I was taken aback when last night I heard that Jeff Fisher and the Titans were parting ways. After a few weeks ago it seemed that Fisher was going to be the coach for next season, it changed. I have mixed feelings about this. I remember when Fisher became the coach of the then Houston Oilers back in 1994. He has been the coach of the team that became the Titans and a team that me and people from Tennessee could call our own. He took the team to the Super Bowl and was one yard away from having a chance to win it. There have been ups and downs.
I like Jeff Fisher as a coach but I'm okay with him leaving. At some point, there should be a change. I wouldn't be surprised in a year or so he's back coaching. And I think he would be successful. I also think that the Titans will be successful as well. I think they will find the right coach and the team will rally behind the coach and I think that they will have a chance to make the playoffs next season.
Showing posts with label titans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label titans. Show all posts
Friday, January 28, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Interesting and Cool Experiences Last Week
Last week I had two cool things happen to me that I wanted to share with you, my faithful readers.
The first was this. To preface, I follow Seahawks coach Pete Carroll on Twitter. This past Monday, he tweeted that the first 25 people to e-mail the publishing company that published his book "Win Forever" would get a free copy of it. I thought to myself "Why not?" and so I did. A few minutes later, I get an e-mail back from a representative of the publishing company saying they would love to send me a free copy and asked for my mailing address. A few days later, I get the book sent FedEx and it didn't cost me a thing, not even for shipping and handling. That was pretty cool.
The second cool thing also came about initially through Twitter. One of the guys who works at the radio station that is the broadcast home of the Tennessee Titans & also works for Titans Radio as their "insider" Jonathan Hutton, tweeted this past Tuesday that he was looking for someone to write an article for Titans Radio website. All season, they have this section called the 12th Man and they have fans submit articles and post them. Hutton was asking for someone to do it for January. I thought to myself again "Why not?" So I e-mailed him about being interested in writing the article. I get an e-mail that evening saying I was selected to write it and gave me the parameters on it. I wrote the article in about 15 minutes, edited it and sent it off. On Thursday, it was published and is on the website now. Here's a link to the article here.
It was some pretty cool experiences and with some stories worth sharing.
The first was this. To preface, I follow Seahawks coach Pete Carroll on Twitter. This past Monday, he tweeted that the first 25 people to e-mail the publishing company that published his book "Win Forever" would get a free copy of it. I thought to myself "Why not?" and so I did. A few minutes later, I get an e-mail back from a representative of the publishing company saying they would love to send me a free copy and asked for my mailing address. A few days later, I get the book sent FedEx and it didn't cost me a thing, not even for shipping and handling. That was pretty cool.
The second cool thing also came about initially through Twitter. One of the guys who works at the radio station that is the broadcast home of the Tennessee Titans & also works for Titans Radio as their "insider" Jonathan Hutton, tweeted this past Tuesday that he was looking for someone to write an article for Titans Radio website. All season, they have this section called the 12th Man and they have fans submit articles and post them. Hutton was asking for someone to do it for January. I thought to myself again "Why not?" So I e-mailed him about being interested in writing the article. I get an e-mail that evening saying I was selected to write it and gave me the parameters on it. I wrote the article in about 15 minutes, edited it and sent it off. On Thursday, it was published and is on the website now. Here's a link to the article here.
It was some pretty cool experiences and with some stories worth sharing.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Back at LP Field after a Hiatus....Tennessee Titans Game in Review
I'm back after a short hiatus and the first entry back talks about a return from another hiatus....attending a Tennessee Titans game. I was at the Titans/Texans game on Sunday. I went with my girlfriend Casey and it was my first Titans game I've attended since December 2007.
It was cold game but not too bad. Our seats were in the lower level in the north end zone right next to the Titans tunnel. The sun was shining on us for pregame through essentially the first half which made it feel kinda warm. The sun kind of hid behind the stadium for the second half and it cooled down.
The Titans, who had been cooled down for weeks, finally warmed up and essentially laid the smackdown against the Texans. They jumped up early on the Texans in the first quarter and rolled to a victory 31-17. Here were some observations from me:
*I liked the aggressive nature by the team. They went for it on 4th down twice and converted both times. They probably should have done that the week before but at least they did it this week.
*I didn't notice it was Vince Young on the sidelines until he was leaving. I saw a guy jogging to the tunnel and he waived. While he was doing this I turned to Casey and said "I think that's Vince Young."
*All the scoring except for the field goal at the end of the 1st half was on the other end of the field. I was disappointed that the refs called an offsides on the Titans negating a Pick 6 where McCourty ran towards our end.
After this win, the Titans are 5-1 in games I attend (the lone loss was in a preseason game). It's a slim chance that they can make the playoffs but with the way this season is going I wouldn't be too shocked.
It was cold game but not too bad. Our seats were in the lower level in the north end zone right next to the Titans tunnel. The sun was shining on us for pregame through essentially the first half which made it feel kinda warm. The sun kind of hid behind the stadium for the second half and it cooled down.
The Titans, who had been cooled down for weeks, finally warmed up and essentially laid the smackdown against the Texans. They jumped up early on the Texans in the first quarter and rolled to a victory 31-17. Here were some observations from me:
*I liked the aggressive nature by the team. They went for it on 4th down twice and converted both times. They probably should have done that the week before but at least they did it this week.
*I didn't notice it was Vince Young on the sidelines until he was leaving. I saw a guy jogging to the tunnel and he waived. While he was doing this I turned to Casey and said "I think that's Vince Young."
*All the scoring except for the field goal at the end of the 1st half was on the other end of the field. I was disappointed that the refs called an offsides on the Titans negating a Pick 6 where McCourty ran towards our end.
After this win, the Titans are 5-1 in games I attend (the lone loss was in a preseason game). It's a slim chance that they can make the playoffs but with the way this season is going I wouldn't be too shocked.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Random Sports Reflections
Some quick hit reflections:
*I'm happy to hear that Michael Vick has really turned his life around. I talked last time about forgiveness when it comes to Randy Moss. It could definitely apply to Michael Vick as well, maybe even more so. What Vick did with the dogfighting was wrong and he was punished for it. The fact that he has shown contrition and has turned things around is good to hear. I hope that he continues on this path and that it continues to be a good story.
*What happened with Vince Young yesterday was sad to hear. I know there are both sides to a story and that probably we won't know the whole thing. But there are certain things that have to be taken away from it. 1) No matter how frustrated you get, you don't storm out of a meeting with your boss. 2) You don't cuss out under your breath at your boss when he's in the room during a meeting. 3) If your job is to address people after an event, you don't ignore those people when things don't go your way.
I like Vince Young. But I know that one has to be responsible for their actions whether it be standing up and taking responsibility when an incident happens or being apologetic when you don't react appropriately. I keep thinking Vince will reach that level of maturity that comes from experience. But it hasn't happened yet. I'm thinking at this point, he might need a change of scenery to get that maturity. The sad thing is that it detracts from a season where the Titans are still right in it. Hopefully, they'll turn it around and make a run for a deep playoff push.
*I'm happy to hear that Michael Vick has really turned his life around. I talked last time about forgiveness when it comes to Randy Moss. It could definitely apply to Michael Vick as well, maybe even more so. What Vick did with the dogfighting was wrong and he was punished for it. The fact that he has shown contrition and has turned things around is good to hear. I hope that he continues on this path and that it continues to be a good story.
*What happened with Vince Young yesterday was sad to hear. I know there are both sides to a story and that probably we won't know the whole thing. But there are certain things that have to be taken away from it. 1) No matter how frustrated you get, you don't storm out of a meeting with your boss. 2) You don't cuss out under your breath at your boss when he's in the room during a meeting. 3) If your job is to address people after an event, you don't ignore those people when things don't go your way.
I like Vince Young. But I know that one has to be responsible for their actions whether it be standing up and taking responsibility when an incident happens or being apologetic when you don't react appropriately. I keep thinking Vince will reach that level of maturity that comes from experience. But it hasn't happened yet. I'm thinking at this point, he might need a change of scenery to get that maturity. The sad thing is that it detracts from a season where the Titans are still right in it. Hopefully, they'll turn it around and make a run for a deep playoff push.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
How Many Times Must I Forgive....Randy Moss?
To preface this entry let me say that I'm a huge Titans fan, have been for a very long time.
When news about Randy Moss being released popped up on Monday, I was shocked. He had just been traded to Minnesota from New England four games ago and for the most part was producing. It was official on Tuesday and he was on the waiver wire for about 24 hours. He was promptly picked up by Tennessee who was 22nd of 31 teams to be able to pick him up. They were also the only team to put in a waiver.
Randy Moss is without a doubt a talented WR. Some experts say that he has a genius football IQ. He is loved by his teammates but not so much by coaches, management and the media. In his early years, he got in trouble with the law but has in recent years stayed out of trouble in that sense. He is on his third team this season.
I've had friends comment on my facebook or tweet to me their concerns about picking up Moss. One even laughed and said "Good luck with that." I've thought about it and several thoughts come to mind. First, forgiveness. He talked himself out of New England because the Patriots weren't willing to commit to a new, huge contract (aside from Brady is typical) and he was upset about it. He gets traded to a Vikings team that wasn't doing well, had a head coach that was trying to keep things afloat and a QB that had controversy surrounding him. It was a bad situation and it kind of boiled over and it got to the point where Vikings HC Brad Childress couldn't handle it and cut him without consulting anyone.
Where does forgiveness come in? Moss has made mistakes. He is a good player but he has made mistakes. At what point do you quit forgiving him? I'm reminded of the time where Peter asked Jesus how many times he was to forgive when someone sinned against him and threw out seven times. Jesus responded "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:22) Those who are followers of Jesus are called to forgive again and again so that we lose count. Is it easy to forgive? No it's not but it's something believers are called to do.
I personally don't know Randy Moss. I would probably say I'm like 20 something degrees of separation from him (random number, I don't know it might be more or less). But what I do know is he is human just like me. He has a sinful nature just like me. He makes mistakes just like me. And I hope that he knows that he is forgiven just like me by Jesus Christ.
Second, I hope this story has a good ending. I would love to see him come to the Titans and play well (and along with that the Titans go to the Super Bowl and win). More importantly, I'd hope that he comes to Nashville and finds a home and people to be supportive and show the love of Jesus to Him. I hope that if he doesn't have that relationship with Christ that he starts that relationship. And if he does have one, I hope that it is strengthened.
Too often it's easy to dismiss or laugh about an athlete and one who's gotten himself (or herself) in trouble. It's another to forgive, especially one who has needed forgiveness multiple times. I'm not perfect but I'm striving to be more like Jesus, this includes forgiving others....including Randy Moss
When news about Randy Moss being released popped up on Monday, I was shocked. He had just been traded to Minnesota from New England four games ago and for the most part was producing. It was official on Tuesday and he was on the waiver wire for about 24 hours. He was promptly picked up by Tennessee who was 22nd of 31 teams to be able to pick him up. They were also the only team to put in a waiver.
Randy Moss is without a doubt a talented WR. Some experts say that he has a genius football IQ. He is loved by his teammates but not so much by coaches, management and the media. In his early years, he got in trouble with the law but has in recent years stayed out of trouble in that sense. He is on his third team this season.
I've had friends comment on my facebook or tweet to me their concerns about picking up Moss. One even laughed and said "Good luck with that." I've thought about it and several thoughts come to mind. First, forgiveness. He talked himself out of New England because the Patriots weren't willing to commit to a new, huge contract (aside from Brady is typical) and he was upset about it. He gets traded to a Vikings team that wasn't doing well, had a head coach that was trying to keep things afloat and a QB that had controversy surrounding him. It was a bad situation and it kind of boiled over and it got to the point where Vikings HC Brad Childress couldn't handle it and cut him without consulting anyone.
Where does forgiveness come in? Moss has made mistakes. He is a good player but he has made mistakes. At what point do you quit forgiving him? I'm reminded of the time where Peter asked Jesus how many times he was to forgive when someone sinned against him and threw out seven times. Jesus responded "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:22) Those who are followers of Jesus are called to forgive again and again so that we lose count. Is it easy to forgive? No it's not but it's something believers are called to do.
I personally don't know Randy Moss. I would probably say I'm like 20 something degrees of separation from him (random number, I don't know it might be more or less). But what I do know is he is human just like me. He has a sinful nature just like me. He makes mistakes just like me. And I hope that he knows that he is forgiven just like me by Jesus Christ.
Second, I hope this story has a good ending. I would love to see him come to the Titans and play well (and along with that the Titans go to the Super Bowl and win). More importantly, I'd hope that he comes to Nashville and finds a home and people to be supportive and show the love of Jesus to Him. I hope that if he doesn't have that relationship with Christ that he starts that relationship. And if he does have one, I hope that it is strengthened.
Too often it's easy to dismiss or laugh about an athlete and one who's gotten himself (or herself) in trouble. It's another to forgive, especially one who has needed forgiveness multiple times. I'm not perfect but I'm striving to be more like Jesus, this includes forgiving others....including Randy Moss
Friday, September 17, 2010
Random Sports Reflections
It was about time for another post and there are several things rummaging in my head so I figured why not get them down in a random post.
*This week Reggie Bush returned his Heisman Trophy that he won back in 2005. This was the first time this had happened and he said "I just felt like it was the best thing to do, the most respectful thing to do because obviously I do respect the Heisman. I do respect all the things it stands for." It stems from the controversy of his family receiving benefits while he was at USC. He says that him returning the trophy is not an admission of guilt. Personally I feel conflicted. On the one hand, if he was innocent and everything then there's no reason to give up the trophy. OJ Simpson never had to give up his trophy and look at the controversy he caused. On the other hand, he shouldn't have the trophy to begin with (I would have said that back in 2005, Vince Young should have won it). Regardless, the Heisman people now say that it is vacant. However, just like the NCAA may take away tournaments and wins from people, we all know that Reggie Bush won the Heisman in 2005. It seems Bush has learned his lesson and is trying to help youngsters not fall into the "alleged" trap that he and his family fell into.
*The NFL season is underway and I'm super excited. Both the Titans and Seahawks won their season openers, which was the first time since 2007 (my last fall in Seattle). Given how the two teams were last season, I'm cautiously optimistic they could do well and maybe even make the playoffs this year (again first time since 2007 both teams make the playoffs).
*I'm disappointed in how the baseball season turned out with the Royals and Mariners pretty much laying over and playing dead most of the year. It is cool that the Cincinnati Reds are doing well and they're my team to root for come the playoffs. As long as the Yankees don't win, I'll be happy.
Well that's all that's been rattling in my head. It's great that it's fall with football here. It's good times indeed.
*This week Reggie Bush returned his Heisman Trophy that he won back in 2005. This was the first time this had happened and he said "I just felt like it was the best thing to do, the most respectful thing to do because obviously I do respect the Heisman. I do respect all the things it stands for." It stems from the controversy of his family receiving benefits while he was at USC. He says that him returning the trophy is not an admission of guilt. Personally I feel conflicted. On the one hand, if he was innocent and everything then there's no reason to give up the trophy. OJ Simpson never had to give up his trophy and look at the controversy he caused. On the other hand, he shouldn't have the trophy to begin with (I would have said that back in 2005, Vince Young should have won it). Regardless, the Heisman people now say that it is vacant. However, just like the NCAA may take away tournaments and wins from people, we all know that Reggie Bush won the Heisman in 2005. It seems Bush has learned his lesson and is trying to help youngsters not fall into the "alleged" trap that he and his family fell into.
*The NFL season is underway and I'm super excited. Both the Titans and Seahawks won their season openers, which was the first time since 2007 (my last fall in Seattle). Given how the two teams were last season, I'm cautiously optimistic they could do well and maybe even make the playoffs this year (again first time since 2007 both teams make the playoffs).
*I'm disappointed in how the baseball season turned out with the Royals and Mariners pretty much laying over and playing dead most of the year. It is cool that the Cincinnati Reds are doing well and they're my team to root for come the playoffs. As long as the Yankees don't win, I'll be happy.
Well that's all that's been rattling in my head. It's great that it's fall with football here. It's good times indeed.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Reflecting on Steve McNair
I was on the phone with my dad (10:30pm local time in Krakow) when he told me about the death of Steve McNair. My first reaction was shock. Complete and utter shock. It's one of those things you don't expect to hear. As more information has come out, it has been more tragic in nature.
I thought as I reflected on this I'd look at both the negative and positive. The negative being that it looks more and more like a murder-suicide also involving a 20 year old girl. This girl also was arrested earlier in the week for DUI in a Escalade co-owned by Steve and her. It's sad to hear given the fact that Steve is married and has four kids and for all intents and purposes in apperance was happily married. If there was cheating involved, it is tragic. It reflects how a bad decision can have bad consequences, and in this case really tragic ones.
On the positive side, he will be remembered as a tough quarterback. When the team came to Tennessee in 1997, he was the starting quarterback. For the "hometown" team, he was the QB. He was the epitome of perseverence and toughness and no matter what injury he had and how much practice he missed, you expected to see him out on the field on Sunday. I remember last year blogging right after his retirement about memories I have of his playing days with the Titans. It was a sad day when he retired, it's a sadder day that he passed away.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I hope that Steve followed Jesus and I hope that his family does and that they can turn to Him for comfort in this time of hurt. Steve, you will be missed.
I thought as I reflected on this I'd look at both the negative and positive. The negative being that it looks more and more like a murder-suicide also involving a 20 year old girl. This girl also was arrested earlier in the week for DUI in a Escalade co-owned by Steve and her. It's sad to hear given the fact that Steve is married and has four kids and for all intents and purposes in apperance was happily married. If there was cheating involved, it is tragic. It reflects how a bad decision can have bad consequences, and in this case really tragic ones.
On the positive side, he will be remembered as a tough quarterback. When the team came to Tennessee in 1997, he was the starting quarterback. For the "hometown" team, he was the QB. He was the epitome of perseverence and toughness and no matter what injury he had and how much practice he missed, you expected to see him out on the field on Sunday. I remember last year blogging right after his retirement about memories I have of his playing days with the Titans. It was a sad day when he retired, it's a sadder day that he passed away.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I hope that Steve followed Jesus and I hope that his family does and that they can turn to Him for comfort in this time of hurt. Steve, you will be missed.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Back On The Field With Some Updates
It as been a while since I posted. I was gone for a week hence no Fantasy Football Tuesday for last week. Look for that this coming Tuesday. I am also hoping to post a little more consistently in a few weeks when I get a new laptop. I'm excited to have a laptop that doesn't overheat and shut off in a few minutes and not have consistent work on.
There are some quick highlights I want to hit on:
NFL: I'm excited still about the Titans. Yes, they lost to the Jets but came back to stomp the Lions on Thanksgiving Day. 11-1 is still a great record and one not to sneeze at. Hopefully they will finish strong and secure that #1 spot and homefield throughout the playoffs.
College Football: It was bittersweet for Philip Fulmer in his last game on Saturday. He was a great coach but at the same time there was a need for a change. It will be interesting to see how things shape up after that but at least the last game of the season was a win.
There are some quick highlights I want to hit on:
NFL: I'm excited still about the Titans. Yes, they lost to the Jets but came back to stomp the Lions on Thanksgiving Day. 11-1 is still a great record and one not to sneeze at. Hopefully they will finish strong and secure that #1 spot and homefield throughout the playoffs.
College Football: It was bittersweet for Philip Fulmer in his last game on Saturday. He was a great coach but at the same time there was a need for a change. It will be interesting to see how things shape up after that but at least the last game of the season was a win.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Thursday, April 17, 2008
"Air" McNair is Officially Grounded
Today as I was procrastinating (yes I do that) on a paper, I came across the headline that Steve McNair, great NFL quarterback, has called it a career. To me it is a sort of sad day. The reasoning he gave was that his body just wouldn't allow him to play anymore.
He will always be remembered as a tough quarterback. His great years were with the Tennessee Titans (my team of course). I watched him as the team moved to Tennessee from Houston become the starter and develop into a top QB. The Super Bowl season in 1999 was simply a work of art. Though they lost in that game to the Rams, one of the defining plays in his career came in that game. In the last minutes of the game, he rolled out and was trying to buy time for someone to get open. A Rams player tried to sack him, but McNair simply wouldn't go down. He wrestled away from the guy and threw a strike down the field and completed the pass setting up that final play. That play still amazes me.
McNair was a guy who wanted to play in spite of injuries. During his career, he was labeled as a "warrior", as someone who continued to fight regardless of how he felt physically. I always admired him for his toughness and his ability to play and play well. I was sad when he was cut and signed with the Baltimore Ravens (cause people who know me, know I don't like the Ravens at all) but I still rooted for McNair.
In my mind, he is what you would consider a "professional". When it was time to play, he gave you everything he had. Is he perfect? No. He did have his problems off the field but he did own up to them.
His career to me is a testament to perseverance. It reminds me that even when times are hard or I'm hurting so bad, I just have to keep going and press on. As a follower of Jesus, there will be suffering and trials but the goal at the end is so worth it.
We will miss you Steve. You're a Hall of Famer in my book
He will always be remembered as a tough quarterback. His great years were with the Tennessee Titans (my team of course). I watched him as the team moved to Tennessee from Houston become the starter and develop into a top QB. The Super Bowl season in 1999 was simply a work of art. Though they lost in that game to the Rams, one of the defining plays in his career came in that game. In the last minutes of the game, he rolled out and was trying to buy time for someone to get open. A Rams player tried to sack him, but McNair simply wouldn't go down. He wrestled away from the guy and threw a strike down the field and completed the pass setting up that final play. That play still amazes me.
McNair was a guy who wanted to play in spite of injuries. During his career, he was labeled as a "warrior", as someone who continued to fight regardless of how he felt physically. I always admired him for his toughness and his ability to play and play well. I was sad when he was cut and signed with the Baltimore Ravens (cause people who know me, know I don't like the Ravens at all) but I still rooted for McNair.
In my mind, he is what you would consider a "professional". When it was time to play, he gave you everything he had. Is he perfect? No. He did have his problems off the field but he did own up to them.
His career to me is a testament to perseverance. It reminds me that even when times are hard or I'm hurting so bad, I just have to keep going and press on. As a follower of Jesus, there will be suffering and trials but the goal at the end is so worth it.
We will miss you Steve. You're a Hall of Famer in my book
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