- 05:36 AM
- 11/23/24
Do the Giants actually need to have a QB on the field for this game?
Yeah, JaMarcus Russell.
posted by ampto11 at 09:01 AM on October 09, 2009
I believe Dallas Cowboys won the Super Bowl in their first season in Texas Stadium,..... 71 maybe??
posted by ampto11 at 01:26 PM on October 08, 2009
Cave City's coach told his athletes that rules don't matter by bringing him in.
I understand why you would say that but I feel that it's also telling his athletes that people who make mistakes, especially young adults, deserve a second chance. It sounds like the coach is trying to reach out to the kid and help him to be a more productive part of a society. I don't believe it's in the same district as his former school so I don't have much of an issue with his playing football his senior year or feel that it's a blatant disregard for rules in general. I applaud the coach and school/community for getting involved in this young man's life. I hope the coach is successful in helping to rebuild the image of this young man.
posted by ampto11 at 01:48 PM on September 25, 2009
Thanks BI. This is a great story and one that I most likely would have missed had it not been posted here. I sure do appreciate this young man's attitude and courage. I know I could not display the same grace and dignity as this young man if faced with such a challenge. He, and his family will be in my prayers.
posted by ampto11 at 01:55 PM on May 07, 2008
RIP Mr. Wildcat....you are already missed. I hope the university will keep your seat vacant for years to come. You represented the University with nothing but class for so many years. Every UK basketball fans mourns your passing, but we all know you are in Big Blue heaven looking down on us.
posted by ampto11 at 11:16 AM on April 01, 2008
I admire Marvin Hagler so much that I named my dog Hagler. Seriously. What a great champion. Hagler was a beast. I'll go to the grave contesting the outcome of the Leonard fight. Ray knows the Marvelous One won the fight. He may never admit it publicy but he knows. The Hagler v. Hearns remains the most exciting three rounds I have ever seen...what a fight.
posted by ampto11 at 04:34 PM on February 20, 2008
But I only need one question answered appropriately: Was he great? I think there has to a qualifier somewhere in that question. Was he great for a season? A game? Converting 3rd downs? Was does great mean? As far as Terrell Davis, yes he was great for a couple of years. Was Jamal Anderson great? I think he was for a year or two. Did he often propel his teams to victories despite themselves? Sure he did. Was he ever the best player on the team? I would say yes. Is he a HOF RB? Not even close. See there has to be something to define the greatness. I agree it's not all about championships or longevity necessarily, but to me it is about consistancy and I don't believe Terrell Davis was consistantly a great RB.
posted by ampto11 at 05:45 PM on February 04, 2008
I'm a 30 year Bronco fan, so my gut instinct is to say "hell yeah." However... Nice stats zddoodah. I asked the question for this type of response. I can certainly see by your comparison to Campbell that a case can be made for Davis' enshrinement. But I guess I never really considered him to be great but for 2 seasons. He was spent after the 2,000 yard season in 98 and barely reached 1,000 combined rushing yards the next three. So we're talking about 2 great seasons, 1 above average, 1 average and three poor seasons marred by injuries. I guess when I think of HOF running backs I think of names such as Brown, Payton, Dickerson, Allen, Dorsett, Smith, Sanders, maybe Curtis Martin guys who played at the highest level for more than a few years in a row. To me, durability is huge at that position when considering the HOF. Save maybe the offensive and defensive linemen, no one takes more punishment over a career than a RB. He was a phenomenal player though when healthy and one of the reasons Elway was finally able to get his rings.
posted by ampto11 at 05:26 PM on February 04, 2008
If another defender would have come in and laid a hit on him while he was in their grasp he would have gotten an unnecessary roughness penalty. Thats my perspective I couldn't disagree more. If the hit was legal, not helmet to helmet and not at his knees, I don't see the refs throwing a flag on the play. You play through the whistle, or at least you're supposed to. It wasn't as though there were several Patriots players prepared to hit him and suddenly made the decision not to for fear of being penalized. He got out of the grasp of the defenders and threw long. Terrific play by Manning, spectacular catch by Tyree.
posted by ampto11 at 12:56 PM on February 04, 2008
Charles Haley is a name I believe is long overdue. The only player to have won 5 Super Bowls. I would put him in ahead of most of the other guys mentioned, with the exception of Ray Guy. Certainly before Terrell Davis, Chris Carter, and maybe even Derrick Thomas. I don't have his stats in front of me so maybe I'm wrong but is Terrell Davis really deserving of the Hall of Fame? I know he won 2 rings with the Broncos and surpassed 2,000 rushing yards one season and those are tremendous accomplishments, but apparently most any back is good for 1,000 yards in that system and his career was cut short due to injury. Did he do enough in that period of time to justify enshrinement?
posted by ampto11 at 12:47 PM on February 04, 2008
Put me in line with RCade and BornIcon. Even my allegiance to the Pokes cannot prevent me from enjoying this and sending it on to others.
posted by ampto11 at 02:06 PM on January 28, 2008
I really enjoyed Talladega Nights. I watched it without any pre-conceived notions about it having anything legitimate to do with NASCAR. Classic Will Ferrell. Loved it. I agree with Any Given Sunday and Tin Cup being on the list. Haven't seen the other ones though but doesn't sound like I am missing much.
posted by ampto11 at 04:07 PM on January 25, 2008
There was a time when I could not stand Walsh or Montana...of course I am a Cowboys fan so it wasn't too hard. That being said, I'm not sure any other coach has done more for the modern era of football then did Bill Walsh. His innovations on offense were vital in launching football toward becoming the #1 American sport. His impact will continue to be felt through the accomplishments of his many assistants who themselves have gone on to be some of the best coaches in the game. His corporate approach to coaching was also innovative and his teams almost always reflected poise and classiness. The NFL has lost another great one. Damn you cancer! on preview, what Texan said.
posted by ampto11 at 03:02 PM on July 30, 2007
Let him rest and let his family grieve in there way. Nothing being said here should in anyway prevent his family from grieving. It's not as if we are going to the funeral holding signs saying Hancock was a drunk. We are merely giving our opinions on the story and how it makes us feel. And even though it was his fault if someone walked up to us even now and said well if he wasn't being stupid he would still be alive, that would be hurtful almost to the point of hateful. Yet it would also be an accurate assessment. I am not trying to be hurtful towards you MindyK, not at all. Your point of view is shaped by past experiences and is certainly justified. I too have lost young family members, one of which was murdered at age 18, but I know that personal choices we make have a direct impact on our lives and our families. I would not want to listen to someone call out my brother-in-law for choosing the lifestyle which led to his being killed, but at the same time if his life was being discussed on a public forum such as this one, I should expect some to be of that opinion.
posted by ampto11 at 01:25 PM on May 03, 2007
I can see how it would frustrate you, with "honkys" being held down by 400 years of oppression when it comes to pick up games. Bishop, of all the things you've said that I've read on SpoFi,(some of which I agree with in principle but not in presentation) the above is the funniest thing I've read. Maybe it's because it's late and I'm still looking at several more hours of overtime tonight, but I really enjoyed that line, maybe a little too much. Thank you Bishop, sincerely.
posted by ampto11 at 12:00 AM on May 03, 2007
Great clip. Thanks rcade. I always felt bad for Ki-Jana Carter though. Some of the guys on the clip seemed to be head cases or lack any hear or desire. I've always felt Carter was just plain injury prone and suffered from bad luck. I always sensed he had the skills and heart, his body just could not withstand the punishment a runnig back must endure. Maybe I missed it but was Tim Couch on there anywhere?
posted by ampto11 at 11:40 PM on May 02, 2007
You know what you can have an opinion on? Something that if Josh Hancock's mother or the mother of any other person who died could come across it and not feel worse for having seen it. That's what. Sports. My personal rule is I'd try to avoid saying anything I wouldn't want to say in front of anyone. Doesn't have to be your rule, but that's what I was trying to get across. I'm not doing a good job expressing what I mean, so here's it without the nicety: have a little class. I understand what you are saying yerfatma, just didn't care for the way it was expressed on your earlier comment. We all come on here to give our personal opinion on a wide variety of topics, some even sports related, everyday. To suggest that we refrain from posting an opinion simply because the topic is death and the nature of that opinion varies from the majority does not seem right to me. The majority of the initial comments to the thread were of the sorrowful nature. It was later, after the media reported the accident earlier in the week and speculation about Hancock's actions the day of the accident, where the comments began to vary in sentiment. I actually agree with your take though, in that I would not be so quick to point out the flaws in character of someone who just lost their life in such dramatic fashion. But I would not object to others voicing their opinion about the situation, regardless of who may be reading the comments. Especially in a forum such as this one. That's why SpoFi exists and why I come here most everyday to read the comments.
posted by ampto11 at 11:27 PM on May 02, 2007
And I don't think random folks on the Internet should have opinions on their deaths either. What should random folks on the internet have opinions on? The guilt/innocence of Barry Bonds in regards to steroid use? Terrell Owens locker room behaviour? Racism in America? The legal issues of Pacman Jones? How well a fifteen year old writes? Please tell me what I, as a random folk on the internet, can have an opinion on. I'm not saying people don't have a right to their opinion....... That's exactly what you are saying.
posted by ampto11 at 04:41 PM on May 02, 2007
I only wonder if there would have been any action taken against Crawford if the offender would have been say, Ron Artest or Rasheed Wallace or any other player with that kind of reputation. posted by Bishop I was wondering the same thing. Had it not been the "gentle giant" Duncan but rather a player known to be more of a "problem", would there have been a suspension for the ref at all or just perceived as the player causing yet another problem with the refs. Crawford's a joke. Duncan may whine from time to time but I can't see much wrong with what he did and as others have said, refs can't be so paranoid that they start interpreting laughter on the bench as some form of disrepect. Crawford should be suspended the rest of the year or just fired.
posted by ampto11 at 04:24 PM on April 17, 2007
Just a terrific story about a terrific kid. We've been seeing this here locally for sometime now and it nevers fails to make me smile. I think the world of this kid and believe he can be a force in the NFL for years to come. Once his body catches up to his mind look out. On a personal note, it'd be nice to see him slip to the tail end of the first round. I believe Dallas picks 22-or 23 and he could provide some depth at DT. Thanks Yerfatma for the post.
posted by ampto11 at 03:29 PM on April 13, 2007
Tarnishing a legend sucks Being a regular guy and getting shot by an off duty cop for not "obeying" him sucks much worse. You seemed to have ignored completely the Jordan reference. Why is that? You keep mentioning that Pacman Jones has not been convicted as if that absolves him of any publc scrutiny for the incidents he has been involved in the past few years. Are you willing to acknowledge that his actions have brought embarrassment to the league? Do you not think the league was justified in suspending Pacman Jones period? What about Henry? Is he being treated unfairly as well? And you never did respond to my question about when a black person is killed by a black cop. Had the officer involved in the Foley incident been non-white, would you have felt the same as you do? Because your posts, as I read them anyway, seem to suggest that only the "white" cops are dirty and looking to enforce their own justice. Only "white" sports figures are getting away with crimes. I just don't buy that as 100% accurate. I think we have several police officers who abuse the power that comes with the job. I think many celebrities, whether an athlete or actor, black or white, use their celebrity to escape legal trouble, or at least have the cash to hire a legal team that will get them off. You also posed to me that unless a family member has been shot 10 times by a cop for looking like he was going to commit a crime then I would never understand where you are coming from. I'm sure that's true. However, do not be so quick to assume that I have not had similar experiences. My family has suffered the loss of a family member due to gunshot and we still have no idea what happened. The person responsible has never been brought to justice and may never be found. So I do understand senseless loss. On the other hand, I have other family members who have been shot and I have no choice but to hold them somewhat responsible because of the nature of the people they associated themselves with and the lifestyle they chose to pursue. I think that's the point many here are trying to make. Pacman Jones, while he has not been convicted , has conitnued to place himself in situations that could easily be avoided. Maybe I buy the "not easy to turn off the mentality that he was forced to develop as a youth" (intended as general comments not necessarily your direct quote), but the kid wasn't signed off the street. He should know right from wrong by now and should understand that he could be a target for other people becuase of his wealth and celebrity. And that's before doing something as self serving and plain stupid as throwing $81,000 on a stage at a strip club. If that's doesn't scream "look at me, look at me" I don't what does. Why not choose to avoid the lifestyle that has conitnued to get him "interviewed" by police? Sorry, just don't buy the "troubled kid who needs help", to me he is a punk of punks and the NFL and the new commish should be commended for finally taking a stand. Instead, you'd rather lable Goodell as "slave master, 2007". We'll wait an see how Jones decides to handle it. I hope he is able to get some control over his life and I wold hope that those around him would help him acheive that. If not, and he's banned o for life, so be it. I won't lose any sleep over it. He has his "2nd" chance, let's home he can capitalize on it.
posted by ampto11 at 01:08 PM on April 13, 2007
Not to mention if NASCAR was majority black populated and the drivers where intentionally trying to crash each other at over 150 mph, they would be the road rage havingest, drive by shooting comparingest gang members in sports. But as long as it's majority white populated, hey "rubbin's racing". I saw a thread here a while back about why NASCAR isn't more integrated. Shit, because the black guys wouldn't last long. Wouldn't be to long before an "off duty" white cop followed one of them home and shot them for driving to fast. Seriously, this is what you're going with? The NASCAR hates black people angle? Quick question Bishop, has there ever been a police shooting where the victim and the officer were both black? Which one is the racist in that scenario? Or are those the only times a black man is truly guilty of committing a crime and an officer justified in using his weapon? Look, it's obvious that racism is still an issue in this country. Unfortunately, it will probably remain an issue for years to come. That doesn't mean that everything is centered on race, especially in sports. People commit crimes, white and black, hispanic too. No race is without it's shady characters. To suggest, as you seem to do quite often, that most arrests, suspensions, shooting, etc. where black people are involved is motivated by hatred and racisim is, in my opinion, inaccurate and counter productive. I don't want to undermine your passion or beliefs and I sincerely hope I've never done that to anyone here. I come on here most days and enjoy reading the discussions. From time to time I'll post something if I am motivated by the discussion. I respect that you have the right to feel the way you do, as everyone should. But I reserve the right to disagree with the tone and approach you take in expressing your opinion. You don't seem very receptive to others opinions if adverse to your own. What I hear from you is that all white poeple are absolved from any wrong doing because they're white, and all black people will eventually be shot to death in their front yard by an off duty white cop.
posted by ampto11 at 05:01 PM on April 11, 2007
I don't recall the exact details of the Foley incident. I do seem to remember it caused quite the debate on Spofi as to the justification of the shooting. And I can't say for sure what happened in this case as I was not present at the time. I can comment on the very limited exposure I've had to these situations through various documentaries/television specials and it seems to me that as long as there is some form of communication with the suspect, the police seem to be able to remain more calm and in control. On those same shows, the times when more excessive force is shown seem to follow attempts to make contact with no response or more obvious immediate threats to the cops and/or victims present. I guess what I mean is that if Belfour was resisiting but also verbalizing his resistance, the police knew right away that they were dealing with an obvious drunk who chances are would not be in a position to severely endanger himself, officers or innocent on lookers before the police would be able to subdue him. You also have more people there to assist if the situation began to spiral out of control. In the Foley case, and Bishop please understand I am in no way supporting the police officer or his actions, does anyone know/remember if Foley was responding to the calls of the officer? If I am a cop and I am shouting for someone to stop while pointing my weapon at them and they continue at me with no expression of intent, verbally or otherwise, I may be inclined to fear for my safety and take appropriate measures as per my training. If after firing one shot, my suspect continues at me, again with no expression of intent, I may be inclined to shoot again. I don't know. I think the incidents are different enough that you can't use this as proof of police bias against African-Americans. (there are far better examples I'm sure) As many pointed out above, different cops, departments, in a more public venue, and the police were notified ahead of time as to what the scene would be and were better prepared to handle. I think both cases further illustrate that some professional athletes believe they are above law and can come and go as the please without consequence. Just my humble opinion.
posted by ampto11 at 04:38 PM on April 10, 2007
Hawkguy, It's been all over the local news in KY all day and they actually held a PC at 12:45 est introducing him. Had I more time I would have made a front page post. (would have been my first) TBH, I missed that but I agree it's pretty damn stupid of Korn to suggest it means less depending on where you win. And like you, I follow SEC and tend to lean that way come tournament time or bowl season. I believe seven times the SEC has played for the title in the past 14-15 years. That's a pretty good indicator that we play some ball down south. I know Arkansas played in back to back games in 94-95 and UK went to 3 straight from 96-98. Florida the past two years. You can't blame a guy like Gillispie for making this jump. This is still one of the premiere basketball schools in the nation. After watching the PC today, I am even more excited about the hire. I did not realize the guy could recruit so well. I have to believe it will be easier to recruit to UK then A&M. And I had forgot he served under Self and was a part of bringing together that great final four team of a few years ago. Of course the local paper here in Louisville wasted no time pointing out his prior dui arrest(s). The Eddie Sutton references have been running wild. With Pitino making strides at Louisville with his young team and Indiana banking on a great class next year, if UK could just get it together we could see a resurgence of the 80's where at least one of the three made a final four in something like 7-10 years. An interesting note on what I call the "Pryamid of College Basketball" (the schools if traced from one to the other on a map create somewhat of a triangle), starting in 1951 when the tournament expanded to 16 teams, there had never been back-to-back years where at least one of the three made the Sweet 16, that is until 2006-2007.
posted by ampto11 at 03:42 PM on April 06, 2007
Billie Gillispie is the new coach of UK. As a UK fan, I think this is a good hire. I appreciate the way Bily Donovan handled the situation and I have nothing but respect for him and what he has accomplished at FLA. Having said that, don't look for Billy to get a big welcome next year at Rupp. As I posted after Tubby left, I loved Tubby for what he stands for and how he carried himself while at UK. Could not have asked for more from a coach who on some level was never given a fair shake by a large number of the fans. But, there are also several firsts that occurred under his watch. Overall I think it was a good move for both sides. UK fans are arrogant and a small faction are just plain stupid, but the majority of the fans are very educated in terms of basketball and certainly passionate about the Wildcats. And there's a reaosn UK fans are so arrogant. History. So, we do assume we can get whomever simply because we're UK. Now I understand that times have changed a little bit and the scope of college basketabll is not what it used to be. But, I still believe UK is a top 5 program. (I'm just talking basketball, so please spare me the UCLA has 7200 championships in other sports, some of which were won after 1975) TBH, Louisville Slugger, I hear you guys and you have every right to take pleasure in the UK fans ridiculous arrogance and subsequent let down re Billy Donovan. Go ahead and kick us while we're "down" (if winning 20 games a year is down), I won't hate ya for it. I can even appreciate why you would enjoy it so. But, one day soon the sleeping giant will awaken to reclaim it's rightful placement as the #1 basketball program in America. Pretty soon the SEC will be back to normal and the Cats will be dancin in the Final Four in the next five years.
posted by ampto11 at 01:55 PM on April 06, 2007
I just want to be on record as one UK fan who is not rejoicing. I love Tubby Smith and everything he stands for. He is a class act all the way. The amount of pressure he was under from day one is more than most people could endure. Tubby withstood that pressure for 10 years. He wins 20 games every year and always gives you a chance to win with his defensive intensity. He is a great coach and it's just unfortunate that he never got UK back to the final four. That's why he is gone. 9 years without a final four appearance is not acceptable around here. How ridiculous is that? The man took UK to the championship his first year, and while many are quick to point out that he did so with Pitino's players, they are also quick to forget to mention these were the same players Ricky P lost with the year before. And anyone who questions the mans ability to coach need only to look at tapes from that NCAA tournament. The comeback wins against Duke and Kansas that year were classic Tubby Smith. This news really hit me hard yesterday as I was not expecting him to leave. The only way I know to describe my feelings is to compare this with the time Jerry Jones purchased my beloved Cowboys and promptly fired Coach Landry. It took me quite a few months to decide if I could continue being a fan. Well, as much as that hurt then, I can understand it a little more now that I am older and as they say time heals all wounds. Of course it helps to win three Super Bowls. I guess what I am saying is in time I will learn to accept this for what is was and I will continue to root for the Cats cause that's what I know. But I will miss Tubby Smith and the great character he exhibited during his time in Lexington. I do think Minn is getting a great coach and his style will fit in well with Big Ten play. Now one last chant for old times sake.......Tubby, Tubby, Tubby, Tubby, Tubby........
posted by ampto11 at 09:19 AM on March 23, 2007
I don't think this is as bad as most of you. Wade Phillips is a great defensive coach and will help shore up the D in Big D. Just look what he has done for the Chargers defense the past two years. . The Phillips' introduced the 34 defense to the NFL and Wade runs a different version than what Parcells had been running. The Cowboys must get better on defense or this team will not win a playoff game anytime soon. The offense put up close to 425 points last season which I believe placed them 3rd in the league (could be wrong on #'s) so if the defense can improve I think this is a good if not great team. Garrett's role has yet to be defined, however it is widely believed he will be named the offensive coordinator. I'm not so sure though...... The time to groom a future head coach was under Parcells, not after he's gone. I agree. His name is Tony Sporano. Dallas has denied permission for him to interview for at least two off coordinator positions this season (San Diego/Cleveland) and denied Sean Payton permission to interview him last year for the Siants job. While he's a virtual unknown coach, he did handle some of the play calling duties last season under Parcells and according to Jerry Jones he will have an expaned role in the offense this season. Only time will tell for sure but I wouldn't be so quick to assume Jaosn Garrett will be the running the offense alone. He is quite inexperienced. Wade Phillips is an idiot. He said that Jerry Jones was a fellow football man. He's a yes man exactly what that A-hole Jones wanted Didn't realize you knew them both on a personal level. Have you any factual information to support this or are you just talkin out of your ass? If I'm not mistaken, Jerry Jones played football at Arkansas and he owns the Dallas Cowboys. I think that would qualify him as a football man. They will eventually lose their talent and return to Detroit Lion status WTF? About the only parallel I see between these two franchises is that they both play on Thanksgiving day. Unless your only ten years old, you should know better than to make such a ridiculous statement. Do you even watch football?
posted by ampto11 at 11:18 AM on February 09, 2007
Our play was not indicative of what we could have done. What we should have done. Hopefully, the owner will hire a coach to take the team to the next level What's the problem with saying that? What's he supposed to say, we played the best we possibly could every game and we're just not good enough to win a playoff game? Our teams sucks. You have a 2 game lead on your division with 4 to go and you scramble to make a wild card berth, is that doing what you could have done or should have done? The next level being the Super Bowl, isn't that what nearly every player would hope for with a new coach. He's not going to say, well Parcells got us to the playoffs and that's good enough to me. I hope the next coach takes us back 4 games. No. Maybe I'm wrong but I don't see how this is newsworthy. Just another example of the media making a bigger issue with Terrell Owens than is necessary. I'm not a fan of Terrell Owens, but I am a Cowboy fan and I will say that Dallas had so many other issues this year that impacted the team much more than one Terrell Owens. Yes, he was a distraction at times and he certainly dropped too many passes. But he was also injured part of the time and yet he still managed to lead the team in receptions and touchdowns. I hope he heals well in the off season and returns to Dallas next year.
posted by ampto11 at 04:16 PM on January 23, 2007
I'll miss Parcells' press conferences for sure. I guess a small part of me is sad to see him go. I think he has built a good foundation in Dallas and I still look for them to contend for a Super Bowl for the next few years. It will be strange to see someone else roaming the sidelines next year. I hope, if he is truly done with football, that we see him on TV again. I thought he did a fne job before taking the Dallas gig and I enjoyed his perspective. Haha, they're speculating Wade Phillips as his replacement. That'd be great! Opens up wild card playoff spots for the Seahawks for the next five years if they don't win the division. Isn't there always a chance for a wild card berth if you don't win your division yet have a winning season? What's that have to do with Wade Phillips? And why five years? Is that the speculative length of the contract he's not been offered? I'm sorry, but I see no relation between Seattle's playoff chances and Dallas potentially hiring Wade Phillips to be their coach. Now if they were looking at getting say Bill Cowher, then I could see how that may affect the Seahags chances of advancing in the playoffs.
posted by ampto11 at 03:53 PM on January 23, 2007
Well said TBH. RIP Benny.
posted by ampto11 at 02:53 PM on January 16, 2007
I'm hoping his brother will get the job, but it sounds like the guy from Tulsa is on his way I wouldn't want his brother. To me, that would be like rewarding the family. Bobby leaves so you throw millions to his brother. No. Tom Jurich is one of the best AD's in the country. He'll find the right coach, sounds like it will be the guy from Tulsa, and Louisville will be okay. Every hire Tom Jurich has made since arrving on campus has proven to be right. The worst hire so far, based on wins/losses, has been Rick Pitino. To me, that says an awful lot about the job Jurich has done if his one bad decision was to bring in Pitino. I thought I heard Paul Petrino was being considered for the Alabama offensive coordinator, could be wrong though. They are reporting here locally that Matt Simms has rescended his letter of intent. He was, I believe, the #1 ranked QB coming out of high school this year. Oh, and Michael Bush is holding a PC this morning to announce whether or not he'll take the medical redshirt and return next year or enter the draft in April.
posted by ampto11 at 10:28 AM on January 09, 2007
Thanks Bdaddy, L-Slugger. I'm here in Louisville and needless to say it's quite the mix of emotions here today. Good luck to Bobby P. and his family. Will be interested to see how much this affects Louisville's recruiting not only this year but the next two or three years to follow.
posted by ampto11 at 04:21 PM on January 08, 2007
You know I could be very wrong so please don't hold me to it, but I could have sworn I caught something in passing the other day about the Falcons' owner saying they were not necessarily married to M. Vick and the new coach would have some input as to his future plans with the team. Did anyone else hear/see this report or any similar statement? Any chance they trade Vick this offseason?
posted by ampto11 at 10:51 AM on January 08, 2007
I have never been a huge fan of the guy but I respect his body of work. His Steelers have always been a physical, smash mouth type of team that always seemed to bring it on Sundays. It will be strange not seeing him roaming the sidelines next year. I do believe, as others have stated, that he will be back in coaching in a minimum of two years. On preview, antwan I wouldn't call him a "pussy" for that. If I recall, there were talks of him leaving before the season began. I think regardless of the outcome of this year, he was leaving and he knew it.
posted by ampto11 at 04:28 PM on January 05, 2007
Grum, good point. I think Marion Barber III is an example this year. He leads the NFC in rushing touchdowns and is second in the league to Tomlinson. But he is not, and I'm a Cowboys fan, he is not one of the top 10 backs in the league. Probably not top 15 or 20, in my opinion.
posted by ampto11 at 04:20 PM on January 05, 2007
and anyone who isn't pulling for the Saints to at least go deep in the playoffs is a heartless sonofabitch Suppose my favorite team is playing them in the second round. I'm a sonofabitch for not rooting against my favorite team? Don't get me wrong, I think it's an amazing turnaround for the NO franchise and we all know the city needed something to cheer about after last year, but I don't feel the need to root for them simply because there was a hurricane there last year. Having said that, I certainly hope my team does not have to face them because they are a good team and are playing about as well as anyone in the NFC, except maybe Philly. It won't surprise me at all to see them go deep in the playoffs, but I don't feel obligated to cheer them on in any way. I don't let natural disasters dictate which teams I root for or against. I may be a heartless sonofabitch but it's for different reasons than this. Getting back to the post, I think the awards were right on the money this year. You can always make an arguement for other players, but I think you'd be hard pressed to make any substansial arguements against the individuals who won awards this year. All seem to me to be very deserving.
posted by ampto11 at 02:40 PM on January 05, 2007
I echo the previous comments. Great story! Thanks Fence. Now where's that box of kleenex.....
posted by ampto11 at 12:36 PM on December 07, 2006
jojo, it was in response to the following post from Graymatters. An attempt at sarcasm. ...and three sets of two (Witten and Fasano, Jones and Barber, Johnson and Gurode) play the same position, including the only two offensive linemen still on team. Not the best of drafting for need, that's for sure. my response," Multiple draft picks for the same position? You're right, that is a silly move. You don't need back ups or anything in the NFL. No one ever gets injured, especially not centers, tight ends, or running backs. And even if you did need backups, why seek them in the draft? Just grab some guy off the street. I mean, it's not like your reserves will ever see the field."
posted by ampto11 at 09:02 AM on October 26, 2006
However I think they are three or four years past when they should have brought in a good QB. I really felt like they should have at least went after a good free agent like Brees, but what the hell my names not Jerry Jones so I don't get a vote. I couldn't agree more. I think timing was the key issue with Brees. He was coming off the injury so there was some questions there (he has looked very good so far this year) and Dallas pulled the trigger on Bledsoe last year and probably felt they could not spend the cash to get D. Brees. Plus, IMHO, they targeted TO as soon as he was suspended last year and knew they were going to shell out several million to get hm to come to Dallas. Add to that the questions surrounding the status of the "CBA" during the initial signing period and I think they felt is was just too much money.
posted by ampto11 at 04:26 PM on October 25, 2006
TC, no problem. I misunderstand myself sometimes, stoned or not.
posted by ampto11 at 04:19 PM on October 25, 2006
Of your list of 12 offensive draft choices, 5 no longer play for Cowboys and three sets of two (Witten and Fasano, Jones and Barber, Johnson and Gurode) play the same position, including the only two offensive linemen still on team. Not the best of drafting for need, that's for sure. graymaytters, what's your point? I never claimed they were still on the roster. I was defending the notion that Dallas had not drafted anything except defense for the past decade. And technically, Dallas does have additional lineman they drafted that are still on the roster, albeit they were 7th round picks this year Pat McQuistan and E.J. Whitley. Whitley was injured during training camp and lost for the season. And Skylar Green was promoted to the 53 man roster, also a draft pick from this year. Multiple draft picks for the same position? You're right, that is a silly move. You don't need back ups or anything in the NFL. No one ever gets injured, especially not centers, tight ends, or running backs. And even if you did need backups, why seek them in the draft? Just grab some guy off the street. I mean, it's not like your reserves will ever see the field. Dallas is stupid. I hope no other franchises are dumb enough to be drafting potential back-ups. He has yet to make his first tackle. Doubt the Cowboys wanted to cut their first round choice after paying him the money. It would also be an admission of error, which the Cowboys don't do. Besides he still might eventually be a good player I hope so. One thing to consider is when Dallas drafted Carpenter they were unsure how successful Ellis would be switching to LOLB. After 6 games, the switch looks pretty good. They also still have Al Singleton and a 2nd year LB returning from a knee injury in Burnett. Carpenter had to be moved inside due to the depth at the outside positions. That's not to say it's not a little disappointing that he has not gotten on the field for any significant time and certainly does not justify the pick. But it does buy him a little time I would think before being labeled a bust.
posted by ampto11 at 04:10 PM on October 25, 2006
Excuse me Ampto11?? "Roy Williams, Terrance Newman, Demarcus Ware, Bradie James, Marcus Spears, Chris Canty, not a good one in the bunch." Are you joking or just stoned? T.C., my apologies. I was responding to Jaygolf post but did not copy the text I was referring to. "They have drafted nothing but defense over the last decade and not very well at that." I was merely trying to point out that Dallas has drafted pretty well since Parcells arrival. I think all these guys are very good players, potentially great players. So yes, I am joking, not stoned (not that there's anything wrong with that).
posted by ampto11 at 03:44 PM on October 25, 2006
Jason Witten, Julius Jones, Al Johnson, Anthony Fasano, Antonio Bryant, Quincy Carter, Andre Gurode, Rob Pettiti, Jacob Rogers, Peterman, Marion Barber III, Patrick Crayton , yep nothing but defensive guys there.... Roy Williams, Terrance Newman, Demarcus Ware, Bradie James, Marcus Spears, Chris Canty, not a good one in the bunch. Carpenter , while he has been inactive for most of the games is still listed on the 53 man roster...just sayin Raiders were in a Super Bowl 4-5 years ago.. again just sayin.
posted by ampto11 at 03:24 PM on October 24, 2006
I'm a Cowboys fan, been one for a long time, and I am hopeful Romo can prove to be a decent starter in this league. He has shown a little moxie and the team did move the ball a little bit last night with him running the offense. He provides some much needed mobility to the position. Maybe with a week to prepare he can be okay. Dallas has an extremely tough schedule that could have them at 3-7 going into to Thanksgiving. One thing I was thinking last night as Romo was put in is that the best team, in terms of wins and losses, Parcells has coached in Dallas was his first. When Quincy Carter was the qb. If Romo can be a good "bus driver" and the defense live up to expectations, this team may still have a good shot at a winning record and possible playoff birth.
posted by ampto11 at 01:49 PM on October 24, 2006
I'm with you Termite, especially the part about liking the Cowboys. Tiki does seem to be a real class act and it's nice to see him finally getting a little bit of the respect he is due as one of the elite backs in the NFL. Hopefully, he will be in Canton one day.
posted by ampto11 at 03:37 PM on October 18, 2006
One thing to keep in mind when discussing Ali's trouble with Frazier is that Ali missed three years of boxing, and many believe Ali would have been in his prime during those three years. The main reason they fought three times was that Ali lost that initial meeting. Had Ali faced Frazier a few years earlier or had been actively boxing the three years leading up to the first fight, the results may have been different. He may not have had as much trouble with Smokin' Joe the first time and subsequently may not have needed to fight him on two more occasions. I agree though that Tyson, a young Tyson, was as fierce as any opponent Ali ever faced, probably more so. I also used to feel sorry for Tyson. I believe, as others have stated above, that losing those few people who truly seemed to care for Mike was the beginning of the end. By the time Don King entered the picture and Tyson fought Douglas in Tokyo, he was far removed from the hungry, polished fighter we had been used to seeing. He could no longer dominate the way he had because his training and preparation was not the same. More importantly, when the fight moved to the later rounds, he had no one with any real boxing knowledge on hand to give him advice. I remember between rounds in the Douglas fight, all his corner seemed to be telling him was how bad he was and no one could beat him. Well, we know how that one ended.
posted by ampto11 at 04:26 PM on October 17, 2006
I don't like the idea of this going into the court system. We see physical attacks in other sports i.e. fist-fights in hockey, and nobody presses charges. Was it dirty? yes. But let's deal with it within the confines of league fines and suspensions BL, I think if I was in the same situation I would be considering pressing charges. I understand and on some level can appreciate the hockey reference. But one thing is different in that fighting in hockey has long been an accepted means to settling an issue between the players on the ice. But what happened yesterday is not justifiable under normal football rules/conditions. He intentionally removed or helped remove his helmet and stomped on his face. He could have ruined his careeer. I don't think you can just chalk this up to football being a rough sport and let the fines and/or suspensions be sufficient punishment. Was it dirty? What this guy did is beyond dirty. Dirty is a late hit or maybe tweaking an ankle at the bottom of the pile. What this guy did is nothing short of criminal. I would personally like to see a year long suspension, but I think it will be more like 4 games. And I don't give much credit to Haynesworth for the apology either. I'm not saying the guy does not regret it, but what he did was very calculated and precise. Let's see how the new commish handles his first big on field issue.
posted by ampto11 at 12:49 PM on October 02, 2006
I agree bdaddy, I think at least a four game suspension is warranted. I also wonder if Gurode will seek criminal charges against Haynesworth. And as a Cowboys fan, I hope Gurode is okay. He was having a great start to the season.
posted by ampto11 at 08:48 AM on October 02, 2006
There is a significant difference between (for example) going into a thread on the 2006 Ryder Cup and commenting, "Aaah, golf is stupid, it's not a sport, fuhgeddaboutit," and going into a thread created by someone with a history of axe-grinding on a particular subject and pointing out that he's doing it again. I agree that there is a difference in the examples you have provided, I never implied otherwise. I'm just not sure what the point is in responding if this is the same garbage that has been posted before. But thank you for the info, llb, I'll take it as freindly advice. I hope I've not violated any guidelines, I was merely wondering why those who are so put off by "someone with a history of axe-grinding on a particular subject " would not just choose to move on to another post rather than waste time on this one. Off to check those new guidelines now.
posted by ampto11 at 05:24 PM on September 22, 2006
I am not a regular to SpoFi, so please forgive the ignorance, but is there a rule that you have to read and/or comment on every post? If you're not interested in the subject then why not ignore that link and move on? I get the idea some of you just sit by your computer waiting for a reason to blast someone. Why not just move on to the next post on steroids, or Bonds, or T.O. , or one of the many dead horses that take a beating on this site. Besides, wouldn't a post with 0 comments send a stronger message that no one's interested?
posted by ampto11 at 04:11 PM on September 22, 2006
I believe this is the most competitive division in the NFL, not sure if that qualifies as the best. All 4 teams have a legit shot at winning this division as well as making the playoffs. 2-3 of those teams could actually win a game or two if they got there. Once again, the NFC appears to be up for grabs this year. I don't believe there is a trus favorite out there right now. I hope my Cowboys do well this year though, it's been a while since we had so much optimism heading in to a season. I don't for a minute believe there is any QB controversey in Dallas this year, Bledsoe is the man unless he gets injured. The OL will be the key to their success on offense. The D looks much improved and should be able to keep them in most games. The thing I believe will hurt the NFC East and the NFC South too is that these two divisions have to play each other. That's six to seven of the best teams in the NFC right there. They'll take some wins away from each other making the division games that much more important. I think the AFC North will not be as good as advertised. The Bengals have questions at QB with Palmer and their defense, while improving, still lacks a little toughness and struggles at times to stop the run. The Steelers lost some things from the SB team and really weren't all that dominating last year anyway. They lost the division to Cinci and I do not see where they have improved much in the offseason. The Ravens will be an interesting team to watch. Steve McNair may finally be the answer to their QB problems and J.Lewis promises to have a better year if healthy. If that D can get back to their dominating ways, the Ravens will be playoff bound. The Browns are, well they're still the Browns. Maybe next year Dogg Pound. AFC West is a two team race, maybe. San Diego will find out soon if Rivers can continue to look as impressive as he has in pre-season. Denver is looking to build on a very nice season last year. With the addition of Javon Walker, they could be back in the AFC Championship game in 07. Go Cowboys! RTG baby!
posted by ampto11 at 02:13 PM on August 24, 2006
Jim Brown is one of the best RBs of all-time but I never personally got the chance to watch him play. I was only listing those backs I've seen in my lifetime. Had Detroit utilized a fullback on a more regular basis Sanders may have seen some bigger holes and his line may have suffered less criticism. Hell, he may have had the record when he reitred. If I remember correctly, the Lions for a number of years were using a one-back, three WR offense as their base. In that offense, with no extra tight end or H-back, there is little room for errors on the OL. I realize that Barry Sanders did not do it on his own while Emmitt Smith was a lucky to be in the right place at the right time. However, the trio of Smith, Aikman, and Irvin helped each other have the amazing careers that they had. They are all talented and would have been great individually, but, together, they were outstanding. So their accomplishments mean less because they played together? All great teams are made up of individuals who make each other better. That's what your superstars are supposed to do, raise the level of play on their teams. Is Vinny Testaverde a better QB then Montana just because Montana played with Rice, Craig, and Clark? Vinny's got the yardage and he did it all by himself, he never played with any mega stars. I suppose Montana was lucky to be in the right place at the right time, anyone could QB those 49ers teams to SB victories, right? Same with Bradshaw, E. Smith, Starr, Aikman, Irvin, Rice, Reed, Thomas, White, all great players but not great as they were lucky, right?.
posted by ampto11 at 04:10 PM on July 07, 2006
ctal - It's spelled Emmitt, and you're right he had more heart and desire than Barry, at least when it came to the all-time rushing record. Barry was a great runner, but an avegare overall back in my opinion. Didn't see much blitz pickup from Barry nor did he seem extremely comfortable catching the pass. Barry could take it to the house at any moment though and that's why we miss him. As for the tired debate about who had what line and Barry could've done this with Emmit's line, I don't think it had much of anything to do with the offensive lineman. I'll tell you the difference maker for Emmitt, his name was Darryl "Moose" Johnston. Moose opened those holes for Emmitt, more so than anyone else, especially at the goaline. We can agree that had Barry stayed on a couple more years he would have broken Payton's record, no doubt. However, we cannot measure what that title means to Emmitt Smith or his desire to own it so we can not say for sure he would not have continued playing as long as possible trying to break Barry's record. After all, the two were not that far apart when Barry retired. Both were great for the NFL and I think thye helped push each other towards greatness. I miss them both. My personal top 5 RB of all time Emmitt Smith Walter Payton Earl Campbell Barry Sanders Tony Dorsett
posted by ampto11 at 11:00 AM on July 07, 2006
I guess what your talking about is letting Larry Allen go to the 49'ers. While Larry was one of the greatest Cowboys ever his time was over. To replace Larry - Dallas picked up Rob Petitti from the Steelers Is this guy supposed to be a Cowboy fan? Know your team, please. Rob Petitti was a 7th round draft pick of the Cowboys in 2005 who happened to start every game last year at right tackle as a rookie. As for any offensive lineman Dallas drafted this year, none are expected to compete for starting time as they were 6th and 7th round picks. The Cowboys did aquire Kyle Kosier from Detroit and hope he is an up and coming lineman who can help ease the loss of Allen. One thing he (Kosier) does bring to the table is the ability to play 4 of 5 O-line positions as well as improved quickness and the ability to move on outside runs. They also expect to have a fully recovered Flozell Adams returning on the left tackle as well as Fabini at right tackle who may have seen his best days years ago but could add depth to what can be a very good line. They also have former Bear Marc Columbo, a back-up tackle who has been a dissappointment to date, he was a prior 1st round pick of the Bears in 2002 or 2003 but had not been able to stay healthy. Dallas hopes with the year off they gave him last year he is now healthy and getting back to the form that earned him first round draft status. Look at Bledsoe's stats from the first five games last year before "Flo" went down and you'll see what he can when given time. Now when Flozell was injured and lost for the season, it meant you had a true rookie covering one side and a 2nd year guy playing the left side, and he had only previously played right tackle in the NFL. So I believe Dallas will be improved up front for the reasons above. I also think Dallas has a great chance of making the Super Bowl this year. One point of interest about the Cowboys team last year was the number of close games decided by 7 or less points and their record in those games. Dallas could have easily been either 4-12 or 12-4 given a few breaks one way or the other. Add to that the acquisition of Vanderjagt (say what you will about the playoff miss he is still one of the best IMHO) and they'll compete with the top dogs in the NFC. If Dallas had a decent kicker last year they would have beat Washington, Seattle and AFC power Denver. The Cowboys also beat the Giants and Panthers last year so they can play with anyone in the NFC.
posted by ampto11 at 04:23 PM on May 31, 2006
Thanks grum@work. As a former resident of Louisville, KY, now living in So. Indiana, let me also say how wonderful it is that the city has finally done something right in recognizing Ali. He is and forever will be "The Greatest".
posted by ampto11 at 12:26 PM on May 12, 2006
I was fortunate enough to meet The Greatest of All Time , Ali, almost ten years ago. Ali was a client of my employer and he graciously had set aside some time to meet some of the staff. I was too busy and unable to get into the official meeting site, however, while I was continuing my duties in the office I had a chance encounter with him in the lobby as he was leaving. He was walking with one of my employers and my employer turned to him and said" Hey champ, there goes a tough guy over there" and pointed in my direction. Ali, who obviously was suffering physically from Parkinsons sydnrome, looked up at me and I tell you it was the most nervous/excited feeling I had ever had in my life. Then he lifted his huge monstorous hands and clenched them into fists as big as my head. Shaking them at me, he mumbled something I couldn't quite make out, it was almost a whispher, and then sort of bobbed and weaved and eventually started pounding one fist into his other now open hand while glaring at me as though I was about to be knocked out. He continued to do this for only a few seconds but it seemed like a lifetime. I just stared at him, awestruck by both his size and by the fact that "The Champ" was here in front of me and actually shaking a fist at me. It was the coolest moment of fan/idol interaction I had ever experienced. Some of my friends always asked why I didn't ask for an autograph and honestly I thought what took place was so much more special than any piece of paper he could have signed. The fact that we shared a moment, however brief, was enough for me. I'll remember those five minutes for the rest of my life. Sorry a little of topic and so long.
posted by ampto11 at 05:09 PM on May 11, 2006
Black Hand, I see your point and perhaps my post was a little short sighted. I do agree that sports is all about personal choice and I certainly have my own heroes and villians. Good points all around. I guess I was meaning to say I don't see a difference in celebrating a touchdown over a sack or fumble recovery or 3-5 yard first down. All these acts are selfish in that they take the focus off team accomplishment.
posted by ampto11 at 09:50 AM on March 31, 2006
...BUT cannot stand A-hole like Ivin,Carter,and Sanders who would get a 3-5 yrd reception and would celebrate doing the 1st down sign.....GOD that would piss me off..... Why would that piss you off? What's the difference? It all takes the focus off the team and puts in on an individual player. Why would one act of selfishness be more upsetting then the other? That's ridiculous, either you don't mind celebrations or you do, you can't pick and choose based on a personal player preference. That's just being ridiculous, take a stand and don't flip-flop on it.
posted by ampto11 at 04:34 PM on March 30, 2006
Speaking of Kentucky, my most hearbreaking moment as a fan had to be the regional final in 1992 when Duke's Christian Laehtner? scored a last second basket completing a perfect night shooting from th field and the free throw line to keep UK out of the final four. What makes this one so hard is that earlier in the game, Leattner deliberately stomped on a UK player as he lay defenseless under the basket. The refs should have ejected him at that point and Kentucky may have earned an additional title in the 90's. DUKE SUCKS!!
posted by ampto11 at 02:29 PM on February 07, 2006
Losing Wisconsin Coach Laments 'Rent-a-Player' Trend
I hope young players start to approach the likes of Darius Miller, Deandre Liggins, Doron Lamb, Marquis Teague, and others who have been sold on and then spit out of the "one and done" factories for advice before committing to these types of programs.
Darius Miller played 4 years for the University of Kentucky. DeAndre Liggins played 3 years at UK before moving on to the NBA, Doron Lamb, Terrence Jones, Patrick Patterson all played 2 or more years. Not every draft pick produced by the Calipari coached Wildcats has been a "one and done" player.