Here is my predictions for the 2008-2009 NBA season (yes I know the season started yesterday but I don't have ready access to cable so it's okay)
Eastern Conference Playoff Teams (division winner marked by plus sign):
Boston+
Orlando+
Cleveland+
Detroit
Toronto
Atlanta
Chicago
Miami
Western Conference Playoff Teams:
New Orleans+
LA Lakers+
Utah+
Portland
Golden State
Houston
San Antonio
Phoenix
Eastern Conference Champs: Boston
Western Conference Champs: New Orleans
NBA Champs: Boston
Rookie of the Year: Michael Beasley
MVP: Kevin Garnett
Worst Team in the NBA: That Team That Previously Was in Seattle
There you go. There's the predictions sure to be wrong in some way but that's why they're predictions :)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 8 Edition
It's time for Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 8 Edition. This week was a better week as I ended up going 2-1 in the three highlight leagues. Here's the breakdown for Week 8 and the look ahead to Week 9...
Breakdown: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces have lost two straight as they lost to Domination by the score of 95.70 to 78.67. The Masterpieces again were down big going into the Monday Night game and just weren't able to get the victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Wes Welker, LenDale White and Rob Bironias. After Week 8, I'm in 5th place with a record of 4-4.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs got back to their winning ways with a victory over the Romosapiens by the score of 108.64 to 96.54. The Chefs, inspired by the return of WR Anquan Boldin, roared back to secure a victory and pull the team back to .500. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Philip Rivers, Anquan Boldin, Antonio Gates, and Andre Johnson. After Week 8, I'm in 6th place with a record of 4-4.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators are on a three game winning streak as they beat the Harleton Cowboys by the score of 109-82. The Perks had another strong performance from his key players to help lead them to the longest winning streak of any of the highlight teams this year. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Philip Rivers, LaDanian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates, Jamal Lewis, and Rob Bironias. After week 8, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 5-2-1.
Outlook for Week 9:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-4) will look to get back to their winning ways as they take on KILLA B (2-6). The Masterpieces will not be affected by they bye this week while KILLA B will be without QB Jake Delhomme for the bye and QB Tony Romo due to injury. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Philadelphia). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (4-4) will look to get above to .500 as they match up against Homeskool Dropouts (1-7). The Chefs will be without QB Philip Rivers and TE Antonio Gates while the Dropouts will be without WR Mushin Muhammed. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Marshawn Lynch/Warrick Dunn). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (5-2-1) will face off against division rival Mexico City Gringos (4-4). The two teams met in week 5 with the Gringos coming up with the victory. The Perks will be looking for revenge this time around. For the Cowboys, they will be without WR Steve Smith. For the Perks, they will be without QB Philip Rivers, RB LaDanian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates. TE Tony Scheffler will be a question mark to start given his injury status as well as who will be the starting QB. Key matchup will be at the K position (Rob Bironias vs. David Akers). As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Gringos 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 have lost two straight as they lost to Domination by the score of 95.70 to 78.67. The Masterpieces again were down big going into the Monday Night game and just weren't able to get the victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Wes Welker, LenDale White and Rob Bironias. After Week 8, I'm in 5th place with a record of 4-4.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs got back to their winning ways with a victory over the Romosapiens by the score of 108.64 to 96.54. The Chefs, inspired by the return of WR Anquan Boldin, roared back to secure a victory and pull the team back to .500. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Philip Rivers, Anquan Boldin, Antonio Gates, and Andre Johnson. After Week 8, I'm in 6th place with a record of 4-4.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators are on a three game winning streak as they beat the Harleton Cowboys by the score of 109-82. The Perks had another strong performance from his key players to help lead them to the longest winning streak of any of the highlight teams this year. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Philip Rivers, LaDanian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates, Jamal Lewis, and Rob Bironias. After week 8, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 5-2-1.
Outlook for Week 9:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-4) will look to get back to their winning ways as they take on KILLA B (2-6). The Masterpieces will not be affected by they bye this week while KILLA B will be without QB Jake Delhomme for the bye and QB Tony Romo due to injury. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Philadelphia). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (4-4) will look to get above to .500 as they match up against Homeskool Dropouts (1-7). The Chefs will be without QB Philip Rivers and TE Antonio Gates while the Dropouts will be without WR Mushin Muhammed. Key matchup will be at the RB position (Adrian Peterson/Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Marshawn Lynch/Warrick Dunn). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (5-2-1) will face off against division rival Mexico City Gringos (4-4). The two teams met in week 5 with the Gringos coming up with the victory. The Perks will be looking for revenge this time around. For the Cowboys, they will be without WR Steve Smith. For the Perks, they will be without QB Philip Rivers, RB LaDanian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates. TE Tony Scheffler will be a question mark to start given his injury status as well as who will be the starting QB. Key matchup will be at the K position (Rob Bironias vs. David Akers). As of right now, ESPN is predicting the Gringos as the favorite.
That's all for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another installment of Fantasy Football Tuesday.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Random Sports Reflections
Here's some random stuff to talk about:
*I'm disappointed in the Red Sox not making the World Series. Given the way the team finished, I guess it was the best to be expected. I'm not really excited about the World Series this year with the (Devil) Rays and the Phillies. I think if I have to pick a team to root for, it'd be the Phillies. The city (Philadelphia) deserves a champ and the last time they won the World Series I was like 8 months old (so 28 years ago) so I'm thinking they're due. I'll say Phillies in 6.
*I'm not really into college football this year. Partly I think it has to do with the Vols and the Huskies having horrible years. All I know is the one thing that's always the case every year...the BCS won't work. Some way shape or form, it won't work and people will want a playoff (which every other division and every other sport have).
*I'm disappointed in the Seahawks. Ever since I've moved, they've went in the tank. Could me moving have put a jinx on them? Could it be the curse of Shaun Alexander in cutting him? Or could it be that they just have way too many injuries this year to overcome. At this point, it might just be worth looking forward to next year, getting a good draft pick and settling into new coach Jim Mora Jr.
*I just heard today that the 49ers fired Mike Nolan and hired Mike Singletary as the interim head coach. Anyone who knows me knows how much of a Singletary fan I am. Growing up, he was one of my favorite players to watch. I respected him both on and off the field. I've felt he's been due a head coaching opportunity after several years as a defensive coordinator. I might actually sort of start rooting for the 49ers again (for the first time in a long time) with him at the helm, though when they play the 'Hawks, still have to pull for the Hawks.
*I'm so excited about the Titans. They've been due a season like this in a long time. This team reminds me in a lot of ways of the dominant teams of the early part of this decade. If they continue to play like they have so far, I don't think there's any reason why they can't win the Super Bowl. If you got a defense like they do, a one-two running combo in White and Johnson, a kicker who's lights out good, and a veteran quarterback who's calm under pressure, then you have the formula for winning a championship.
*I'm disappointed in the Red Sox not making the World Series. Given the way the team finished, I guess it was the best to be expected. I'm not really excited about the World Series this year with the (Devil) Rays and the Phillies. I think if I have to pick a team to root for, it'd be the Phillies. The city (Philadelphia) deserves a champ and the last time they won the World Series I was like 8 months old (so 28 years ago) so I'm thinking they're due. I'll say Phillies in 6.
*I'm not really into college football this year. Partly I think it has to do with the Vols and the Huskies having horrible years. All I know is the one thing that's always the case every year...the BCS won't work. Some way shape or form, it won't work and people will want a playoff (which every other division and every other sport have).
*I'm disappointed in the Seahawks. Ever since I've moved, they've went in the tank. Could me moving have put a jinx on them? Could it be the curse of Shaun Alexander in cutting him? Or could it be that they just have way too many injuries this year to overcome. At this point, it might just be worth looking forward to next year, getting a good draft pick and settling into new coach Jim Mora Jr.
*I just heard today that the 49ers fired Mike Nolan and hired Mike Singletary as the interim head coach. Anyone who knows me knows how much of a Singletary fan I am. Growing up, he was one of my favorite players to watch. I respected him both on and off the field. I've felt he's been due a head coaching opportunity after several years as a defensive coordinator. I might actually sort of start rooting for the 49ers again (for the first time in a long time) with him at the helm, though when they play the 'Hawks, still have to pull for the Hawks.
*I'm so excited about the Titans. They've been due a season like this in a long time. This team reminds me in a lot of ways of the dominant teams of the early part of this decade. If they continue to play like they have so far, I don't think there's any reason why they can't win the Super Bowl. If you got a defense like they do, a one-two running combo in White and Johnson, a kicker who's lights out good, and a veteran quarterback who's calm under pressure, then you have the formula for winning a championship.
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 7 Edition
It's time for Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 7 Edition. This year seems to be a yo-yo type year. One week I do well, the next I do bad. This week I went 1-2 in the three highlight leagues. Here's the breakdown for Week 6 and the look ahead to Week 7...
Breakdown: In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces lost a close one against Dooley's Dawgs by the score of 102.47 to 100.46. The Masterpieces were down big going into the Monday Night game and tried to storm back. However, they couldn't get enough to pull out the victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were LenDale White, Wes Welker, Eddie Royal and Rob Bironias. After Week 7, I'm in 4th place with a record of 4-3.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost a tough one against Souper Bowl Sundays by the score of 147.96 to 102.76. The Chefs just didn't have what it took as the team once again went one game under .500. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Adrian, Peterson, Philip Rivers, Ryan Longwell, and Andre Johnson. After Week 7, I'm in 6th place with a record of 3-4.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators are on a two game winning streak as they beat the Nashville Underdogs by the score of 69-38. The Perks took a freebie as several players for the Underdogs didn't play and got 0 points, but given how the other leagues went, it was a win easily accepted. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Bernard Berrian, Hines Ward and Philip Rivers. After week 7, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 4-2-1.
Outlook for Week 8:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-3) will look to bounce back as they take on Domination (5-2). Domination is tied right now for first place so this is a critical game for the Masterpieces. The Masterpieces will be without QB Jay Cutler and WR Eddie Royal while Domination has no starters affected by the bye. Key matchup will be the TE position (Chris Cooley vs. Dallas Clark). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting Domination as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (3-4) will look to get back to .500 as they match up against Romosapiens (5-2). The Chefs will be without RB Adrian Peterson and K Ryan Longwell for the bye but get back RB Maurice Jones-Drew and WR Anquan Boldin (hopefully). The Romosapiens will be without RB Matt Forte. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. New York Giants). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (4-2-1) will face off against the Harleton Cowboys (2-4-1). For the Cowboys, they will be without RBs Adrian Peterson and Matt Forte. For the Perks, they will be without WRs Greg Jennings and Bernard Berrian. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Jake Delhomme). 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 lost a close one against Dooley's Dawgs by the score of 102.47 to 100.46. The Masterpieces were down big going into the Monday Night game and tried to storm back. However, they couldn't get enough to pull out the victory. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were LenDale White, Wes Welker, Eddie Royal and Rob Bironias. After Week 7, I'm in 4th place with a record of 4-3.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost a tough one against Souper Bowl Sundays by the score of 147.96 to 102.76. The Chefs just didn't have what it took as the team once again went one game under .500. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Adrian, Peterson, Philip Rivers, Ryan Longwell, and Andre Johnson. After Week 7, I'm in 6th place with a record of 3-4.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators are on a two game winning streak as they beat the Nashville Underdogs by the score of 69-38. The Perks took a freebie as several players for the Underdogs didn't play and got 0 points, but given how the other leagues went, it was a win easily accepted. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Bernard Berrian, Hines Ward and Philip Rivers. After week 7, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 4-2-1.
Outlook for Week 8:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-3) will look to bounce back as they take on Domination (5-2). Domination is tied right now for first place so this is a critical game for the Masterpieces. The Masterpieces will be without QB Jay Cutler and WR Eddie Royal while Domination has no starters affected by the bye. Key matchup will be the TE position (Chris Cooley vs. Dallas Clark). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting Domination as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (3-4) will look to get back to .500 as they match up against Romosapiens (5-2). The Chefs will be without RB Adrian Peterson and K Ryan Longwell for the bye but get back RB Maurice Jones-Drew and WR Anquan Boldin (hopefully). The Romosapiens will be without RB Matt Forte. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. New York Giants). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (4-2-1) will face off against the Harleton Cowboys (2-4-1). For the Cowboys, they will be without RBs Adrian Peterson and Matt Forte. For the Perks, they will be without WRs Greg Jennings and Bernard Berrian. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Jake Delhomme). 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, October 14, 2008
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 6 Edition
It's time for Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 6 Edition. After the horrible week last week, I bounced back in a awesome way. I went 3-0 in the three highlight leagues to make for a perfect week. Here's the breakdown for Week 6 and the look ahead to Week 7...
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces won big against the Tuna Helper by the score of 105.44 to 78.77 The Masterpieces bounced back after a poor week 5 performance. Despite Eddie Royal not playing, the Masterpieces were buoyed by the rest of the team picking up the slack. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Tampa Bay DEF, Reggie Wayne, Ronnie Brown and Wes Welker. After Week 6, I'm in 2nd place with a record of 4-2.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs bounced back to beat The Incredibles by the score of 113.32 to 103.82. The Chefs held off the Incredibles as WR Plaxico Burress went on Monday night. After sweating it out, the Chefs pulled out the win to once again be at .500 for the season. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Philip Rivers, Maurice Jones-Drew, and Andre Johnson. After Week 6, I'm in 6th place with a record of 3-3.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators beat Nashvegas TheEditor by the score of 113-97. The Perks scored the highest point total of the week and had the win wrapped up even before RB Jamal Lewis took the field on Monday night. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Philip Rivers, Bernard Berrian, Greg Jennings and Jamal Lewis. After week 6, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 3-2-1.
Outlook for Week 7:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-2) will look to continue on their winning ways as they take on Dooley's Dawgs (1-5). The Masterpieces will have no starters affected by the bye but will have a gametime decision regarding WR Eddie Royal. The Dawgs have no TE so that will play a role unless they fill that spot. Key matchup will be the QB position (Jay Cutler vs. Ben Roethlisberger). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (3-3) will look to get back above .500 as they match up against Souper Bowl Sundays (2-4). The Sundays are run by Adam, yet another former Union alum and friend. The Chefs will be without RB Maurice Jones-Drew and WR Anquan Boldin who are on the bye. The Sundays won't be affected by the bye. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. Green Bay). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (3-2-1) will face off against Division 1 rival the Nashville Underdogs (2-4). Earlier in the season, these two teams squared off in a matchup that ended in a loss for the Perks. For the Underdogs , they will be without QB Donovan McNabb and RB Edgerrin James. For the Perks, they will be without the Eagles DEF. Key matchup will be at the TE position (Antonio Gates vs. Chris CooleyDrew Brees). 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 won big against the Tuna Helper by the score of 105.44 to 78.77 The Masterpieces bounced back after a poor week 5 performance. Despite Eddie Royal not playing, the Masterpieces were buoyed by the rest of the team picking up the slack. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Tampa Bay DEF, Reggie Wayne, Ronnie Brown and Wes Welker. After Week 6, I'm in 2nd place with a record of 4-2.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs bounced back to beat The Incredibles by the score of 113.32 to 103.82. The Chefs held off the Incredibles as WR Plaxico Burress went on Monday night. After sweating it out, the Chefs pulled out the win to once again be at .500 for the season. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Philip Rivers, Maurice Jones-Drew, and Andre Johnson. After Week 6, I'm in 6th place with a record of 3-3.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators beat Nashvegas TheEditor by the score of 113-97. The Perks scored the highest point total of the week and had the win wrapped up even before RB Jamal Lewis took the field on Monday night. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Philip Rivers, Bernard Berrian, Greg Jennings and Jamal Lewis. After week 6, I'm in 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 3-2-1.
Outlook for Week 7:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (4-2) will look to continue on their winning ways as they take on Dooley's Dawgs (1-5). The Masterpieces will have no starters affected by the bye but will have a gametime decision regarding WR Eddie Royal. The Dawgs have no TE so that will play a role unless they fill that spot. Key matchup will be the QB position (Jay Cutler vs. Ben Roethlisberger). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (3-3) will look to get back above .500 as they match up against Souper Bowl Sundays (2-4). The Sundays are run by Adam, yet another former Union alum and friend. The Chefs will be without RB Maurice Jones-Drew and WR Anquan Boldin who are on the bye. The Sundays won't be affected by the bye. Key matchup will be at the DEF position (Tennessee vs. Green Bay). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (3-2-1) will face off against Division 1 rival the Nashville Underdogs (2-4). Earlier in the season, these two teams squared off in a matchup that ended in a loss for the Perks. For the Underdogs , they will be without QB Donovan McNabb and RB Edgerrin James. For the Perks, they will be without the Eagles DEF. Key matchup will be at the TE position (Antonio Gates vs. Chris CooleyDrew Brees). 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.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Reflecting on Rooting Tendancies
Recently, Stephen, my friend/fellow Union alum/former roommate/sports enthusiast wrote on his blog a very interesting post regarding his rooting tendancies (here's a link to that post). It got me to thinking about my rooting tendancies. Here's a kind of breakdown by sport of who and why I root for them and a brief history:
MLB: (who I root for now: AL-Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals; NL-St. Louis Cardinals)
Growing up living in Tennessee, we did not have a MLB team. The closest we had was a Triple-A minor league team (Nashville Sounds). So I didn't have allegiences to any team because of region. The first team I rooted for was the Red Sox (and the first year ironically was 1986 when I was 6 years old....of course we know how that all ended). I've pretty much stuck with them ever since. There have been times when I rooted for the Cincinnatti Reds and Chicago White Sox (Reds because the Sounds were the Triple-A team for them when I was a kid and when they won the World Series in 1990 I saw a lot of their stars when they played in Nashville, White Sox cause they were the hip cool team in the early 90s). I never really rooted for the Braves like many that I knew. When I went off to college, I found my NL team in the Cardinals. In fact, the first MLB game I went to was at old Busch Stadium to see the Cards play the Reds. When I moved to Seattle, I adopted the Mariners and the same has been for the Royals. So here's the order of rooting for me in MLB
1) Boston, 2) Seattle, 3) Kansas City, 4) St. Louis
Teams I root against: New York Yankees, Anaheim (I refuse to call LA) Angels
NFL (who I root for now: Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks)
I have been a huge NFL fan. Football is probably my favorite sport. Growing up, I didn't really have a team, just players I rooted for. I did like the 49ers back in the 80s, along with the Bears, Eagles, Dolphins, Oilers, Broncos. In the early to mid 90s, I kind of shifted to add the Packers to that list along with the Falcons and the Buccaneers. That all changed by the end of the 90s when the Oilers moved to Tennessee and became the Titans. The first professional franchise in the state of Tennessee became my first "home" team to root for and I've stuck with them ever since. When I moved to Seattle, I adopted the Seahawks as my NFC team. I have not (and don't plan to) adopted the Chiefs as a team to root for, out of respect for my Titans (and my former boss who's a Chargers fan). Here's the order:
1) Tennessee, 2) Seattle
Teams I root against: Baltimore Ravens, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers
NBA (who I root for now: Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies)
Growing up, I was a huge NBA fan and why not? It was in a way a golden age of stars with Magic, Bird, Jordan, Barkley, Malone, Stockton and on and on. From the time I was way little, I was a huge Celtics fan. I did like the Showtime Lakers but when those two teams faced off, I went with the Celtics. Of course, like most kids my age at the time, I liked the Bulls. I had kind of a love/hate relationship with the Pistons. When I got to college, I rooted some for the Kings. My junior year of college was the year that the Grizzlies moved to Memphis and I began rooting for them. I liked the Spurs for a time too (the first NBA game I went to was an exhibition game in Nashville between the Spurs and the Knicks/regular season game was in Memphis). When I moved to Seattle, I started rooting for the SuperSonics. Since they moved, they have moved onto my root against list.
Order of rooting:
1) Memphis, 2) Boston
Teams I root against: Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma Thunder
NHL (who I root for now: Nashville Predators, Vancouver Canucks, Boston Bruins)
When it comes to hockey, I come a little late to the party sort to speak. I didn't really get into hockey until I was 8 or 9. I started watching because of Wayne Gretzky and it was a part time thing. I really didn't get hooked on hockey until I was in high school then it became one of my favorite sports. The first teams I rooted for was the Calgary Flames and the Philadelphia Flyers. I was also a fan (still kind of am) of the Boston Bruins because of guys like Ray Bourque. When Nashville got a team back in 1998, I had my #1 team and have stuck with them ever since. I usually root for one Canadian team and for now that team is Vancouver.
Order of rooting:
1) Nashville, 2) Vancouver, 3) Boston
Teams I root against:
1) Detroit Red Wings, 2) Colorado Avalanche
College Football
Another sport that I grew up on was college football. In the South, Saturdays are reserved for college football. Being from Tennessee, I grew up a Volunteers fan. I loved watching the games on TV and turning the volume down on the TV and tuning in with the radio to listen to John Ward call the games. The Vols have always been my #1 college football team. When I moved to Seattle and began working in and around the campus of U-Dub, I adopted them as my second team. Since moving to Kansas City, I haven't really decided if I'm going to root for any team in the Big 12.
Order of rooting:
1)University of Tennessee, 2) University of Washington
Teams I root against:
1)University of Florida, 2) University of Alabama, 3) University of Miami, 4) University of Michigan, 5) University of Southern California, 6) Washington State University
College Basketball:
I loved college basketball as well growing up, not as much as college football. For me, one of the best times of the year is March Madness. I love the upsets, love the storylines and love the fact that a champion is decided on the court. Growing up, I rooted for North Carolina. I kind of still do but in recent years, I've started rooting for Tennessee in basketball and also for Memphis. I also adopted U-Dub when I moved to the Northwest.
Order of rooting:
1) University of Tennessee, 2) University of Washington, 3) University of North Carolina
Teams I root against:
1) Duke University, 2) University of Florida, 3) UCLA, 4) University of Michigan
Well there you go, a semi-brief look at who and why I root for who I do
MLB: (who I root for now: AL-Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals; NL-St. Louis Cardinals)
Growing up living in Tennessee, we did not have a MLB team. The closest we had was a Triple-A minor league team (Nashville Sounds). So I didn't have allegiences to any team because of region. The first team I rooted for was the Red Sox (and the first year ironically was 1986 when I was 6 years old....of course we know how that all ended). I've pretty much stuck with them ever since. There have been times when I rooted for the Cincinnatti Reds and Chicago White Sox (Reds because the Sounds were the Triple-A team for them when I was a kid and when they won the World Series in 1990 I saw a lot of their stars when they played in Nashville, White Sox cause they were the hip cool team in the early 90s). I never really rooted for the Braves like many that I knew. When I went off to college, I found my NL team in the Cardinals. In fact, the first MLB game I went to was at old Busch Stadium to see the Cards play the Reds. When I moved to Seattle, I adopted the Mariners and the same has been for the Royals. So here's the order of rooting for me in MLB
1) Boston, 2) Seattle, 3) Kansas City, 4) St. Louis
Teams I root against: New York Yankees, Anaheim (I refuse to call LA) Angels
NFL (who I root for now: Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks)
I have been a huge NFL fan. Football is probably my favorite sport. Growing up, I didn't really have a team, just players I rooted for. I did like the 49ers back in the 80s, along with the Bears, Eagles, Dolphins, Oilers, Broncos. In the early to mid 90s, I kind of shifted to add the Packers to that list along with the Falcons and the Buccaneers. That all changed by the end of the 90s when the Oilers moved to Tennessee and became the Titans. The first professional franchise in the state of Tennessee became my first "home" team to root for and I've stuck with them ever since. When I moved to Seattle, I adopted the Seahawks as my NFC team. I have not (and don't plan to) adopted the Chiefs as a team to root for, out of respect for my Titans (and my former boss who's a Chargers fan). Here's the order:
1) Tennessee, 2) Seattle
Teams I root against: Baltimore Ravens, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers
NBA (who I root for now: Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies)
Growing up, I was a huge NBA fan and why not? It was in a way a golden age of stars with Magic, Bird, Jordan, Barkley, Malone, Stockton and on and on. From the time I was way little, I was a huge Celtics fan. I did like the Showtime Lakers but when those two teams faced off, I went with the Celtics. Of course, like most kids my age at the time, I liked the Bulls. I had kind of a love/hate relationship with the Pistons. When I got to college, I rooted some for the Kings. My junior year of college was the year that the Grizzlies moved to Memphis and I began rooting for them. I liked the Spurs for a time too (the first NBA game I went to was an exhibition game in Nashville between the Spurs and the Knicks/regular season game was in Memphis). When I moved to Seattle, I started rooting for the SuperSonics. Since they moved, they have moved onto my root against list.
Order of rooting:
1) Memphis, 2) Boston
Teams I root against: Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma Thunder
NHL (who I root for now: Nashville Predators, Vancouver Canucks, Boston Bruins)
When it comes to hockey, I come a little late to the party sort to speak. I didn't really get into hockey until I was 8 or 9. I started watching because of Wayne Gretzky and it was a part time thing. I really didn't get hooked on hockey until I was in high school then it became one of my favorite sports. The first teams I rooted for was the Calgary Flames and the Philadelphia Flyers. I was also a fan (still kind of am) of the Boston Bruins because of guys like Ray Bourque. When Nashville got a team back in 1998, I had my #1 team and have stuck with them ever since. I usually root for one Canadian team and for now that team is Vancouver.
Order of rooting:
1) Nashville, 2) Vancouver, 3) Boston
Teams I root against:
1) Detroit Red Wings, 2) Colorado Avalanche
College Football
Another sport that I grew up on was college football. In the South, Saturdays are reserved for college football. Being from Tennessee, I grew up a Volunteers fan. I loved watching the games on TV and turning the volume down on the TV and tuning in with the radio to listen to John Ward call the games. The Vols have always been my #1 college football team. When I moved to Seattle and began working in and around the campus of U-Dub, I adopted them as my second team. Since moving to Kansas City, I haven't really decided if I'm going to root for any team in the Big 12.
Order of rooting:
1)University of Tennessee, 2) University of Washington
Teams I root against:
1)University of Florida, 2) University of Alabama, 3) University of Miami, 4) University of Michigan, 5) University of Southern California, 6) Washington State University
College Basketball:
I loved college basketball as well growing up, not as much as college football. For me, one of the best times of the year is March Madness. I love the upsets, love the storylines and love the fact that a champion is decided on the court. Growing up, I rooted for North Carolina. I kind of still do but in recent years, I've started rooting for Tennessee in basketball and also for Memphis. I also adopted U-Dub when I moved to the Northwest.
Order of rooting:
1) University of Tennessee, 2) University of Washington, 3) University of North Carolina
Teams I root against:
1) Duke University, 2) University of Florida, 3) UCLA, 4) University of Michigan
Well there you go, a semi-brief look at who and why I root for who I do
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Reflections on O.J. Simpson
I'm sure if I had this blog when I was 15, this post would be like part 3 or 4. But since this is a recent institution, this is the first and hopefully only one.
The latest Simpson trial ended with a conviction 13 years to the day of the famous murder trial. It was the end to another sad chapter in the life of the former Hall of Fame running back whose life has never been the same since 1994.
I can't believe it has been so long since all this has started. There has been a generation of people who know of O.J. Simpson in the light of the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. Growing up, this was not the case for me. Though I was born after his football career had ended and I didn't know him as an All-Pro running back, I was well aware of who he was. I knew him as a guy on many commercials andas the sidekick in the Naked Gun movies. But mainly, I knew him as a sideline reporter for NFL games on NBC. He was a guy who had this big grin on his face and would joke around and just be the life of the party on the sidelines.
That all changed in 1994. When the news broke about the murders, I was shocked. I remember the slow police chase in the white Bronco. I, like most people at that time, tuned in to watch the trial. As the trial went on, it seemed more and more like I didn't know the man I used to watch on the sidelines of football games. When the verdict was read, I was a sophomore in high school and I was watching it in I believe English class. It was one of those events in history that people remember.
From that moment on, it just seemed like Simpson was a different man, and not in a good way. Instead of being repentent or embarrassed or humbled by this experience, he seemed to become very haughty. More and more, it seemed that because he was found not guilty, he felt that he could get away with anything. He wrote a book called "If I Did It". He would jokingly threaten people with a banana acting like it was a knife. Finally, it was this incident in a Las Vegas hotel room.
For many people, this guilty verdict is 13 years too late. For me, I believe it may finally be the wakeup call that he needs in his life. Maybe now, he can see that his behavior affects so many people including himself. It's sad that it had to come to this but hopefully there will be a better ending that the one that has transpired so far.
The latest Simpson trial ended with a conviction 13 years to the day of the famous murder trial. It was the end to another sad chapter in the life of the former Hall of Fame running back whose life has never been the same since 1994.
I can't believe it has been so long since all this has started. There has been a generation of people who know of O.J. Simpson in the light of the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. Growing up, this was not the case for me. Though I was born after his football career had ended and I didn't know him as an All-Pro running back, I was well aware of who he was. I knew him as a guy on many commercials andas the sidekick in the Naked Gun movies. But mainly, I knew him as a sideline reporter for NFL games on NBC. He was a guy who had this big grin on his face and would joke around and just be the life of the party on the sidelines.
That all changed in 1994. When the news broke about the murders, I was shocked. I remember the slow police chase in the white Bronco. I, like most people at that time, tuned in to watch the trial. As the trial went on, it seemed more and more like I didn't know the man I used to watch on the sidelines of football games. When the verdict was read, I was a sophomore in high school and I was watching it in I believe English class. It was one of those events in history that people remember.
From that moment on, it just seemed like Simpson was a different man, and not in a good way. Instead of being repentent or embarrassed or humbled by this experience, he seemed to become very haughty. More and more, it seemed that because he was found not guilty, he felt that he could get away with anything. He wrote a book called "If I Did It". He would jokingly threaten people with a banana acting like it was a knife. Finally, it was this incident in a Las Vegas hotel room.
For many people, this guilty verdict is 13 years too late. For me, I believe it may finally be the wakeup call that he needs in his life. Maybe now, he can see that his behavior affects so many people including himself. It's sad that it had to come to this but hopefully there will be a better ending that the one that has transpired so far.
Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 5 Edition
It's Fantasy Football Tuesday: Week 5 Edition. This week was just horrible. I went 0-3 in the three highlight leagues. Here's the breakdown for Week 5 and the look ahead to Week 6...
Breakdown:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces lost big against the Memphis Explosion by the score of 157.60 to 98.99. The Masterpieces simply had no response to a team that had already won the matchup even before Reggie Bush had his tremendous performance. The Masterpieces, however, did not drop in the standings and maintain their position they held the previous week. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Chris Cooley, Reggie Wayne, Jay Cutler, and Ronnie Brown. After Week 5, I'm in 3rd place (essentially tied for 2nd) with a record of 3-2.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost their second game in a row as they lost to the Devil Dogs by the score of 104.62 to 85.69. The Chefs had a chance to win going into the Monday Night game, but couldn't pull it out with a poor performance by Adrian Peterson. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Andre Johnson, Philip Rivers, Tennessee DEF, and Hines Ward. After Week 5, I'm in 6th place with a record of 2-3.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators lost against previously winless Mexico City Gringos by the score of 72-64. This was due in large part to the -6 performance by the Seahawks DEF which will be benched for the rest of the season and possibly waived. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Bernard Berrian, Greg Jennings, Hines Ward, and Philip Rivers. After week 5, I'm tied for 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 2-2-1.
Outlook for Week 6:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (3-2) will look to rebound as they take on the Tuna Helper (3-2). The Masterpieces will be without RB LenDale White and K Rob Bironas. The Helper will be without WR Hines Ward, TE Heath Miller and K Rian Lindell. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Chicago). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (2-3) will look to get back to .500 as they match up against The Incredibles (4-1). The Incredibles are run by Joseph, another former Union alum. The Chefs will have a tough go as they are still without WR Anquan Boldin due to injury and lose WR Hines Ward and the Tennessee DEF to the bye week. The Incredibles have no starter on the bye and will get WR Plaxico Burress back from suspension. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Jason Campbell). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (2-2-1) will face off against Division 1 rival the NashVegas The Editor (2-2-1). Earlier in the season, these two teams squared off in a matchup that ended in a tie. For The Editor, they will be without WR Josh Reed. For the Perks, they will be without WR Hines Ward and K Rob Bironas. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Drew Brees). 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 lost big against the Memphis Explosion by the score of 157.60 to 98.99. The Masterpieces simply had no response to a team that had already won the matchup even before Reggie Bush had his tremendous performance. The Masterpieces, however, did not drop in the standings and maintain their position they held the previous week. The leading scorers for the Masterpieces were Chris Cooley, Reggie Wayne, Jay Cutler, and Ronnie Brown. After Week 5, I'm in 3rd place (essentially tied for 2nd) with a record of 3-2.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs lost their second game in a row as they lost to the Devil Dogs by the score of 104.62 to 85.69. The Chefs had a chance to win going into the Monday Night game, but couldn't pull it out with a poor performance by Adrian Peterson. The leading scorers for the Chefs were Andre Johnson, Philip Rivers, Tennessee DEF, and Hines Ward. After Week 5, I'm in 6th place with a record of 2-3.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators lost against previously winless Mexico City Gringos by the score of 72-64. This was due in large part to the -6 performance by the Seahawks DEF which will be benched for the rest of the season and possibly waived. Leading scorers for the Perkalators were Bernard Berrian, Greg Jennings, Hines Ward, and Philip Rivers. After week 5, I'm tied for 2nd place in Division 1 with a record of 2-2-1.
Outlook for Week 6:
In the Speed Kills league, the K.C. Masterpieces (3-2) will look to rebound as they take on the Tuna Helper (3-2). The Masterpieces will be without RB LenDale White and K Rob Bironas. The Helper will be without WR Hines Ward, TE Heath Miller and K Rian Lindell. Key matchup will be the DEF position (Tampa Bay vs. Chicago). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Masterpieces as the favorite.
In the League of Fantasy Footballers, the Kansas City Chefs (2-3) will look to get back to .500 as they match up against The Incredibles (4-1). The Incredibles are run by Joseph, another former Union alum. The Chefs will have a tough go as they are still without WR Anquan Boldin due to injury and lose WR Hines Ward and the Tennessee DEF to the bye week. The Incredibles have no starter on the bye and will get WR Plaxico Burress back from suspension. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Jason Campbell). As of right now, Yahoo is predicting the Chefs as the favorite by the slightest margin.
In the Young Guns league, the Kansas City Perkalators (2-2-1) will face off against Division 1 rival the NashVegas The Editor (2-2-1). Earlier in the season, these two teams squared off in a matchup that ended in a tie. For The Editor, they will be without WR Josh Reed. For the Perks, they will be without WR Hines Ward and K Rob Bironas. Key matchup will be at the QB position (Philip Rivers vs. Drew Brees). 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.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Random Sports Reflections
There is a lot going on lately and so here is a way to hit some points in a random fashion:
*The baseball playoffs started yesterday...on cable. So that means, no watching for me at least the first few days. Of course I'm pulling for the Red Sox in the AL. In the NL, I'm supporting the Cubs and the Brewers. I would like to see a Red Sox/Cubs World Series (like I did back in 2003). We'll see if that turns out.
*I meant to write about this sooner but I wanted to share a story that has broken my heart. In the preseason, Jacksonville Jaguars OT Richard Collier was shot 14 times outside of an apartment building with a former teammate waiting for some girls to come out. This past week, he had his leg amputated. He is still alive thankfully but his life is forever changed. I have been praying for Collier and would ask those that read this blog to do the same.
*College Football teams haven't been good on my end. The records of the two teams I root for (Tennesse, Washington) are a combined 1-7. It has not been fun at all. Thankfully the two NFL teams I root for is a different story. Their combined record (Tennessee, Seattle) is 5-2, with Tennessee being 4-0 for the first time in the history of the franchise. Hopefully that will continue and that Seattle will turn things around as well.
*The baseball playoffs started yesterday...on cable. So that means, no watching for me at least the first few days. Of course I'm pulling for the Red Sox in the AL. In the NL, I'm supporting the Cubs and the Brewers. I would like to see a Red Sox/Cubs World Series (like I did back in 2003). We'll see if that turns out.
*I meant to write about this sooner but I wanted to share a story that has broken my heart. In the preseason, Jacksonville Jaguars OT Richard Collier was shot 14 times outside of an apartment building with a former teammate waiting for some girls to come out. This past week, he had his leg amputated. He is still alive thankfully but his life is forever changed. I have been praying for Collier and would ask those that read this blog to do the same.
*College Football teams haven't been good on my end. The records of the two teams I root for (Tennesse, Washington) are a combined 1-7. It has not been fun at all. Thankfully the two NFL teams I root for is a different story. Their combined record (Tennessee, Seattle) is 5-2, with Tennessee being 4-0 for the first time in the history of the franchise. Hopefully that will continue and that Seattle will turn things around as well.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)