Sorry everyone for not participating lately. We have been in an awful stretch of bad luck with my company. We had a couple deals fall through, some things stall out and then to top it off we couldn't sell toilet paper to a person with diarreah lately. All of this culminated with us barely making payroll over the last two months and me wondering where my next paycheck was coming from. So I have been doing slightly more important things other than blogging, like trying to figure out how to keep my family fed and our mortgage/bills paid. Anyway, the good news is I think this past week may be a sign that things are turning around. We just got two new deals and some other promising leads. For everyone that works at a large stable company (I think most of the people in this space) and gets a nice regular, like-clockwork, direct deposited paycheck I have some advice. The next time payday comes around, savor it. Take a moment to think about how great it is to get paid! :)
Regarding the World Series tonight. Call me crazy, but I like the Over for tonights game. Now, for those of you who haven't spit out your coffee or soda and are still with me, I'll explain my thoughts. We have two pitchers who have been known to get the "yips" occasionlly in big spots. I know, Rocket has been great this year, and Contreras has been dominating since the ASB. But, with an O/U of 7.0 the game needs to be very clean, and I can see the first inning or two both pitchers struggling with command a little bit. For Contrares and the Sox, I think a long layoff will affect them in the field a little. I have a feeling that after the game you will say both pitchers pitched OK but there were a few errors or missed defensive plays that cost them pitches, and cost them runs (even if they are unearned). I have to think the Sox bullpen will not be as crisp since they haven't done anything in two weeks. So I guess I see it as Contreras gives up a a couple in the early innings, Roger does his normal Brett Favre-esq coming out way too hyped and gives up 3 early runs. Then the ChiSox pen gives up another couple with the help of some shoddy Defense. Final - 6 to 4 Astros winning with Lidge getting the last 5 outs.
With all of that being said I'm sure Contreras and Clemens will both pitch into the 14th inning of a 0-0 game. Sox will probably win when a Hit Batsmen, Stolen Base, Sac bunt, Sac Fly scores the games only run.
Oct 22, 2005
Oct 21, 2005
Audience Participation II
To get the women involved (I think we have 3 regulars here at this site), please comment on the following situation:
I have a co-worker who has a 16 year old daughter who is not sexually active but states that she is getting major pressure from her boyfriend to have sex and wants to get on the "pill". Is that too young? As a parent do you take the a realistic approach (its going to happen one way or the other) to the situation and allow her to go on the pill or do you just stick your head in the ground and not get her on birth control and have a chance that you could be a 42 year grandfather?
My response was not to let her get on the pill. I think that once she goes to college, this is where you step in and get her on the pill. I think that by getting her on the pill this young, not only are you advocating it, but you might also be opening her up to unprotected sex. And to top it off, what 16 year is responsible enough to take a pill at the same time everyday? What is the Dad going to make sure she has the pill at breakfast every morning?
I have a co-worker who has a 16 year old daughter who is not sexually active but states that she is getting major pressure from her boyfriend to have sex and wants to get on the "pill". Is that too young? As a parent do you take the a realistic approach (its going to happen one way or the other) to the situation and allow her to go on the pill or do you just stick your head in the ground and not get her on birth control and have a chance that you could be a 42 year grandfather?
My response was not to let her get on the pill. I think that once she goes to college, this is where you step in and get her on the pill. I think that by getting her on the pill this young, not only are you advocating it, but you might also be opening her up to unprotected sex. And to top it off, what 16 year is responsible enough to take a pill at the same time everyday? What is the Dad going to make sure she has the pill at breakfast every morning?
Audience Participation
To stimulate more comments and input into the blog, let's start with this question.
Without looking, can you tell me who Spero Dedes is and what role he played in last week's Browns-Ravens game?
Derek, you are ineligble, since you know the answer.
Without looking, can you tell me who Spero Dedes is and what role he played in last week's Browns-Ravens game?
Derek, you are ineligble, since you know the answer.
10 Questions for Eric
Since no one else is on this site anymore I'll ask Eric some direct questions to force other people to write....
1. What are you doing for Thanksgiving?
2. What's going on with Rod Stewart? Is he a lounge singer now? His new album is nothing but Sinatra covers.
3. Can you find mom a job? I think that is the only way to end the random calls I get at work from her asking me about my love life, and then her getting all offended when I tell her I can't talk since I'm in a meeting. The last call two weeks ago set me off since I had just talked to her about only calling me on my cell during the week if it was important. So I'm in a meeting, she calls me three times in a row, so I decide to pick it up on the third call since I was worried, and she asked some ignorant question about my dating life? How do you respond without telling her off?
4. How can the NFL not put the game on TV tonight? And their reason is that they didn't want to impede on the Florida High School Football scene? That's crap!!!
5. Who is worse right now on football picks; Me or Paul Katcher?
6. Reading the BSG book last night and did you know that there were two Sports Gals? I always thought it was the same one.
7. Bill King died the other day. Didn't even know who he was two years ago, until I got MLB radio to listen to all of the A's games. He might be the most under-rated radio announcer, since I'm sure nobody knows of him outside of the Bay area.
8. With the preseason rankings out for college BB, I want your projected final four teams.
9. Will the Indians trade for Manny?
10. Can you blame the Saints on wanting to move? Before everyone starts in on the Saints Owner, Tom Benson, shouldn't we see how many people move back? The reconstruction plans? From all the news sources I have seen, it will take many years to clean up and rebuild NO, as well as many of the people who evacuated will not be moving back. If the NO population decreases by 40%, can they even support a team?
1. What are you doing for Thanksgiving?
2. What's going on with Rod Stewart? Is he a lounge singer now? His new album is nothing but Sinatra covers.
3. Can you find mom a job? I think that is the only way to end the random calls I get at work from her asking me about my love life, and then her getting all offended when I tell her I can't talk since I'm in a meeting. The last call two weeks ago set me off since I had just talked to her about only calling me on my cell during the week if it was important. So I'm in a meeting, she calls me three times in a row, so I decide to pick it up on the third call since I was worried, and she asked some ignorant question about my dating life? How do you respond without telling her off?
4. How can the NFL not put the game on TV tonight? And their reason is that they didn't want to impede on the Florida High School Football scene? That's crap!!!
5. Who is worse right now on football picks; Me or Paul Katcher?
6. Reading the BSG book last night and did you know that there were two Sports Gals? I always thought it was the same one.
7. Bill King died the other day. Didn't even know who he was two years ago, until I got MLB radio to listen to all of the A's games. He might be the most under-rated radio announcer, since I'm sure nobody knows of him outside of the Bay area.
8. With the preseason rankings out for college BB, I want your projected final four teams.
9. Will the Indians trade for Manny?
10. Can you blame the Saints on wanting to move? Before everyone starts in on the Saints Owner, Tom Benson, shouldn't we see how many people move back? The reconstruction plans? From all the news sources I have seen, it will take many years to clean up and rebuild NO, as well as many of the people who evacuated will not be moving back. If the NO population decreases by 40%, can they even support a team?
Oct 20, 2005
NFL Picks, week 7
Since there is an NFL game on Friday night, I have been ordered to post my picks tonight so others can use them in a pool. (I don't know what "others" there are, since it just seems this blog has been me, Derek and 14 crickets chirping during this past week.)
Anyway, so here goes:
KC 24, Mia 13 - I just feel that the KC offense can score 20-24 pts in any situation against anyone - and that will be enough here.
Stl 27, NO 21. NO defense is terrible. I believe Martin can handle this and get the job done.
(a moment of silence for all of us who own Marc Bulger in Fantasy leagues... get well soon, Marc!)
GB 24, Min 16: After a bye week, Favre and co. will roll through the Good Ship Viking. Can you imagine the boos in the Metrodome if the Vikes are down early?
Ind 20, Hou 10: Don't let last week fool you. The Ind offense will only comeout to play when absolutely needed. In this game, it will be all about ball control, like the Ind-Cle game 4 weeks ago.
Pit 20, Cin 17. Boy,did I go round and round on this one. I have to put aside my hatred for Pit and realise that Cincy's run defense is not all that stellar - and that's the key. Pit will control the ball here.
Phi 21, SD 16: Another bad break for the Chargers, getting Phi after a bye. If Phi can't get its defense in order after a bye week and facing a Chargers team that played two tough, emotional games - well, then, they are probably going to miss the playoffs.
Cle 24, Det 20: Everyone says how the Browns O is terrible, but let's review who they have played:
Cin (13), GB (26), Ind (6), Chi (20), Bal (3). That's 3 of the top 10 defense in the league, and Cinci's not bad either. Let's not bury the Browns O until we play Det, Hou, Ten, Oak, and so on.
Was 27, SF 10. Who cares?
Dal 24, Sea 23. It's too easy to write down "Seattle" and move on. Dallas's D is the real thing, and I'm not sold on the Sea passing game.
Buf 20, Oak 10. The defense will destroy the Raiders -especially if Moss is out - and Kelly will do just enough to win.
Chi 16, Bal 9. Wow. This is my best guess, but it all depends on the turnovers.
Ten 27, Az 23. Let's all ride the Anti-Arizona bandwagon until it crashes! I just picked up McCown in my fantasy league - if Green is dumb enough to start Warner over McCown, me and the 10 Cardinal fans will protest in front of Sun Devil Stadium.
NYG 31, Den 20. I think that Belicheck showed the league how to beat the Den D in that last 4th quarter. The Giants have the ability to copy that.
Atl 24, NYJ 20. The Falcons have no D; that's why this will be close.
Against the spread, I'm taking: KC, Stl, GB, Hou, Pit, Phi, Cle, Was, Dal, Buf, Chi, Ten, NYG, NYJ
Best Bets: (last week: 8-8-1 (damn that College game!); overall, 51-42-3 (55%)):
KC +1
KC/Mia Under 43
Stl -3
GB -2
Hou +15
Hou/Ind Under 45
Pit +1.5
Pit/Cin Under 43 1/2
Phi/SD Under 47
Cle/Det Over 35
Dal +3
Buf +3
Buf/Oak Under 40
Chi -1
Ten +3.5
Ten/Az Over 45
NYG -2
NYJ +7.5
NYJ/Atl Over 41
19 best bets
Phi 21, SD 16.
Anyway, so here goes:
KC 24, Mia 13 - I just feel that the KC offense can score 20-24 pts in any situation against anyone - and that will be enough here.
Stl 27, NO 21. NO defense is terrible. I believe Martin can handle this and get the job done.
(a moment of silence for all of us who own Marc Bulger in Fantasy leagues... get well soon, Marc!)
GB 24, Min 16: After a bye week, Favre and co. will roll through the Good Ship Viking. Can you imagine the boos in the Metrodome if the Vikes are down early?
Ind 20, Hou 10: Don't let last week fool you. The Ind offense will only comeout to play when absolutely needed. In this game, it will be all about ball control, like the Ind-Cle game 4 weeks ago.
Pit 20, Cin 17. Boy,did I go round and round on this one. I have to put aside my hatred for Pit and realise that Cincy's run defense is not all that stellar - and that's the key. Pit will control the ball here.
Phi 21, SD 16: Another bad break for the Chargers, getting Phi after a bye. If Phi can't get its defense in order after a bye week and facing a Chargers team that played two tough, emotional games - well, then, they are probably going to miss the playoffs.
Cle 24, Det 20: Everyone says how the Browns O is terrible, but let's review who they have played:
Cin (13), GB (26), Ind (6), Chi (20), Bal (3). That's 3 of the top 10 defense in the league, and Cinci's not bad either. Let's not bury the Browns O until we play Det, Hou, Ten, Oak, and so on.
Was 27, SF 10. Who cares?
Dal 24, Sea 23. It's too easy to write down "Seattle" and move on. Dallas's D is the real thing, and I'm not sold on the Sea passing game.
Buf 20, Oak 10. The defense will destroy the Raiders -especially if Moss is out - and Kelly will do just enough to win.
Chi 16, Bal 9. Wow. This is my best guess, but it all depends on the turnovers.
Ten 27, Az 23. Let's all ride the Anti-Arizona bandwagon until it crashes! I just picked up McCown in my fantasy league - if Green is dumb enough to start Warner over McCown, me and the 10 Cardinal fans will protest in front of Sun Devil Stadium.
NYG 31, Den 20. I think that Belicheck showed the league how to beat the Den D in that last 4th quarter. The Giants have the ability to copy that.
Atl 24, NYJ 20. The Falcons have no D; that's why this will be close.
Against the spread, I'm taking: KC, Stl, GB, Hou, Pit, Phi, Cle, Was, Dal, Buf, Chi, Ten, NYG, NYJ
Best Bets: (last week: 8-8-1 (damn that College game!); overall, 51-42-3 (55%)):
KC +1
KC/Mia Under 43
Stl -3
GB -2
Hou +15
Hou/Ind Under 45
Pit +1.5
Pit/Cin Under 43 1/2
Phi/SD Under 47
Cle/Det Over 35
Dal +3
Buf +3
Buf/Oak Under 40
Chi -1
Ten +3.5
Ten/Az Over 45
NYG -2
NYJ +7.5
NYJ/Atl Over 41
19 best bets
Phi 21, SD 16.
Oct 18, 2005
Stomach Punchers
I just read BSG today. Good article, describing the pain of a loss like. But I'd like to expand on two points.
1) I know this is an old, tired rant from me - but when SG calls himself an expert in the Stomach Punch, my skin crawls. He's not. Only one of the teams he roots for has a history of excruciating losses in the playoffs. What about the Celtics? Pats?
For every Buckner, I have a Mesa. For every Boone, I have a Byner. What about Red Right 88? The Drive? The Shot? Pedro? Even the Move?
No other fan base has had to put up with what we have. Period. Take your woe is me crap and shove it.
It's ironic that we have to hear BSG talk about this pain when he titled his book "Now I Can Die in Peace". That's like hearing John Edwards talk about poverty. You can't relate any more once you've become rich.
(thank you for indulging me)
2) He mentioned that "the pain never goes away" even if the team wins a title. I can't relate - yet - but I ask myself the same questions:
Will the pain of Mesa go away if the Tribe wins the WS? I think so.
Will the pain of the Drive/Fumble go away if the Browns win the SB? I'm not so sure.
3) Because I have to suffer this pain, I don't want to see anyone else be happy until my burden is lifted. I'm very happy about last night's ending; I'm rooting for the Cards whole heartedly now to complete the Astros choke.
And, of course, the perfect ending would be to have Bobby Jenks blow a 2-run lead in game 7 vs. St Louis. Then the pain of the Astros and the White Sox would continue on.
Yes, I'm masochistic.
1) I know this is an old, tired rant from me - but when SG calls himself an expert in the Stomach Punch, my skin crawls. He's not. Only one of the teams he roots for has a history of excruciating losses in the playoffs. What about the Celtics? Pats?
For every Buckner, I have a Mesa. For every Boone, I have a Byner. What about Red Right 88? The Drive? The Shot? Pedro? Even the Move?
No other fan base has had to put up with what we have. Period. Take your woe is me crap and shove it.
It's ironic that we have to hear BSG talk about this pain when he titled his book "Now I Can Die in Peace". That's like hearing John Edwards talk about poverty. You can't relate any more once you've become rich.
(thank you for indulging me)
2) He mentioned that "the pain never goes away" even if the team wins a title. I can't relate - yet - but I ask myself the same questions:
Will the pain of Mesa go away if the Tribe wins the WS? I think so.
Will the pain of the Drive/Fumble go away if the Browns win the SB? I'm not so sure.
3) Because I have to suffer this pain, I don't want to see anyone else be happy until my burden is lifted. I'm very happy about last night's ending; I'm rooting for the Cards whole heartedly now to complete the Astros choke.
And, of course, the perfect ending would be to have Bobby Jenks blow a 2-run lead in game 7 vs. St Louis. Then the pain of the Astros and the White Sox would continue on.
Yes, I'm masochistic.
Oct 17, 2005
MTV Update
Anyone see Laguna Beach last night? Lets just say we can all take lessons from this kid Jason. He has torn through at least 5 different girls over the past 3-4 epidsodes. It has become so amazing, even my mom is commenting on it. "Now Derek, you know I don't approve of his actions, but DAMN!!! THAT KID'S GOTZ MOVES".
And this gets me to this question...Has anyone investigated MTV for child porn? I'm usually a big fan of their programming, but I think all of this might be crossing a line somewhere.
And this gets me to this question...Has anyone investigated MTV for child porn? I'm usually a big fan of their programming, but I think all of this might be crossing a line somewhere.
BSG
So I picked up the new Sports Guy book this weekend, despite some concerns over the content. While I tend to agree with my brother and others that this book will contain nothing but Boston propaganda and references to the Red Sox Nation, I still decided to spend $25 at Barnes and Noble. Consider this more of a donation instead of reading entertainment, since I probably won't read the entire book. Now why would I waste $25 to read about a topic that I'm growing very tired of, and frankly can't even stand? Well its to support someone who has posted free articles over the past 7 years that has provided endless amounts of entertainment. Its to support someone who took a chance, broke from the norm, and provided a sports and entertainment view point that was never presented to us. He might of been the first sports and entertainment blogger back in the day, even though he would probably refute this statement due to his hatred of bloggers. He opened the door so that people like Aaron Gleeman, Paul Katchner, and even us, who can sit here on the internet and write about things that would typically be talked about in bars or parties. And on top of everything else, he provided topics for Eric, Lee, Jay, and I to discuss years after college ended that helped keep us close.
Now, I know I'm very critical of the Sportsguy now, but that doesn't take away from anything that he did in the past. I mean he was a comedic force back in 98-01 at the old site before he joined ESPN. He almost posted 4,000 word articles each day on topics ranging from Gambling, Basketball, Baseball, Football, and his notorious Reader Email responses. His Gambling Manifesto and his diaries about Vegas, drafts, and random TV shows are legendary. He was in my highly touted "Daily Bathroom Reading" rotation that consisted of free material off the internet from Reilly, Gammons, Neyer, Kornheiser, Chad, and Wilbon all writing top notch articles for the internet almost everyday. Now everyone except for the Sportsguy, Kornheiser, and Wilbon are associated to pay sites, with only the Sportsguy worth reading anymore. And even now that he has become more mainstream, is off the mark many times, and contradicts himself in almost every article, he is still 10 times better than any one else out there. With all that being said, I'm happy to give him $25 to make sure he is still around for years to come.
Now, I know I'm very critical of the Sportsguy now, but that doesn't take away from anything that he did in the past. I mean he was a comedic force back in 98-01 at the old site before he joined ESPN. He almost posted 4,000 word articles each day on topics ranging from Gambling, Basketball, Baseball, Football, and his notorious Reader Email responses. His Gambling Manifesto and his diaries about Vegas, drafts, and random TV shows are legendary. He was in my highly touted "Daily Bathroom Reading" rotation that consisted of free material off the internet from Reilly, Gammons, Neyer, Kornheiser, Chad, and Wilbon all writing top notch articles for the internet almost everyday. Now everyone except for the Sportsguy, Kornheiser, and Wilbon are associated to pay sites, with only the Sportsguy worth reading anymore. And even now that he has become more mainstream, is off the mark many times, and contradicts himself in almost every article, he is still 10 times better than any one else out there. With all that being said, I'm happy to give him $25 to make sure he is still around for years to come.
Oct 15, 2005
NFL Picks Week 6
Before we start, a sad note: Jason Collier has died at the age of 28.
Jason was a center for the Hawks and (more notably) a center for Georgia Tech in the late 90s- early 00s. He grew up in Spring field, OH, and went to Springfield Central Catholic. When I was a high school basketball ref, I did two or three Springfield CC JV games, and then satyed around and watched Jason play on the varsity team.
(One of those JV games was when I received the worst tongue lashing from a varsity ref watching my game; I deserved it and never forgot what he told me. Another story for another time.)
He signed a letter of intent with Indiana, I believe, and either backed out or transferred immediately and enrolled in Ga Tech. He then was drafted by the Hawks and was having a solid career.
It's a weird feeling when people you are familiar with - and who are younger than you - die.
Anyway, on to the picks, after a solid week 5:
Det 27, Car 20 - I'm more and more convinced of this pick after seeing everyone go the other way. Det is a completely different team at home.
NYG 27, Dal 24, OT: Dallas will have a letdown - Parcells will try not to let it happen, but it will - and the Giants are coming off of a bye. I'm starting to be a believer in the Giants offense.
Min 13, Chi 10. Where are the points coming from? Min will score 10-17; Chi scored 10 last week against an average Cleveland defense - and now they are without Thomas Jones. An upset here.
Atl 31, NO 24. Just seems like a shootout to me.
Cin 24, Ten 20. I have a feel for all of the NFL teams - how they score, what their strengths are on offense and defense - except for Tennessee. Truly, I know nothing about them. Are they a passing O? How is their run D? I really have not seen much of their games at all. This is the one team I'm in the dark about.
TB 20, Mia 9. How, exactly, will Miami score here? In Tampa?
Pit 24, Jax 13 - Pittsburgh - and Cowher - are too good to lose a game like this - at home - when Ben is out. I expect lots and lots of runs, with the occasional trick play with Randle El.
KC 31, Was 17. I went out drinking last night with a guy who was not even born when Gibbs-Vermeil last met. That's scary. KC will explode in this game.
Buf 24, NYJ 16 - I just feel like there will be a whole lot of turnovers in this game - say, 6. That means points.
SD 31, Oak 21. I'm sold on San Diego. They will win this division. They have the offense and enough of a D to win these types of games.
NE 27, Den 24: Derek, if Den wins this game, I will recant my comment on the Denver line. But I don't see it. NE will win late, as usual.
Sea 26, Hou 10. I know, this looks and smells like a trap. But how can this game NOT be a blowout by halftime?
Ind 31, Stl 20. St Louis will score enough junk TDs to keep it close at the end. Go Go Go Marc Bulger!
**Biased Pick coming up!***
Cle 17, Bal 13. Boy, I hope this happens. Let's get up 10 early and watch the crowd turn against the Ravens. If we fall behind early, then we're in trouble.
Best Bests: (Last week: 12-4-1; overall, 43-34-2)
17 picks:
Det -1
NYG +3
Min +3
Min-Chi UNDER 37.5
Atl/NO OVER 43.5
TB -4
TB/Mia UNDER 34.5
Pit -3.5
KC -6
Buf -3.5
Buf/Mia OVER 33
SD -2.5
NE +3.5
Sea -9.5
Hou/Sea UNDER 46
Stl +13.5
and a bonus college pick!
Wyoming -6.5 today.
Jason was a center for the Hawks and (more notably) a center for Georgia Tech in the late 90s- early 00s. He grew up in Spring field, OH, and went to Springfield Central Catholic. When I was a high school basketball ref, I did two or three Springfield CC JV games, and then satyed around and watched Jason play on the varsity team.
(One of those JV games was when I received the worst tongue lashing from a varsity ref watching my game; I deserved it and never forgot what he told me. Another story for another time.)
He signed a letter of intent with Indiana, I believe, and either backed out or transferred immediately and enrolled in Ga Tech. He then was drafted by the Hawks and was having a solid career.
It's a weird feeling when people you are familiar with - and who are younger than you - die.
Anyway, on to the picks, after a solid week 5:
Det 27, Car 20 - I'm more and more convinced of this pick after seeing everyone go the other way. Det is a completely different team at home.
NYG 27, Dal 24, OT: Dallas will have a letdown - Parcells will try not to let it happen, but it will - and the Giants are coming off of a bye. I'm starting to be a believer in the Giants offense.
Min 13, Chi 10. Where are the points coming from? Min will score 10-17; Chi scored 10 last week against an average Cleveland defense - and now they are without Thomas Jones. An upset here.
Atl 31, NO 24. Just seems like a shootout to me.
Cin 24, Ten 20. I have a feel for all of the NFL teams - how they score, what their strengths are on offense and defense - except for Tennessee. Truly, I know nothing about them. Are they a passing O? How is their run D? I really have not seen much of their games at all. This is the one team I'm in the dark about.
TB 20, Mia 9. How, exactly, will Miami score here? In Tampa?
Pit 24, Jax 13 - Pittsburgh - and Cowher - are too good to lose a game like this - at home - when Ben is out. I expect lots and lots of runs, with the occasional trick play with Randle El.
KC 31, Was 17. I went out drinking last night with a guy who was not even born when Gibbs-Vermeil last met. That's scary. KC will explode in this game.
Buf 24, NYJ 16 - I just feel like there will be a whole lot of turnovers in this game - say, 6. That means points.
SD 31, Oak 21. I'm sold on San Diego. They will win this division. They have the offense and enough of a D to win these types of games.
NE 27, Den 24: Derek, if Den wins this game, I will recant my comment on the Denver line. But I don't see it. NE will win late, as usual.
Sea 26, Hou 10. I know, this looks and smells like a trap. But how can this game NOT be a blowout by halftime?
Ind 31, Stl 20. St Louis will score enough junk TDs to keep it close at the end. Go Go Go Marc Bulger!
**Biased Pick coming up!***
Cle 17, Bal 13. Boy, I hope this happens. Let's get up 10 early and watch the crowd turn against the Ravens. If we fall behind early, then we're in trouble.
Best Bests: (Last week: 12-4-1; overall, 43-34-2)
17 picks:
Det -1
NYG +3
Min +3
Min-Chi UNDER 37.5
Atl/NO OVER 43.5
TB -4
TB/Mia UNDER 34.5
Pit -3.5
KC -6
Buf -3.5
Buf/Mia OVER 33
SD -2.5
NE +3.5
Sea -9.5
Hou/Sea UNDER 46
Stl +13.5
and a bonus college pick!
Wyoming -6.5 today.
Oct 14, 2005
Ugh...
Why. I got nothing else except that I blame him for losing the Sox series and missing the playoffs the last two years. Don't like his attitude. Don't like the way he manages his starters and bullpen. Don't like the way he changes the lineup each day. Don't like that he reacts to player trends about 10 days too late.
More Random Thoughts
1. Need a lawyer? Can't do much better than this guy...
http://www.jshfirm.com/custom.cfm?name=c_attorneydetail.cfm&id=7
Imagine trying to go up against him in court.
2. Midnight Madness is upon us - which means it's time to go get the NCAA BB preview issues! Who cares about who is in the top 25 - I go right for the important stuff like:
- what new fodder teams have entered D-I hoops
- what conference changes have taken place (where is Centenary now? Oral Roberts? Boise St?)
- what interesting non-conference games will take place in November that I can take advantage of (usually involves a mid- or low-major vs. a team that's coming down but still has a reputation). Those are the money-makers.
I swear, if Stump the Schwab ever had a question like "There are 22 teams in the Atlantic Sun and the Southland Conferences. Name them", I'd get at least 17 and I'd outlast Schwab.
3. Two great articles by Dr. Z. and SG today regarding football picks. Dr. Z about his experience in trying to pick NFL games, and SG in breaking down the "Kitchen Sink" philosophy that I whole heartedly agree with. (I was 4-1 in the 5 games he mentioned).
But in a box in SG's article, where it says "Gambling Stats through 5 weeks", it says underdogs have won outright "26 out of 37 games". What does this mean? There have been over 64 games played in the NFL - so how do we get only 37 underdogs???? I don't understand.
4. I meant to blog on this earlier in the week, but here goes:
The great thing about the midwest is that there is a distinct change of seasons. Last week in Iowa, the temperateures dropped from highs in the 70-80 range to 55 over two days.
One may think that's depressing, but it's not. So many people commented that "it now feels like fall.... feels like football weather". What a great feeling.
It's one thing to tailgate in September, when it is 85 and sunny - but you really aren't into a football game with that weather. It has to be chilly (or even cold) to get the blood boiling.
Twice last week I walk into the plant - it's 45, 10 mph winds - and I think to myself: "there's no better place to be in this weather than in Cleveland Muni parking lot, 3 hours before gametime, lighting up a grill and drinking beer/liquor".
I know we all have different favorite places/ways to tailgate - but when the weather turns like this, my mind always goes back to the lakefront and the Sunday Morning party/tailgates we had before Browns' games. The chill in the air, the small of chili and brats, the anticipation of the game (especially if the game was an important one)...... it all comes back to me once the seasons change.
Am I crazy, or do others experience this feeling as well?
http://www.jshfirm.com/custom.cfm?name=c_attorneydetail.cfm&id=7
Imagine trying to go up against him in court.
2. Midnight Madness is upon us - which means it's time to go get the NCAA BB preview issues! Who cares about who is in the top 25 - I go right for the important stuff like:
- what new fodder teams have entered D-I hoops
- what conference changes have taken place (where is Centenary now? Oral Roberts? Boise St?)
- what interesting non-conference games will take place in November that I can take advantage of (usually involves a mid- or low-major vs. a team that's coming down but still has a reputation). Those are the money-makers.
I swear, if Stump the Schwab ever had a question like "There are 22 teams in the Atlantic Sun and the Southland Conferences. Name them", I'd get at least 17 and I'd outlast Schwab.
3. Two great articles by Dr. Z. and SG today regarding football picks. Dr. Z about his experience in trying to pick NFL games, and SG in breaking down the "Kitchen Sink" philosophy that I whole heartedly agree with. (I was 4-1 in the 5 games he mentioned).
But in a box in SG's article, where it says "Gambling Stats through 5 weeks", it says underdogs have won outright "26 out of 37 games". What does this mean? There have been over 64 games played in the NFL - so how do we get only 37 underdogs???? I don't understand.
4. I meant to blog on this earlier in the week, but here goes:
The great thing about the midwest is that there is a distinct change of seasons. Last week in Iowa, the temperateures dropped from highs in the 70-80 range to 55 over two days.
One may think that's depressing, but it's not. So many people commented that "it now feels like fall.... feels like football weather". What a great feeling.
It's one thing to tailgate in September, when it is 85 and sunny - but you really aren't into a football game with that weather. It has to be chilly (or even cold) to get the blood boiling.
Twice last week I walk into the plant - it's 45, 10 mph winds - and I think to myself: "there's no better place to be in this weather than in Cleveland Muni parking lot, 3 hours before gametime, lighting up a grill and drinking beer/liquor".
I know we all have different favorite places/ways to tailgate - but when the weather turns like this, my mind always goes back to the lakefront and the Sunday Morning party/tailgates we had before Browns' games. The chill in the air, the small of chili and brats, the anticipation of the game (especially if the game was an important one)...... it all comes back to me once the seasons change.
Am I crazy, or do others experience this feeling as well?
National Boss's Day
For the first time, I actually received a card for National Boss's Day. This is what happens when you start to employ some clerical people (women) to work for you. What a crap Hallmark ploy. I guess I would make up days to give people cards if I was in that industry. So on that note, in honor of Jimmy the Greek's birthday, this weekend I'm giving half off the juice, except for you Lee since you posted before this offer. Oh and Eric your not eligible either since, well, I don't know why, but since your my brother you will have to deal with it. I'm tired of losing money to you, as well as I always give you other ways to reduce the juice with our stupid "guess the line" wagers on Monday and Tuesdays.
Now if I can just get them to remember my birthday so I can get some ice cream cake, I would be happy. That's right RRD, I LOVE ICE CREAM CAKE.
Now if I can just get them to remember my birthday so I can get some ice cream cake, I would be happy. That's right RRD, I LOVE ICE CREAM CAKE.
The problem with A-Rod
The recent outcry against A-Rod has me concerned. Why is there such hatred towards A-Rod? Why are there 15 articles about the problems with A-Rod? The guy is a standup baseball player who stays out of trouble, plays hard, puts up tremendous numbers, and as far as we know doesn't use steroids.
My theory is the media. He plays in New York and he is an easy target for the New York media since they haven't won a World Series in 5 years? The Boston media jumps in and rubs it in, which I would do if I was a Sox fan. I mean the way that they have continued to blow the "Slap Play" from last years playoffs is unbelievable. A-Rod was called out and that should of been the end of it. Now it is listed as one of the most controversial plays in baseball? What was the controversy? And finally you have all the small markets jumping in and trashing A-Rod due to their combined hatred of the Yanks and any high salary player.
Now, I'm not defending A-Rod's past playoff performances, since I have seen him strikeout time after time during the stretch run against the A's in late inning situations with the game on the line. Heck, Jim Mecir and his club foot earned himself a 3 year deal with the A's due to his ability to get A-Rod out, but nobody else. Has there ever been a right handed specialist since Mecir? I feared Raffy and Edgar tens time more than A-Rod back in the day.
I just think that the media is going way overboard with this. Over at hardballtimes.com, http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/fall-from-grace/>John Battain, breaks the reasons on why everyone is jumping on the "I hate A-Rod" bandwagon and what A-Rod should do.
On a different note, I want to make a note of my two lock of the week picks for college football. USC-11.5 over ND, and LSU-6 over Florida. While Weis is a good coach, he can't make up for the talent difference between ND and USC. ND might be able to beat up on Big Ten schools that have a grind em out offense, but with USC, you have to score TDs. On a bad day (which they have had two so far), USC will still score 38 points. Do you really think ND can score that many points? Maybe, but the chances are slim and this isn't Pittsburgh or Purdue. I was licking my chops once I saw that the line was below 14. And LSU will probably only score 24 points against an above average Florida defense, but Florida can't score against a good team. And if you see a line above 3 points in the Big Ten, take the underdog if it isn't Indiana or Illinois.
And my final gambling note of the week is how can the Ravens be favored by 6? Will they even score that many points? Vegas always over-values the Broncos, Ravens, and Green Bay, based off of things that they have done in the past. And for some reason this year, Vegas keeps on riding the Arizona bandwagon. Lets see how this compares to Eric's picks on Sunday.
My theory is the media. He plays in New York and he is an easy target for the New York media since they haven't won a World Series in 5 years? The Boston media jumps in and rubs it in, which I would do if I was a Sox fan. I mean the way that they have continued to blow the "Slap Play" from last years playoffs is unbelievable. A-Rod was called out and that should of been the end of it. Now it is listed as one of the most controversial plays in baseball? What was the controversy? And finally you have all the small markets jumping in and trashing A-Rod due to their combined hatred of the Yanks and any high salary player.
Now, I'm not defending A-Rod's past playoff performances, since I have seen him strikeout time after time during the stretch run against the A's in late inning situations with the game on the line. Heck, Jim Mecir and his club foot earned himself a 3 year deal with the A's due to his ability to get A-Rod out, but nobody else. Has there ever been a right handed specialist since Mecir? I feared Raffy and Edgar tens time more than A-Rod back in the day.
I just think that the media is going way overboard with this. Over at hardballtimes.com, http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/fall-from-grace/>John Battain, breaks the reasons on why everyone is jumping on the "I hate A-Rod" bandwagon and what A-Rod should do.
On a different note, I want to make a note of my two lock of the week picks for college football. USC-11.5 over ND, and LSU-6 over Florida. While Weis is a good coach, he can't make up for the talent difference between ND and USC. ND might be able to beat up on Big Ten schools that have a grind em out offense, but with USC, you have to score TDs. On a bad day (which they have had two so far), USC will still score 38 points. Do you really think ND can score that many points? Maybe, but the chances are slim and this isn't Pittsburgh or Purdue. I was licking my chops once I saw that the line was below 14. And LSU will probably only score 24 points against an above average Florida defense, but Florida can't score against a good team. And if you see a line above 3 points in the Big Ten, take the underdog if it isn't Indiana or Illinois.
And my final gambling note of the week is how can the Ravens be favored by 6? Will they even score that many points? Vegas always over-values the Broncos, Ravens, and Green Bay, based off of things that they have done in the past. And for some reason this year, Vegas keeps on riding the Arizona bandwagon. Lets see how this compares to Eric's picks on Sunday.
Oct 11, 2005
Baseball Playoffs
NOTE***PERSON WRITING THIS ANALYSIS HAS GONE 0-20 IN HIS LAST 20 WAGERS******
So I will make a couple quick predictions on the baseball playoffs;
AL- White Sox over Angels in 5
What a blah series in my mind, despite both of these teams being pretty good. This is what happens when the media pays too much attention to the Yanks and Red Sox. Now I get to hear possibly the two worst radio/TV guys (not named Buck or McCarver) in the game in Rex Dog for the Angels and Hawk for the Sox for another couple of weeks. Thanks.
NL- Cards over Astros in 7
I'm actually really excited for this one, except for the fact that Buck and McCarver will be doing the games and probably won't stop talking about the man love affair between Clemens and Pettite, how Pujols befriended that retarded girl, how Edmonds plays CF like no other (cue the film), and how LaRussa's 18 pitching changes in inning 7 won them the game. Ugh, I hate these guys.
Since I can't win a game to save my life, I was pleasantly surprised to see that McDonalds brought back the Monopoly game. This is one game that I never get tired of, and seem to win all the time. And at lunch today I won a free ice cream cone. Yipee!!!! I remember when Rico, Blondie, and I took the time to set up the board and actually keep all of our pieces and stick them to the board. We collected all the pieces except for those that they keep hidden in Alaska and probably won about 2500 hamburgers and small drinks. It was quite a sight.
So I will make a couple quick predictions on the baseball playoffs;
AL- White Sox over Angels in 5
What a blah series in my mind, despite both of these teams being pretty good. This is what happens when the media pays too much attention to the Yanks and Red Sox. Now I get to hear possibly the two worst radio/TV guys (not named Buck or McCarver) in the game in Rex Dog for the Angels and Hawk for the Sox for another couple of weeks. Thanks.
NL- Cards over Astros in 7
I'm actually really excited for this one, except for the fact that Buck and McCarver will be doing the games and probably won't stop talking about the man love affair between Clemens and Pettite, how Pujols befriended that retarded girl, how Edmonds plays CF like no other (cue the film), and how LaRussa's 18 pitching changes in inning 7 won them the game. Ugh, I hate these guys.
Since I can't win a game to save my life, I was pleasantly surprised to see that McDonalds brought back the Monopoly game. This is one game that I never get tired of, and seem to win all the time. And at lunch today I won a free ice cream cone. Yipee!!!! I remember when Rico, Blondie, and I took the time to set up the board and actually keep all of our pieces and stick them to the board. We collected all the pieces except for those that they keep hidden in Alaska and probably won about 2500 hamburgers and small drinks. It was quite a sight.
You can't make these stories up
From SG's links of the day, comes this story:
http://www.local6.com/news/5081130/detail.html
How do we not have video of the driver emerging from the crash with a 2x4????
http://www.local6.com/news/5081130/detail.html
How do we not have video of the driver emerging from the crash with a 2x4????
Foxtrot to Motherhen
Had this dream last night that I've had about 4-5 times a year for the past 7 years, involving a couple of my friends in a wartime jungle setting. It always involves Dudeman and I going into a house to extract 3 people, while Lee and Ty battle some troops in the backyard of the house. Cox is the sniper (in the woods in full camo), Jay runs our communications, Keith is in charge of transportation (always on time), Jon is at the extraction point (always so nervous), and Richie is always the helicopter pilot (wearing those aviator shades and smoking a large cigar). Remind me to send Cox a thank you letter for always snipping that guy on the roof as Dudeman and I are running across the front yard with the hostages. And this dream is so intense and now I realize during the dream what is going on and its like I'm actually doing this shit. I always wake up all nervous and I can't go back to bed. Don't know what brings this dream on since the only thing I did last night was watch West Wing and the ball game. Maybe its because I play too many video games or that I've been on the patch for 4 years, or maybe its a sign that I need to write a movie based off of this dream. Something isn't right.
Oct 9, 2005
NFL Week 5, Part 2
Everything is sweeter after a Browns win...
2 more picks to add on:
Jax -3
Jax/Cin UNDER 38
2 more picks to add on:
Jax -3
Jax/Cin UNDER 38
NFL Week 5
Boy, I haven't been this excited for a Browns game since....well, it's been a while. If we can win today - and we should! - that will get us to 2-2, and a .500 record would be great to have at this point.
Anyway, here are my picks for the week:
Det 17, Bal 16: Who knows.
TB 23, NYJ 10 - TB's defense has got to stop Vinny, right?
Buf 31, Mia 17 - Every time Holcomb filled in for Tim Couch, his first game was a barnburner. For example: the Dwayne Rudd helmet game (KC 40, Cle 39); the 2002 playoff game (Pit 38, Cle 31), etc. Lots of points in this one.
Ten 24, Hou 20 - it's hard to pick this since I HAVEN'T SEEN THESE TEAMS PLAY YET! Seriously, if you have DirectTv, why turn to a game with one of these teams?
Cle 24, Chi 20 - maybe a bit optimistic about the offenses here.
NE 27, Atl 20. The Pat's won't go to 2-3.
GB31, NO 24. This is it - the last stand. Sherman better run the offense like he did in the 4th quarter Monday night. They do that, they will win.
Stl 29, Sea 27. Seattle will find a way to lose.
Ind 24, San Fran 10. Indy will keep the ball for 40 minutes and have 5 drives in excess of 6 minutes each - domnating the game, but there won't be the fireworks.
Den 20, Was 16. Wow. Seriously, I can't wait to see this game. Are both teams as good as advertised?
Car 30, Arz 20 - Rinse and repeat for Carolina. Play the same way they did Monday night. The same game plan will work.
Dal 23, Phi 20 - Upset of the week. Not impressed with Philly on the road yet ( i know, last week - ok I should say I'm not impressed with Philly on the road vs. a good defense). Does Phi have any home games? It seems like they are always on the road.
Jax 20, Cin 17 - Going with the home ream that needs the win.
Pit 20, SD 17 - You don't think Cowher will be ready for the Chargers after a week off?
Best bets: (last week: 6-8; overall: 31-30-2):
TB -3
Buf -3
Buf/Mia OVER 35
Ten +3
NE +2.5
GB -3
GB/NO OVER 42
Stl/Sea OVER 49
Ind/SF UNDER 46.5
Was +7
Car -2.5
Car/Az OVER 43
Dal +3
Pit +3
Pit/SD UNDER 45.5
Anyway, here are my picks for the week:
Det 17, Bal 16: Who knows.
TB 23, NYJ 10 - TB's defense has got to stop Vinny, right?
Buf 31, Mia 17 - Every time Holcomb filled in for Tim Couch, his first game was a barnburner. For example: the Dwayne Rudd helmet game (KC 40, Cle 39); the 2002 playoff game (Pit 38, Cle 31), etc. Lots of points in this one.
Ten 24, Hou 20 - it's hard to pick this since I HAVEN'T SEEN THESE TEAMS PLAY YET! Seriously, if you have DirectTv, why turn to a game with one of these teams?
Cle 24, Chi 20 - maybe a bit optimistic about the offenses here.
NE 27, Atl 20. The Pat's won't go to 2-3.
GB31, NO 24. This is it - the last stand. Sherman better run the offense like he did in the 4th quarter Monday night. They do that, they will win.
Stl 29, Sea 27. Seattle will find a way to lose.
Ind 24, San Fran 10. Indy will keep the ball for 40 minutes and have 5 drives in excess of 6 minutes each - domnating the game, but there won't be the fireworks.
Den 20, Was 16. Wow. Seriously, I can't wait to see this game. Are both teams as good as advertised?
Car 30, Arz 20 - Rinse and repeat for Carolina. Play the same way they did Monday night. The same game plan will work.
Dal 23, Phi 20 - Upset of the week. Not impressed with Philly on the road yet ( i know, last week - ok I should say I'm not impressed with Philly on the road vs. a good defense). Does Phi have any home games? It seems like they are always on the road.
Jax 20, Cin 17 - Going with the home ream that needs the win.
Pit 20, SD 17 - You don't think Cowher will be ready for the Chargers after a week off?
Best bets: (last week: 6-8; overall: 31-30-2):
TB -3
Buf -3
Buf/Mia OVER 35
Ten +3
NE +2.5
GB -3
GB/NO OVER 42
Stl/Sea OVER 49
Ind/SF UNDER 46.5
Was +7
Car -2.5
Car/Az OVER 43
Dal +3
Pit +3
Pit/SD UNDER 45.5
Random Thoughts
A list of topics that have been floating through my head:
1. Sad news from the world of entertainment: Nipsey Russell has died at the age of 80. What would an episode of "Match Game 78" be without him and his four line stanza om pop culture:
"The opposite of pro is con
That much is plainly seen
If progress is moving forward,
Then what does Congress mean?"
RIP, Nipsey. May you always be in the seat next to Brett Sommers in heaven.
2. Some of you may have seen the Kyle Orton pictures on the internet; click on the link to see Kyle - on the Thursday of a bye week - enjoying himself in an Iowa City bar.
a. How does this make sense? He is from Iowa - although he's fromWestern Iowa, not the estern part - and he went to Purdue, not Iowa. Why is he partying in Iowa City?
b. Unfortnately, he did not call me to party with him. C'mon Kyle, I'm within 10 minutes of that bar - I could have made it down as soon as I stopped reading "Wheels on the Bus"
c. There's nothing inherently wrong about this - it's his bye week, and he can spend it any way he wants. But I hope Romeo's got these pictures and is passing it around the locker room today - you're going to let this guy beat us?
3. As some of you might know, the conservative blogosphere (instapundit, and others) are trying to organize and effort to force our Congress to cut pork in order to pay for the Katrina clean-up effort.
However, one vlaued project that has been funded already is the Iowa Rain Forest, which is planned to be built right here in my home town of Coralville.
This project has come under fire as pork that could be cut out of the budget in order to pay for Katrina. IowaHawk makes the case for the Rainforest.
If you have any political interest at all, this post will leave you rolling on the floor.
And while you are there, check out a copy of Harriet Miers' application to the Supreme Court.
4. Do stock analysts have too much power? This week, one analyst downgraded P&G due to her concern over rising raw material costs. Even though she admits that P&G is "extraordinarily" disciplined in cost-cutting moves, she woders about the impact.
On that news, we lost $3/share over the week.
Is that too much power?
5. There's no bigger disappointment than this: you get up Sat morning, yearning for toast; it comes out perfect -now to load it up with Country Crock - oh no! All we have is that Land O Lakes whipped butter crap -that's impossible to spread.
There is no substitue for Country Crock.
1. Sad news from the world of entertainment: Nipsey Russell has died at the age of 80. What would an episode of "Match Game 78" be without him and his four line stanza om pop culture:
"The opposite of pro is con
That much is plainly seen
If progress is moving forward,
Then what does Congress mean?"
RIP, Nipsey. May you always be in the seat next to Brett Sommers in heaven.
2. Some of you may have seen the Kyle Orton pictures on the internet; click on the link to see Kyle - on the Thursday of a bye week - enjoying himself in an Iowa City bar.
a. How does this make sense? He is from Iowa - although he's fromWestern Iowa, not the estern part - and he went to Purdue, not Iowa. Why is he partying in Iowa City?
b. Unfortnately, he did not call me to party with him. C'mon Kyle, I'm within 10 minutes of that bar - I could have made it down as soon as I stopped reading "Wheels on the Bus"
c. There's nothing inherently wrong about this - it's his bye week, and he can spend it any way he wants. But I hope Romeo's got these pictures and is passing it around the locker room today - you're going to let this guy beat us?
3. As some of you might know, the conservative blogosphere (instapundit, and others) are trying to organize and effort to force our Congress to cut pork in order to pay for the Katrina clean-up effort.
However, one vlaued project that has been funded already is the Iowa Rain Forest, which is planned to be built right here in my home town of Coralville.
This project has come under fire as pork that could be cut out of the budget in order to pay for Katrina. IowaHawk makes the case for the Rainforest.
If you have any political interest at all, this post will leave you rolling on the floor.
And while you are there, check out a copy of Harriet Miers' application to the Supreme Court.
4. Do stock analysts have too much power? This week, one analyst downgraded P&G due to her concern over rising raw material costs. Even though she admits that P&G is "extraordinarily" disciplined in cost-cutting moves, she woders about the impact.
On that news, we lost $3/share over the week.
Is that too much power?
5. There's no bigger disappointment than this: you get up Sat morning, yearning for toast; it comes out perfect -now to load it up with Country Crock - oh no! All we have is that Land O Lakes whipped butter crap -that's impossible to spread.
There is no substitue for Country Crock.
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