout" - starting from $200 to $400. I said no, I'll pass for now.
Now, the final sell.
"As far as a training plan, I can work with you 2 or 3 times a week, where we work on different areas to get you in shape.Maybe even have you run a mini-marathon!"
How much is each session, I wondered?
"Each session with me is $69. So that's a cost of..... $550-$800 dollars per month."
I was literally speechless for 30 seconds as I tried to process that information.
Am I expecting too much if my expectations are:
- to meet with a trainer once a month (or so)
- get some ideas for exercises from teh trainer
- I go off on my own and do them (let's be honest - maybe 8 times a month)
- check in with him every month to review progress
?
Is this not an option in their world?
Oct 20, 2009
Ian Poulter's Closet
A little video:
Ian Poulter's Closet
Now, I know you guys probably hate him cause he's a Euro but this is crazy. 26 pairs of shoes. Quote of video "I'm gonna have to be feeling confident to go on the course..." referring to a pair of red and pink golf shoes. I wouldn't have thought he had a problem with confidence and his attire.
Ian Poulter's Closet
Now, I know you guys probably hate him cause he's a Euro but this is crazy. 26 pairs of shoes. Quote of video "I'm gonna have to be feeling confident to go on the course..." referring to a pair of red and pink golf shoes. I wouldn't have thought he had a problem with confidence and his attire.
Oct 17, 2009
NFL Week 6: Juniper
The 6th at Augusta is a relatively short par 3, downhill to a large but tricky green. The scenery is beautiful - it is next to the 16th and you have to hit over a hill filled with blooming flowers - but the hole itself is unremarkable, except for the green.
You must position yourself on the correct portion of the green to guarantee a par - if you are on the wrong tier, it's death - and you can't 2 putt. The tee shot is not the issue - the problems arise on the green.
As I was going through the games, the picking seemed fairly striaghtforward this week until the later games - then it became difficult. The 1:00 games seemed easy to pick winners - but the 4:00 and onward presented challenges. Az-Sea? Chi-Atl? Den-SD? A good day picking can be for nought if you don't finish properly.
As I was racking my brain for 6th holes that are a par 3 that fit this description, the only one that came to mind was the 6th at Grand Victoria. A short par 3 (140 yards) over water puts you on a green that is severely sloped. A certain Phillies fan on the blog putted off the green last time we played. However, it's easy to lose concentration on a casino golf course - if you get off to a bad start, all you want to do is leave after 9 and go roll the dice. They should hold all Amateur tournaments at Casino golf courses to additionally test the mental states of golfers.
But then I came upon anohter par-3 6th hole, one that is probably the highlight of my golfing career. It was at Kirtland CC in Cleveland, and I was playing in the 2003 US Open Sectional. If I win, I go on to play with Tiger, im Furyk and all at Olympia Fields (in, honestly, one of the more forgettable US Opens in memory).
After chipping in for birdie on #1 (why didn't the USGA replace the 36-hole round with a sudden death playoff?), I was even coming to #6. I hit the green, and faced a very delicate 25 footer down the hill.
There were about 40 people around the green - half were part of the Youngstown Mafia* following my playing partner (we were in twosomes), and half were there to see Chad Campbell playing 4 groups behind. The 6th green was near the clubhouse, so it was a logical point for spectators to gather watching players go by.
I somehow rolled in the 25 footer to go 1 under, and with the crowd gently clapping (which included Kermit, who managed to get out of bed at get to the course by 9:30 am!) - I gave them my patented pompous, arrogant wave. It's the smug one-handed subtle wave that I used to piss Steve off with in 1990 - and I kept it ever since.
Anyway, with that trip down memory lane over, let's see if the Browns will allow me to give that arrogant wave to my Steelers neighbor this week. On to the picks:
KC 20, Was 17. Gees, most of you probably think I'm a Chiefs fan - by the way I pick them every week.
TB 17, Car 16. I think Carolina is awful and can lose on the road to anyone.
Pit 20, Cle 13. I don't think people realize that the Browns defense has actaully been playing solid the last few games.
NO 27, NYG 20. I base this solely on the fact that the Giants haven't beaten anyone of note.
Bal 31, Min 24. I'm interested to see how Baltimore stops Jared Allen - like we did in week 1. And also the fact that Minnesota strgguled to win against the only decent team they played (San Fran). And I don't think the Ravens will lose 3 in a row. You could say that I'm trying to buy a Ravens loss here. If they win , well, I win money. If they lose, I'm happy.
The perfect score here is Min 25, Bal 24.
Jax 23, StL 13. Ugh. And someone actually was thinking of taking the Jags in the suicide pool?
GB 31, Det 17. No defense for Detroit will allow Rodgers to take advantage and score early and often.
Hou 24, Cin 23. Based on the zig-zag theory, it's time to pick the Texans; and the Bengals are due for another letdown. They had the big win vs. the Steelers, then laid an egg against the Browns; they had a big win against the Ravens last week. I don't think the Bengals are good enough to bring their A game week in and week out, consistently.
Sea 23, Az 17. I have no idea on the NFC West. Really.
Phi 27, Oak 7. You have to go against Oakland every week until 1) they cover, or 2) the line is 20 or more. Right?
NYJ 27, Buf 10. I want to say so many things here about the trade, the Bills, the Jets..........but I'm afraid I will gooch the Browns with my thoughts. Yes, the thoughts all relate to the Browns.
Let's just say that I enjoyed seeing a win again for the Browns, and am happy they are playing fundamental football. Playing mistake-free football will allow you to win games that the opponents hand to you. That's what Buffalo did. Excelling in the fundamentals will give you 4-5 wins a year, no matter what the talent level - because the coaching on other teams is so bad.
NE 33, Ten 17. CMON, CMON Brady - break out here. I need you.
Atl 26, Chi 23, OT. No real good gut feeling on this game.
SD 24, Den 17. I do believe in the power of being desperate - and SD, off a bye, is desperate.
Best bets of the week: 16 of them. Last week: 7-7; overall: 37-37.
KC +6
TB +3
Car/TB under 39
NO -3.5
Bal +3
Bal/Min over 44.5
StL/Jax under 43
Hou +5
Sea -3
Az/Sea under 46.5
Phi -14
Phi/Oak under 40.5
NYJ -9.5
NE -9
Ten/NE over 42.5
SD -3.5
* - I don't believe I am lying about the Mafia thing. There were some truly shady characters in our gallery all day. Steve - thoughts?
Oct 16, 2009
4 days, 40 miles, 1 pair of socks
For those who don't know, Derek and I just finished running a trip based on this article in the June issue of Runner's World. Below is my attempt to recount the run in some amount of detail.Day 1
The trip is finally here! We leave the hotel on Sunday morning around 7:30am and head over to the trailhead. We're cutting a few miles off the beginning of the run, we're planning to do about 7 instead of the 10 that the article calls for. Why push it the first day? Let's see how we do and we can add miles back in later if we feel good. But something tells me that we're not going to feel good at the end of this trip.
The trip is finally here! We leave the hotel on Sunday morning around 7:30am and head over to the trailhead. We're cutting a few miles off the beginning of the run, we're planning to do about 7 instead of the 10 that the article calls for. Why push it the first day? Let's see how we do and we can add miles back in later if we feel good. But something tells me that we're not going to feel good at the end of this trip.
The run is pretty intense, so I'm glad we cut off some of the miles. There are basically three big hills-- a 900 foot climb, a 500 foot climb and a 400 foot climb. Almost as bad as the inclines are the declines. While the uphills tend to be switchbacks, the downhills are basically straight shots down the hill and they are tough on the quads, ankles, and feet. The views are amazing--running up the hills and through the valleys and then back up the hills until we finally run down a final hill to Muir Beach. We run across the beach (not nearly as fun as it sounds) and billygoat it up a STEEP incline to the road. After a consultation with the map, we run about a half mile down the road and end up at the Pelican Inn--the termination of Day 1.
Unfortunately for us, it's about 10:30AM and the Pelican Inn won't let us check in until 3pm. Seems that there was a wedding here the night before and most of the rooms are still occupied. We're pretty sweaty and stinky, so we change in the bathroom off of the main hallway and head out to Sausalito for lunch. Sausalito is nice, but overrated. After lunch we head to the grocery store to pick up a few things and head back to the Pelican Inn to finally check in.
The Pelican Inn is a very authentic English-style bed and breakfast inn, just off of Muir Beach. The lady at the front desk was a complete C when we arrived at 11, but she couldn't be nicer now. She shows us to our rooms, gives us a quick tour of the place and we make reservations for dinner downstairs at 6. After a shower (finally!), unpacking a few things, and generally putzing around for a couple of hours, we head down to dinner. Dinner is surprisingly good and we're in bed by 8.
Day 2
We've learned our lesson from Day 1, so we're starting Day 2 at 10:30--aiming to get to the next hotel around 1. Today's run is about 7 miles, with plenty of up and down. We start at sea level and will end up at 960 feet. We'll run up a hill, down into Muir Woods and then back up Mt. Tam to our next hotel, the Mountain Home Inn.
We've learned our lesson from Day 1, so we're starting Day 2 at 10:30--aiming to get to the next hotel around 1. Today's run is about 7 miles, with plenty of up and down. We start at sea level and will end up at 960 feet. We'll run up a hill, down into Muir Woods and then back up Mt. Tam to our next hotel, the Mountain Home Inn.
We start out running along the road for a half mile or so and then up and along a ridge. The ridge is 1300 feet up, that's that a bit of a feat in and of itself. The descent puts us into Muir Woods as we careen over rocks and roots amongst the 300 foot tall redwoods. Once at the bottom, we head back up, to finally end at The Mountain Home Inn. 7 miles, 2440 feet in elevation gain, 1995 feet of elevation loss.
Once at the MHI, I can't wait to get in the shower. The shower is great--it's big, the water's HOT, and it has a huge tub. While taking my shower, all I want to do is sit down--so I decide to take a bath. After about 15 minutes of soaking in a steaming hot bath, I decide it's not time for a cold shower. You know, because I haven't bathed quite enough in the previous shower and bath.Laugh at my bathing extravaganza if you will, but while I'm sore, I'm not as bad as I would have thought. My quads and calves are ok, knees, ankles, ass and hips are pretty sore. Knees and ankles are sore from the downhills, the ass and hips from the uphills. My body is telling me in no uncertain terms that I haven't done nearly enough hill work to be ready for something like this.
We spend a little time at one of the tables in the bar area looking a tomorrow's map and decide on a route and distance. We'll be running a fairly flat 11 miles along the Bolinas Ridge, but here's the kicker--it's going to be raining all day with 35-40 mph winds, gusting up to 60mph! Let's hope that it's behind us!
Day 3
Oh mommy.
Oh mommy.
The challenge of day 3 is that there are torrential downpours and sustained winds of 35-40 mph. That, along with a smooth 11 mile agenda should make for a treat of a run. We get out of the Mountain Home Inn around 11:15am and after stopping for gas, we finally get to the trailhead around 1pm. We get out of the car and there's no time for niceties—it’s damn cold. Or should I say, cold, windy, and rainy.We head off into the trail starting at about 1500 feet of elevation and are scheduled to run slightly downhill the whole way into Olema. We start amongst the redwoods of Muir Woods and Mt. Tam State Park and we quickly realize that any hopes that we had of keeping any part of us dry is lost. It hasn't rained here in 7-8 months and the current monsoon is just dumping rain down on us (rainfall total for the day was about 3 inches). As a result, the trails are completely washed out and have streams of water running down and across them. At low points, there are huge puddles--generally 8-12 feet long, 3-4 inches deep, and as wide as the trail. Our early success rate in clearing the puddles is about 50% and as a result, our shoes are completely soaked. We continue on the trail, and on through the redwoods. The sights are amazing, the trees are 200-300 feet tall and supposedly germinated around the time of William the Conqueror. With the wind and the rain, it makes for quite a sight--something straight out of Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings. We stop briefly to take it all in, but quickly move on. We were warned that the redwoods tend to drop a lot of branches and other debris in high winds, so we are careful not to linger too long. Debris falling from 300 feet could make for a pretty bad day--you know, because running 11 miles in the pouring rain wasn't already bad enough.
After about 5 miles, we make our way through the redwoods and the trail opens up into rolling meadows. At least that's what it looks like for the 200 or so feet that I can see. The wrinkle that the meadow throws at us is that we are now completely exposed to the wind and the rain is pelting us at 35 mph. Luckily for us, the wind is generally at our backs, so it makes the run a little easier. That, plus the gentle decline of the trail and we are making pretty good time. We pass miles and miles of pastures and see a couple of dozen cows. But the sight of the hills is tough to describe--they were almost too perfect. Rolling hills that reminded me of something that you would see on a milk carton or a cheese commercial. It was just that perfect. Expect for that pesky wind and rain.
As the miles crank by, the declines become tougher. Derek has a quad that has been bothering him for most of the run and my right knee starts aching around mile 6. Both ailments only seem to bother us on the downhills and we look ridiculous coming down even the mildest of slopes. At mile 11.37, our trail ends and we hit the road and begin the final descent to tonight's hotel, the Point Reyes Seashore Lodge. We are both soaked to the bone, tired, sore and looking forward to the end of the day. A forgettable meal at the bar next to the hotel and we're back in the rooms to try to dry our clothes and prep for the next day.Up next: a 1300 foot climb up Mt. Wittenburg and a 1000 foot climb up Mt. Vision before a final mile-long descent into Inverness. It's scheduled to be about 11 miles and sounds like a final kick in the pants to me.
Day 4
Day 4 starts with me checking my shoes. They are still pretty wet from the previous day’s romp, despite having them in front of the fireplace for 3 hours and in front of the open window all night. After breakfast, we get hairdryers from the front desk and get to work drying out our shoes.
Day 4 starts with me checking my shoes. They are still pretty wet from the previous day’s romp, despite having them in front of the fireplace for 3 hours and in front of the open window all night. After breakfast, we get hairdryers from the front desk and get to work drying out our shoes.
Today’s agenda is a fairly ambitious one, 11 miles and two 1000+ foot climbs. Neither of us feels great, but all things considered, we don’t feel all that bad either. The weather seems to be generally cooperative—it’s foggy and about 60 degrees—not bad running weather. We get to the trailhead and head on an initial climb. Mt. Wittenburg is first up and the climb is about 1400 feet in two miles. We basically hike this climb due to the incline of the hill—there are almost no switchbacks, just a straight shot up the hill.
Once at the top, we are left to imagine how great the view must be—we can’t see more than about 50 feet due to the fog. That’s too bad, because I could really use an excuse to catch my breath. We continue on, stopping every mile or so to check the map and make sure that we’re on the right trail.Around mile 7, we reach Mt. Vision. Our knees are really barking now, just in time for another 1000 foot climb. The uphills aren’t so bad on the knee, it’s the downhill that I’m now dreading. It’s a mile or two up and a mile or two down, but I’m comforted by the thought that it’s only a couple of more miles until the pain will stop. I quicken my pace until we reach the final descent. According to the article, it’s supposed to be a beautiful run down Mt. Vision into Inverness, overlooking Tomales Bay. Instead, it’s a comical vision of two gimps, each dragging a leg behind them, peg-leg style.
No matter how ignominious the ending, we’ve done it! The final mileage is 37.11 (6.94, 6.68, 12.16, and 11.33 miles). We’re tired and sore, but already talking about where the next trip should be.
Anyone want in?
Anyone want in?
Oct 13, 2009
Day 3
So Lee and I have been on our 40 mile run through Muir Park in San Fran and its been brutal. 1000 ft climbs are easy compared to the 1000 ft drops. And when there is multiple climbs like this in one run, it really is demoralizing. Going into the third day, my quads are done. Hard as a rock and no power left. Thank god we have a nice flat 11 mile run today on top of Mt. Tam's ridge. Would be nice if we didn't have to deal with this all day. No ipod or any electronics on this run. Just the friendly conversation of Lee, the wind, and the falling redwoods. Wish us luck.
Oct 10, 2009
NFL Week 5: Magnolia
Have you even been to Augusta? This hole may be the least visited hole out there. It is located at the upper right portion of the course grounds - the dogleg in the fairway is probably the most remote location on the course, save for the 11th tee.
If you are a spectator, you usually follow your favorite golfer through 1, 2 and 3 - and then see the tee shot on the par 4 4th; then you say to your group: "Geesh, I'm not walking all the way out there. Let's catch them when they get back on the 6th or the 7th.". And then you eat your 5 pimento and cheese sandwich and move away.
When you watch on TV, this is a hole that they probably draw straws to see who covers in the early part of the telecast. Oh, who am I kidding. They just send Peter Kostis out there to cover the bland hole - he's a bland annoucner.
How bland and forgetful is it? In the 2009 Masters, there were only 7 doubles on this hole in whole tournament - and no triples or higher. What other hole out there is that boring where triple is not even an option?
That's week 5. A forgetful week that most spectators will just skip and wait for a better week next week. Have you seen these games? Yikes! Tampa at Philly. Dallas at KC. Cleveland at Buffalo. Washington at Carolina. Oakland at the Giants. Yes, let's grab our $1.50 burger and head to the hill next to the 6th hole.
Min 23, StL 16. Classic let down game for the Vikings. Just like the Browns last week, if you think a team really has hit rock bottom, they will (by definition) bounce.
Phi 27, TB 7. Now, if you dont' think a team has hit rock bottom yet..... Philly, on two week's rest, against Josh Johnson? Please.
NYG 28, Oak 10. Giants will get up big and then rest Eli.
Dal 24, KC 20. I can hear Layup shaking his head from here. But Dallas has no pass defense. None. That's the only thing KC can do.
Pit 31, Det 13. Lot of turnovers going the Steelers' way here.
Car 23, Was 9. The Panthers are a desperate team. I just can't see the Skins winning here.
Cle 24, Buf 20. So you're Don Criqui - the radio voice of the Notre Dame Irish. You used to be the #2 play by play man in the NFL (on NBC) for years in the 1980s. Now, for whatever reason, you are doing college radio play by play, but CBS has you hired as the 8th (that's right, the 8th) play by play team for those rare weeks when CBS is covering 8 games.
(Since Fox has the baseball playoffs, I thnk CBS will get most of the games for this week and the next).
So how did this phone call go 2 weeks ago?
Don: Hello?
CBS Flunkie: Hi Don! Hey, we need you to fill in and do a game on Oct 11th for us.
Don: Let me check my schedule.....(stalling, since schedule is wide open)....ok, I am available.
CBS Flunkie: Great! We'll put you down.
Don: Uh, what game is it?
CBS Flunkie: It's an NFL Game on Sunday! We'll snd you the itinerary.
Don: Where am I going??
CBS Flunkie: You're doing the Cleveland/Buffalo game.
Don: Oh wait, I forgot, I'm getting the swine flu that day.....
Bal 27, Cin 24. I don't think Baltimore's defense is all that good. And Cincy will bounce back after the awful showing vs. us last week.
SF 20, Atl 16. I have no idea what to expect from the Niners since Gore is out.
Sea 24, Jax 17. Hasselback is back, and I don't trust the Jags on the road. Didn't I say this 2 weeks ago?
NE 27, Den 20. I fail to see how New England lets this game fall through.
Arz 31, Hou 20. Layup and I have been discussin WNBA betting, and he's been fairly successful using the "Zig-Zag" theory. When one team wins and covers, bet against them the next game. It's worked awfully well in the WNBA playoffs. I think the Zig Zag theory worked for the Texans for weeks 1-4, and it's time to go against them in week 5.
Ind 27, Ten 16. I smell a trap here........but, as you know, I am a sucker.
Mia 21, NYJ 13. I think the Saints set a good example for many teams on how to get to Sanchez.
Best bets: 14 of them. Last week: 9-6. Overall: 30-30.
StL +10.5
Phi -15
Tb/Phi under 42
KC +7.5
Pit -10.5
Car -4
Cin +8.5
Cin/Bal over 42.5
Sea -1
NE -3
NE/Den over 41
Az -5.5
Ind -3.5
Mia +1.5
Oct 8, 2009
Oct 7, 2009
Yesterday, I made a little mistake in marinating some chicken. On the weekend I had picked up a bag of assorted peppers at the West Side Market for a $1. Included, was one innocent looking pepper which I believe was a Hungarian wax pepper. Well, I figured I'd cut it up and add it to the chicken. So, I wash it, take the seeds out, cut it into rings. Now, I'm treating this pepper like it's just an ordinary green pepper or something. I mean really, it's not like it's a habanero or something. Not even a jalepeno. Well, there's my mistake. After, putting the marinating chicken in the fridge, I start getting ready for bed. You know, the usual. Go to the bathroom, take my contacts out...and as soon as I touch my eye, I'm in immediate pain. And yes I've washed my hands a couple times already. I feel like I'm in a 3 Stooges skit and I've been poked in the eye. My eye is instantly red, tears are flowing and I can't open them because it hurts so much. At the same time, I'm laughing hysterically because of my stupidity. I'm flushing my eyes with cold water but I'm also determined to get my contacts out. I abandon the right eye and proceed to the left. Now, it's red and the tears are flowing. After multiple tries and more water in the eyes, I get the left out. What about the right? Screw it. I'll get it in the morning. Try to brush my teeth and can't keep my eyes open long enough to see me put toothpaste on the brush. Get them brushed and go to bed.
Amanda's like "What is wrong with you?". I tell her the story and start to relax. But wait, something's happening down below. Yes, you guessed it, my penis is on fire. I lie there for a second and it's not getting any better. Needless to say I'm scrubbing my penis in the shower at 1:30 am. Come back to bed and ask if she'd like to have a little fun and for the first time she said "sorry for your luck".
Never did find the contact in my right eye. I think the pepper dissolved it in my eye.
Oct 3, 2009
15 years ago...
On this date, 15 years ago today, I started my first real full time job - for a military contractor in Dayton. I still remember the walk into the front door. I made $35,000 a year - $35,000! Wow!
No point - it seems so far away and yet I remember it clearly.
No point - it seems so far away and yet I remember it clearly.
NFL Week 4: Flowering Crabapple
Week 4 is when things starts to toughen up in the NFL. There are some great games this week to really test the good teams - are you really as good as you think you are?
Hole #4 accomplishes the same task at Augusta. The first three holes at Augusta are not the toughest - well, #1 is tough, but a good golfer should sleepwalk with pars on 2 and 3.
Now the fun begins. Are you up to the challenge? #4 - Flowering Crabapple (even the name sounds brute) is a long par 3 of 240 yards, downhill onto a treacherous green. Oh yeah - don't go over by 10 yards or you are out of bounds.
Many courses have this kind of a hole - a long, hard hole in the middle of the front nine to wake you up out of your sleep. It is the first real tough hole on the course that makes you pay attention. If you are playing well, this will be the hole that you get your first bogey on; if you are not plaing well, then you don't look forward to this hole - because you aren't getting one back here.
Granville #4 is very much like Augusta #4 - chances are hole #2 caught you are you are 1 over on the tee. Are you going to wake up and paly better - or are you going to have a sloppy double? Grandview #5 is another great example. I love playing this hole when I am down against Steve, since there isn't room on this hole to hit a right-to-left shot, and Steve's ball flight is a 30 yard right-to-left spatula. Yankee Trace #4, while a par 4, also fits in the same category.
So will the Jets and Ravens remain at even after 4? Will the Steelers right the ship after 2 bogies on their first 3 holes? Will Cleveland post another double and be 7 over after 4? On to the picks:
Was 20, TB 7. I know the Redskins are bad, but Josh Johnson is the QB for Tampa.
NE 28, Bal 26. I think the Ravens are vulnerable to the short pass if a deep threat exists on the team. I look for a high scoring game.
NYG 23, KC 17. My consistent belief that the Chiefs will be close one of these Sundays is irrational.
Ten 24, Jax 20. Nothing comes easy with the Titans.
Ind 33, Sea 17. Boy, Indy looks unstoppable, don't they? They can socre at will. Pierre Garcon was still available in both my fantasy leagues, by the way.
Hou 20, Oak 16. I have no faith in the Texans giving consistent effort 2 weeks in a row.
Cin 21, Cle 20. When the whole world picks against the Browns - including Mike Greenberg of Mike and Mike.....
Chi 23, Det 16. Yes, I think the Lions are headed toward respectability. The Bears are overrated, and they will win here, but it will be close. Matt Forte, please wake up anytime now...
NO 31, NYJ 20. The Saints have an average defense - and that wil be enough here.
Mia 16, Buf 14. Ugh. Glad I won't watch this game.
SF 23, StL 10. Bot sure about this game after the 9ers lost Frank Gore.
Den 27, Dal 23. I have a feeling the Cowboys have a bad Monday night hangover after that game vs. Carolina. They are an average team.
Pit 27, SD 17. I hate to say it, but the Steelers are out for blood.
Min 24, GB 23. Favre! Favre! Green Bay! Favre! Favre! Wrangler Jeans!
Best bets: 15 of them (last week : 8-6, overall: 21-24)
Was -7.5
TB/Was under 37
Bal/NE over 45
KC +9
Ind -10
Sea/Ind over 44
Oak +8.5
Oak/Hou under 42.5
Det +10
NO -7
Buf/Mia under 37
SF -10
Den +3
Dal/Den over 42
Pit -6
Oct 2, 2009
Are you kidding me?
So, this morning, OK it was actually closer to noon, I open the garage door and notice 2 things: my garbage can lying on its side and a man trying to fix his broken umbrella. I don't exactly live in the hood but I am a city dweller. So, I tend to avoid eye contact with some of the locals. I open the trunk of my car and start getting my gym bag ready in case on the off chance I go to the gym after work tonight. Now, I've backed in so I'm basically hidden behind the car. After, I finish in the trunk, no longer than a minute, I look up and see that both the man and my can are gone. WTF? A little irritated, I drive around the area for 10 minutes and they are no where to be found.
Unrelated, I'm driving to work this morning (again closer to noon) and I notice that I have a huge hole in the crotch of my pants. Now, I don't remember the last time I wore pants. I even went to a wedding this summer in shorts, well, it was in Vegas. Actually, come to think of it, I wore pants that day 'cause we had VIP entry to the 101 club on top the Palms and I couldn't get in. So, I had to go back to Caesars and put pants on. But, I digress. So, the question is, do I drive home and change or say screw it?
BTW, I could have posted a picture of the hole in my crotch or of what Amanda wore to the wedding. I think I made the right choice.
Sep 30, 2009
So last night while I was trying to forget about the items that awaited me at the office today, I went onto Facebook, signed up and then spent some stalking. Here are some of the highlights on my findings:
- 3 degrees of separation from my ex Amy- Funny thing. I went to my friend's Sooz page and for some reason clicked on her friend Tark. And one of Tark's friends happened to be one of my old high school friend's Nicole Topper. Then on her friends list was my ex girlfriend Amy. Very strange.
- The most amusing friends list was Currier. What the hell is going on there Curr?
- I'm going to dedicate a full evening on Kermit's pictures and friends list.
- After about an hour of stalking, Carol pointed out to me a feature available on facebook of "Who is checking you out." Great. Grand. Wonderful. So everyone I looked up last night will know that I was on their page.
- If I can get my iphone to work, expect me up on a twitter account shortly. We are working on getting Eric up and running on twitter as well.
Now off to deliver a bunch of layoff notices. Fun Fun Fun.
I just don't get it
I am just shocked at the outpouring of support for Roman Polanski from his artist friends. Really? You are supporting a person who drugged and had sex with a 13 year old girl?
And are you really saying that - because he is an artiste, he should be forgiven?
Such crap. Do they realize that this is why people are starting to hate Hollywood so much - and why anti-Hollywood rhetoric is so powerful in this land?
I only have my good friend Jewel as a beacon of hope in Hollywood.
And are you really saying that - because he is an artiste, he should be forgiven?
Such crap. Do they realize that this is why people are starting to hate Hollywood so much - and why anti-Hollywood rhetoric is so powerful in this land?
I only have my good friend Jewel as a beacon of hope in Hollywood.
Sep 27, 2009
NFL Week 3: Georgia Peach
Well, I don't know if I can relate this theme for the NFL Picks to the Browns anymore. Apparently, the 2009 Browns are playing Winged Foot from the back tees with greens rolling at 14 on the stimp and the rough is 6 inches high. So any hole is going to be impossible to par - and we will be lucky to break 90.
(Or - to be more accurate - the 2009 Browns are like us playing the Kampen course at Purdue, the week before the NCAA D-I golf championships were held there - and all of us got plastered the night before, so much so that we (I?) had to throw up in the Panera bathroom the morning of the round just so I can stabilize myself and see straight. Too much information?)
Maybe I should relate this theme to Freddie's flag football team, which I am coaching. We won yesterday to go 1-1 - so the pressure is off and I can rest, believing that we won't go winless. Hole 3 is a chance to catch your breath. You're not going to shoot 85, but now it's time to settle down. You know what is working (the fade off the tee, the chipping is good - very much like our passing defense and, suprisingly, our passing game) - but there are shots that are still shaky (maybe the mid irons are hooking way too much; we can't tackle on the outside for crap right now, espeically on 4th down!). So Week 3 is where we start playing to our strengths (if any exist) and start to buckle down.
At Augusta, the worst you can be at this point is 1 over. You have to buckle down and focus here on hole 3 - it's a relatively easy hole, but if you lose your concentration, you can easily wind up with a 5 or 6. Focus for the 4 shots, and you should walk away with par.
Unless you are the Browns. Ugh.
On to the picks:
Ten 27, NYJ 20. I'm stubborn. Fine. I refuse to believe the Jets are this good or the Titans are that bad. The Jets played a Houston team that didn't show up, and a Patriots team that fed into their emotions. This is a classic letdown game.
NYG 23, TB 16. Talk about let down games - how can the Giants not have a letdown after that super charged win over the Cowboys?
GB 28, StL 17. F You, packers. I'm out of the suicide pool because of you. I think the Browns - as of now - would be able to beat the Rams, but it would be a 7-6 game.
Phi 27, KC 24, OT. We haven't had an overtime game yet, and I think there will be a couple this week. Are we sure Kevin Kolb can lead them here? Kansas City can score on Baltimore - why not Philly?
NE 30, Atl 17. Atlanta hasn't been on the road yet. The Patriots are desperate. It may rain outside. People really see the Falcons winning this?
Min 20, SF 17. OK, I'll buy into the San Fran hype. If they can stop Peterson, there's nobody else there. Are you saying Percy Harvin will lead the Vikes? Berrian? The receivers are average, at best.
Hou 21, Jax 17. Talk about ANOTHER letdown game out there. Wow. I wouldn't be surprised if the Jags pull this out.
Was 24, Det 16. I think that Detroit's dismal defense will bail out the Skins here. The Skins can be 2-1 after this game - and they are putrid. Wow.
Bal 30, Cle 10. Do I have to preview this? I'm shell shocked right now.
Chi 20, Sea 13. Hasselbeck is out (really? Shocker). In three years, hasn't Seneca Wallace proven that he's not a competent backup for Hasselbeck?
NO 31, Buf 24. This game scares me. I still don't know what ot expect from the Bills.
SD 20, Mia 19. I'm not sure where I'm going with the Dolphins here - that loss Monday night could crush them, or make them more determined to win a desperate week 3 game vs. an overrated (?) Chargers team.
Den 17, Oak 16. Kyle Orton, 3-0 with Denver after today. All he does is just win. He was like 20-12 with the Bears or something like that.
Pit 26, Cin 23, OT. Should be a classic. I'm interested to see all four sides of this game (Pit O, Cin D, Cin O, Pit D).
Az 30, Ind 23. Something is just missing from the Colts right now.
Dal 24, Car 20. Let's just face it - Dallas may not be that good, and may finish last in the division.
Best bets: 14 of them (last week: 7-8; overall: 13-18).
Ten +2
Ten/NYJ over 37
NYG/TB under 45.5
GB -6.5
KC +8
KC/Phi over 38.5
NE -4.5
SF +7
Jax/Hou under 47.5
Chi -2.5
Mia +5.5
Pit/Cin over 37.5
Az -3
Car +8.5
Sep 23, 2009
Junk Drawer
Time for my semi-annual post, sorry for the grab-bag nature.
Terps: Fire Friedgen. Maryland is one of the four worst teams in the ACC with Virginia, Duke, and BC. I don't argue that Friedgen is a good coach, but his record makes me think that he's a terrible recruiter. In the NFL, the talent is about the same with every team so coaching matters more. In college football, you can out-talent people. There is no reason that MD can't become a consistently good regional football team that occasionally has a chance to make some noise nationally. With the facilities that MD has (I would argue that they are above-average regionally, roughly average nationally) and the talent that comes from this area, there is no reason that this isn't achievable.
So who's the replacement? I stole this idea from Bill Simmons, but I think that Herm Edwards or someone like him would be a good college coach. He's black, thin, (appealing in a kid's living room) and sounds good when you don't know any better. Perfect for 17 and 18 year-olds. And by the time you get tired of his antics, you graduate/run out of eligibility. He'll probably never win a national championship due to his inability to actually coach, but he'll win 9-10 games a year and have the team in good bowl games. Who wouldn't take that right now?
The issue that I see is this guaranteed replacement that MD signed in James Franklin. It probably takes too much to buy out whatever is left on Friedgen's deal, buy out whatever guarantee that Franklin has, and get someone like Edwards. Add that to the hole that the athletic department is in with the Tyser Tower expansion, and it looks like another couple of years of aspiring to mediocrity.
Redskins: Is there anyone who doesn't expect them to lose to Detroit? If they do, does Danny make Zorn walk back from Detroit? I've never seen a win that feels so much like a loss. The attitude of the town is just amazing--it's exactly like we lost. There is a TON of pressure on the Redskins right now. If they don't come out and score a TD in the first possession or two, that game could get ugly.
I've also heard some Redskins fans rooting for Detroit. The logic goes that when they lose to Detroit, then Zorn will be fired and we'll looking at Cowher or Shanahan, either of whom will demand authority over player personnel. And with that comes the removal of Vinny Cerrato, who many feel is more responsible for this mess than Zorn. As masochistic as it seems, I can't say that I entirely disagree with that theory...
Phone: I'm just biding my time until I can get an iPhone. I have a BlackBerry now and it's fine for the basics like email and calendar, but it just lacks any ability to really utilize the Internet for anything. If the iPhone was offered on Verizon, I would switch immediately. I just hate AT&T. Any iPhone users out there want to disagree? I think that I'm going to switch when my contract is up in March, but would really like to hear that it's not as bad as everyone says it is....
Newspapers: Here's a question that I asked RRD the other day: when does the Washington Post stop printing a hard copy paper? 3 years? 5 years? And which big national paper falls first? The Chicago Tribune? (Already bankrupt, right?) LA Times?
My parents have always subscribed to the paper and I have as well. But I think that I am one of the very few people my age who actually would pay for a newspaper (I think that Layup still gets the WSJ). But recently, I look at the Post and it has a decent front page and just a shell of a newspaper in every other section. The sports page is a joke. Business has always been a disaster, Metro and Style are in rapid decline, and the classifieds are pointless due to things like Craigslist, etc.
Twitter: I'm continuing my one-man crusade against Facebook, but I'm now on Twitter. I talked to Jay about it the other night and I'm clearly not using Twitter the way that I should, but it's still an interesting way to get news and information. It seems to be a way to subscribe to the writers or other sources of content that you want without having to sift through the whole paper or site. A push content aggregator.
Unlike everyone else on Twitter, I'll ask you not to follow me. You're just going to be disappointed (although not as disappointed as following Sweet). I really have nothing to say, I use it to follow what other people are saying and to see what the flavor of the day is at the local ice cream place--you know, the important stuff.
Vegas: Nice to get the first Vegas concall out of the way the other day. Looks like we're staying at the Mirage this year. Talked to Layup about it a little bit and agree with him--we need something new each year to keep it fresh and interesting. Two years ago, it was the cabana. Last year, it was Ultimate Texas Hold'Em. What is is this year? Eric dancing in the O at Revolutions?
Craps: Speaking of Vegas, I went to Foxwoods the other day for a quick gambling trip. Spent 90% of my time playing craps, which has led me to all kinds of strategy questions (most of which have Layup up in arms). However, the biggest thing that I've noticed is that there are a LOT of people playing the don't. Is that due to the economy? Wiz and Reaver weren't anywhere to be seen, so I don't think that that's the answer. Not sure what the deal is there, but it was noticeable enough that 2-3 people mentioned it to me independently.
Terps: Fire Friedgen. Maryland is one of the four worst teams in the ACC with Virginia, Duke, and BC. I don't argue that Friedgen is a good coach, but his record makes me think that he's a terrible recruiter. In the NFL, the talent is about the same with every team so coaching matters more. In college football, you can out-talent people. There is no reason that MD can't become a consistently good regional football team that occasionally has a chance to make some noise nationally. With the facilities that MD has (I would argue that they are above-average regionally, roughly average nationally) and the talent that comes from this area, there is no reason that this isn't achievable.
So who's the replacement? I stole this idea from Bill Simmons, but I think that Herm Edwards or someone like him would be a good college coach. He's black, thin, (appealing in a kid's living room) and sounds good when you don't know any better. Perfect for 17 and 18 year-olds. And by the time you get tired of his antics, you graduate/run out of eligibility. He'll probably never win a national championship due to his inability to actually coach, but he'll win 9-10 games a year and have the team in good bowl games. Who wouldn't take that right now?
The issue that I see is this guaranteed replacement that MD signed in James Franklin. It probably takes too much to buy out whatever is left on Friedgen's deal, buy out whatever guarantee that Franklin has, and get someone like Edwards. Add that to the hole that the athletic department is in with the Tyser Tower expansion, and it looks like another couple of years of aspiring to mediocrity.
Redskins: Is there anyone who doesn't expect them to lose to Detroit? If they do, does Danny make Zorn walk back from Detroit? I've never seen a win that feels so much like a loss. The attitude of the town is just amazing--it's exactly like we lost. There is a TON of pressure on the Redskins right now. If they don't come out and score a TD in the first possession or two, that game could get ugly.
I've also heard some Redskins fans rooting for Detroit. The logic goes that when they lose to Detroit, then Zorn will be fired and we'll looking at Cowher or Shanahan, either of whom will demand authority over player personnel. And with that comes the removal of Vinny Cerrato, who many feel is more responsible for this mess than Zorn. As masochistic as it seems, I can't say that I entirely disagree with that theory...
Phone: I'm just biding my time until I can get an iPhone. I have a BlackBerry now and it's fine for the basics like email and calendar, but it just lacks any ability to really utilize the Internet for anything. If the iPhone was offered on Verizon, I would switch immediately. I just hate AT&T. Any iPhone users out there want to disagree? I think that I'm going to switch when my contract is up in March, but would really like to hear that it's not as bad as everyone says it is....
Newspapers: Here's a question that I asked RRD the other day: when does the Washington Post stop printing a hard copy paper? 3 years? 5 years? And which big national paper falls first? The Chicago Tribune? (Already bankrupt, right?) LA Times?
My parents have always subscribed to the paper and I have as well. But I think that I am one of the very few people my age who actually would pay for a newspaper (I think that Layup still gets the WSJ). But recently, I look at the Post and it has a decent front page and just a shell of a newspaper in every other section. The sports page is a joke. Business has always been a disaster, Metro and Style are in rapid decline, and the classifieds are pointless due to things like Craigslist, etc.
Twitter: I'm continuing my one-man crusade against Facebook, but I'm now on Twitter. I talked to Jay about it the other night and I'm clearly not using Twitter the way that I should, but it's still an interesting way to get news and information. It seems to be a way to subscribe to the writers or other sources of content that you want without having to sift through the whole paper or site. A push content aggregator.
Unlike everyone else on Twitter, I'll ask you not to follow me. You're just going to be disappointed (although not as disappointed as following Sweet). I really have nothing to say, I use it to follow what other people are saying and to see what the flavor of the day is at the local ice cream place--you know, the important stuff.
Vegas: Nice to get the first Vegas concall out of the way the other day. Looks like we're staying at the Mirage this year. Talked to Layup about it a little bit and agree with him--we need something new each year to keep it fresh and interesting. Two years ago, it was the cabana. Last year, it was Ultimate Texas Hold'Em. What is is this year? Eric dancing in the O at Revolutions?
Craps: Speaking of Vegas, I went to Foxwoods the other day for a quick gambling trip. Spent 90% of my time playing craps, which has led me to all kinds of strategy questions (most of which have Layup up in arms). However, the biggest thing that I've noticed is that there are a LOT of people playing the don't. Is that due to the economy? Wiz and Reaver weren't anywhere to be seen, so I don't think that that's the answer. Not sure what the deal is there, but it was noticeable enough that 2-3 people mentioned it to me independently.
Sep 22, 2009
Obama
I'm surprised I haven't seen anything about Obama on here for over two weeks. I just wanted to post something quick on Obama.
Why is everyone up in arms about him being on TV and trying to get his message out about Healthcare? I think he understands how divided the country is over Healthcare and he is doing his part as the leader of our country to get out there to sell his message. This is rule number one in change management. Its one thing to disagree with his message, but its another to complain about him over communicating his message.
I think we can all agree that Bush was the exact opposite. So many of the politicians these days make a decision and then hunker down and not communicate. That's just terrible leadership. While I don't agree with some of the Healthcare ideas from Obama, I do applaud him for getting out there and trying to at least communicate his message.
Why is everyone up in arms about him being on TV and trying to get his message out about Healthcare? I think he understands how divided the country is over Healthcare and he is doing his part as the leader of our country to get out there to sell his message. This is rule number one in change management. Its one thing to disagree with his message, but its another to complain about him over communicating his message.
I think we can all agree that Bush was the exact opposite. So many of the politicians these days make a decision and then hunker down and not communicate. That's just terrible leadership. While I don't agree with some of the Healthcare ideas from Obama, I do applaud him for getting out there and trying to at least communicate his message.
Chad Millman
So if I wasn't already excited about gambling with the start of the football season, the sportsguy had Chad Millman on his podcast talking about a bunch of Vegas stuff. I'm thinking about joining ESPN Insider just for Chad's blog. Here are some of the highlights from the podcast:
1. The M Hotel and Casino has per second in game wagering. That's right. Spreads and totals are updated real time during the game and the sportsbook allows you to wager in game. Apparently they give you a blackberry device that you preload with money that allows you to wager from your seat. Also, there are real time prop bets for certain games. Think the Panthers will get a first down in the current series? Go ahead and wager. I can't wait to try this out when we go out there in the spring.
2. WNBA has tremendous value- Sportsguy was trying to be funny about diving into the WNBA and become the single master bettor in the WNBA and Chad informed him that the wiseguys are already ahead of the game and are cleaning up. The only problem Chad says is that most bookies and offshore site caps the wagering at $5,000. And according to Chad the wiseguys can't make money with only wagering $5000 a game. WOW!!!
3. Zig Zag theory for NBA and WNBA- Take the losing team the following game. Usually in the playoffs, the winning team is over-valued and thus the spread is off for the next game. So far the theory is 2-1.
4. Double digit home favorites- Always go against it. This is becoming like the new Monday night home underdog. This theory will be put to the test next week as the Browns travel to the Ravens. And yes I have thought about it and will be putting money on the Browns.
1. The M Hotel and Casino has per second in game wagering. That's right. Spreads and totals are updated real time during the game and the sportsbook allows you to wager in game. Apparently they give you a blackberry device that you preload with money that allows you to wager from your seat. Also, there are real time prop bets for certain games. Think the Panthers will get a first down in the current series? Go ahead and wager. I can't wait to try this out when we go out there in the spring.
2. WNBA has tremendous value- Sportsguy was trying to be funny about diving into the WNBA and become the single master bettor in the WNBA and Chad informed him that the wiseguys are already ahead of the game and are cleaning up. The only problem Chad says is that most bookies and offshore site caps the wagering at $5,000. And according to Chad the wiseguys can't make money with only wagering $5000 a game. WOW!!!
3. Zig Zag theory for NBA and WNBA- Take the losing team the following game. Usually in the playoffs, the winning team is over-valued and thus the spread is off for the next game. So far the theory is 2-1.
4. Double digit home favorites- Always go against it. This is becoming like the new Monday night home underdog. This theory will be put to the test next week as the Browns travel to the Ravens. And yes I have thought about it and will be putting money on the Browns.
Sep 20, 2009
NFL Week 2: Pink Dogwood
Ok, so you may not have had the best start on the first hole. Now we come to the par 5 second. This is a hole any serious contender must par, and probably birdie.
The left trees on this hole are nicknamed the "Delta Counter". Because - if you go left into the woods - there's no need to worry about playing the weekend and you might as well just get your tickets home now.
That's where a lot of teams are this week. They are 0-1 after a loss in week 1; some teams (like Tennessee, Washington, Miami) lost to good teams on the road - so a week 1 loss is no biggie. For other teams (Cincinnati, Carolina, Arizona) - a week 1 loss came as a surprise and they can not - no way - afford to go 0-2. If they are any good, they will rebound in week 2. The question is - are those teams really any good?
And we also have the question of the teams playing on different "holes" on week 1. Is a team that parred - oh, I don't know - Elks Run #1, Orchard Hills #1 or Pleasant Valley #1 (and therefore are 1-0) any better than a team that bogied the first hole, like a bogey on Blue Ash #1, Grandview #1, or Hunt Valley Blue #1?
In short, this is a big week for a lot of teams. They've got to par the easy par 5. I'm looking at you, Mr. Mangini.
To the picks:
Was 24, StL 13. I just do not trust the Skins enough to cover the large spread.
Ten 27, Hou 20. I think Tennessee's defense is vulnerable to a passing offense like Houston's ; however, the Texans will commit turnovers galore (again).
Phi 22, NO 22 I honestly have no clue here. How wil Kolb play? Can the Saints play on the road? Avoid this one like the plague.
NE 27, NYJ 16. Do we really like that Belichick will let a rookie QB hand with them? Really? I am not buying the Sanchez love just yet.
KC 24, Oak 13. West coast team playing at 1 pm! And maybe KC's offensive "explosion" vs. the Ravens was not a fluke. It's going to be hard for the Raiders to bounce back from a late Monday night game to play in the early spot on Sunday.
Jax 27, Az 20. Another West Coast team playing at 1 pm! Maybe these Cardinals just aren't that good. I need to watch Jax more closely this week to get a read on them.
GB 26, Cin 13. If the Bengals couldn't score at home vs. the Brnocos, how are they going to score vs. the Packers after what we saw on Sunday night?
Min 30, Det 17. A more confident picker would choose the over here. If the Lions win, I will be crying. Enough said.
Atl 27, Car 24. This one should go down to the wire. I'm not saying Carolina will win, but I think they have the urgency here to keep it close -and suffer a heartbreaking defeat.
SF 30, Sea 23. I just like what I see from the 49ers.
Buf 23, TB 13. A perfect opponent for the Bills, who must be crusheda fter Monday's loss. This will be a good indication on whether the Bucs are truly one of the worst 2-3 teams in the league.
Bal 23, SD 13. I don't see the Ravens' defense giving up as many points/yards as they did last week. Side wagers on this game:
Over/under on fights in the stands: 28.5
Over/under on fights in the stands involving Layup, who will be attending? 1.5
Over/under on fights in the stands involving Layup, who will be attending? 1.5
Chi 20, Pit 16. I think Chicago can move the ball in the air vs. a Polamalu-less defense. And Pit's strength on offense in the pass - which Chi can handle prtty well.
NYG 26, Dal 20. Mabe I just hate Dallas too much.
Mia 27, Ind 24. I think the Colts have lost a step, and the Dolphins are a dangerous team.
Cle 16, Den 13. OK - this is it. We were nervous on the first tee, hit a good drive- and then hit the approachin the water. Now we are on the 2nd tee at +1. Easy par 5. Let's turn in a good, solid game here and get back on track.
Best bets: 15 of them (last week: 6-10.)
Hou/Ten over 40.5
NE -3.5
KC -3
Jax -3
GB -9
Car +6
Car/Atl over 42.5
SF -1
Sea/SF over 39.5
TB/Buf under 42
Bal +2.5
Chi +2.5
NYG +3
Mia +3
Ind/Mia over 42
Ugh. too many favorites this afternoon.....
Sep 16, 2009
Random thoughts while sick
Can't sleep. Sick. So let's spend the night posting random thoughts:
- While watching the US Open for the past couple of weeks, I couldn't help but notice a lot of commericals for Latisse. What is Latisse? It is a drug to help your body....grow longer eyelashes.
Really? I'm sorry, I don't know much at all about what is in high fashion - but people are willing to take a drug that will help their eyelashes grow longer? What happened to fake eyelashes? And if this works, can't it be applied to baldness?
- What are your thoughts about people who brush their teeth at work? It creeps me out. I can't exactly say why it does, but it just seems.....wrong. Go buy some gum.
- This link about looking for Bromance on the internet also creeps me out. Geesh. Go to a tailgate or something. (and in the comments of this article, there is a link to a hilarious YouTube coemdy sketch about Bro rape.)
- What is the age of the CBS Sports hack who wrote this preview? Another question: are we sure this is not from the Onion?
CBS Sports is proud to assign Bill Macatee and Steve Beuerlein, one of our top broadcast teams, to this Sunday's bitter rivalry game between the undefeated Denver Broncos and the much improved Cleveland Browns. Watch on Sunday as these two playoff contenders battle for a key victory in the Mile High City!!!
--END--
Really, I like to be smoking something when I talk about the Browns - but I want to have what this guy is having.
- (inhales) Grade for Week 1: C-. Brady did not look good, and the defense got tired - but I liked a lot of things that I saw out there. A defense that actually attacked. The Wildcat formation (although it may not have been called for a couple of times). A lot of things to work on, but it's a step in the right direction.
(and we can evaluate this team in a few weeks, when Minnesota is either 5-0 and has the inside track to home-field advantage, or 3-2 and just merely an above average team about ready to fall apart on Favre's arm. We are not sure how good the Vikings are just yet).
- I'm reluctant to post anything political right now; let's just say I find this debate over health care reform to be healthy in many ways.
- Gee, I still miss Fire Joe Morgan. He came out of retirement to post a classic about the 2009 AL MVP race.
- While watching the US Open for the past couple of weeks, I couldn't help but notice a lot of commericals for Latisse. What is Latisse? It is a drug to help your body....grow longer eyelashes.
Really? I'm sorry, I don't know much at all about what is in high fashion - but people are willing to take a drug that will help their eyelashes grow longer? What happened to fake eyelashes? And if this works, can't it be applied to baldness?
- What are your thoughts about people who brush their teeth at work? It creeps me out. I can't exactly say why it does, but it just seems.....wrong. Go buy some gum.
- This link about looking for Bromance on the internet also creeps me out. Geesh. Go to a tailgate or something. (and in the comments of this article, there is a link to a hilarious YouTube coemdy sketch about Bro rape.)
- What is the age of the CBS Sports hack who wrote this preview? Another question: are we sure this is not from the Onion?
CBS Sports is proud to assign Bill Macatee and Steve Beuerlein, one of our top broadcast teams, to this Sunday's bitter rivalry game between the undefeated Denver Broncos and the much improved Cleveland Browns. Watch on Sunday as these two playoff contenders battle for a key victory in the Mile High City!!!
--END--
Really, I like to be smoking something when I talk about the Browns - but I want to have what this guy is having.
- (inhales) Grade for Week 1: C-. Brady did not look good, and the defense got tired - but I liked a lot of things that I saw out there. A defense that actually attacked. The Wildcat formation (although it may not have been called for a couple of times). A lot of things to work on, but it's a step in the right direction.
(and we can evaluate this team in a few weeks, when Minnesota is either 5-0 and has the inside track to home-field advantage, or 3-2 and just merely an above average team about ready to fall apart on Favre's arm. We are not sure how good the Vikings are just yet).
- I'm reluctant to post anything political right now; let's just say I find this debate over health care reform to be healthy in many ways.
- Gee, I still miss Fire Joe Morgan. He came out of retirement to post a classic about the 2009 AL MVP race.
Sep 13, 2009
NFL Week 1: Tea Olive
We're back! Don't let the lack of posting fool you! I've been in hiding for the last few days obsessing over the Week 1 picks for you. We will try to duplicate last year's documented 57.5% winning percentage (135-100) in 2009.
This year's theme: each week, we will compare the games/season with the holes at Augusta National. We start with Hole #1, Tea Olive. It's a tough, tough par 4 right out of the gate - and that's about how I feel with these picks. For an opening par 4, you don't know where your swing is at; you just want to get off the tee without too much damage, and you play conservatively to make sure you don't blow the round with a triple on the first hole. You're asking for a nice par - or at worst, a tap in bogey - so you can get comfortable and get into your round.
That's how I feel this week. So many changes in the teams - I'm not sure if I have a good feel on any of them. Several new coaches are in place - and with a new coach comes an instant jolt of excietment and unpredictability with the teams. In short, for week 1, I'm looking just to survive with an 8-8 week, much like many golfers at Augusta are looking just for a par on #1 to ctach their breath.
On to the picks:
Pit 20, Ten 17. For the record, I did pick Ten +6.5, so I'm 1-0 to start the year. A good warmup session on the range.
Atl 28, Mia 20. Boy, starting with this game feels exactly like opening tee jitters. Can anyone tell me they know what to expect from either of these teams? Is one of them a fluke afte rthe surprise 2008? Are both? Are neither of them flukes? Who the hell knows? Let's just swing away and see what happens......
Cin 28, Den 17. Ugh. I really don't like this pick, but I don't like what I see from Denver.
Ind 24, Jax 13. This is like playing a course once a year and you get to the first green, and you have a 10 footer. You seem to have the same 10 footer every year - it has to break left. It HAS to! You play it outside the hole every freaking year, and it doesn't move.
I always seem to take the under in these Ind-Jax games. It has to be low scoring. Has to! And it never is.
NO 31, Det 16. Boy, the Saints look good. But I think the new coach in Detroit will keep the game somewhat close.
Dal 19, TB 17. What do we really think about the Cowboys? Is Tampa really as bad as we think? I think we're missing something here. I think this game willgo down to the wire.
Car 24, Phi 19. You have a nice round going in the fall, and you screw it up with a double on an easy hole near the end of the round - like a double on, oh, #17 at Blue Ash, #16 at Punderson or #16 at Rocky Point. And then you have to wait 6 months before your next round.
Wouldn't that just stick in your mind - and when you start again next spring, you'd be determined to erase that memory by playing well and focusing for all 18 holes?
The point is, Carolina's end to the season last year has got to be a motivator this year. They want to erase that memory as soon as possible.
Bal 27, KC 9. Really, how are the Chiefs going to score here?
Hou 22, NYJ 16. I'm not sold on the Jets. This is like every year at the Masters - the sleeper picks come out: "Justin Rose is playing well! Look out for him!" And then he makes 6 on the opening hole. Let's wait until the turn to anonit the Jets as a contender for the AFC East.
NYG 16, Was 13. No real ideas here. Was did not have a good preseason; can they move the ball? I'll be interested in watching this at 4.
Az 30, SF 20. Should be a shootout. I know a few people who have Warner on their fantasy team - all I can say is "good luck with THAT".
Sea 27, StL 21. It would not surprise me to see the Rams win this one. I can't pull the trigger and predict it - but they still have some weapons (although a bit older), and a new coach will help.
GB 27, Chi 20. I really want to like the Packers in this game. They looked damn good in the preseason.
NE 31, Buf 10. Sports Guy picked the Bills to be the worst team in the league at 2-14. I think he may be right. If this is true, there is no way they are going into Foxboro and coming within 20 points.
SD 24, Oak 20. Something is fishy here. This game is too easy - TOO easy. This is like Royla Links #5 - the hole is a 300 yard par 4 - straight away - you hit a perfect drive and wham! You are in a pot bunker that is in the middle of the fairway that you can't see from the tee box. Something about this game scares me - and should scare the Chargers.
Min 23, Cle 20. If you pick the Vikings in your suicide pool this week, you are a silly, silly fool. This game will be close and go down to the wire.
15 picks (1-0 so far):
Atl -4
Cin -5
Ind -7
Jax/Ind under 45
TB +5.5
Car +2.5
Bal -13
Hou -4.5
NYJ/Hou under 44
Was +6.5
NYG/Was under 37
Az -6
StL/Sea over 41
NE -10.5
Oak +9.5
Suicide pick: Baltimore.
Sep 10, 2009
Emergency request!
If any of you degenerates out there know of an NFL suicide pool with openings for new players, please post the details and any information about them in the comments as soon as possible!
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