Over time, an unfortunate trend has developed in professional level sports. It seems we’ve lost touch of our dignity. And to the public it appears as though we have no grace or self-pride as a nation. Here in the US, we have some of the most talented, skilled, hardworking athletes. Pac Man Jones, had a promising future from high school, voted player of the year in football, as well as All American honors in basketball and track. But in 2007 he was arrested for assault and felony vandalism. In 2006, he was arrested for disorderly conduct, a.k.a. spitting on a woman and shouting profanity. A couple months later, he was arrested again for the same behavior with a different woman. Marijuana possession goes without saying. There was the famous Strip club incident with Nelly which he got arrested for. And he’s back playing in the NFL after a one year suspension. How can people hold the same respect for an athlete after they commit so many crimes? Younger generations, teenagers, look up to pro-athletes like Pac man as role-models. And when we hear about these athletes committing serious crimes or showing poor sportsmanship, our younger generations assume that that kind of behavior is acceptable. It gives a bad appearance to the team, the league and the sport. Not only that, but it makes the United States look immature and disrespectful.
New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress “accidentally” shot himself in the foot the other day. What kind of fabricated story is that? Why would he have a gun in the first place? And in a nightclub? There’s definitely more to the cause of this sudden injury.
Atlanta Falcon quarterback Michael Vick was arrested for state charges of dog fighting and animal cruelty. I don’t understand how someone could be that inhumane. Purchasing dogs to fight for your entertainment? I mean how ruthless can you be?
One month ago Paul Soliai of the Miami Dolphins was suspended for violating team rulers. Today, he was suspended again for the same violation. Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter was fined 7,500 for verbally abusing an opponent when a play was over. Gerard Warren of the Oakland Raiders was fined 5,000 for roughing the passenger against Denver. Athletes have lost their composer on the field. What does that say about our character?
In baseball, we see an overwhelming amount of steroid use. Look at Barry Bonds, breaking Hank Aaron’s home run record of 755. Pretty good but then you have to take into consideration the fact that he was loaded on steroids. Then there is Jose Canseco, another baseball player of the Rays who was put on a 12 month probation for steroids. And McGwire who used steroids as well. And as time goes on, this method of cheating is passed down to younger generations, the cycle becoming endless.
When will professional athletes regain their pride? How long will it take before they come to their senses? There is no excuse for their behavior and actions. They receive more money and benefits than majority of our population. They have special rights and VIP access to certain places or events. Everyone loves and respects them because they are constantly on television. Therefore, as role-models, pro-athletes and superstars, they should be more than willing to represent our country with nobility through their actions, on and off the field.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Around the Diamond
First Base
Starting out on first base is Allen Iverson. Allen is a guy with speed, and agility and can do whatever you need to be done, except when it comes to showing up to practice. Iverson, notorious for his 2001 press conference, later labeled as the “Practice Conference.” Allen, we understand that we aren’t talking about practice, but should this even come up as an issue, I know four year olds willing to go to basketball practice just to be where you are today. AI, just because you make more money than players like Rodney Stuckey, does not signify that you are a better player than him, and maybe if you went to practice, other players, and definitely yourself, would become better basketball players.
Second Base
Plaxico Burress. The wide out for the New York Giants is just filled with talent but lacks morals and being a good person. As the saying goes “Athletes should not be looked upon as role models,” has ever been brought to your attention, and you stopped an thought, “True,” well this story shouldn’t change your mind one bit. Plax has been benched and fined for insubordination numerous amounts of times, but this takes the cake. Burress was found in a night club, on the floor, with a leg wound, it appeared that someone had shot him. But the question still lingered, who could have done this dastardly deed? OH! That’s right! It was Plaxico, yeah, for some reason he thought it was a good idea to be in public with a loaded handgun. But at the end of the day, you ask yourself “Am I really surprised that this actually happened?” The answer will always remain as “No.”
Third Base
The Tennessee Titans. As Friday, fourth period rolls around and students in their Sports Literature class are giving inspirational speeches, Marc Brocato says the most absurd thing EVER. “Don‘t be surprised if the Lions beat the Titans, its going to be a close one, the Lions are good on Thanksgiving.” Well, Mr. Brocato, the Detroit Lions were actually going into that game with a .500 record and 2 ties on good ole Turkey Day. These Lions will go down as the worst NFL team, and Franchise, in history. After getting steam rolled by the Titans, 47-10, there is no game left on their four game schedule where you say to yourself, “Hey, they could win this game!” And am I the only one who was upset that they had to watch that game on Thanksgiving, Roger Goodell, that was a disgrace. Thanks for nothing NFL, ruining my Thanksgiving spirit, I can say one thing in all honesty and that is that I am not grateful for the Detroit Lions.
Home Plate
UNC. As Roy Williams and all of his returning players get prepared for this mental grind of a basketball season, you can’t help to notice that this team is dominant. It all starts with Tyler Hansborough, the guy is a beast down low and has been one of the top big men in the country since his freshmen year. With Deon Thompson by his side, there is no way this team will lose a single game. These two combined score a total of 36.3 PPG and average 13.1 bounds a game. But that’s not all they have, they have a returning point guard in Ty Lawson who averages 15 points per game and nearly 7 assists, Danny Green with 14 points 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Wayne Ellington with 14 PPG and Tyler Zeller with 10 PPG. There is not one defense in the entire country that can stop all of these weapons. This year the Duke vs. UNC rival is going to be at its best, this year it will be the ultimate shootout.
Starting out on first base is Allen Iverson. Allen is a guy with speed, and agility and can do whatever you need to be done, except when it comes to showing up to practice. Iverson, notorious for his 2001 press conference, later labeled as the “Practice Conference.” Allen, we understand that we aren’t talking about practice, but should this even come up as an issue, I know four year olds willing to go to basketball practice just to be where you are today. AI, just because you make more money than players like Rodney Stuckey, does not signify that you are a better player than him, and maybe if you went to practice, other players, and definitely yourself, would become better basketball players.
Second Base
Plaxico Burress. The wide out for the New York Giants is just filled with talent but lacks morals and being a good person. As the saying goes “Athletes should not be looked upon as role models,” has ever been brought to your attention, and you stopped an thought, “True,” well this story shouldn’t change your mind one bit. Plax has been benched and fined for insubordination numerous amounts of times, but this takes the cake. Burress was found in a night club, on the floor, with a leg wound, it appeared that someone had shot him. But the question still lingered, who could have done this dastardly deed? OH! That’s right! It was Plaxico, yeah, for some reason he thought it was a good idea to be in public with a loaded handgun. But at the end of the day, you ask yourself “Am I really surprised that this actually happened?” The answer will always remain as “No.”
Third Base
The Tennessee Titans. As Friday, fourth period rolls around and students in their Sports Literature class are giving inspirational speeches, Marc Brocato says the most absurd thing EVER. “Don‘t be surprised if the Lions beat the Titans, its going to be a close one, the Lions are good on Thanksgiving.” Well, Mr. Brocato, the Detroit Lions were actually going into that game with a .500 record and 2 ties on good ole Turkey Day. These Lions will go down as the worst NFL team, and Franchise, in history. After getting steam rolled by the Titans, 47-10, there is no game left on their four game schedule where you say to yourself, “Hey, they could win this game!” And am I the only one who was upset that they had to watch that game on Thanksgiving, Roger Goodell, that was a disgrace. Thanks for nothing NFL, ruining my Thanksgiving spirit, I can say one thing in all honesty and that is that I am not grateful for the Detroit Lions.
Home Plate
UNC. As Roy Williams and all of his returning players get prepared for this mental grind of a basketball season, you can’t help to notice that this team is dominant. It all starts with Tyler Hansborough, the guy is a beast down low and has been one of the top big men in the country since his freshmen year. With Deon Thompson by his side, there is no way this team will lose a single game. These two combined score a total of 36.3 PPG and average 13.1 bounds a game. But that’s not all they have, they have a returning point guard in Ty Lawson who averages 15 points per game and nearly 7 assists, Danny Green with 14 points 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Wayne Ellington with 14 PPG and Tyler Zeller with 10 PPG. There is not one defense in the entire country that can stop all of these weapons. This year the Duke vs. UNC rival is going to be at its best, this year it will be the ultimate shootout.
Inside My Head
What Were They Thinking?
National Football League – I know it is tradition to have the Lions and the Cowboys play on Thanksgivings every year, but is this really necessary? I have no problem seeing the Cowboys, but the Detroit Lions? They may be one of the worst franchises in the history of sports. Is it really necessary that you show this year in and year out on Thanksgiving Day? Not only did the Lions get demolished, but also they tried to cover up their dreadfulness with a halftime show that wasn’t even good.
Rick Astley – By performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Rick Rolling half of America, you basically put an end to the internet phenomenon that is Rick Roll. Secondly Rick, if you are going to perform, please don’t lip synch. It was pretty obvious that you weren’t really singing, and you didn’t seem all that into it. I expected more out of you Rick.
Green Bay Packers – I think we are far enough into the season to say that you made the wrong choice in letting Favre go and keeping Aaron Rodgers. Favre has led the Jets to an 8-3 record, while your quarterback has you in third place in one of football’s worst divisions. Also, you should think about telling him to get a hair cut. He’s beginning to resemble the Johnny Damon of old.
Antonio Pierce – Now Plaxico, you know that I could rip on you all day long, but instead I’m going to take some shots at you Antonio Pierce. I understand the whole helping out a teammate concept, but trying to hide his gun for him? That was probably not a good idea. Now you could get charged with some kind of infraction, and you could likely be in some legal trouble in the future. What exactly were you thinking?
Shoppers – I know that Black Friday is always the biggest day of the year for shopping and the biggest day for deals, but why in the world would anyone wake up at three o’ clock in the morning so that they can go to the mall and be bombarded by five hundred other shoppers? The word on the street is that JC Penney had a line all the way around the building into the street at four o’clock in the morning. Wouldn’t you just leave at that point? What is the point? Everything is going to be gone by the time you get into the store. What is wrong with you? On a lighter note, it was good for the economy.
Radio Stations – This is where I get really angry. Where do I even begin? Friday morning I was driving, listening to the radio. Every single station I turned on was playing Christmas music. I feel like the play it earlier and earlier every year. I don’t want to hear it right now. Just wait until the middle of December, and then you can play it all you want, I don’t care. Please just give me some time in between Thanksgiving and Christmas though, that’s all I’m asking.
LeBron James – I am going to have to agree with Charles Barkley here. Why do you feel the need to talk about where you are going to sign in two years? It is two years away. You are disrespecting your team and the NBA by doing this. You don’t have to hype up yourself. We know you are good. Just shut up and play basketball. If you want to go overseas to play in a few years, be my guest, but good luck acquiring the same amount of fame you have now.
2008 Turkeys of the Year – There’s a lot of people I could give this award to, but only a few who really deserve it. Let’s start off with some college coaches. Rich Rodriguez, congratulations! You have successfully lead Michigan to there worst season ever, and have made them the laughing stock of College Football. Charlie Weis, why did you ever leave the Patriots? You have turned the most celebrated College Football team into one of the worst College Football Teams. Great job. I think Chad Johnson and Roger Clemens also deserve a shout out for this award.
High School Football – Why is it that many high school football games are now played on the eve of Thanksgiving? This is just not right. You play on Thanksgiving Day. That is the way it should be.
Plaxico Burress – You just know I had to come back to you. Wow, did you really shoot yourself in the leg. Not only were you dumb enough to carry a gun, but you were dumb enough to shoot your own self. I feel bad saying this, but you deserve to be injured and suspended. What were you thinking?
What to Watch For:
Two big games in the NFL: Giants vs. Redskins – will have a major effect on the NFC East. Patriots vs. Steelers – will show if the Steelers are really as good as they seem.
The downfall of Barry Bonds: Bonds’ drug test results could be made public sometime soon, which could ultimately be a deciding factor in his perjury case.
Big day in college hoops on Sunday when ten top 25 teams will play.
The Oklahoma City Thunder could potentially lose their fifteenth straight game when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies tonight.
Watch for idiots that buy their Christmas trees immediately after Thanksgiving.
Hopefully, we will see some snowfall sometime soon.
See how the Giants fare without gunshot wounded Plaxico Burress.
Watch for Andy Pettite to possibly reunite with Joe Torre in Los Angeles.Keep track on the race for C.C. Sabathia.
National Football League – I know it is tradition to have the Lions and the Cowboys play on Thanksgivings every year, but is this really necessary? I have no problem seeing the Cowboys, but the Detroit Lions? They may be one of the worst franchises in the history of sports. Is it really necessary that you show this year in and year out on Thanksgiving Day? Not only did the Lions get demolished, but also they tried to cover up their dreadfulness with a halftime show that wasn’t even good.
Rick Astley – By performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Rick Rolling half of America, you basically put an end to the internet phenomenon that is Rick Roll. Secondly Rick, if you are going to perform, please don’t lip synch. It was pretty obvious that you weren’t really singing, and you didn’t seem all that into it. I expected more out of you Rick.
Green Bay Packers – I think we are far enough into the season to say that you made the wrong choice in letting Favre go and keeping Aaron Rodgers. Favre has led the Jets to an 8-3 record, while your quarterback has you in third place in one of football’s worst divisions. Also, you should think about telling him to get a hair cut. He’s beginning to resemble the Johnny Damon of old.
Antonio Pierce – Now Plaxico, you know that I could rip on you all day long, but instead I’m going to take some shots at you Antonio Pierce. I understand the whole helping out a teammate concept, but trying to hide his gun for him? That was probably not a good idea. Now you could get charged with some kind of infraction, and you could likely be in some legal trouble in the future. What exactly were you thinking?
Shoppers – I know that Black Friday is always the biggest day of the year for shopping and the biggest day for deals, but why in the world would anyone wake up at three o’ clock in the morning so that they can go to the mall and be bombarded by five hundred other shoppers? The word on the street is that JC Penney had a line all the way around the building into the street at four o’clock in the morning. Wouldn’t you just leave at that point? What is the point? Everything is going to be gone by the time you get into the store. What is wrong with you? On a lighter note, it was good for the economy.
Radio Stations – This is where I get really angry. Where do I even begin? Friday morning I was driving, listening to the radio. Every single station I turned on was playing Christmas music. I feel like the play it earlier and earlier every year. I don’t want to hear it right now. Just wait until the middle of December, and then you can play it all you want, I don’t care. Please just give me some time in between Thanksgiving and Christmas though, that’s all I’m asking.
LeBron James – I am going to have to agree with Charles Barkley here. Why do you feel the need to talk about where you are going to sign in two years? It is two years away. You are disrespecting your team and the NBA by doing this. You don’t have to hype up yourself. We know you are good. Just shut up and play basketball. If you want to go overseas to play in a few years, be my guest, but good luck acquiring the same amount of fame you have now.
2008 Turkeys of the Year – There’s a lot of people I could give this award to, but only a few who really deserve it. Let’s start off with some college coaches. Rich Rodriguez, congratulations! You have successfully lead Michigan to there worst season ever, and have made them the laughing stock of College Football. Charlie Weis, why did you ever leave the Patriots? You have turned the most celebrated College Football team into one of the worst College Football Teams. Great job. I think Chad Johnson and Roger Clemens also deserve a shout out for this award.
High School Football – Why is it that many high school football games are now played on the eve of Thanksgiving? This is just not right. You play on Thanksgiving Day. That is the way it should be.
Plaxico Burress – You just know I had to come back to you. Wow, did you really shoot yourself in the leg. Not only were you dumb enough to carry a gun, but you were dumb enough to shoot your own self. I feel bad saying this, but you deserve to be injured and suspended. What were you thinking?
What to Watch For:
Two big games in the NFL: Giants vs. Redskins – will have a major effect on the NFC East. Patriots vs. Steelers – will show if the Steelers are really as good as they seem.
The downfall of Barry Bonds: Bonds’ drug test results could be made public sometime soon, which could ultimately be a deciding factor in his perjury case.
Big day in college hoops on Sunday when ten top 25 teams will play.
The Oklahoma City Thunder could potentially lose their fifteenth straight game when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies tonight.
Watch for idiots that buy their Christmas trees immediately after Thanksgiving.
Hopefully, we will see some snowfall sometime soon.
See how the Giants fare without gunshot wounded Plaxico Burress.
Watch for Andy Pettite to possibly reunite with Joe Torre in Los Angeles.Keep track on the race for C.C. Sabathia.
Hidden Answers
The answers for all the questions that everybody asks but nobody knows
The Question
Why Brazilians soccer players sign contracts with European soccer teams such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, A.C. Milan and Chelsea? And why they play way better there than on FIFA World Cup when they play for Brazil?
The Answer
Let's compare the soccer clubs in Brazil and in Europe first. There is many differences between the Brazilian and the European culture on the sport, on the professionalism, and in the way that each one treats their players. Those differences make the Brazilians players dream about being on European soccer teams.
Even they have the “Best player” title the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) and great Brazilians teams can't keep their players playing on Brazil. Almost all the Brazilians players are playing for European teams right now.
“The European soccer is way more organized [then Brazilian], and we have the opportunity to learn and get more experience in foreign countries, and mostly, they pay more.” Said Kaka, a famous Brazilian soccer player who plays for the Italian club A.C. Milan, on an interview. “the club directors and the club president in Brazil usually don't have any compromise for the club directly, so they just care about their own interests. Here in Italy the presidents usually own the club, in other words they are more honest, because they are dealing with their own money. Here they just choose reliable people to hire in important jobs. They are more professional then the Brazilians teams, once they care about about the team in all of the aspects.”
Some Brazilian soccer fans say that those players who go to foreign countries to play soccer are traitors and that they are selling themselves just because they are leaving their country, but if you think about, everybody would do the same think, I bet that if you worked in Burger king and McDonald's offered to you a better salary and conditions you would work there, right? That is what happen with the players in Brazil, they just get a better job offer.
Now we are going to look at the way that Brazil is playing. On their last two games for FIFA World Cup tryouts, Brazil didn't score a single goal and the games ended in a tie letting Brazil on second place now. There are four berths, for the South American Countries, to the FIFA World Cup and Brazil is only behind of Paraguay, followed in third place for Argentina, and the last one is Chile. On their last game against Colombia, that over 0x0, Robinho said: “Lacked quality, we couldn't create [new moves] and the game ended tied. I hope play better on the game against Chelsea (English Cup)”.
No doubt, the reason for the way that Brazil is playing now is their “brand” new coach, Dunga never was a coach before he started to train the Brazilians players, he was just an old soccer player who played on a FIFA World Cup for Brazil, but just that, he has no experience in managing a team. The only players that he choose is the media famous players, those who era on TV all the time, and magazines praises, as he said in a interview: “The best players of the Brasileirao (the major Brazilian national cup) are probably not being convened for the FIFA World Cup, and I will call them just when they go to Europe.”
That means the players just play for Brazil when they shine on an European club, they got the “best of the world” title over their heads, making difficult to make a great teamwork as they do on their club. The last games that I saw they had a hard time to pass through the Mexican defense, because there was just 2 people going to attack and they almost never passed the ball for each other, as on the 2006 FIFA World Cup, they couldn't make any pass right, and there was always 2 or 3 players on the attack against 5 or 6 player for other team protecting the goal, and some players as Robinho never passed a ball to other player, he always tried to make the goal by himself and was very hard to him make a goal.
By Eduardo Watzko 11-29-08
The Question
Why Brazilians soccer players sign contracts with European soccer teams such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, A.C. Milan and Chelsea? And why they play way better there than on FIFA World Cup when they play for Brazil?
The Answer
Let's compare the soccer clubs in Brazil and in Europe first. There is many differences between the Brazilian and the European culture on the sport, on the professionalism, and in the way that each one treats their players. Those differences make the Brazilians players dream about being on European soccer teams.
Even they have the “Best player” title the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) and great Brazilians teams can't keep their players playing on Brazil. Almost all the Brazilians players are playing for European teams right now.
“The European soccer is way more organized [then Brazilian], and we have the opportunity to learn and get more experience in foreign countries, and mostly, they pay more.” Said Kaka, a famous Brazilian soccer player who plays for the Italian club A.C. Milan, on an interview. “the club directors and the club president in Brazil usually don't have any compromise for the club directly, so they just care about their own interests. Here in Italy the presidents usually own the club, in other words they are more honest, because they are dealing with their own money. Here they just choose reliable people to hire in important jobs. They are more professional then the Brazilians teams, once they care about about the team in all of the aspects.”
Some Brazilian soccer fans say that those players who go to foreign countries to play soccer are traitors and that they are selling themselves just because they are leaving their country, but if you think about, everybody would do the same think, I bet that if you worked in Burger king and McDonald's offered to you a better salary and conditions you would work there, right? That is what happen with the players in Brazil, they just get a better job offer.
Now we are going to look at the way that Brazil is playing. On their last two games for FIFA World Cup tryouts, Brazil didn't score a single goal and the games ended in a tie letting Brazil on second place now. There are four berths, for the South American Countries, to the FIFA World Cup and Brazil is only behind of Paraguay, followed in third place for Argentina, and the last one is Chile. On their last game against Colombia, that over 0x0, Robinho said: “Lacked quality, we couldn't create [new moves] and the game ended tied. I hope play better on the game against Chelsea (English Cup)”.
No doubt, the reason for the way that Brazil is playing now is their “brand” new coach, Dunga never was a coach before he started to train the Brazilians players, he was just an old soccer player who played on a FIFA World Cup for Brazil, but just that, he has no experience in managing a team. The only players that he choose is the media famous players, those who era on TV all the time, and magazines praises, as he said in a interview: “The best players of the Brasileirao (the major Brazilian national cup) are probably not being convened for the FIFA World Cup, and I will call them just when they go to Europe.”
That means the players just play for Brazil when they shine on an European club, they got the “best of the world” title over their heads, making difficult to make a great teamwork as they do on their club. The last games that I saw they had a hard time to pass through the Mexican defense, because there was just 2 people going to attack and they almost never passed the ball for each other, as on the 2006 FIFA World Cup, they couldn't make any pass right, and there was always 2 or 3 players on the attack against 5 or 6 player for other team protecting the goal, and some players as Robinho never passed a ball to other player, he always tried to make the goal by himself and was very hard to him make a goal.
By Eduardo Watzko 11-29-08
IS TENNIS BETTER THAN TABLE TENNIS?
Erik Wolk
Sports literature
Mr. Brocato
11.29.2008
What’s random
Hello people, so this is the second weekly column for SI and, the last time I talked about running competitions, this time I will talk about the things that you can see in the headline, obviously. So, the only thing I can say is, you can either love it or you can hate it, and if you hate it, I can just say: grow up.
You know, I am a busy man and if someone else tells me I can’t afford to play tennis, I can’t do anything. I am talking about money, ladies and gentlemen. It is too expensive to play tennis in winter. But I write this article to compare table tennis and tennis in terms of expensiveness and how some people like it or not.
“I like playing tennis especially and sometimes play ping pong, too. But I hate when people say it is the same. It is not. It is different about the grip. In tennis you have to hold the racket hard, but in table tennis it is easy,” said Nikol Kovarova, a student in the Czech republic. I can just fully agree with that quote. It is obvious that some people think about it as a stereotype. Know what I mean? Every sport is different, every single one, in its way.
Tennis is much more famous than table tennis and I wonder why. More people like to talk about professional tennis in America, Europe, Asia, just everywhere. It is also more played, it is more watched on television, for instance in the Olympics. But no one tells why it is more famous or better. Why are people more interested in Nadal than the Chinese players which can play table tennis on an extremely high level?
If you look at the very professional table tennis players, like Lin Ma or Timo Boll, who is a German ping pong champion, who learned how to play “Chinese” table tennis in China, you would see why I am writing about ping pong. They stay like a mile behind the table and hit the small white ball so hard and fast that nobody can even see it. So fast it is and you know that people, I am sure you already saw table tennis many times in the Olympics, which is just once in four years, but who cares? I want you to understand that table tennis is an awesome and unique game, exactly as tennis is too.
I am a huge fan of tennis and table tennis too, I actually love every sport, but these two sports are my favorite and sometimes it is really a pain for the wrist to change these two games. It is to be considered that people maybe like tennis more because of more movement. Some people think that ping pong is boring, because they just stand on the spot. But the joke is, you have to move a lot at the table if you really understand how to play it competitively. I know that, because I paly both games competitively.
I admit that I like tennis better as many people in other countries in the world, but not because people talk about it more, but because I do what I want, right? The best Czech tennis player is Tomas Berdych right now, in table tennis I have no idea who the favorite Czech is. Maybe me? Kidding. But if I am considered to represent my country, I stand behind the opinions I say in this article.
Do you know Marat Safin, the Russian tennis hero? He is actually a big party man too, nobody knew it, huh? He said at ESPN he wants to retire after the loss in Paris, what a bummer. He is not allowed to give up,ok? Just tell him that, if you can. I appreciate it.
Tennis and ping pong are both games where professional players use their mind a lot, too. If you look at Nadal, who looks on the court as a Rambo killer with the strength of Schwarznegger and on the street he is a shy girl. What I mean, tennis is deceptive overall. The players sometimes too.
So, I hope you rather liked it today because if not…. Whatever. I can’t do anything except writing so it is the way it is. Another article will obviously appear next week, otherwise it wouldn’t be a weekly column, right?
Sports literature
Mr. Brocato
11.29.2008
What’s random
Hello people, so this is the second weekly column for SI and, the last time I talked about running competitions, this time I will talk about the things that you can see in the headline, obviously. So, the only thing I can say is, you can either love it or you can hate it, and if you hate it, I can just say: grow up.
You know, I am a busy man and if someone else tells me I can’t afford to play tennis, I can’t do anything. I am talking about money, ladies and gentlemen. It is too expensive to play tennis in winter. But I write this article to compare table tennis and tennis in terms of expensiveness and how some people like it or not.
“I like playing tennis especially and sometimes play ping pong, too. But I hate when people say it is the same. It is not. It is different about the grip. In tennis you have to hold the racket hard, but in table tennis it is easy,” said Nikol Kovarova, a student in the Czech republic. I can just fully agree with that quote. It is obvious that some people think about it as a stereotype. Know what I mean? Every sport is different, every single one, in its way.
Tennis is much more famous than table tennis and I wonder why. More people like to talk about professional tennis in America, Europe, Asia, just everywhere. It is also more played, it is more watched on television, for instance in the Olympics. But no one tells why it is more famous or better. Why are people more interested in Nadal than the Chinese players which can play table tennis on an extremely high level?
If you look at the very professional table tennis players, like Lin Ma or Timo Boll, who is a German ping pong champion, who learned how to play “Chinese” table tennis in China, you would see why I am writing about ping pong. They stay like a mile behind the table and hit the small white ball so hard and fast that nobody can even see it. So fast it is and you know that people, I am sure you already saw table tennis many times in the Olympics, which is just once in four years, but who cares? I want you to understand that table tennis is an awesome and unique game, exactly as tennis is too.
I am a huge fan of tennis and table tennis too, I actually love every sport, but these two sports are my favorite and sometimes it is really a pain for the wrist to change these two games. It is to be considered that people maybe like tennis more because of more movement. Some people think that ping pong is boring, because they just stand on the spot. But the joke is, you have to move a lot at the table if you really understand how to play it competitively. I know that, because I paly both games competitively.
I admit that I like tennis better as many people in other countries in the world, but not because people talk about it more, but because I do what I want, right? The best Czech tennis player is Tomas Berdych right now, in table tennis I have no idea who the favorite Czech is. Maybe me? Kidding. But if I am considered to represent my country, I stand behind the opinions I say in this article.
Do you know Marat Safin, the Russian tennis hero? He is actually a big party man too, nobody knew it, huh? He said at ESPN he wants to retire after the loss in Paris, what a bummer. He is not allowed to give up,ok? Just tell him that, if you can. I appreciate it.
Tennis and ping pong are both games where professional players use their mind a lot, too. If you look at Nadal, who looks on the court as a Rambo killer with the strength of Schwarznegger and on the street he is a shy girl. What I mean, tennis is deceptive overall. The players sometimes too.
So, I hope you rather liked it today because if not…. Whatever. I can’t do anything except writing so it is the way it is. Another article will obviously appear next week, otherwise it wouldn’t be a weekly column, right?
Hallworth's Doghouse
The first bad dog this week is former Atlanta Falcon quarterback Michael Vick. He pleaded guilty to state charges of dogfighting and animal cruelty. He is currently serving a 23 month sentence in Leavenworth, Kansas for a federal conspiracy charge. After that, he is going to serve a three year sentence and probation. Vick told the judge: "I want to apologize to the court, my family, and to all the kids who looked up to me as a role model". This is good that he realized he made a mistake, especially being a role model. (I think he might have received some hate mail.) However, it is horrible that Vick treats animals this way by using them to earn money. The dogs have feelings to. He definitely deserves to go to jail. Hopefully, he will learn from this mistake.
The second person belonging in my doghouse this week is the Indiana University's men's basketball head coach Kelvin Sampson. He made more than 100 impermissible calls to recruits. Just because he thinks he is better than anyone else doesn't mean he deserves to call recruits whenever he wants. It is called CHEATING! Sampson needs to grow up and follow the rules. I think he could wait a couple of days to call any recruit. Patience is a virtue.
The next group of dogs in my house are San Francisco Giant Barry Bonds and other steroid users. Kudos to US District Judge Susan Illston for signing an order that allows prosecutors to share grand jury transcripts, medical lab reports, and search warrant affidavits with the opposing lawyers. It is a disgrace to sports that people take steroids. Here we have another example of CHEATING. It is unfair to athletes who are determined and put a lot of effort into their sport. If the reason a person is using performance enhancing drugs is because the athlete is too old and can not keep up with the younger athletes, then retire. You have enough money as it is.
The next two dogs are New England Patriot Matt Light and Miami Dolphin Channing Crowder. They got into a fist fight at their game on Sunday. The Patriots beat the Dolphins 48 to 28. (Hooray!) Both were fined $15,000 with no suspension. (Thank goodness! Matt Cassel will need Light.) That is sad that two grown men have a cat fight in a middle of a game. Don't be idiots. Solve it with words, not actions. Grow up! This is supposed to be professional football, not little league. Men: tsk, tsk.
The next dog goes to Saint Louis Rams' coach Jim Haslett. He was fined $20,000 for walking onto the field and swearing at officials. The Rams beat the San Francisco 49ers 35 to 16. Here we have another idiot because he did not need to swear when they were already winning. Just because things are not going you're way, doesn't mean you need to call attention to yourself. Again, grow up! Plus, little children watch football as well. So be a good role model by not being a jerk!
For Your Entertainment:
The final two dogs in my house are a 38-year-old woman and 26-year-old man. They were having sex in a bathroom stall during a college game in Iowa. Both were intoxicated and the woman was returned to her husband, while the man was returned to his girlfriend. Oddly enough, there was a crowd watching. This is funny and stupid at the same time. First of all, she was married and second of all, they were drunk. This shows what alcohol can do to you! So never do this at home or at all! Warning: This drink can cause loss of judgement and can result in death!
The second person belonging in my doghouse this week is the Indiana University's men's basketball head coach Kelvin Sampson. He made more than 100 impermissible calls to recruits. Just because he thinks he is better than anyone else doesn't mean he deserves to call recruits whenever he wants. It is called CHEATING! Sampson needs to grow up and follow the rules. I think he could wait a couple of days to call any recruit. Patience is a virtue.
The next group of dogs in my house are San Francisco Giant Barry Bonds and other steroid users. Kudos to US District Judge Susan Illston for signing an order that allows prosecutors to share grand jury transcripts, medical lab reports, and search warrant affidavits with the opposing lawyers. It is a disgrace to sports that people take steroids. Here we have another example of CHEATING. It is unfair to athletes who are determined and put a lot of effort into their sport. If the reason a person is using performance enhancing drugs is because the athlete is too old and can not keep up with the younger athletes, then retire. You have enough money as it is.
The next two dogs are New England Patriot Matt Light and Miami Dolphin Channing Crowder. They got into a fist fight at their game on Sunday. The Patriots beat the Dolphins 48 to 28. (Hooray!) Both were fined $15,000 with no suspension. (Thank goodness! Matt Cassel will need Light.) That is sad that two grown men have a cat fight in a middle of a game. Don't be idiots. Solve it with words, not actions. Grow up! This is supposed to be professional football, not little league. Men: tsk, tsk.
The next dog goes to Saint Louis Rams' coach Jim Haslett. He was fined $20,000 for walking onto the field and swearing at officials. The Rams beat the San Francisco 49ers 35 to 16. Here we have another idiot because he did not need to swear when they were already winning. Just because things are not going you're way, doesn't mean you need to call attention to yourself. Again, grow up! Plus, little children watch football as well. So be a good role model by not being a jerk!
For Your Entertainment:
The final two dogs in my house are a 38-year-old woman and 26-year-old man. They were having sex in a bathroom stall during a college game in Iowa. Both were intoxicated and the woman was returned to her husband, while the man was returned to his girlfriend. Oddly enough, there was a crowd watching. This is funny and stupid at the same time. First of all, she was married and second of all, they were drunk. This shows what alcohol can do to you! So never do this at home or at all! Warning: This drink can cause loss of judgement and can result in death!
4 quarters of whos still hot and whos going to make playoffs
1st Quarter: well guys we have an interesting topic to talk about today, who is staying hot in the AFC. in the AFC we have a few teams who are going to be successful. first we have the titans who lost against the jets to end there undefeated season. but on thanksgiving the dominated the lions and pulled away with another victory bringing them to a record of 11-1. next we have the jets. right now they are just hard to beat they are on a big winning streak and if they continue they will be in the playoffs for sure. next we have the patriots. they have been playing good solid football especially there QB Matt Cassel. if they play good and not commit faulty penalties they will get a spot in the playoffs. almost to the end of the qauter we have the steelers. they are doing something right because they one of the best records in the afc. and the colts and ravens are at 7-4. the ravens are playing there best ball right now and the colts are trying to come back from a loust peformance in the begining of the year.
2nd Quarter: in the afc we have the giants now standing at 10-1. they are definatly going to make playoffs because no one is beating them and there going to stay that way unless someone steps up big. next we have the cowboys. since romo has been back they have been winning and if they keep winning they will get a spot for playoffs. now we have the cardinals standind at 7-5. they are the best in there division so they will get in. next we have the panthers and bucs at a record of 8-3. they kepp winning so they will have a good chance for playoffs.
3rd Quarter: Now its after halftime getting into playoff talk. lets talk about afc probables for playoffs. at this point in the season im liking the titans and jets for wildcard. there going to get them spots because they are playing good hard aggresive football right now. locking up the other playoff spots are the patriots, steelers, ravens and colts. these teams are playing good right now to and they are going to be hard to stop at this point in the season. the AFC will have an interesting post season.
4th Quarter: we are toward the end of the game and all we have left to talk about is NfC probables for playoffs. clinching the wild card spots are the Giants and the panthers. they going to clinch wild ard because the giants are already hard to stop right now and the panthers are going to beat the bucs for the spot in the division and wild card. getting the other spots will be the cowboys, buccaneers, cardinals and the redskins. they are the other teams with the best records in the NFC so they will get them spots. the NFC will also be a good postseason to watch. now its the end of the game so thanks for reading in tune in next week.
2nd Quarter: in the afc we have the giants now standing at 10-1. they are definatly going to make playoffs because no one is beating them and there going to stay that way unless someone steps up big. next we have the cowboys. since romo has been back they have been winning and if they keep winning they will get a spot for playoffs. now we have the cardinals standind at 7-5. they are the best in there division so they will get in. next we have the panthers and bucs at a record of 8-3. they kepp winning so they will have a good chance for playoffs.
3rd Quarter: Now its after halftime getting into playoff talk. lets talk about afc probables for playoffs. at this point in the season im liking the titans and jets for wildcard. there going to get them spots because they are playing good hard aggresive football right now. locking up the other playoff spots are the patriots, steelers, ravens and colts. these teams are playing good right now to and they are going to be hard to stop at this point in the season. the AFC will have an interesting post season.
4th Quarter: we are toward the end of the game and all we have left to talk about is NfC probables for playoffs. clinching the wild card spots are the Giants and the panthers. they going to clinch wild ard because the giants are already hard to stop right now and the panthers are going to beat the bucs for the spot in the division and wild card. getting the other spots will be the cowboys, buccaneers, cardinals and the redskins. they are the other teams with the best records in the NFC so they will get them spots. the NFC will also be a good postseason to watch. now its the end of the game so thanks for reading in tune in next week.
Get a KICK out of this!
Get A KICK Out Of This!
By: Jen Bannon
Inside the Locker Room at East Greenwich High School:
What drama or “good stuff” could be going around at East Greenwich High School? With basketball season about to start many girls are unsure if they would like to play this year? Could it be because of the new coach or the rules he is setting? Who knows, but the thing that is known is that many girls still do not know if they want to play. Already three girls that played last year have said I am not playing. Two starters are questionable when tryouts are Monday at 4:30. Having practice every day of the week including Saturday and Sundays are a big strain on all of the girls especially the ones in their senior year. Is that right to do? Having practice everyday of the week two hours a day is way to much. That is a big reason pushing many girls away from playing basketball. But is that right to do? Make a high school sport that much of a commitment?
Penalty Shot for the Bad Boy of the Week:
The week for bad boys has been a little quite until Stephon Marbury dribbled into trouble. It was alleged that he refused to play Wednesday night against the Detroit Pistons. Marbury was suspended without pay for Saturday's game against Golden State and was also fined 1/110th of his salary for his actions in Detroit, meaning his penalty amounts to almost $400,000 of his $20.84 million salary for this season. Too many Americans that seems like a huge amount of money to be fined but to someone who makes 20.84 million playing basketball, it is nothing.
MVP of the Week:
Many people may say “Who is that” and others may say “He is so good” but who really knows? Someone who has been under the radar has now surfaced. For anyone who knows the Arizona Cardinals, knows Tim Hightower. It comes as no surprise the rookie is making an impact in his first year. Are the rookies the ones that actually have something to play for? Or could it be because they have not got caught in the big bucks yet? This man is different. He has proven to be an impact player almost at every stop on and off the field. On the field at high school Hightower led the team in rushing with 927 yards and 10 touchdowns. He earned All-Interstate Athletic Conference honors and was voted team MVP by his teammates after the season. Off the field he quickly impressed his fellow students and was named Student Leader for his senior year by his schoolmates. Tim Hightower has become an integral part of the Cardinals' on top offense and will help them for in games to come. What a remarkable man that has many more years of football to come.
The Goal of the Week:
On the field, the Cardinals were putting the final touches on a 45-22 waxing of Western Michigan that covered a 12-0 regular season and the Mid-American Conference West Division title. "I've watched them suck every year," the talking panda said. "Finally, a winning season my senior year. An undefeated season. It's awesome." Who could ask for anything more? A team that was on no one’s radar is now sitting on top undefeated! This team in running on true determination and heart, winning the games that are put in front of them. That is what a true team does. They do not need all of the glory or attention.
Red Card of the Week:
New York Giants star wide receiver Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg Friday, according to multiple media reports. Wait what? Who shoots themselves? Burress was hospitalized with gunshot injuries Friday night that were not believed to be life-threatening, FOX Sports.com reported Saturday. Burress has not practice all week due to an ailing hamstring and already had been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins. Only a football player could get away with this one.
Center Circle:
The behind the scene understood unwritten rule has to be for this years teams is that it doesn’t matter if you are ranked or not, a team can beat you regardless. Being unranked has helped motivate Baylor achieve its best start in eight years. LaceDarius Dunn scored 27 points, Curtis Jerrells had 22 points and Baylor repelled a late rally to beat No. 14 Arizona State 87-78 Friday night at the 76 Classic. Baylor will play No. 19 Wake Forest for the championship Sunday. That will not intimidate them at all though. They will be up to the challenge.
Annoying Fan of the Week:
This week I was sitting in class and I could hear this chomping of nasty “something”. Trying to pay attention to what the teacher has to say I could not get over the annoying noise in my ear. It was the annoying noise of someone chomping on their hour old gum. They were trying to suck out all of the juice that was not their anymore! I could not stand it. Thank god the bell rang. Note to self: DON’T CHEW YOUR GUM LIKE A COW.
By: Jen Bannon
Inside the Locker Room at East Greenwich High School:
What drama or “good stuff” could be going around at East Greenwich High School? With basketball season about to start many girls are unsure if they would like to play this year? Could it be because of the new coach or the rules he is setting? Who knows, but the thing that is known is that many girls still do not know if they want to play. Already three girls that played last year have said I am not playing. Two starters are questionable when tryouts are Monday at 4:30. Having practice every day of the week including Saturday and Sundays are a big strain on all of the girls especially the ones in their senior year. Is that right to do? Having practice everyday of the week two hours a day is way to much. That is a big reason pushing many girls away from playing basketball. But is that right to do? Make a high school sport that much of a commitment?
Penalty Shot for the Bad Boy of the Week:
The week for bad boys has been a little quite until Stephon Marbury dribbled into trouble. It was alleged that he refused to play Wednesday night against the Detroit Pistons. Marbury was suspended without pay for Saturday's game against Golden State and was also fined 1/110th of his salary for his actions in Detroit, meaning his penalty amounts to almost $400,000 of his $20.84 million salary for this season. Too many Americans that seems like a huge amount of money to be fined but to someone who makes 20.84 million playing basketball, it is nothing.
MVP of the Week:
Many people may say “Who is that” and others may say “He is so good” but who really knows? Someone who has been under the radar has now surfaced. For anyone who knows the Arizona Cardinals, knows Tim Hightower. It comes as no surprise the rookie is making an impact in his first year. Are the rookies the ones that actually have something to play for? Or could it be because they have not got caught in the big bucks yet? This man is different. He has proven to be an impact player almost at every stop on and off the field. On the field at high school Hightower led the team in rushing with 927 yards and 10 touchdowns. He earned All-Interstate Athletic Conference honors and was voted team MVP by his teammates after the season. Off the field he quickly impressed his fellow students and was named Student Leader for his senior year by his schoolmates. Tim Hightower has become an integral part of the Cardinals' on top offense and will help them for in games to come. What a remarkable man that has many more years of football to come.
The Goal of the Week:
On the field, the Cardinals were putting the final touches on a 45-22 waxing of Western Michigan that covered a 12-0 regular season and the Mid-American Conference West Division title. "I've watched them suck every year," the talking panda said. "Finally, a winning season my senior year. An undefeated season. It's awesome." Who could ask for anything more? A team that was on no one’s radar is now sitting on top undefeated! This team in running on true determination and heart, winning the games that are put in front of them. That is what a true team does. They do not need all of the glory or attention.
Red Card of the Week:
New York Giants star wide receiver Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg Friday, according to multiple media reports. Wait what? Who shoots themselves? Burress was hospitalized with gunshot injuries Friday night that were not believed to be life-threatening, FOX Sports.com reported Saturday. Burress has not practice all week due to an ailing hamstring and already had been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins. Only a football player could get away with this one.
Center Circle:
The behind the scene understood unwritten rule has to be for this years teams is that it doesn’t matter if you are ranked or not, a team can beat you regardless. Being unranked has helped motivate Baylor achieve its best start in eight years. LaceDarius Dunn scored 27 points, Curtis Jerrells had 22 points and Baylor repelled a late rally to beat No. 14 Arizona State 87-78 Friday night at the 76 Classic. Baylor will play No. 19 Wake Forest for the championship Sunday. That will not intimidate them at all though. They will be up to the challenge.
Annoying Fan of the Week:
This week I was sitting in class and I could hear this chomping of nasty “something”. Trying to pay attention to what the teacher has to say I could not get over the annoying noise in my ear. It was the annoying noise of someone chomping on their hour old gum. They were trying to suck out all of the juice that was not their anymore! I could not stand it. Thank god the bell rang. Note to self: DON’T CHEW YOUR GUM LIKE A COW.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Big 12, David Garrard, Tim Thomas and Detroit Automakers Top This Week's Four Quarters
Quarter I: Big 12 South Situation Promotes Need for a Playoff System
Another seasons another potential BCS mess. This time it’s with three teams in the same division in the same conference. Three teams Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech have the potential if all three teams win this weekend to be tied atop the big twelve standings. Guess what the tiebreaker is? The BCS standings, which make things particularly interesting since Oklahoma, beat Texas Tech, which beat Texas, which beat Oklahoma. If this scenario comes to pass (likely because only Oklahoma has a difficult game this week) it will leave a sticky situation to say the least. One of these three teams will likely get to play for the national title, another will likely get a bid to another BCS game and the third well good luck because that team will play in the toilet bowl on some random date. This among other reasons reinforces the need for a playoff system. With a playoff all three of these teams will be rewarded for their successes and teams like the ACC champion would not be rewarded for their mediocre play. The only thing stopping this quantity of common sense is the presidents of the major conferences. The simply look out for their bottom line rather than promotes what could be an intense and story filled tournament style playoff that occurs in basketball. Hopefully, all three of these teams win this weekend so things will get so screwed up that the leaders of these major conferences will come to their senses and create a playoff system.
Quarter II: David Garrard Tops This Week’s Worst Persons
3. Channing Crowder, Miami Dolphins for his trash talking an instigating at the end of last Sunday’s game against the Patriots. Look Mr. Crowder its one thing to trash talk but its simply inexcusable to include any family references. Adding insult to injury is the fact that Miami was losing. As veteran in this league Mr. Crowder you should know better.
2. Ryan O’Byrne, Montreal Canadians for his own goal in Monday’s game against the Islanders. Ryan the goal of the game is to prevent goals on your own goalie not to provide them.
1. David Garrard, Jacksonville Jaguars for his inexcusable lack of hustle in last week’s game. Garrard was lined up in the shotgun and a miss communication occurred which led to a botched snap. One would think that Garrard would pounce on the fumbled football but no he just stood there with his hands on his hips. Mr. Garrard you are the quarterback of the ingle most disappointing team in the NFL and in a game that is must win for you simply stand there when the ball is fumbled: Amazing. David Garrard, This week’s worst person in the world.
Quarter III: Tim Thomas Tops This Week’s Best Persons
3. Matt Cassel, New England Patriots for his second consecutive 400-yard performance. All I know is the Patriots offense is getting into gear, which is scary news for the rest of the NFL.
2. Donnie Walsh, New York Knicks GM for his shrewd moves that have New York in a position to eventually exit the salary cap hell that Isaiah Thomas put them in: something that was not seen as possible just a season ago.
1. Tim Thomas, Goaltender Boston Bruins for continuing to be the goaltender that could and leading the Bruins to their surprising first place start. Thomas leads the league in Save Percentage and Goals Against Average. Not bad for a career journeyman. Tim Thomas, this week’s best person in the world.
Quarter IV: Game of the Week: New Jersey Nets – Toronto Raptors
This game was a classic in all senses of the world. It had two superstars dueling in Vince Carter and Chris Bosh. It had a remarkable comeback by New Jersey in second half after being down as many as eighteen. The final ingredient was a dagger game winning three pointer by Carter to stick it to his former fans in Toronto. This game had every ingredient of a classic and the fact that sports nation was treated to it so early in the NBA season is good news for the NBA this year.
Overtime: 10 Random Pieces of Sports Knowledge
10. Northwestern is only major conference school not to make the NCAA tournament
9. Eddie Jordon is the second NBA coach to be fired this week.
8. GM has ended its several yearlong endorsement deal with Tiger Woods
7. Spain won the David Cup in tennis last weekend event with out Rafa Nadal
6. The Red Sox continue their search for far eastern pitching talent with an offer to 22-year-old Junichi Tazawa
5. Another week another 400 yard passing performance for Matt Cassel
4. Ex MLB star Tim Raines has been hired to manage the Newark Bears
3. Speaking of Baseball postseason games must be nine innings from now on
2. Donovan McNabb still has his starting job at least for now
1. Nothing says Thanksgiving weekend more than Football and NCAA basketball but the Lions have a chance to go 0-12
Double Overtime: Detroit Automakers Lack Common Sense
A lot of news has been made in recent days of the controversial bailout of the Auto Industry. Whether you support it or not, Detroit clearly hasn’t heard of the term style over substance. When you are trying to beg the taxpayer to help you out, flying in a private jet with no business plan is simply not the way to get something done. If anything it is an insult to the American people that the CEO’s of three of the most important companies in this country could be this greedy and naive. If you are as poor as you say you are, could couldn’t you fly commercial or together. The lack of a business plan is even more sickening. When one applies for a loan they need to provide evidence that the loan will be paid back and these automakers believed that the U.S. government would simply give them a 25billion dollar blank check. Good Luck Unfortunately, these three buffoons aren’t sports figures because they certainly would top this weeks worst persons.
Another seasons another potential BCS mess. This time it’s with three teams in the same division in the same conference. Three teams Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech have the potential if all three teams win this weekend to be tied atop the big twelve standings. Guess what the tiebreaker is? The BCS standings, which make things particularly interesting since Oklahoma, beat Texas Tech, which beat Texas, which beat Oklahoma. If this scenario comes to pass (likely because only Oklahoma has a difficult game this week) it will leave a sticky situation to say the least. One of these three teams will likely get to play for the national title, another will likely get a bid to another BCS game and the third well good luck because that team will play in the toilet bowl on some random date. This among other reasons reinforces the need for a playoff system. With a playoff all three of these teams will be rewarded for their successes and teams like the ACC champion would not be rewarded for their mediocre play. The only thing stopping this quantity of common sense is the presidents of the major conferences. The simply look out for their bottom line rather than promotes what could be an intense and story filled tournament style playoff that occurs in basketball. Hopefully, all three of these teams win this weekend so things will get so screwed up that the leaders of these major conferences will come to their senses and create a playoff system.
Quarter II: David Garrard Tops This Week’s Worst Persons
3. Channing Crowder, Miami Dolphins for his trash talking an instigating at the end of last Sunday’s game against the Patriots. Look Mr. Crowder its one thing to trash talk but its simply inexcusable to include any family references. Adding insult to injury is the fact that Miami was losing. As veteran in this league Mr. Crowder you should know better.
2. Ryan O’Byrne, Montreal Canadians for his own goal in Monday’s game against the Islanders. Ryan the goal of the game is to prevent goals on your own goalie not to provide them.
1. David Garrard, Jacksonville Jaguars for his inexcusable lack of hustle in last week’s game. Garrard was lined up in the shotgun and a miss communication occurred which led to a botched snap. One would think that Garrard would pounce on the fumbled football but no he just stood there with his hands on his hips. Mr. Garrard you are the quarterback of the ingle most disappointing team in the NFL and in a game that is must win for you simply stand there when the ball is fumbled: Amazing. David Garrard, This week’s worst person in the world.
Quarter III: Tim Thomas Tops This Week’s Best Persons
3. Matt Cassel, New England Patriots for his second consecutive 400-yard performance. All I know is the Patriots offense is getting into gear, which is scary news for the rest of the NFL.
2. Donnie Walsh, New York Knicks GM for his shrewd moves that have New York in a position to eventually exit the salary cap hell that Isaiah Thomas put them in: something that was not seen as possible just a season ago.
1. Tim Thomas, Goaltender Boston Bruins for continuing to be the goaltender that could and leading the Bruins to their surprising first place start. Thomas leads the league in Save Percentage and Goals Against Average. Not bad for a career journeyman. Tim Thomas, this week’s best person in the world.
Quarter IV: Game of the Week: New Jersey Nets – Toronto Raptors
This game was a classic in all senses of the world. It had two superstars dueling in Vince Carter and Chris Bosh. It had a remarkable comeback by New Jersey in second half after being down as many as eighteen. The final ingredient was a dagger game winning three pointer by Carter to stick it to his former fans in Toronto. This game had every ingredient of a classic and the fact that sports nation was treated to it so early in the NBA season is good news for the NBA this year.
Overtime: 10 Random Pieces of Sports Knowledge
10. Northwestern is only major conference school not to make the NCAA tournament
9. Eddie Jordon is the second NBA coach to be fired this week.
8. GM has ended its several yearlong endorsement deal with Tiger Woods
7. Spain won the David Cup in tennis last weekend event with out Rafa Nadal
6. The Red Sox continue their search for far eastern pitching talent with an offer to 22-year-old Junichi Tazawa
5. Another week another 400 yard passing performance for Matt Cassel
4. Ex MLB star Tim Raines has been hired to manage the Newark Bears
3. Speaking of Baseball postseason games must be nine innings from now on
2. Donovan McNabb still has his starting job at least for now
1. Nothing says Thanksgiving weekend more than Football and NCAA basketball but the Lions have a chance to go 0-12
Double Overtime: Detroit Automakers Lack Common Sense
A lot of news has been made in recent days of the controversial bailout of the Auto Industry. Whether you support it or not, Detroit clearly hasn’t heard of the term style over substance. When you are trying to beg the taxpayer to help you out, flying in a private jet with no business plan is simply not the way to get something done. If anything it is an insult to the American people that the CEO’s of three of the most important companies in this country could be this greedy and naive. If you are as poor as you say you are, could couldn’t you fly commercial or together. The lack of a business plan is even more sickening. When one applies for a loan they need to provide evidence that the loan will be paid back and these automakers believed that the U.S. government would simply give them a 25billion dollar blank check. Good Luck Unfortunately, these three buffoons aren’t sports figures because they certainly would top this weeks worst persons.
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