It's time, time for Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 4 Edition. This week I went 2-1 in the three highlight leagues. Here's the breakdown for Week 3 and the look ahead to Week 4...
Breakdown: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces won convincingly against the Jammers by the score of 85.77 to 64.5784.23. The Masterpieces have won three straight and are starting to get on a roll like they did last season. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Tampa Bay DEF, Eddie Royal, Rob Bironas and Patrick Crayton. After Week 4, I'm in 3rd place (essentially tied for 2nd) with a record of 3-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost to rival and friend Multiple Homeowners by the score of 114.96 to 98.56. It was a tough, hard fought game and unfortunately the Chefs couldn't pull it out in the end. With the loss, the Chefs are back to .500. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Adrian Peterson, Tennessee DEF, Philip Rivers, Anquan Boldin, and Antonio Gates. After Week 4, I'm in 5th place (essentially in 4th) with a record of 2-2.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators got a huge victory over the #1 team the Louisville Express by the score of 113-98. It was a great perfomance by everone on the Perks highlighted by LaDanian Tomlinson and Greg Jennings combinding for 44 points. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Tomlinson, Jennings, Jamal Lewis, and Rob Bironas. After week 4, I'm tied for 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 2-1-1.
Outlook for Week 5: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (3-1) will face a tough matchup in Week 5 as they take on the Memphis Explosion (2-2). Neither team is on the bye so each team will be playing at full force. Key matchup will be the QB position (Jay Cutler vs. Kurt Warner). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Explosion as the slight favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (2-2) will square off against the Devil Dogs (2-2). The Chefs and the Dogs both come into the game with a similar record. The winner of this game will go a long way to getting momentum back. Neither team is really affected by the bye. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. Carolina). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Dogs as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (2-1-1) will face off against Division 1 rival the Mexico City Gringos (0-4). The Perks will look to continue their winning streak and continue to climb the standings. For the Gringos, they will be without TE Kellen Winslow. For the Perks, they will be without RB Jamal Lewis and WR Braylon Edwards. Key matchup will be at the K position (Rob Bironas vs. David Akers). As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Perkalators as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Fan Appreciation Night: Eighth Royals Game in Review
This past Saturday, I went to my last Royals game of the year. After the game on Thursday, my friend Kyle and I were excited about watching some more baseball. We convinced ourselves that if the weather was still good we'd go one more time. And of course it was, so we decided to go on Saturday. It was Fan Appreciation Night and given there was a special online for tickets we ended up with 8.50 outfield tickets (they were 50% off). We had a couple of friends go with us (Lane and Andrew Higgingbotham, later joined by Andrew Huseing in the seventh inning, funny story with that....the night before he asked me if the game started at 8:30pm. I told him no, it started at 6:00 and we would probably leave an hour earlier or so. Come that evening, we try calling him around 4:30 and no response. Finally around the third or fourth inning, he calls and asks if the game is at 8:30. Anyway, he ended up coming and watching the last few innings).
When we got to the stadium, we got our free stocking caps (that was the giveaway) along with a card with the team poster and early 2009 calender. The game itself was a good one. They were playing the division rival Chicago White Sox. The team went ahead early on a couple of home runs (including one inside the park by David DeJesus). We also saw the first career home run by Kila Ka'aihue. The Sox rallied with a home run of their own to cut the score to three runs. But the Royals prevailed thanks to the save in the 9th by Joakuim Soria and the Royals won 5-2.
For 2008, the Royals ended up going 3-5 at games I attended. Hopefully, they'll improve next season and I look forward to that.
When we got to the stadium, we got our free stocking caps (that was the giveaway) along with a card with the team poster and early 2009 calender. The game itself was a good one. They were playing the division rival Chicago White Sox. The team went ahead early on a couple of home runs (including one inside the park by David DeJesus). We also saw the first career home run by Kila Ka'aihue. The Sox rallied with a home run of their own to cut the score to three runs. But the Royals prevailed thanks to the save in the 9th by Joakuim Soria and the Royals won 5-2.
For 2008, the Royals ended up going 3-5 at games I attended. Hopefully, they'll improve next season and I look forward to that.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 3 Edition
That time of the week again, it's Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 3 Edition. It was a much better week than last week and one worth celebrating. In the three highlight leagues I'm in, I went an impressive 3-0 for the week. Here's the breakdown for Week 3 and the look ahead to Week 4...
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces made it two victories in a row as they defeated the Deal's Gap Dragons 106.61 to 84.23. The Masterpieces, despite a -4.0 performance by the New England DEF, had a tremendous output from their team. Of course leading the way was the record setting performance by Ronnie Brown. He put up by himself 37.88 points to lead the team to victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Brown, Jay Cutler, LenDale White, and Chris Cooley. After Week 3, I'm in 4th place (essentially tied for 2nd) with a record of 2-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs rebounded from their Week 2 loss to post a hard fought victory against friend and rival the slobberknockers by the score of 118.28 to 78.47. The change at QB to Philip Rivers helped to propel the team to victory. With this victory, the Chefs have the all important momentum that comes from a victory in this league. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Rivers, Tennessee DEF, Maurice Jones-Drew and Ike Hilliard. After Week 3, I'm in 3rd place with a record of 2-1.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators finally notched their first victory of the season as they beat Who Would Jesus Draft? 88-67. It took a comeback performance from the Perks as they had 3 starters going on Monday Night (QB Philip Rivers, RB LaDaninan Tomlinson, TE Antonio Gates). With their combined performance, the Perks were able to finally get their first win and hopefully get back on track. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Rivers, Tomlinson and Greg Jennings. After week 3, I'm tied for 3rd place in Division 1 with a record of 1-1-1.
Outlook for Week 4:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (2-1) will face a tough matchup in Week 4 as they take on the Jammers (2-1). The Jammers are new to the league and come in with the same record as the Masterpieces. The first week of bye weeks is in full effect and with have impact on both teams. For the Jammers, they will be without QB Matt Hasselbeck and RB Brandon Jackobs. For the Masterpieces, they will be without Ronnie Brown, Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker and the New England DEF. The Masterpieces look to recently acquired WR Brandon Lloyd and RB Rashard Mendenhall to help pick up the slack. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Baltimore). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (2-1) will square off against another rival the Multiple Homeowners (2-1). The Multiple Homeowners, managed by Jon, another one of my good friends from college, has a similar record as the Chefs and will obviously be a tough matchup. The only starter affected by the bye for the Chefs is K Adam Vinateri. The Homeonwers aren't affected by the bye at all. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. LaDanian Tomlinson/Michael Turner). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Homeowners as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (1-1-1) will face off against Division 1 leading Louisville Express (3-0). The Perks will look to get win #2 while also handing the Express their first loss of the season. Player affected by the bye for the Express are the Giants DEF. For the Perks, they will be without their starting DEF as well (Seattle). Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Tony Romo). As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Perkalators as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces made it two victories in a row as they defeated the Deal's Gap Dragons 106.61 to 84.23. The Masterpieces, despite a -4.0 performance by the New England DEF, had a tremendous output from their team. Of course leading the way was the record setting performance by Ronnie Brown. He put up by himself 37.88 points to lead the team to victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Brown, Jay Cutler, LenDale White, and Chris Cooley. After Week 3, I'm in 4th place (essentially tied for 2nd) with a record of 2-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs rebounded from their Week 2 loss to post a hard fought victory against friend and rival the slobberknockers by the score of 118.28 to 78.47. The change at QB to Philip Rivers helped to propel the team to victory. With this victory, the Chefs have the all important momentum that comes from a victory in this league. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Rivers, Tennessee DEF, Maurice Jones-Drew and Ike Hilliard. After Week 3, I'm in 3rd place with a record of 2-1.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators finally notched their first victory of the season as they beat Who Would Jesus Draft? 88-67. It took a comeback performance from the Perks as they had 3 starters going on Monday Night (QB Philip Rivers, RB LaDaninan Tomlinson, TE Antonio Gates). With their combined performance, the Perks were able to finally get their first win and hopefully get back on track. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Rivers, Tomlinson and Greg Jennings. After week 3, I'm tied for 3rd place in Division 1 with a record of 1-1-1.
Outlook for Week 4:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (2-1) will face a tough matchup in Week 4 as they take on the Jammers (2-1). The Jammers are new to the league and come in with the same record as the Masterpieces. The first week of bye weeks is in full effect and with have impact on both teams. For the Jammers, they will be without QB Matt Hasselbeck and RB Brandon Jackobs. For the Masterpieces, they will be without Ronnie Brown, Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker and the New England DEF. The Masterpieces look to recently acquired WR Brandon Lloyd and RB Rashard Mendenhall to help pick up the slack. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Baltimore). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (2-1) will square off against another rival the Multiple Homeowners (2-1). The Multiple Homeowners, managed by Jon, another one of my good friends from college, has a similar record as the Chefs and will obviously be a tough matchup. The only starter affected by the bye for the Chefs is K Adam Vinateri. The Homeonwers aren't affected by the bye at all. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. LaDanian Tomlinson/Michael Turner). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Homeowners as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (1-1-1) will face off against Division 1 leading Louisville Express (3-0). The Perks will look to get win #2 while also handing the Express their first loss of the season. Player affected by the bye for the Express are the Giants DEF. For the Perks, they will be without their starting DEF as well (Seattle). Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Tony Romo). As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Perkalators as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Nothing Better than a Titans/Seahawks Victory
It has been awhile since there has been a weekend where the Titans and Seahawks both won (if I remember right it was at the end of last season). So it was nice that Week 3 is finally that week where it happens.
For Seattle, it was a nice dose of the St. Louis Rams and playing at Qwest Field which helps in getting their first victory of the year. I don't mind if it takes a winless team to do it. You have to start somewhere. I'm sad that I didn't get to watch the game (they had on TV here on Fox the Broncos/Saints game).
For Tennessee, it is what has become the staple of their team, defense and the running game. They gave the Texans fits throughout the game. Even with it being close for about three quarters, the Titans pulled away at the end, aided by a interception return for a touchdown by Courtland Finnigan which covered the length of the field. Unfortunately, I got stuck with the K.C./Atlanta game. Oh well, the Titans are 3-0 and still getting the job done.
For Seattle, it was a nice dose of the St. Louis Rams and playing at Qwest Field which helps in getting their first victory of the year. I don't mind if it takes a winless team to do it. You have to start somewhere. I'm sad that I didn't get to watch the game (they had on TV here on Fox the Broncos/Saints game).
For Tennessee, it is what has become the staple of their team, defense and the running game. They gave the Texans fits throughout the game. Even with it being close for about three quarters, the Titans pulled away at the end, aided by a interception return for a touchdown by Courtland Finnigan which covered the length of the field. Unfortunately, I got stuck with the K.C./Atlanta game. Oh well, the Titans are 3-0 and still getting the job done.
Friday, September 19, 2008
The Clash of "Home" Teams: Seventh Royals Game in Review
Yesterday was a perfect day to go watch a baseball game. So of course I went. I didn't have any classes in the afternoon and the weather was great to take in a baseball game and the Mariners were in town. So my friend Kyle and I went to the ballpark for some midday baseball. I of course was representing my old "home" with my Mariners shirt and cap on. I swear I saw maybe four other people wearing Mariners gear. Talk about standing out, that is what I did.
The game itself was ridiculous. The Royals opened up a barrage of runs in the 4th inning and it was pretty much all downhill from there. If I wasn't a Mariners fan, I would have been completely excited. Instead, I had that bittersweet feeling. The score ended up being 12-0 which was the largest margin I've ever seen in person. Recordwise the Royals are 2-5 in games I've seen in person and both the wins have been by Zack Grienkie.
It was a beautiful day, perfect weather and other than the score a great time.
The game itself was ridiculous. The Royals opened up a barrage of runs in the 4th inning and it was pretty much all downhill from there. If I wasn't a Mariners fan, I would have been completely excited. Instead, I had that bittersweet feeling. The score ended up being 12-0 which was the largest margin I've ever seen in person. Recordwise the Royals are 2-5 in games I've seen in person and both the wins have been by Zack Grienkie.
It was a beautiful day, perfect weather and other than the score a great time.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 2 Edition
It's got Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 2 Edition. It was a hard week as there was some hard matchups which led to less that enjoyable performances. In the three highlight leagues I'm in, I went 1-2 for the week. Here's the breakdown for Week 2 and the look ahead to Week 3...
Breakdown: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces bounced back in a big way as they won against the Dixie Rebels 108.45 to 87.97. The Masterpieces put together a tough gutty perfomance in response to the season ending injuries they suffered the previous week. The team rallied around QB Jay Cutler. His big performance helped put the team in line for the win and gives encouragement for the rest of the season. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Jay Cutler, Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker, and Ronnie Brown. After Week 1, I'm in 4th place (essentially tied for 3rd) with a record of 1-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost a heartbreaker to the Eskimo Army by the score of 130.10 to 111.56. Couple the underachieving performance for a second straight week by QB Matt Hasselbeck along with the Monday Night game, the Chefs lost the game and fall back into the middle of the pack in the league. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Anquan Boldin, Tennessee DEF, Adrian Peterson, and Hines Ward. After Week 2, I'm in 5nd place (essentially tied for 4st) with a record of 1-1.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators also lost a tough one to the Nashville Underdogs 75-66. Again a subpar performance by QB Matt Hasselbeck and a Monday Night game led to the victory by the Underdogs and a loss for the Perkalators. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Greg Jennings, Hines Ward, and Seattle DEF. After week 2, I'm in 4th place in Division 1 with a record of 0-1-1.
Outlook for Week 3:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (1-1) look to keep the momentum going as they face off against the Deal's Gap Dragons (1-1). The Dragons, managed by Rob, a friend of Scott's and a veteran in the league, comes in with the same record as the Masterpieces and look to secure a big win against the defending champs. The Masterpieces look to start rookie WR Eddie Royal to help put even more punch into a line up that was solid in Week 2. Key matchup will be the RB position (Ronnie Brown/LenDale White vs. Fred Taylor/Kevin Smith). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (1-0) will square off against the slobberknockers (0-2). The slobberknockers, managed by Stephen, one of my good friends from college, has gotten off to a slow start but is always a tough matchup. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. Jacksonville). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-1-1) will face off against Who Would Jesus Draft (1-1). The Perks will look to get in the win column by adding QB Philip Rivers to the starting lineup. Key matchup will be at the RB position (LaDanian Tomlinson/Jamal Lewis vs. Stephen Jackson/Thomas Jones). As of right now, ESPN is predicting Who Would Jesus Draft as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Breakdown: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces bounced back in a big way as they won against the Dixie Rebels 108.45 to 87.97. The Masterpieces put together a tough gutty perfomance in response to the season ending injuries they suffered the previous week. The team rallied around QB Jay Cutler. His big performance helped put the team in line for the win and gives encouragement for the rest of the season. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Jay Cutler, Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker, and Ronnie Brown. After Week 1, I'm in 4th place (essentially tied for 3rd) with a record of 1-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost a heartbreaker to the Eskimo Army by the score of 130.10 to 111.56. Couple the underachieving performance for a second straight week by QB Matt Hasselbeck along with the Monday Night game, the Chefs lost the game and fall back into the middle of the pack in the league. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Anquan Boldin, Tennessee DEF, Adrian Peterson, and Hines Ward. After Week 2, I'm in 5nd place (essentially tied for 4st) with a record of 1-1.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators also lost a tough one to the Nashville Underdogs 75-66. Again a subpar performance by QB Matt Hasselbeck and a Monday Night game led to the victory by the Underdogs and a loss for the Perkalators. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Greg Jennings, Hines Ward, and Seattle DEF. After week 2, I'm in 4th place in Division 1 with a record of 0-1-1.
Outlook for Week 3:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (1-1) look to keep the momentum going as they face off against the Deal's Gap Dragons (1-1). The Dragons, managed by Rob, a friend of Scott's and a veteran in the league, comes in with the same record as the Masterpieces and look to secure a big win against the defending champs. The Masterpieces look to start rookie WR Eddie Royal to help put even more punch into a line up that was solid in Week 2. Key matchup will be the RB position (Ronnie Brown/LenDale White vs. Fred Taylor/Kevin Smith). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (1-0) will square off against the slobberknockers (0-2). The slobberknockers, managed by Stephen, one of my good friends from college, has gotten off to a slow start but is always a tough matchup. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. Jacksonville). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-1-1) will face off against Who Would Jesus Draft (1-1). The Perks will look to get in the win column by adding QB Philip Rivers to the starting lineup. Key matchup will be at the RB position (LaDanian Tomlinson/Jamal Lewis vs. Stephen Jackson/Thomas Jones). As of right now, ESPN is predicting Who Would Jesus Draft as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Titans 2-0, Seahawks....Not So Much
After Week 2 of the NFL season, it is very much like Week 1. The bad news coming from the Pacific Northwest with the Seahawks losing and going to 0-2 with a loss to the 49ers in the home opener. They really should have won the game despite being without essentially 6 wide receivers (2 out for the year, 2 out for a few more weeks, 1 hurt during pregame and 1 on one of the first plays of the game.) The joy of being able to watch the game on TV in Kansas City along with a 14-0 start was quenched as the 49ers ended up winning the game in overtime. They've gone 0-2 for the first time since 2002 and are two games down to the leader of the NFC West, the Arizona Cardinals. Of course there is still a lot of season to go, but if they are going to pick it up they need to do it soon.
The very good news, however, is that the Tennessee Titans are 2-0 after their convincing victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. I unfortunately was not able to watch the game on TV as the Kansas City Chiefs game was on instead. I did keep track of it via the internet. Given the tumultuous week with the events circulating around Vince Young and a gameday which saw weather from the remnants of Hurricane Ike bringing in winds up to 50 miles an hour, the Titans did what they do best: they ran the ball and played awesome defense. Chris Johnson had another good game and has really impressed me in his first two games as a pro. The defense did a great job with three interceptions and a blocked punt/recovered for a touchdown. They are leading the AFC South (in my mind the toughest division in all of football) and are 2-0 for the first time since 1999, which was also the last time the team was in the Super Bowl. This team is of course flying under the radar with regard to their play on the field, which I don't mind at all because usually when that happens they just roll along and keep on winning.
So the best way to sum up Week 2: Seahawks, not yay. Titans, good times!
The very good news, however, is that the Tennessee Titans are 2-0 after their convincing victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. I unfortunately was not able to watch the game on TV as the Kansas City Chiefs game was on instead. I did keep track of it via the internet. Given the tumultuous week with the events circulating around Vince Young and a gameday which saw weather from the remnants of Hurricane Ike bringing in winds up to 50 miles an hour, the Titans did what they do best: they ran the ball and played awesome defense. Chris Johnson had another good game and has really impressed me in his first two games as a pro. The defense did a great job with three interceptions and a blocked punt/recovered for a touchdown. They are leading the AFC South (in my mind the toughest division in all of football) and are 2-0 for the first time since 1999, which was also the last time the team was in the Super Bowl. This team is of course flying under the radar with regard to their play on the field, which I don't mind at all because usually when that happens they just roll along and keep on winning.
So the best way to sum up Week 2: Seahawks, not yay. Titans, good times!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Reflections on Vince Young
By now, many have heard about what has went on the past few days with Vince Young. Let me preface my thoughts by saying I am a Titans fan and I like him as a quarterback.
It was sad when I heard about what happened on Monday with the cops having been called in and him being missing. How he was described as being depressed and hurt emotionally. Now while some of it was maybe overblown, it does raise up some points.
First, he is human. So often (myself included), we tend to look just at the player and what he does on the field/court and tend to forget that he (or she) has a life outside of it with the same struggles/problems that we do. There is a tremendous amount of pressure on him I'm sure both from outside and inside and it is handed differently by people.
Second, his injury may be a blessing in disguise. His sprained knee will give him some time off to heal and in that time maybe it'll be a chance to get away and also deal with the things going on emotionally so that when he comes back he'll be healthy all around.
Three, this is a great opportunity for those on the team who follow Jesus to speak into his life. I don't know if Vince follows Jesus or not. If he doesn't, this would be hopefully an opportunity that he would be receptive to Jesus and that those teammates and staff who are believers would be able to share with him the Good News.
I am praying for him during this time. Not just that he'll heal up and get back on the field. But that he will be healed on the inside and that from this experience it will be a testimony to the work that God can do in a person's life whether they're a sports star or not. My hope and prayer is there will be a good ending to this story and that God will be glorified in it.
It was sad when I heard about what happened on Monday with the cops having been called in and him being missing. How he was described as being depressed and hurt emotionally. Now while some of it was maybe overblown, it does raise up some points.
First, he is human. So often (myself included), we tend to look just at the player and what he does on the field/court and tend to forget that he (or she) has a life outside of it with the same struggles/problems that we do. There is a tremendous amount of pressure on him I'm sure both from outside and inside and it is handed differently by people.
Second, his injury may be a blessing in disguise. His sprained knee will give him some time off to heal and in that time maybe it'll be a chance to get away and also deal with the things going on emotionally so that when he comes back he'll be healthy all around.
Three, this is a great opportunity for those on the team who follow Jesus to speak into his life. I don't know if Vince follows Jesus or not. If he doesn't, this would be hopefully an opportunity that he would be receptive to Jesus and that those teammates and staff who are believers would be able to share with him the Good News.
I am praying for him during this time. Not just that he'll heal up and get back on the field. But that he will be healed on the inside and that from this experience it will be a testimony to the work that God can do in a person's life whether they're a sports star or not. My hope and prayer is there will be a good ending to this story and that God will be glorified in it.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 1 Edition
Yes, it is time for Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 1 Edition. To say that it has been a wild and crazy start to the season is an understatement. In the three highlight leagues I'm in, I went 1-1-1 for the week which each league posing it's own kind of excitement and fun. Here's the breakdown for Week 1 and the look ahead to Week 2...
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces started their defense of their championship on a very sour note with a loss to the Headhunters by the score of 113.87 to 79.07. In a game that saw both starting QB Tom Brady and starting WR Nate Burleson lost for the season, the Masterpieces had little to be excited about. The one bright spot on the team came from WR Reggie Wayne as he led the team in scoring with 20.30 points. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Wayne, Nate Burleson, and New England DEF. After Week 1, I'm in 9th place (essentially tied for 7th) with a record of 0-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the season started off well for the Kansas City Chefs as they put together a solid win against the Foot BallBusters by the score of 105.69 to 53.61. It was an all around performance for the Chefs as the team combined to score the second most points in the league for the week. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Hines Ward, Adrian Peterson, New England DEF, and Matt Hasselbeck. After Week 1, I'm in 2nd place (essentially tied for 1st) with a record of 1-0.
In the Young Guns league, the matchup between the Kansas City Perkalators and the NashVegas The Editor ended in a tie 78-78. The Perks both had bad breaks as well as good ones. The bad came with the Seahawks Def posting a -1 along with sub par performances by QB Matt Hasselbeck and WR Braylon Edwards. The good came with last minute sub RB Jerious Norwood scoring more than regular starter Jamal Lewis would have. In the end, it took a solid performance from WR Greg Jennings and holding on to the very end to get the tie. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Ward, Norwood, Antonio Gates, and LaDanian Tomlinson. After week 1, I'm in a tie for 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 0-0-1.
Outlook for Week 2:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (0-1) look to pick up the pieces and try to get back on track with a win against the Dixie Rebels (1-0). The Rebels, managed by a friend of Scott's I believe, comes in on a roll after winning their opening game. The Masterpieces hope that QB Jay Cutler can now lead the team as he will take over as the starter. Also into the starting position is WR Patrick Crayton. Those two along with the other starters will be looking to right the ship and get the team back going in the right direction. Key matchup will be the TE position (Chris Cooley vs. Tony Gonzalez). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Rebels as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (1-0) will square off against the Eskimo Army (1-0) in a matchup of undefeated teams. The Eskimo Army, managed by one of the few people in the league that I don't know personally, had an impressive Week 1 victory as they ended the week with the most points scored. The Chefs will hope to get more output from RB Maurice Jones-Drew as he had a very lackluster Week 1 along with QB Matt Hasselbeck. The health of TE Antonio Gates is in question but he should start. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Brian Westbrook/Reggie Bush). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-0-1) will face off against the Nashville Underdogs (0-1). The Underdogs are coming off a tough loss which saw them also lose their starting QB in Tom Brady. The Perks will look to get a huge output from Jamal Lewis as he returns to the starting lineup. Key matchup will be at the K position (Rob Bironas vs. Mason Crosby. As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Perkalators as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces started their defense of their championship on a very sour note with a loss to the Headhunters by the score of 113.87 to 79.07. In a game that saw both starting QB Tom Brady and starting WR Nate Burleson lost for the season, the Masterpieces had little to be excited about. The one bright spot on the team came from WR Reggie Wayne as he led the team in scoring with 20.30 points. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Wayne, Nate Burleson, and New England DEF. After Week 1, I'm in 9th place (essentially tied for 7th) with a record of 0-1.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the season started off well for the Kansas City Chefs as they put together a solid win against the Foot BallBusters by the score of 105.69 to 53.61. It was an all around performance for the Chefs as the team combined to score the second most points in the league for the week. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Hines Ward, Adrian Peterson, New England DEF, and Matt Hasselbeck. After Week 1, I'm in 2nd place (essentially tied for 1st) with a record of 1-0.
In the Young Guns league, the matchup between the Kansas City Perkalators and the NashVegas The Editor ended in a tie 78-78. The Perks both had bad breaks as well as good ones. The bad came with the Seahawks Def posting a -1 along with sub par performances by QB Matt Hasselbeck and WR Braylon Edwards. The good came with last minute sub RB Jerious Norwood scoring more than regular starter Jamal Lewis would have. In the end, it took a solid performance from WR Greg Jennings and holding on to the very end to get the tie. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Ward, Norwood, Antonio Gates, and LaDanian Tomlinson. After week 1, I'm in a tie for 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 0-0-1.
Outlook for Week 2:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (0-1) look to pick up the pieces and try to get back on track with a win against the Dixie Rebels (1-0). The Rebels, managed by a friend of Scott's I believe, comes in on a roll after winning their opening game. The Masterpieces hope that QB Jay Cutler can now lead the team as he will take over as the starter. Also into the starting position is WR Patrick Crayton. Those two along with the other starters will be looking to right the ship and get the team back going in the right direction. Key matchup will be the TE position (Chris Cooley vs. Tony Gonzalez). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Rebels as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (1-0) will square off against the Eskimo Army (1-0) in a matchup of undefeated teams. The Eskimo Army, managed by one of the few people in the league that I don't know personally, had an impressive Week 1 victory as they ended the week with the most points scored. The Chefs will hope to get more output from RB Maurice Jones-Drew as he had a very lackluster Week 1 along with QB Matt Hasselbeck. The health of TE Antonio Gates is in question but he should start. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Brian Westbrook/Reggie Bush). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-0-1) will face off against the Nashville Underdogs (0-1). The Underdogs are coming off a tough loss which saw them also lose their starting QB in Tom Brady. The Perks will look to get a huge output from Jamal Lewis as he returns to the starting lineup. Key matchup will be at the K position (Rob Bironas vs. Mason Crosby. As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Perkalators as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Real Opening Day of the NFL
Anyone who knows me knows that I love football. This weekend was the first weekend of wall-to-wall football with yesterday and college football and then today with the pros.
It was my first season not starting the season watching it on the West Coast. Over there, what would happen would be watch the pregame shows (mainly the CBS one) then a little bit of the first quarter of the early games before getting ready for worship. Then after the service, watching the fourth quarter of the first game and then going from there. Now, being back in the Central Time Zone, it's back to being able to watch both games as they come on after the worship service.
Unfortunately, also being in Kansas City means two things. One, the CBS affiliate will only show Chiefs games (being an AFC team means not as much opportunity to see the Titans) and two, the FOX affiliate will more than likely only show Rams games (which if there is a bright side, means I'll at least get to see two Seahawks games as they are in the same division).
This week ended up being a mixed feeling kind of day. On the down side, the Seahawks got beat down by the Bills (the Bills!?). I can kind of understand it being that it was in Buffalo. I don't think it will be indictive of the rest of the season. They will get healthy and they'll do well.
On the up side was, of course, the Tennessee Titans. They beat their division rival Jacksonville Jaguars 17-10. It was great on a number of levels. One, they won the game. Two, they beat a division rival. Three, they did it at home (LP Field). Four, the defense showed up as usual and had a beat down of a performance (7 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 fumble recovery). And five, Chris Johnson, the rookie running back, showed why he is going to be a factor in the Titans' offense. The only concern was QB Vince Young not having a great day and also got a sprained knee which knocked him out of the game. Hopefully, it won't be serious and he'll be back for next week's game.
So to recap:
Seahawks = sad that they are 0-1
Titans = very happy and elated that they are 1-0
It was my first season not starting the season watching it on the West Coast. Over there, what would happen would be watch the pregame shows (mainly the CBS one) then a little bit of the first quarter of the early games before getting ready for worship. Then after the service, watching the fourth quarter of the first game and then going from there. Now, being back in the Central Time Zone, it's back to being able to watch both games as they come on after the worship service.
Unfortunately, also being in Kansas City means two things. One, the CBS affiliate will only show Chiefs games (being an AFC team means not as much opportunity to see the Titans) and two, the FOX affiliate will more than likely only show Rams games (which if there is a bright side, means I'll at least get to see two Seahawks games as they are in the same division).
This week ended up being a mixed feeling kind of day. On the down side, the Seahawks got beat down by the Bills (the Bills!?). I can kind of understand it being that it was in Buffalo. I don't think it will be indictive of the rest of the season. They will get healthy and they'll do well.
On the up side was, of course, the Tennessee Titans. They beat their division rival Jacksonville Jaguars 17-10. It was great on a number of levels. One, they won the game. Two, they beat a division rival. Three, they did it at home (LP Field). Four, the defense showed up as usual and had a beat down of a performance (7 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 fumble recovery). And five, Chris Johnson, the rookie running back, showed why he is going to be a factor in the Titans' offense. The only concern was QB Vince Young not having a great day and also got a sprained knee which knocked him out of the game. Hopefully, it won't be serious and he'll be back for next week's game.
So to recap:
Seahawks = sad that they are 0-1
Titans = very happy and elated that they are 1-0
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 1 Preview
It's finally time. It's time for Fantasy Football Tuesday to return, this year on this blog dedicated to sports and theology. It will be a fun time and as a way to kick off the season, here is the Week 1 preview...
Outlook for Week 1:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (0-0) take on the Headhunters (0-0). The Headhunters are managed by Scott, a friend from my days at Union and who finished third last season in the league. On paper, this looks to be like an interesting matchup. Both teams have quality QBs (Tom Brady vs. Donovan McNabb) and have TEs (Chris Cooley vs. Jeremy Shockey). Advantage at RBs could go to Headhunters with their duo of Brian Westbrook and Selvin Young while the advantage of WRs could go to the Masterpieces with their trio of Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker and Nate Burleson. Key matchup will be the DEF (New England vs. Buffalo). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces by the slightest of margins as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (0-0) square off against Foot-Ball Busters. The Busters are managed by Jen, a friend and former co-worker of Jon, one of my good friends from college. The matchup appears to be an intriguging one. The two QBs in the matchup both come from the NFC West (Matt Hasselbeck vs. Marc Bulger). Both teams have quality TEs (Antonio Gates vs. Dallas Clark) and are also solid in the kicking game (Adam Vinateri vs. Nick Folk). The key matchup will be at the WR position (Andre Johnson, Anquan Boldin and Hines Ward vs. Roy Williams, Reggie Brown and Jerry Porter). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns League, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-0) will face off against the NashVegas The Editor. The Editor is managed by Chad, who actually is an editor over at Lifeway under the collegiate/young adults mantle (Threads). This will also be another tough matchup. The QB matchup will be an interesting (Matt Hasselbeck vs. Drew Brees) along with the TE matcup (Antonio Gates vs. Dallas Clark). Health could be a factor as Jamal Lewis is fighting an injury and that could play a role in the matchup. If he cannot go for the Perks, Jerious Norwood could start. The key matchup will be WR postion (Braylon Edwards/Greg Jennings vs. Terrell Owens/Anquan Boldin). As of right now, ESPN has the matchup as a push with neither team as the favorite.
Well that's the outlook for Week 1 of the Fantasy Football season. Good luck to all who are participating and look forward to a great season!
Outlook for Week 1:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (0-0) take on the Headhunters (0-0). The Headhunters are managed by Scott, a friend from my days at Union and who finished third last season in the league. On paper, this looks to be like an interesting matchup. Both teams have quality QBs (Tom Brady vs. Donovan McNabb) and have TEs (Chris Cooley vs. Jeremy Shockey). Advantage at RBs could go to Headhunters with their duo of Brian Westbrook and Selvin Young while the advantage of WRs could go to the Masterpieces with their trio of Reggie Wayne, Wes Welker and Nate Burleson. Key matchup will be the DEF (New England vs. Buffalo). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces by the slightest of margins as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (0-0) square off against Foot-Ball Busters. The Busters are managed by Jen, a friend and former co-worker of Jon, one of my good friends from college. The matchup appears to be an intriguging one. The two QBs in the matchup both come from the NFC West (Matt Hasselbeck vs. Marc Bulger). Both teams have quality TEs (Antonio Gates vs. Dallas Clark) and are also solid in the kicking game (Adam Vinateri vs. Nick Folk). The key matchup will be at the WR position (Andre Johnson, Anquan Boldin and Hines Ward vs. Roy Williams, Reggie Brown and Jerry Porter). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns League, the Kansas City Perkalators (0-0) will face off against the NashVegas The Editor. The Editor is managed by Chad, who actually is an editor over at Lifeway under the collegiate/young adults mantle (Threads). This will also be another tough matchup. The QB matchup will be an interesting (Matt Hasselbeck vs. Drew Brees) along with the TE matcup (Antonio Gates vs. Dallas Clark). Health could be a factor as Jamal Lewis is fighting an injury and that could play a role in the matchup. If he cannot go for the Perks, Jerious Norwood could start. The key matchup will be WR postion (Braylon Edwards/Greg Jennings vs. Terrell Owens/Anquan Boldin). As of right now, ESPN has the matchup as a push with neither team as the favorite.
Well that's the outlook for Week 1 of the Fantasy Football season. Good luck to all who are participating and look forward to a great season!
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