So I have played fantasy football, so I do have some vague sense of how the draft is supposed to work. That being said, I am totally baffled by this year's draft. Why so many defensive ends, defensive tackles, and offensive tackles in the first round? And why oh why, did the stupid Lions draft another friggin' wide receiver? I mean you need a couple of them, and I guess they are all about the spread offense. But a wideout is totally useless if there is not someone to get the ball in their hands. Hello - QB much?
Apparently, sensing my paranoia yesterday, the Lions did draft Drew Stanton. Now I love the idea of a hometown boy being a starting quarterback, but eh... I still see chokesville in his future. Detroit seems to lack good coaches and good supporting players, but it can't be any worse that what was going on in East Lansing.
While I want to be excited for the Lions, I have decided not to hold my breath. I remember what happened with Joey Harrington... oh the pain...
Showing posts with label Michigan State. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michigan State. Show all posts
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Reasons To Be Happy
Oh! There are so many reasons to be happy today.
- Michigan State won a 1st round NCAA game and didn't even look half inept. Actually, I didn't get to watch the entire game, so I am not 100% sure about that, but they did hold Marquette scoreless for the first ten minutes of the first half. That's gotta mean something! I really hope they don't get Chapel Hill next, but a No. 1 seed has never been knocked off before.
- So far the Big Ten is 2-0 in NCAA games with Michigan St. and Ohio St.'s wins. Take that all you haters!
- Did you know Duke has not lost a first round game NCAA tournament game in like ten friggin' years? Talk about crazy. But this bizzaro win streak, finally ended today! I admit to being as much of a Duke hater as the next person. But that being said, I think Duke played pretty well, but VCU played better. And more than that VCU's game just wore them down. I have never seen a press quite like that before. Pitt better watch out!
- I had almost forgotten about the Gin Blossoms, and then I turned on the TV. And there they were...
Monday, March 12, 2007
It's That Time of Year Again
It's that time of year again... spring, flowers, and MARCH MADNESS!
So the brackets were announced the other day, and I breathed a sigh of relief when they announced MSU. After the initial euphoria though, it was back to sadness. Even if State gets past Marquette, they have to face off against Chapel Hill, and I have some bad memories of the last time that happened. I hate ACC teams from North Carolina, sigh...
All things considered the Big Ten did a decent job of placing teams in the tournament with a grand total of 5. Sure other conferences had more teams, and typically I don't mind... but the PAC-10? Come on! They (for the most part) play basketball worse than me, and while I play a mean game of HORSE, I am not sure that's saying all that much.
Not only did the PAC-10 get more teams into the tournament, they got them in at a higher average seeding. (See below.) Some of these teams came out of nowhere to earn these seedings. And while the guy who lead the selection committee may be a fellow Princetonian, I have a serious bone to pick with him!
Setting aside my PAC-10 hatred, the bracket does look interesting. I could jump on the bandwagon of those who think the mid-majors got screwed (I do think they did), but it would be rather hypocritical given that State might not have made it if Drexel and a few others had.
Here are some teams I like...
MidWest
Florida because despite Billy Donovan's used car salesman look, and the fact that OSU is rated No. 1 in the AP, Florida is still the team to beat.
Old Dominion because someone has to fight the fight for the mid-majors.
Wisconsin because they can slow down a game like no one else and make you fall asleep standing up.
Oregon because I was afraid of jinxing a team who shall not be named.
West
Kentucky because the Wildcats and Tubby have something to prove.
UCLA because they are bitter about not being a 1 seed, and because they are the only really deserving PAC-10 team.
Pitt because yeah, I don't know why. They are the 3 seed and shouldn't prove why?
S. Illinois because they are the Salukis and they got D.
East
Michigan St. because they are my boys!!
Texas because they got a big man, and I would love to see some USC ass-kicking!
Georgetown because they won the Big East, have little John Thompson, and Ewings' son.
George Washington because they have some legit wins and both Vandy and Wash St. are takeable.
South
Ohio State because Greg Oden is the man!
Memphis because they are huge, also perhaps seeded a little higher than they deserve, which should help early on.
Louisville because they can leverage the home court advantage
Long Beach St. Why not? They have a crazy winning streak, and a coach whose contract needs to be renewed.
So the brackets were announced the other day, and I breathed a sigh of relief when they announced MSU. After the initial euphoria though, it was back to sadness. Even if State gets past Marquette, they have to face off against Chapel Hill, and I have some bad memories of the last time that happened. I hate ACC teams from North Carolina, sigh...
All things considered the Big Ten did a decent job of placing teams in the tournament with a grand total of 5. Sure other conferences had more teams, and typically I don't mind... but the PAC-10? Come on! They (for the most part) play basketball worse than me, and while I play a mean game of HORSE, I am not sure that's saying all that much.
Not only did the PAC-10 get more teams into the tournament, they got them in at a higher average seeding. (See below.) Some of these teams came out of nowhere to earn these seedings. And while the guy who lead the selection committee may be a fellow Princetonian, I have a serious bone to pick with him!
Setting aside my PAC-10 hatred, the bracket does look interesting. I could jump on the bandwagon of those who think the mid-majors got screwed (I do think they did), but it would be rather hypocritical given that State might not have made it if Drexel and a few others had.
Here are some teams I like...
MidWest
Florida because despite Billy Donovan's used car salesman look, and the fact that OSU is rated No. 1 in the AP, Florida is still the team to beat.
Old Dominion because someone has to fight the fight for the mid-majors.
Wisconsin because they can slow down a game like no one else and make you fall asleep standing up.
Oregon because I was afraid of jinxing a team who shall not be named.
West
Kentucky because the Wildcats and Tubby have something to prove.
UCLA because they are bitter about not being a 1 seed, and because they are the only really deserving PAC-10 team.
Pitt because yeah, I don't know why. They are the 3 seed and shouldn't prove why?
S. Illinois because they are the Salukis and they got D.
East
Michigan St. because they are my boys!!
Texas because they got a big man, and I would love to see some USC ass-kicking!
Georgetown because they won the Big East, have little John Thompson, and Ewings' son.
George Washington because they have some legit wins and both Vandy and Wash St. are takeable.
South
Ohio State because Greg Oden is the man!
Memphis because they are huge, also perhaps seeded a little higher than they deserve, which should help early on.
Louisville because they can leverage the home court advantage
Long Beach St. Why not? They have a crazy winning streak, and a coach whose contract needs to be renewed.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
On Sport: The Game of Lying, Cheating, and Name Calling
So apparently Ann Coulter thinks that John Edwards is a 'faggot', and she plans to endorse Mitt for President. I suppose Edwards should feel offended by this, but looking at the spectrum of those Coulter hates - liberals, Democrats, agnostics, Muslims, widows of 9/11, African-Americans, journalists, and those she likes -- Joe McCarthy (her personal hero), Newt Gingrich, Sean Hannity... maybe he should be thankful. Coulter's disdain means that you are always on the right side of virtually every issue!
Imagine my surprise when in the middle of the Mich. - OSU game, I am subjected to a painful HOOTERS commercial featuring none other than Dick Vitale. Talk about your low budget commercials. Vitale looked like he was pasted into literally every scene. You would think HOOTERS has made enough money off of truck-driving middle America to pull off a better editing job than this. And you would think Vitale has enough self-respect to avoid such tasteless promotions...
So Mich St. loses a buzzer beater to Wisconsin in the Cheese State. I am certain Michigan State would have won the game had the refs been only slightly less biased. Never have I seen so many offensive fouls called in one game, and the vast majority of them went against State. The Big Ten is all about a physical, inside game. What were these refs hopped up on? Oh well, Wisconsin has history on it's side. The Badgers have only lost 5 games at home in the past six years. But next year baby! those Badgers are going to be nothing but road kill!
Who says Michigan players are not cheaters? I watched the Michigan - Ohio St. game and I can certainly attest to the fact that Sims poked his finger into Cook's eye. That seems like a not very sporting thing to do...
Apparently, Obama's maternal relatives owned slaves. Perhaps he can win the South after all? (just kidding... I think...)
Imagine my surprise when in the middle of the Mich. - OSU game, I am subjected to a painful HOOTERS commercial featuring none other than Dick Vitale. Talk about your low budget commercials. Vitale looked like he was pasted into literally every scene. You would think HOOTERS has made enough money off of truck-driving middle America to pull off a better editing job than this. And you would think Vitale has enough self-respect to avoid such tasteless promotions...
So Mich St. loses a buzzer beater to Wisconsin in the Cheese State. I am certain Michigan State would have won the game had the refs been only slightly less biased. Never have I seen so many offensive fouls called in one game, and the vast majority of them went against State. The Big Ten is all about a physical, inside game. What were these refs hopped up on? Oh well, Wisconsin has history on it's side. The Badgers have only lost 5 games at home in the past six years. But next year baby! those Badgers are going to be nothing but road kill!
Who says Michigan players are not cheaters? I watched the Michigan - Ohio St. game and I can certainly attest to the fact that Sims poked his finger into Cook's eye. That seems like a not very sporting thing to do...
Apparently, Obama's maternal relatives owned slaves. Perhaps he can win the South after all? (just kidding... I think...)
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Football, Basketball, Oh My
Clearly, I am not as bright as I thought I was when it comes to sports...
I only just discovered that Andre Rison, of Left Eye fame, played for Michigan State. This is so weird to me, in large part because he made some clutch plays during the only Rose Bowl trip State made in my life time. I remember so much of that game, where I watched it, running around in circles when USC came back and it looked like State would lose, Lorenzo White, like the best running back MSU ever had. But how could I forget Andre Rison, especially since Plaxico could not break his career record, his name must have come up all the time with sport commentators. Clearly I am losing it...
I want to point out yet again how much I despise certain NBA players, who are seemingly only in the game for the money. Case in point Ben Wallace. Of all the teams to trade yourself to... the Bulls? The bloody, flippin' Bulls? It is ridiculous. Just like his hair and the new NBA cheerleader commercials airing on ABC.
Michigan State beat Indiana last night, but nearly gave me a case of heart palpitations in the process. I had not realized that IU has not beaten Michigan State at the Breslin since 1991. Wow! Talk about your droughts. I gotta say though, the fact that the sports commentators kept bringing it up really did scare me.
Apparently, Minnesota is desperately seeking a coach. Monson was given the boot a few months ago. Personally, I feel kind of bad for the guy, Clem Haskins did a number on the program. But now the Gophers want Flip Saunders to save their basketball program. I have mixed feelings about this. I was definitely not thrilled when the Pistons hired Saunders, I mean he couldn't get the Timberwolves a title with their very legitimately good players and Ben Wallace left (perhaps an unrelated event). But I like seeing some year-to-year consistency, I don't want the Pistons to be left in the lurch again.
Talk about craziness... Nick Saban, aka. the turncoat, is back to coaching college football... at 'Bama. I wonder how all those LSU fans feel about that... someone is going to be getting a lot of hate mail! Muhahahhaa!
Who thinks Tommy Ammaker is going to be fired this year? I think if Michigan does not make a serious run in the tournament this year, his job may well be "endangered".
I only just discovered that Andre Rison, of Left Eye fame, played for Michigan State. This is so weird to me, in large part because he made some clutch plays during the only Rose Bowl trip State made in my life time. I remember so much of that game, where I watched it, running around in circles when USC came back and it looked like State would lose, Lorenzo White, like the best running back MSU ever had. But how could I forget Andre Rison, especially since Plaxico could not break his career record, his name must have come up all the time with sport commentators. Clearly I am losing it...
I want to point out yet again how much I despise certain NBA players, who are seemingly only in the game for the money. Case in point Ben Wallace. Of all the teams to trade yourself to... the Bulls? The bloody, flippin' Bulls? It is ridiculous. Just like his hair and the new NBA cheerleader commercials airing on ABC.
Michigan State beat Indiana last night, but nearly gave me a case of heart palpitations in the process. I had not realized that IU has not beaten Michigan State at the Breslin since 1991. Wow! Talk about your droughts. I gotta say though, the fact that the sports commentators kept bringing it up really did scare me.
Apparently, Minnesota is desperately seeking a coach. Monson was given the boot a few months ago. Personally, I feel kind of bad for the guy, Clem Haskins did a number on the program. But now the Gophers want Flip Saunders to save their basketball program. I have mixed feelings about this. I was definitely not thrilled when the Pistons hired Saunders, I mean he couldn't get the Timberwolves a title with their very legitimately good players and Ben Wallace left (perhaps an unrelated event). But I like seeing some year-to-year consistency, I don't want the Pistons to be left in the lurch again.
Talk about craziness... Nick Saban, aka. the turncoat, is back to coaching college football... at 'Bama. I wonder how all those LSU fans feel about that... someone is going to be getting a lot of hate mail! Muhahahhaa!
Who thinks Tommy Ammaker is going to be fired this year? I think if Michigan does not make a serious run in the tournament this year, his job may well be "endangered".
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Let The Games Begin
Fight in the lunchroom. The Democrats are at it. Again! So much for Hill - Obama ticket. Don't see that one happening in this lifetime. And does anyone honestly think, Hillary would consent to be anyone's Veep. I think not! Seriously though, David Geffen and the rest of the Dreamworks clan should just keep their mouths' shut. And poor move by Obama in not attending the Nevada forum. Who does he think he is, the Queen of Sheba?
Michigan State is back in business. Woohoo! Knocking off the boys from the Cheese State. Love it! I can't wait for some March Madness...
Brit-Brit has apparently finally realized that bald is not her best look. I am not sure that the blonde wig works for her either, but hell, hair on any sort is a step in the right direction for her.
The charade that is/was Anna Nicole Smith's life continues on. Imagine my surprise when I turned to watch Hardball on MSNBC this afternoon and found myself watching the Anna Nicole trial -- LIVE! God. She is more famous in death than in life, now this is true for many people, but in her case it is simply sad...
Nooooooo! Make Grey's stop please. No more talk of this Addison spin-off. But perhaps this does spell the demise of Addisex. One can only hope!
I wish there was a survey to figure out which Sex & the City girl are you. Lately, I find myself relating to Carrie, and it is freakin' me out.
Michigan State is back in business. Woohoo! Knocking off the boys from the Cheese State. Love it! I can't wait for some March Madness...
Brit-Brit has apparently finally realized that bald is not her best look. I am not sure that the blonde wig works for her either, but hell, hair on any sort is a step in the right direction for her.
The charade that is/was Anna Nicole Smith's life continues on. Imagine my surprise when I turned to watch Hardball on MSNBC this afternoon and found myself watching the Anna Nicole trial -- LIVE! God. She is more famous in death than in life, now this is true for many people, but in her case it is simply sad...
Nooooooo! Make Grey's stop please. No more talk of this Addison spin-off. But perhaps this does spell the demise of Addisex. One can only hope!
I wish there was a survey to figure out which Sex & the City girl are you. Lately, I find myself relating to Carrie, and it is freakin' me out.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
How I Hate the ACC, Let Me Count The Ways
ACC land of Carolina basketball has never been a winner in my book. But this years Big Ten-ACC challenge ws particularly annoying. When is the Big Ten ever going to pull this off? I am tired of getting slammed by the bloody South.
- Stupid and dumb (yes they are both) Boston College beat MSU. I blame the Pope. Why does he not love all alike? I wish Neitzel would play better and be a bit more consistent. I can't handle simultaneously rebuilding years in both football and basketball. It is simply asking for too much.
- Friggin' Chapel Hill. I hate Chapel Hill, and their annoying powder blue almost as much as I hate Duke, Michigan, and USC. Let me tell you, that's a lot of hate! What is a TarHeel anyway? Is it that crap at the bottom of my shoe?
- Duke beat Indiana and just barely. I bet you they cheated. Duke always cheats. Especially when they get to play at home. And has anyone noticed how Duke automatically gets a totally overrated ranking? Hate it! Hate them!
- Maryland beat Illinois and ended their longest even home court winning streak. Now, personally, I don't mind seeing Illinois lose every now and again. But I was rather hoping the MSU would be able to end the streak in conference play. Not some uppity ACC team.
- Clemson *pounded* Minnesota, and now that Clem is gone I don't half mind the Gophers.
- Georgia Tech beat Penn State. Now I would have guessed that a Lion would beat a Bee hands down any day of the week. Go figure!
If there is any reason I like the ACC its that they beat Michigan. And I *hate* Michigan. Tommy Amaker made a bad, bad decision.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
A New Year, A New Coach?
So it looks like Michigan State found a new football coach - Mark Dantonio. Why Dantonio would want to leave a resurgent Cinncinati team to come to East Lansing is beyond me. Especially since MSU has a history of tossing coaches out on their asses.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Football Round-up
There's something curious going on in the Big Ten. Sure there were the expected winners in Michigan and Ohio State, but they seemed weak. And there were unexpected losers.
No. 2 Michigan 34, Ball St. 26
Ball St 26? Yes, you did see that correctly. Ball St. had all of 46 rushing yards, yet still managed to put points on the board at the Big House. Looks like the Michigan pass defense is weak... I hope OSU was watching...
No. 1 Ohio State 17, Illinois 10
Is Illinois back? Have the ghosts of Florida finally left Ron Zook? Illinois could become a contender next year - compiled more total yardage than the Ohio State offense, held Ohio State scoreless in the second half. It looks like their bottom dweller days could be over. Woe to the Michigan State fan, looks like it is our turn to spend some quality time at the bottom.
The UMich-OSU game should be great. I do not care what BCS or stupid (and they are stupid) sports commentators say. The real Championship game is between OSU and UMich. There isn't really another team out there that has shown it can compare. Certainly not a team in the Pac-10. So all this talk of a BCS Championship game is utter nonsense, unless they have a UMich-OSU rematch.
No. 17 Wisconsin 13, Penn State 3
A low scoring game was not unexpected, but seeing the Wisconsin defense hold Penn State to under 50 rushing yards was. Not to mention all the bitching and moaning Joe Paw did, made him hurt his knee. The Paterno situation is sad. He really should just retire and preserve his legacy. Right now he is only damaging the way history, especially Penn State history, will remember him.
Northwestern 21, Iowa 7
How the mighty have fallen! Iowa was actually ranked at one point this season. And now they lose to Northwestern? Even Michigan State managed to beat Northwestern. Iowa still has a chance for a bowl game, but their season has effectively been a bust.
Purdue 17, Michigan State 15
Some how this score looked funny to me? 15 is not a number you see that often in football games. It does suggest some botched extra point kicks. Well, the MSU woes will now continue. They get Minnesota next which just routed Indiana. They have a lame duck coach, as John L had been sacked. Personally, I think this could be a mistake. Who is going to want to come into the toxic waste dump that is MSU football? And poor Drew Stanton... the fact that he rushed for 80+ yards should help him in the draft. Let's wait and see.
Minnesota 63, Indiana 26
Yes, the score is crazy! Equally crazy is that both offenses put up over 500 yards. Where's the Big D? Indiana is really going to have to step it up before they get Michigan next week. The Michigan D is certainly not going to let them put up 500 yards. Minnesota has it easier, as they get my sad and sorry Michigan State squad.
High School Football (aka. Pac-10 Round-up)
Well, didn't those USC Trojans bounce back from their loss to Oregon State with a stunning victory over Stanford. So they beat Stanford 42-0. Honestly, is that surprising? Stanford hasn't won a game this year. In fact, if USC hadn't put up as many points as they did, I would have been concerned.
Cal did have a somewhat convincing win over UCLA, 38-24. But unless you believe in the strength of the PAC-10 conference, which I certainly do not, their overall record is far less compelling.
In case it isn't clear, I have no use for the PAC-10. Their players generally suck in the NFL (e.g., Harrington, Leaf), their coaches can't seem to make it outside of the PAC-10 (e.g., Willingham), and they are a conference of the weak! with a couple dominant teams.
Other Games of Note...
No. 5 Louisville 44, No. 3 West Virginia 34. Louisville has Rutgers next in a game that looks increasingly important. Who would have ever guessed that Rutgers had the chance to be a spoiler. I wish I had the chance to watch the game. The teams seem to have very different styles of play (Louisville passing, WV rushing). This was probably the best game until the showdown in two weeks between UMich-OSU.
No. 2 Michigan 34, Ball St. 26
Ball St 26? Yes, you did see that correctly. Ball St. had all of 46 rushing yards, yet still managed to put points on the board at the Big House. Looks like the Michigan pass defense is weak... I hope OSU was watching...
No. 1 Ohio State 17, Illinois 10
Is Illinois back? Have the ghosts of Florida finally left Ron Zook? Illinois could become a contender next year - compiled more total yardage than the Ohio State offense, held Ohio State scoreless in the second half. It looks like their bottom dweller days could be over. Woe to the Michigan State fan, looks like it is our turn to spend some quality time at the bottom.
The UMich-OSU game should be great. I do not care what BCS or stupid (and they are stupid) sports commentators say. The real Championship game is between OSU and UMich. There isn't really another team out there that has shown it can compare. Certainly not a team in the Pac-10. So all this talk of a BCS Championship game is utter nonsense, unless they have a UMich-OSU rematch.
No. 17 Wisconsin 13, Penn State 3
A low scoring game was not unexpected, but seeing the Wisconsin defense hold Penn State to under 50 rushing yards was. Not to mention all the bitching and moaning Joe Paw did, made him hurt his knee. The Paterno situation is sad. He really should just retire and preserve his legacy. Right now he is only damaging the way history, especially Penn State history, will remember him.
Northwestern 21, Iowa 7
How the mighty have fallen! Iowa was actually ranked at one point this season. And now they lose to Northwestern? Even Michigan State managed to beat Northwestern. Iowa still has a chance for a bowl game, but their season has effectively been a bust.
Purdue 17, Michigan State 15
Some how this score looked funny to me? 15 is not a number you see that often in football games. It does suggest some botched extra point kicks. Well, the MSU woes will now continue. They get Minnesota next which just routed Indiana. They have a lame duck coach, as John L had been sacked. Personally, I think this could be a mistake. Who is going to want to come into the toxic waste dump that is MSU football? And poor Drew Stanton... the fact that he rushed for 80+ yards should help him in the draft. Let's wait and see.
Minnesota 63, Indiana 26
Yes, the score is crazy! Equally crazy is that both offenses put up over 500 yards. Where's the Big D? Indiana is really going to have to step it up before they get Michigan next week. The Michigan D is certainly not going to let them put up 500 yards. Minnesota has it easier, as they get my sad and sorry Michigan State squad.
High School Football (aka. Pac-10 Round-up)
Well, didn't those USC Trojans bounce back from their loss to Oregon State with a stunning victory over Stanford. So they beat Stanford 42-0. Honestly, is that surprising? Stanford hasn't won a game this year. In fact, if USC hadn't put up as many points as they did, I would have been concerned.
Cal did have a somewhat convincing win over UCLA, 38-24. But unless you believe in the strength of the PAC-10 conference, which I certainly do not, their overall record is far less compelling.
In case it isn't clear, I have no use for the PAC-10. Their players generally suck in the NFL (e.g., Harrington, Leaf), their coaches can't seem to make it outside of the PAC-10 (e.g., Willingham), and they are a conference of the weak! with a couple dominant teams.
Other Games of Note...
No. 5 Louisville 44, No. 3 West Virginia 34. Louisville has Rutgers next in a game that looks increasingly important. Who would have ever guessed that Rutgers had the chance to be a spoiler. I wish I had the chance to watch the game. The teams seem to have very different styles of play (Louisville passing, WV rushing). This was probably the best game until the showdown in two weeks between UMich-OSU.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Weekend Recap
I spent the weekend in Vermont. The middle of nowhere Vermont, but I still managed to keep up with all the important stuff!
College Football
* Michigan State lost again! and this time to Indi-frickin'-ana. I don't know what to say anymore, other than that this sucks big time.
* And just to spite me, the football gods made Princeton lose this weekend to Cornell which had yet to win an Ivy League game this year. Still there is hope. Yale (currently on top) still has to play both Princeton and Harvard.
* Oh happy days. USC finally lost. This day has been a long time coming, and they are lucky it didn't happen earlier this month. But I do take some perverse pleasure in the fact that their loss came to an essentially no name Oregon State. There is justice!
Desperate Housewives
* Oooh that Orson Hodge is a bad apple, and he just keeps getting badder. I liked him a lot better when he was Charlotte's husband on SatC, even though he was impotent.
* This must have been the week of the weak men getting back bones, because finally Carlos got Gabby good. She better watch out because it looks like her soon to be ex- is on the war path.
Nostalgia
* Remember the 'yep, yep' aliens from Sesame Street? They were awesome. Check them out on You Tube.
College Football
* Michigan State lost again! and this time to Indi-frickin'-ana. I don't know what to say anymore, other than that this sucks big time.
* And just to spite me, the football gods made Princeton lose this weekend to Cornell which had yet to win an Ivy League game this year. Still there is hope. Yale (currently on top) still has to play both Princeton and Harvard.
* Oh happy days. USC finally lost. This day has been a long time coming, and they are lucky it didn't happen earlier this month. But I do take some perverse pleasure in the fact that their loss came to an essentially no name Oregon State. There is justice!
Desperate Housewives
* Oooh that Orson Hodge is a bad apple, and he just keeps getting badder. I liked him a lot better when he was Charlotte's husband on SatC, even though he was impotent.
* This must have been the week of the weak men getting back bones, because finally Carlos got Gabby good. She better watch out because it looks like her soon to be ex- is on the war path.
Nostalgia
* Remember the 'yep, yep' aliens from Sesame Street? They were awesome. Check them out on You Tube.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
The Biggest Comeback!
Is this an omen for things to come? I must confess that after seeing the first half score, I gave up in disgust and decided to go to a coffee shop to study. Besides which the game wasn't even televised here, so I had no idea what was going on. At least Michigan State should make Sports Center tonight, it'll be interesting to see how they spin this though as a triumph or a defeat (after all it is only Northwestern that they beat, though technically Northwestern has won 3 Big Ten titles since State won their last). Still all and all, I am somewhat happy. At least we are no longer Big Ten bottom dwellers, we are now ranked on par with such Big Ten "powerhouses" as Illinois. Woo hoo!
My full football recap to be posted after the Michigan-Iowa game...
My full football recap to be posted after the Michigan-Iowa game...
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Don't Vote for Dick the Dick
You might think I am talking about Dick Cheney, but no, there is another elephantine Dick - Dick DeVos who is running for the Governor of Michigan. Incidentally, there are a lot of Dicks, and I mean it literally, in Republican politics? I wonder why...
I figured hating Dick for his name alone is not enough. So I scouted around for evidence to prove that he is in fact a dick.
I figured hating Dick for his name alone is not enough. So I scouted around for evidence to prove that he is in fact a dick.
- Dick will quit again. Dick DeVos has a history of "cut and run". In 1990, he was elected to the Michigan State Board of Education. He resigned 2 years into his 8 year term. In 1996, he was appointed to the Grand Valley State University Board and again resigned before completing his term. Will he resign again once elected governor?
- Dick has questionable bedfellows and no, I do not mean his wife, although she is a crazy (see below). Dick and Betsy have personally donated money to the political campaigns of both George W and Tom DeLay, not to mention the $100,000+ they collected for the Bush-Cheney ticket to cement their standing as "Pioneers". This does not even come close to accounting for all their "charitable" giving which includes organizations like Focus on Family, which despite having great names are nothing but Christian Conservative PACs.
- Dick cannot win. When Dick DeVos was CEO of the Orlando Magic (His daddy bought the team. Feel any George W deja vu?) from 1991-1993, the Magic went 21-61 and 41-41. If elected governor will he bring his oh so stellar performance to Lansing?
- Dick doesn't believe in science. Dick DeVos has stated that he believes intelligent design should be taught in high school classes as a legitimate alternative to the Darwin's theory of evolution. Right, teaching intelligent design is a great way to diversify Michigan's economy and bring in more high-tech and bio-tech companies. (DeVos' stance is not entirely unexpected given that he has a degree from the seemingly sketchy "Northwood University" which has campuses in Florida, Texas, and Michigan, huh?)
- Dick is a crazy conservative when it comes to social issues. He does not believe in stem cell research. (Those fetuses were going to be thrown away if they weren't used by scientists.) He does not believe in abortion even in the case of rape or incest. (It really gets me when guys get to legislate what women do their bodies. Why don't mail politicans make sure rapists get their penises cut-off?) Through his foundations, Dick DeVos helped anti-gay groups lead a boycott of Ford Motor Company because of their support for gay rights. So (a) I just think that is wrong and (b) Ford is one of the biggest employers in Michigan and you are boycotting them while simultaneously complaining about lost jobs in Michigan - Hello! get a brain brainiac.
- Dick has married the MidWest version of Marie Antoinette. Just like French Queen's 'let them eat cake' lives down in infamy, Betsy DeVos has maintained that Michigan's economic woes are due to the fact that Michigan workers are overpaid. I thought governors were supposed to increase the number of jobs for workers and their real wages... apparently not...
- Dick is a job uncreator. Through his restructuring of Amway/Alticor, Dick DeVos shed nearly 1,000 Michigan jobs (that he subsequently moved to Asia) and reduced benefits by millions. From the perspective of a CEO, this was likely the right thing to do. However, as Governor of Michigan how will he be able to attract net new jobs to the state given his own track record?
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Arrested!?!
I thought all the jokes people were making about the Michigan State football team were just that - jokes! But apparently it is true. The Michigan State program has turned into those of schools I hate like Miami and Nebraska, the only difference is State doesn't have the record that typically goes will such jailhouse programs. I quick look at the Lansing State Journal shows that at least 3 current and former Spartan football players are facing possible charges... Talk about ridiculous. I do not think John L. deserves all the blame for this, but is Michigan State really so desperate for recruits that we have to recruit violent delinquents?
On a side note, why on earth does anyone think Mariucci should become the new head coach (well other than the fact that he and Izzo are buddies)? Mariucci's 15-28 record at the Lions, where he had more stars than the Spartans do, is currently worse than John L's record at Michigan State which is 21-22 (through 2005). I am not suggesting that keeping John L is the answer, but given the speed with which Michigan State churns through coaches, it is hard to imagine anyone taking on the task of trying to rebuild a program that has been in the process of rebuilding for almost 20yrs!!
On a side note, why on earth does anyone think Mariucci should become the new head coach (well other than the fact that he and Izzo are buddies)? Mariucci's 15-28 record at the Lions, where he had more stars than the Spartans do, is currently worse than John L's record at Michigan State which is 21-22 (through 2005). I am not suggesting that keeping John L is the answer, but given the speed with which Michigan State churns through coaches, it is hard to imagine anyone taking on the task of trying to rebuild a program that has been in the process of rebuilding for almost 20yrs!!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
The Woes of College Football - Week 6
Heisman Watch
Checking up on the Indiana - Iowa game early this afternoon, I noticed an interesting discussion on the ESPN GameDay message boards. The message was clearly left by a crazy, PAC-10 fanatic. According to the PAC-10 loon, Troy Smith is a mediocre quarterback at best who is only up for a Heisman because the field is so weak, and Smith can in no way compare to the USC QBs of late (e.g., Leinhart). I was tempted to reply to the joker, but decided it best not to dignify such nonsense with a response. Honestly, if Leinhart only had two interceptions (and he actually had 8 last year - I checked) it is because USC plays the weakest schedule of any "top" NCAA football team in the country. Leinhart is doing alright down in Arizona now, but I think Troy Smith will be a phenomenal pro-QB. He can run, move in the pocket, throw, I bet he can even tackle. I am a huge fan! And I dare anyone to come up with a better Heisman candidate.
Something about the Big, Blue, D
Michigan pulled out a 17-10 win in (Un)Happy Valley. And while the game seemed locked up at 17-3, with under 5 in the 4th quarter, Penn State and their 3rd string quarterback tried to make a game of it. But in the usual case of too little too late, it was simply not enough.
Sadly, in my opinion, this game will likely catapult UMich to a No. 2 ranking with the new polls are released. Something I find deeply troubling. Even more disturbing in my opinion though is the notion that Ohio State is a 1A team and Michigan is a 1B team (at least according to the ABC commentators who are clearly on some form of narcotic). I remain unconvinced that Michigan has been tested enough to be a No. 2. Likewise, I would be loathe to see USC in that position. Frankly, I would like to put Florida or another SEC team into the No. 2 slot. Their schedules are crazy hard and far more competitive. But since when do pollsters listen to me?
Also with regards to Michigan's defense, I get that they are good. (Holding Penn St. to negative rushing yards is pretty amazing.) But does that mean they need to become the decapitation squad? I understand that QBs have to take some pain. But the "bear hug of love" that Morelli received was clearly a late hit. Michigan deserved a penalty for it. I forget who made the tackle, all I remember was that he was big. Ok. So it was hard for him to stop... but he shouldn't have had his arms around the QB. I have less to quibble about the hit on Clark. But I think the Michigan defense could and should exercise a little more care in not winning by eliminating players. They seem to be doing it a lot lately, and it takes the luster off of their wins.
Invincible No More
Finally, the sports pundits have tired of the fad that is USC. The past couple years of USC adulation have been painful for this PAC-10 hater to watch. But the commentators are finally, finally calling it like it is. USC scraped by in this game. Booty call interceptions. 21 unanswered points by Arizona St. And this was the easy part of their schedule. With Cal, Oregon, and a revitalized Notre Dame still on their schedule, Pete Carroll & Co. should start worrying just a bit.
Crazy in the MidWest
Indiana over Iowa? You have got to be kidding me. At least that's what I thought. But at 31-28, Indiana pulled out a win to break into the top half of the Big Ten rankings at 2-1. I cannot remember the last time this happened. Sadly though, given they face Ohio St next weekend, their euphoria will be short lived. It will however be interesting to see what No.15 Iowa's response to this game will be. Iowa's next game entails a visit to AA. I am personally hoping they'll want some revenge after getting stomped on by Indiana. And here's to hoping they get it!
Random Aside
Surprisingly, the Ohio State/Michigan State game did not depress me as much as I had expected. In fact, it was a rather existential, out of body type experience. That said, there is a lot about Drew Stanton that reminds me of Troy Smith. And watching Ohio State play, reminded me of what I aspire for MSU to be. And I really believe they could be, if they could only stay healthy and play a clean game.
They also showed a clip of Lorenzo White during the game. Oh Lorenzo, how I loved thee. The last time (and technically the only time in my life) that Michigan State went to the Rose Bowl was when Lorenzo White was the star RB. This was back in 1988, well before the BCS turned the Rose Bowl into an utter travesty. It has been almost 20yrs since Michigan State's last trip to Pasadena. Even Northwestern has gone more recently. The only schools who have had to wait longer are Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa. But Iowa did go to the Orange in 2003 and Illinois to the Sugar in 2002. So bottom line, State fans are due a good bowl game!
Checking up on the Indiana - Iowa game early this afternoon, I noticed an interesting discussion on the ESPN GameDay message boards. The message was clearly left by a crazy, PAC-10 fanatic. According to the PAC-10 loon, Troy Smith is a mediocre quarterback at best who is only up for a Heisman because the field is so weak, and Smith can in no way compare to the USC QBs of late (e.g., Leinhart). I was tempted to reply to the joker, but decided it best not to dignify such nonsense with a response. Honestly, if Leinhart only had two interceptions (and he actually had 8 last year - I checked) it is because USC plays the weakest schedule of any "top" NCAA football team in the country. Leinhart is doing alright down in Arizona now, but I think Troy Smith will be a phenomenal pro-QB. He can run, move in the pocket, throw, I bet he can even tackle. I am a huge fan! And I dare anyone to come up with a better Heisman candidate.
Something about the Big, Blue, D
Michigan pulled out a 17-10 win in (Un)Happy Valley. And while the game seemed locked up at 17-3, with under 5 in the 4th quarter, Penn State and their 3rd string quarterback tried to make a game of it. But in the usual case of too little too late, it was simply not enough.
Sadly, in my opinion, this game will likely catapult UMich to a No. 2 ranking with the new polls are released. Something I find deeply troubling. Even more disturbing in my opinion though is the notion that Ohio State is a 1A team and Michigan is a 1B team (at least according to the ABC commentators who are clearly on some form of narcotic). I remain unconvinced that Michigan has been tested enough to be a No. 2. Likewise, I would be loathe to see USC in that position. Frankly, I would like to put Florida or another SEC team into the No. 2 slot. Their schedules are crazy hard and far more competitive. But since when do pollsters listen to me?
Also with regards to Michigan's defense, I get that they are good. (Holding Penn St. to negative rushing yards is pretty amazing.) But does that mean they need to become the decapitation squad? I understand that QBs have to take some pain. But the "bear hug of love" that Morelli received was clearly a late hit. Michigan deserved a penalty for it. I forget who made the tackle, all I remember was that he was big. Ok. So it was hard for him to stop... but he shouldn't have had his arms around the QB. I have less to quibble about the hit on Clark. But I think the Michigan defense could and should exercise a little more care in not winning by eliminating players. They seem to be doing it a lot lately, and it takes the luster off of their wins.
Invincible No More
Finally, the sports pundits have tired of the fad that is USC. The past couple years of USC adulation have been painful for this PAC-10 hater to watch. But the commentators are finally, finally calling it like it is. USC scraped by in this game. Booty call interceptions. 21 unanswered points by Arizona St. And this was the easy part of their schedule. With Cal, Oregon, and a revitalized Notre Dame still on their schedule, Pete Carroll & Co. should start worrying just a bit.
Crazy in the MidWest
Indiana over Iowa? You have got to be kidding me. At least that's what I thought. But at 31-28, Indiana pulled out a win to break into the top half of the Big Ten rankings at 2-1. I cannot remember the last time this happened. Sadly though, given they face Ohio St next weekend, their euphoria will be short lived. It will however be interesting to see what No.15 Iowa's response to this game will be. Iowa's next game entails a visit to AA. I am personally hoping they'll want some revenge after getting stomped on by Indiana. And here's to hoping they get it!
Random Aside
Surprisingly, the Ohio State/Michigan State game did not depress me as much as I had expected. In fact, it was a rather existential, out of body type experience. That said, there is a lot about Drew Stanton that reminds me of Troy Smith. And watching Ohio State play, reminded me of what I aspire for MSU to be. And I really believe they could be, if they could only stay healthy and play a clean game.
They also showed a clip of Lorenzo White during the game. Oh Lorenzo, how I loved thee. The last time (and technically the only time in my life) that Michigan State went to the Rose Bowl was when Lorenzo White was the star RB. This was back in 1988, well before the BCS turned the Rose Bowl into an utter travesty. It has been almost 20yrs since Michigan State's last trip to Pasadena. Even Northwestern has gone more recently. The only schools who have had to wait longer are Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa. But Iowa did go to the Orange in 2003 and Illinois to the Sugar in 2002. So bottom line, State fans are due a good bowl game!
Such Sadness
I should be used to this, but four game slides are horrendously painful. In all honesty, I had mentally prepared myself for Michigan State to lose this game. Javon Ringer is out. Matt Trannon is out. Stanton has a bruised thumb, ribs, and now a bruised back. But to be shut out at home sucks (let's face it the TD at the end of the game was a mercy touchdown).
I guess this means that the season is essentially over. Illinois and Indiana both have better Big Ten records than Michigan State. I can't remember the last time that happened, and it certainly does not bode well for the Michigan State regular or post-season opportunities.
This loss also, in my opinion, seals the deal on John L's stay at Michigan State. I do agree with the commentators that this is not entirely his fault. Too many offensive players have been hurt. Only like five starters from the first game against Idaho suited up against Ohio State. For god's sake, there are defensive linemen lining up at the tight end position. State is literally starting 3rd and 4th stringers. That is not way to win against the No. 1 team in the country. I wonder if John L is kicking himself for leaving Louisville (No. 7). I wonder if Stanton wishes he went pro last year. I wonder...
There are a couple things that could redeem this football Saturday. (1) Michigan losing to Penn St. If Penn St. can pull out the win, I will bite my tongue for every time I said Joe Pa needed to get the hell out of Happy Valley. (2) The Tigers shut the door on Oakland.
I guess this means that the season is essentially over. Illinois and Indiana both have better Big Ten records than Michigan State. I can't remember the last time that happened, and it certainly does not bode well for the Michigan State regular or post-season opportunities.
This loss also, in my opinion, seals the deal on John L's stay at Michigan State. I do agree with the commentators that this is not entirely his fault. Too many offensive players have been hurt. Only like five starters from the first game against Idaho suited up against Ohio State. For god's sake, there are defensive linemen lining up at the tight end position. State is literally starting 3rd and 4th stringers. That is not way to win against the No. 1 team in the country. I wonder if John L is kicking himself for leaving Louisville (No. 7). I wonder if Stanton wishes he went pro last year. I wonder...
There are a couple things that could redeem this football Saturday. (1) Michigan losing to Penn St. If Penn St. can pull out the win, I will bite my tongue for every time I said Joe Pa needed to get the hell out of Happy Valley. (2) The Tigers shut the door on Oakland.
Monday, October 09, 2006
In Response to Comments - Simmer Down Michigan Fans
So I can admit that perhaps I slightly exaggerated the events of the Minnesota-Michigan game. My bad. Although in fairness Michigan was a little sluggish in the second half of the game.
But no one can honestly tell say that Arrington's first TD in the game was good. Please, please watch the instant replay before commenting. His foot never came in in bounds. The commentators were talking about this play the whole game! And the point is John L. did not even have a chance to throw down the red flag because (a) the refs were not looking at him and wouldn't have seen the flag in which case nothing would have been reviewed and (b) Michigan lined up its field goal team in like 2sec. It reminds me somewhat of the LSU-Auburn game two weeks ago. In any case, the play was clearly questionable, and if the refs were taking it upon themselves to review Stanton's TDs' later in the game they certainly should have reviewed Arrington's TD. As a Michigan State fan, it just leaves a bad taste in my mouth...
Any how, you have to let us State fans blather on a bit. It's the only outlet we have in a very trying part of the year. I'll understand if you feel the need to do the same during the basketball season...
But no one can honestly tell say that Arrington's first TD in the game was good. Please, please watch the instant replay before commenting. His foot never came in in bounds. The commentators were talking about this play the whole game! And the point is John L. did not even have a chance to throw down the red flag because (a) the refs were not looking at him and wouldn't have seen the flag in which case nothing would have been reviewed and (b) Michigan lined up its field goal team in like 2sec. It reminds me somewhat of the LSU-Auburn game two weeks ago. In any case, the play was clearly questionable, and if the refs were taking it upon themselves to review Stanton's TDs' later in the game they certainly should have reviewed Arrington's TD. As a Michigan State fan, it just leaves a bad taste in my mouth...
Any how, you have to let us State fans blather on a bit. It's the only outlet we have in a very trying part of the year. I'll understand if you feel the need to do the same during the basketball season...
Sunday, October 08, 2006
The Agony of Defeat
Unless you are a moronic Michigan, USC, Florida, or Arkansas fan, today was a bloody, f-ing, awful day. It's painful to watch the teams you love lose and the teams you hate win.
After today, I have come to the conclusion that sports commentators are utter idiots. I mean pick a team/pick a position and stick with it, I can respect that. Or at least have some sort of rational thought process. But no, that would be asking for too much. These guys just sit there blowing hot air and getting paid millions. I wish I could get a gig like that.
Michigan 31, Michigan State 13
Honestly don't know what to say here, other than, did Michigan buy off the refs? If you read the ESPN game summary, you'd think that Michigan won all nice and clean. All I can say is hardly. I have seen Michigan cheat before, especially in basketball (remember the Fab-5 who got paid on the side?), but this was something else.
Michigan's first touchdown of the game wasn't even good. Arrington never came down in bounds. Did the refs review it as they should all questionable plays? No, of course not. Who are they to question the "Victors"? And did John L. get a chance to ask for a review? No. Because UMich decided to snap the extra kick ball, literally 2 sec later. And then the commentators have the nerve to talk about how great Michigan's play was. Puhleeze! That is cheating! Since when did ABC endorse cheating? Actually, scratch that. They do endorse lying. Remember the 9/11 docu-drama based on real events and the occasional Republican lie.
To add insult to injury, the refs called every single penalty conceivable against Michigan State. Roughing the kicker, offsides, etc. etc. As if! If the Michigan players weren't such drama queens this could have been a game. At some point though the refs decided to get some religion, which you might think would be good for State. But no, instead it just meant they would review every single offensive play State made. Including both of Stanton's touchdown attempts. Finally, finally, they let one count.
Aside from the bad calling, the other major downer was hearing all the talk about Michigan potentially getting a No. 2 ranking (and potentially being a National Championship contender) and Trannon getting hurt. He got hurt bad enough for the go-cart to come on the field. Not good. I swear the Michigan players were trying to kill our players. Their were some extra hard tackles against Stanton. Talk about blast from the past, it's how they won 2yrs ago. And they say cheaters never prosper... Michigan seems to be doing just fine.
John L. is looking increasingly embattled. I bet at this point he wishes he never left Louisville. They are ranked No.9 right now!
The commentators seem to think it is the players fault MSU is where they are, and not John L's. I am not sure I agree. The fumbles and the penalties, those are certainly the players fault. But things would be so different right now if Michigan State hadn't lost to Notre Dame. If they hadn't lost to Notre Dame, MSU would have ended the season 4th/5th in the Big Ten. They certainly would not have lost to Illinois and would have been significantly more competitive today.
The blame for the Notre Dame game lies squarely with John L. There was no reason to run down the clock the entire 2nd half against Notre Dame. You never ever count a team like that out, and you always, always try and put points up on the board. Especially when you are weak defensively. And today, with Ringer out, you don't run the ball against one of the best rush defenses in the country. Pass the goddamn ball. Let your quarterback and wide receivers put up yards and points. John L decided not to. I do feel bad for him, but I do blame him. If only, if only we hadn't lost to Notre Dame. This could have been the year.
Ohio State 35, Bowling Green 7
This isn't altogether unexpected. But with all the upsets today, it looks like Ohio State has solidified itself at the No. 1 spot. Honestly, I could care less about Ohio State. But given the level of hate and bitterness I feel for Michigan and USC, I'll be a Buckeye fan. No questions!
Elsewhere in the Big Ten
Penn State held on to beat Minnesota in overtime 28-27. Next up, Joe Pa's squad faces Michigan. I bet you can guess what I hope will happen! You gotta feel for Minnesota though. They put up 350yds in passing alone today and are still 0-3 in the Big Ten. It really doesn't do them justice considering the scares they have been giving everyone. Michigan barely got by them last weekend!
Indiana edged Illinois with a last second field goal 34-32, thus killing any chance Illinois had for back-to-back wins this decade. Kind of ironic that Illinois should lose on a last second field goal, since they beat Michigan State on one last weekend.
Northwestern gotten beaten by the guys from the Cheese State to keep MSU company at 0-2.
Iowa beat Purdue 47-17. Sadly for Iowa and Michigan-haters like me, they have to play UMich in AA. But here's to hoping they can pull some sort of hat trick.
The SEC Upsets
Tennessee 51, Georgia 33
SEC football is great. As much as I love Big-10 football, I think the SEC wins hands down. I wish I had been able to watch this game, but the pain of the Michigan State vs. cheaters game was too painful and the martinis were calling. Maybe Tennessee is back to its Peyton Manning, glory days.
Florida 23, LSU 10
Technically, this may not have been an upset. Unbeknownst to me, Florida is No.5 and LSU is only No. 9. That was shock No. 1. Shock No. 2 was seeing LSU play like hapless, bumbling fools. I expect better from a former Saban squad. But I guess they were down in the Swamp which can't be easy. It is however sad to see their national title chances slip away, especially after seeing them get the shaft the past couple years.
Arkansas 27, Auburn 10
Now this actually was an upset. I am not a huge fan of Auburn especially after all that academic nonsense. But it is mildly irksome to see Arkansas pull a 2-game lead in the SEC West. They may be good, but I do not think they are that good. And at this point is may be an impenetrable lead. Auburn and LSU are still better in my book.
As an aside I am starting to like SEC football more and more. I may have to become a conference switcher...
PAC-10 Drivel
USC 26, Washington 20
Does this mean we are going to see USC in the Championship game again? God, how I hate BCS. I wonder which Hilton sister Booty is dating. God his name is funny. I wonder if girls ever get Booty-calls. USC has had it easy so far. The real test comes when they face Oregon, Cal, and Notre Dame in back to back contests which are conveniently at home, as was their only other ranked opponent Nebraska. Interesting...
Notre Dame 31, Stanford 10
La ti da. So Notre Dame beats Stanford. Who really gives a shit? It is a well established fact that PAC-10 teams suck at football, and Stanford is certainly no exception. If Brady Quinn wins a Heisman for this, I swear I will give up college football for life!
Cal 45, Oregon 24
Why are these teams even ranked? Oregon is #11 and Cal is #16. It is ludicrous. Oregon has one "legit" win against Oklahoma and Cal beat the barely even-ranked powerhouse of Arizona St., after being bumped off by a stellar Tennessee. Once again the powers that be in the world of football have shown their pro-PAC-10 bias. If Cal manages to crack the top-10 with this win, all I can say is un-friggin'-believable!
Happy Days in Detroit.
God knows Detroit needs something to be happy about these days. Go Tigers! I love seeing the Yankees lose, but I especially love seeing the Tigers win. And win well! Sadly, their win wasn't enough to take the edge off of the day.
After today, I have come to the conclusion that sports commentators are utter idiots. I mean pick a team/pick a position and stick with it, I can respect that. Or at least have some sort of rational thought process. But no, that would be asking for too much. These guys just sit there blowing hot air and getting paid millions. I wish I could get a gig like that.
Michigan 31, Michigan State 13
Honestly don't know what to say here, other than, did Michigan buy off the refs? If you read the ESPN game summary, you'd think that Michigan won all nice and clean. All I can say is hardly. I have seen Michigan cheat before, especially in basketball (remember the Fab-5 who got paid on the side?), but this was something else.
Michigan's first touchdown of the game wasn't even good. Arrington never came down in bounds. Did the refs review it as they should all questionable plays? No, of course not. Who are they to question the "Victors"? And did John L. get a chance to ask for a review? No. Because UMich decided to snap the extra kick ball, literally 2 sec later. And then the commentators have the nerve to talk about how great Michigan's play was. Puhleeze! That is cheating! Since when did ABC endorse cheating? Actually, scratch that. They do endorse lying. Remember the 9/11 docu-drama based on real events and the occasional Republican lie.
To add insult to injury, the refs called every single penalty conceivable against Michigan State. Roughing the kicker, offsides, etc. etc. As if! If the Michigan players weren't such drama queens this could have been a game. At some point though the refs decided to get some religion, which you might think would be good for State. But no, instead it just meant they would review every single offensive play State made. Including both of Stanton's touchdown attempts. Finally, finally, they let one count.
Aside from the bad calling, the other major downer was hearing all the talk about Michigan potentially getting a No. 2 ranking (and potentially being a National Championship contender) and Trannon getting hurt. He got hurt bad enough for the go-cart to come on the field. Not good. I swear the Michigan players were trying to kill our players. Their were some extra hard tackles against Stanton. Talk about blast from the past, it's how they won 2yrs ago. And they say cheaters never prosper... Michigan seems to be doing just fine.
John L. is looking increasingly embattled. I bet at this point he wishes he never left Louisville. They are ranked No.9 right now!
The commentators seem to think it is the players fault MSU is where they are, and not John L's. I am not sure I agree. The fumbles and the penalties, those are certainly the players fault. But things would be so different right now if Michigan State hadn't lost to Notre Dame. If they hadn't lost to Notre Dame, MSU would have ended the season 4th/5th in the Big Ten. They certainly would not have lost to Illinois and would have been significantly more competitive today.
The blame for the Notre Dame game lies squarely with John L. There was no reason to run down the clock the entire 2nd half against Notre Dame. You never ever count a team like that out, and you always, always try and put points up on the board. Especially when you are weak defensively. And today, with Ringer out, you don't run the ball against one of the best rush defenses in the country. Pass the goddamn ball. Let your quarterback and wide receivers put up yards and points. John L decided not to. I do feel bad for him, but I do blame him. If only, if only we hadn't lost to Notre Dame. This could have been the year.
Ohio State 35, Bowling Green 7
This isn't altogether unexpected. But with all the upsets today, it looks like Ohio State has solidified itself at the No. 1 spot. Honestly, I could care less about Ohio State. But given the level of hate and bitterness I feel for Michigan and USC, I'll be a Buckeye fan. No questions!
Elsewhere in the Big Ten
Penn State held on to beat Minnesota in overtime 28-27. Next up, Joe Pa's squad faces Michigan. I bet you can guess what I hope will happen! You gotta feel for Minnesota though. They put up 350yds in passing alone today and are still 0-3 in the Big Ten. It really doesn't do them justice considering the scares they have been giving everyone. Michigan barely got by them last weekend!
Indiana edged Illinois with a last second field goal 34-32, thus killing any chance Illinois had for back-to-back wins this decade. Kind of ironic that Illinois should lose on a last second field goal, since they beat Michigan State on one last weekend.
Northwestern gotten beaten by the guys from the Cheese State to keep MSU company at 0-2.
Iowa beat Purdue 47-17. Sadly for Iowa and Michigan-haters like me, they have to play UMich in AA. But here's to hoping they can pull some sort of hat trick.
The SEC Upsets
Tennessee 51, Georgia 33
SEC football is great. As much as I love Big-10 football, I think the SEC wins hands down. I wish I had been able to watch this game, but the pain of the Michigan State vs. cheaters game was too painful and the martinis were calling. Maybe Tennessee is back to its Peyton Manning, glory days.
Florida 23, LSU 10
Technically, this may not have been an upset. Unbeknownst to me, Florida is No.5 and LSU is only No. 9. That was shock No. 1. Shock No. 2 was seeing LSU play like hapless, bumbling fools. I expect better from a former Saban squad. But I guess they were down in the Swamp which can't be easy. It is however sad to see their national title chances slip away, especially after seeing them get the shaft the past couple years.
Arkansas 27, Auburn 10
Now this actually was an upset. I am not a huge fan of Auburn especially after all that academic nonsense. But it is mildly irksome to see Arkansas pull a 2-game lead in the SEC West. They may be good, but I do not think they are that good. And at this point is may be an impenetrable lead. Auburn and LSU are still better in my book.
As an aside I am starting to like SEC football more and more. I may have to become a conference switcher...
PAC-10 Drivel
USC 26, Washington 20
Does this mean we are going to see USC in the Championship game again? God, how I hate BCS. I wonder which Hilton sister Booty is dating. God his name is funny. I wonder if girls ever get Booty-calls. USC has had it easy so far. The real test comes when they face Oregon, Cal, and Notre Dame in back to back contests which are conveniently at home, as was their only other ranked opponent Nebraska. Interesting...
Notre Dame 31, Stanford 10
La ti da. So Notre Dame beats Stanford. Who really gives a shit? It is a well established fact that PAC-10 teams suck at football, and Stanford is certainly no exception. If Brady Quinn wins a Heisman for this, I swear I will give up college football for life!
Cal 45, Oregon 24
Why are these teams even ranked? Oregon is #11 and Cal is #16. It is ludicrous. Oregon has one "legit" win against Oklahoma and Cal beat the barely even-ranked powerhouse of Arizona St., after being bumped off by a stellar Tennessee. Once again the powers that be in the world of football have shown their pro-PAC-10 bias. If Cal manages to crack the top-10 with this win, all I can say is un-friggin'-believable!
Happy Days in Detroit.
God knows Detroit needs something to be happy about these days. Go Tigers! I love seeing the Yankees lose, but I especially love seeing the Tigers win. And win well! Sadly, their win wasn't enough to take the edge off of the day.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
A Chance at Redemption?
Quite frankly, I have been too better over the Notre Dame game to update my blog. I hate those bloody, f-ing, Domers. While MSU's defense was clearly on vacation, and John L. was trying to make the offense burn the clock for the entire friggin' 2nd half, I know in my heart (and in my mind) that Notre Dame cheated. And the sad thing is they used to be my 2nd favorite team. I mean what more does a girl want than a team that beats UMich every year and loses to Michigan State every year. It's like a dream come true. Except I got a nightmare this year. And now with Stanton injured things are looking more grim than usual. Still MSU may have a shot at redemption down in good old AA.
Factoids of note:
2005: MSU loss, 34-31 (OT) @ East Lansing
MSU was 4-0 entering the game. MSU then went 1-5 in their last six games. Talk about dismal. But this year, we have a better kicker... please no wide to the rights.
2004: MSU loss, 45-37 (3OT) @ Ann Arbor
MSU was doing just find until UMich decided to take a peice out of Stanton. bloody cheaters. MSU went 1-3 in their last four games. Ach so!
2003: MSU loss, 27-20 @ East Lansing
MSU was 7-1 entering the game, with wins over teams like Iowa and Notre Dame. But after succumbing the the vile AA-ers, went 1-3 the rest of the season. Although the sole win was an awesome spanking of Joe Pa's club.
2002: MSU loss, 49-3 @ Ann Arbor
Oh the pain. I cried that day. Oh, Smoker why did you have to start popping pills. To lose like this to a real Michigan QB is one thing, but John Navarre. Does anyone even remember who he is anymore? State ended the season going 1-2.
2001: MSU win, 26-24 @ East Lansing
Can you believe it? I hardly can. Sure the maize&blue complain about time calling nonsense. But a win is a win I say, and I'll take this one! Although, MSU won more than one game after beating down UMich, they lost to such spectacular teams as Indy-f-ing-ana. Consistency, where arth thou?
2000: MSU loss, 14-0 @ Ann Arbor
A shut-out. No way! Poor T.J. Duckett. He was robbed I tell you. Robbed. MSU ended the season 2-2.
1999: MSU win, 34-31 @ East Lansing
Plaxico what can I say. I loved you then, now if only you would score me some points for my ff team! The Tom Brady years, a boon for us State fans, who woulda thunk he would make it in the pros. MSU ended the season 4-2 with wins over Ohio State, Penn State, and Florida in the Citrus Bowl. This what MSU football was supposed to be about!
Factoids of note:
- MSU hasn't won at Ann Arbor since 1990. All winning streaks must come to an end. If Michigan can finally beat Notre Dame and Touchdown Jesus, surely Stanton can miraculously get well and save State fans.
- State has lost four in a row to Michigan. That's a dry spell if I ever heard one. And I can't remember having to go this long without a win in years!
- History suggests a loss in Ann Arbor would cause MSU to end the season with a record 4-8. Ouch! Typically, after losing to UMich, MSU takes a nose dive, and only wins one of their remaining games. If they beat UMich, they typically take 2 or 3 games, thus ending with a record of 6-6. Bowl game anyone?
2005: MSU loss, 34-31 (OT) @ East Lansing
MSU was 4-0 entering the game. MSU then went 1-5 in their last six games. Talk about dismal. But this year, we have a better kicker... please no wide to the rights.
2004: MSU loss, 45-37 (3OT) @ Ann Arbor
MSU was doing just find until UMich decided to take a peice out of Stanton. bloody cheaters. MSU went 1-3 in their last four games. Ach so!
2003: MSU loss, 27-20 @ East Lansing
MSU was 7-1 entering the game, with wins over teams like Iowa and Notre Dame. But after succumbing the the vile AA-ers, went 1-3 the rest of the season. Although the sole win was an awesome spanking of Joe Pa's club.
2002: MSU loss, 49-3 @ Ann Arbor
Oh the pain. I cried that day. Oh, Smoker why did you have to start popping pills. To lose like this to a real Michigan QB is one thing, but John Navarre. Does anyone even remember who he is anymore? State ended the season going 1-2.
2001: MSU win, 26-24 @ East Lansing
Can you believe it? I hardly can. Sure the maize&blue complain about time calling nonsense. But a win is a win I say, and I'll take this one! Although, MSU won more than one game after beating down UMich, they lost to such spectacular teams as Indy-f-ing-ana. Consistency, where arth thou?
2000: MSU loss, 14-0 @ Ann Arbor
A shut-out. No way! Poor T.J. Duckett. He was robbed I tell you. Robbed. MSU ended the season 2-2.
1999: MSU win, 34-31 @ East Lansing
Plaxico what can I say. I loved you then, now if only you would score me some points for my ff team! The Tom Brady years, a boon for us State fans, who woulda thunk he would make it in the pros. MSU ended the season 4-2 with wins over Ohio State, Penn State, and Florida in the Citrus Bowl. This what MSU football was supposed to be about!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Does Notre Dame Stand a Chance?
Common logic suggests that Michigan State is doomed next week when Notre Dame comes to East Lansing. Not only does Notre Dame have bigger and arguably better players, but after such a steamrolling, they are definitely hungrier. Still my recent recollection suggests that Michigan State has been going to town on Notre Dame lately. Here are some stats on games between 1995-2005 (note: Notre Dame didn't play Michigan or Michigan State in 1995 or 1996)
positive signs
Notre Dame Results/Scores from 1995-2005:
2005: @ Michigan W, 17-10
Michigan State L, 44-41
2004: Michigan W, 28-20
@ Michigan State W, 31-24
2003: @ Michigan L, 38-0 (I was at that game. Madness!)
Michigan State L, 22-16
2002: Michigan W, 25-23
@ Michigan State W, 21-17
2001: Michigan State L, 17-10
2000: @ Michigan State L, 27-21
1999: @ Michigan L, 26-22
Michigan State L, 23-13
1998: Michigan W, 36-20
@ Michigan State L, 45-23
1997: Michigan State L, 23-7
@ Michigan L, 21-14
positive signs
- Notre Dame is 2-7 against Michigan State
- Notre Dame's victories over Michigan State have only ever occurred when they beat Michigan the preceding weekend
negative signs
- Notre Dame is 2-2 in East Lansing
Notre Dame Results/Scores from 1995-2005:
2005: @ Michigan W, 17-10
Michigan State L, 44-41
2004: Michigan W, 28-20
@ Michigan State W, 31-24
2003: @ Michigan L, 38-0 (I was at that game. Madness!)
Michigan State L, 22-16
2002: Michigan W, 25-23
@ Michigan State W, 21-17
2001: Michigan State L, 17-10
2000: @ Michigan State L, 27-21
1999: @ Michigan L, 26-22
Michigan State L, 23-13
1998: Michigan W, 36-20
@ Michigan State L, 45-23
1997: Michigan State L, 23-7
@ Michigan L, 21-14
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Week 3 College Football: Winners and Losers
A girl can't help but love Saturdays full of non-stop football. I was a bit disappointed that the Michigan St. - Pitt game was not televised here. Apparently, watching Virginia Tech shut out Duke was far more important. Incidentally, who watches Duke football? basketball, sure I get it. But ACC football is garbage (for the most part) and Duke is the worst of the bunch.
Michigan St. - Pitt: Loved it! I admit to being nervous at first. I wish Stanton would stop throwing interceptions. But after the first half he got it together rushing for 100 yards and passing for another 200. I wish we could have seen more of Trannon. Still the win over Pitt and sustained dominance in the 2nd half in a hostile environment if State is to have a chance in hell of beating Notre Dame when they come calling next weekend.
Ohio St. - Cinnci: Ohio State had me wondering, but they pulled through. I like seeing a dominant team in the Big Ten that's not Michigan. Hopefully Tressel can remain strong against Michigan (and lose against Michigan State - yes, probability zero. But I have to dream the impossible dream).
UMich - Notre Dame: After the bliss of an Michigan State win, this game brought me back to reality. I didn't expect UMich to roll over and play dead (though I did sort of hope they would), but I certainly didn't expect to see Notre Dame fold like a house of cards. Brady Quinn had 3 interceptions. Three friggin' interceptions. He might as well just kiss his Heisman goodbye because it's as good as gone. And the entire Notre Dame offense put up 4yds rushing. 4 yards!!! Even I can do better than that. Touchdown Jesus was clearly not in the house.
LSU - Auburn: Now that Nick Saban jilted LSU (just like he ditched Michigan St), I no longer resent them like I used to. In light of all the nonsense at Auburn of late with players grades, I am inclined to pick LSU as one of my favorite SEC teams. The game was ridiculously low scoring (7-3) considering the caliber of the players, and LSU likely would have and should have won had the refs not made the asinine decision to reverse their pass interference call. Where is instant replay in college ball when you need it. Simply ridiculous!
USC vs. Nebraska: Hated it! I hate UMich with a passion even I find unbelievable. Second on my list of hated college football teams is USC and their pretty boy quarterbacks (and what is up with Reggie Bush getting free gifts???). Despite the fact that ex-Coach Osborne made me hate Nebraska and the thug-style players he supported back in the day, I would have loved to see Nebraska win. USC benefits every year from playing in a sissy conference. They need to be taken down a peg or two. Nebraska had a few moments, but they look green. Maybe next year?
Michigan St. - Pitt: Loved it! I admit to being nervous at first. I wish Stanton would stop throwing interceptions. But after the first half he got it together rushing for 100 yards and passing for another 200. I wish we could have seen more of Trannon. Still the win over Pitt and sustained dominance in the 2nd half in a hostile environment if State is to have a chance in hell of beating Notre Dame when they come calling next weekend.
Ohio St. - Cinnci: Ohio State had me wondering, but they pulled through. I like seeing a dominant team in the Big Ten that's not Michigan. Hopefully Tressel can remain strong against Michigan (and lose against Michigan State - yes, probability zero. But I have to dream the impossible dream).
UMich - Notre Dame: After the bliss of an Michigan State win, this game brought me back to reality. I didn't expect UMich to roll over and play dead (though I did sort of hope they would), but I certainly didn't expect to see Notre Dame fold like a house of cards. Brady Quinn had 3 interceptions. Three friggin' interceptions. He might as well just kiss his Heisman goodbye because it's as good as gone. And the entire Notre Dame offense put up 4yds rushing. 4 yards!!! Even I can do better than that. Touchdown Jesus was clearly not in the house.
LSU - Auburn: Now that Nick Saban jilted LSU (just like he ditched Michigan St), I no longer resent them like I used to. In light of all the nonsense at Auburn of late with players grades, I am inclined to pick LSU as one of my favorite SEC teams. The game was ridiculously low scoring (7-3) considering the caliber of the players, and LSU likely would have and should have won had the refs not made the asinine decision to reverse their pass interference call. Where is instant replay in college ball when you need it. Simply ridiculous!
USC vs. Nebraska: Hated it! I hate UMich with a passion even I find unbelievable. Second on my list of hated college football teams is USC and their pretty boy quarterbacks (and what is up with Reggie Bush getting free gifts???). Despite the fact that ex-Coach Osborne made me hate Nebraska and the thug-style players he supported back in the day, I would have loved to see Nebraska win. USC benefits every year from playing in a sissy conference. They need to be taken down a peg or two. Nebraska had a few moments, but they look green. Maybe next year?
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