2011 NFL Projections

AFC WEST
1. SD Chargers (12-4)
2. KC Chiefs (9-7)
3. Oakland Raiders (7-9)
4. Denver Broncos (4-12)

AFC NORTH
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
2. Baltimore Ravens (10-6)
3. Cleveland Browns (5-11)
4. Cinnci Bengals (3-13)

AFC South
1.Indy Colts (12-4)
2. Houston Texans (11-5)
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8)
4. Tennessee Titans (4-12)

AFC East
1. NE Patriots (13-3)
2. NY Jets (9-7)
3. Miami Dolphins (7-9)
4. Buffalo Bills (5-11)

NFC West
1. Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
2. Seattle Seahawks (8-8)
3. SF 49ers (7-9)
4. STL Rams (6-10)

NFC North
1. GB Packers (12-4)
2. Chicago Bears (10-6)
3. Detroit Lions (8-8)
4. Minnesota Vikings (7-9)

NFC South
1. ATL Falcons (11-5)
2. New Orleans Saints (10-6)
3. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
4. TB Buccaneers (6-10)

NFC East
1. Dallas Cowboys (11-5)
2. Philly Eagles (11-5)
3. NY Giants (9-7)
4. Washington Redskins (3-13)

Keep it Tight ! TOP 6 Tight Ends in NFL History

1. Tony Gonzalez ( KC, ATL) - Tony G is the greatest of all time and its not even close. He owns virtually every viable record for a TE and is in the top 10 in almost every category for a TE/WR. He has another season or two to try and add a Superbowl ring, but ring or no ring he is the best. He blocks, catches, leads by example. He will be a first ballot H.O.F. ( better go into Canton as a Chief)
1,069 Receptions 12,463 Yards 88 TDs AND COUNTING ...

2. Shannon Sharpe ( DEN, BALT) - Old Marble Mouth was an absolute beast. In addition to having the most Superbowl rings of any TE in this group ( 3) he retired owning most of the TE records before Tony G Broke them. He is being enshrined in the H.O.F. this year and still holds the TE record for receiving yards in a game. ( unfortunately against KC) 815 Receptions 10,060 yards 62 TDs very impressive

3. Ozzie Newsome ( Clev) - The incredible Oz could do it all. Most folks give credit to Kellen Winslow for revolutionizing the position but it was really Ozzie that did it. He had great speed, size, hands. Already enshrined in Canton, he is further cementing his legacy as one of the best football minds in the biz as the GM of the Baltimore Ravens.
662 Receptions 7,980 yards 47 TDs

4. Kellen Winslow ( SD) - The former Mizzou great was the security blanket, deep threat, and lifeline for Hall of fame QB Dan Fouts. Winslow could really stretch the field. He was an iron man that didnt like to come off the field. Just like the rest of the group he has a bronze bust in Canton, OH.
541 Receptions 6,741 yards 45 TDs

5. Mike Ditka ( Chic, philli, dal) - The Coach was actually a hard hitting TD catching machine before he was " The Coach" and doing commentary. Ditka is one of only 2 people to win the Superbowl as a player and a coach. He won the rookie of the year award to start what was a fantastic career. He was a rare breed that could dominate as a blocker or a receiving threat.
427 Receptions 5,812 yards 43 TDs

6. John Mackey ( Balt) - Another Hall of Famer, the late John Mackey was a great receiving threat for Johnny U and the Baltimore Colts. Mackey had great size, but what set him apart was his yards after the catch. It was a tall order to tackle Mackey once he secured the ball. John was your true blue collar warrior. The Former roommate of the Great Ernie Davis at Syracuse, Mackey played with the same passion.
331 Receptions 5,236 Yards 38 TDs

Rock Em Cock Em

At the start of each summer, hungry sports fans are able to watch the tradition, purity, and excitement of the College World Series. The top seeds rarely win it all, the recently drafted pro players are not the main attraction, and the most unlikely of heroes become part of folk lore for their respective universities. Congratulations to the South Carolina Gamecocks for cementing this recent run as one of the finest in the history of the sport, when they capped off the their 2nd straight national championship Tuesday night in Omaha, NE. The Cocks were unlikely to repeat as champs but did it the old fashion way with great pitching, defense, and fundamental baseball at its best. This resilient group of young men also found a way and dug deep down for an extra spark when it mattered the most. Although most of them will never play pro ball, they will always have this special time to look back on and reflect. This is truly rarefied air in the CWS baseball as its only happened 6 times.

Here are the only six programs to repeat as national champions

Texas (1949-50)

USC (1970-71-72-73-74)

Stanford (1987-88),

LSU (1996-97)

Oregon State (2006-07).

Top Left Tackles of All-Time

Fantastic Stache'

1. Anthony Munoz - Known not only for having an amazing mustache and a nasty sideways pinky finger, but also for being the most complete offensive lineman that has ever played the game.  He was a 9 time all-pro and named the NFL's 75th anniversary team, there's no doubt who belongs at the top of this list.
2. Willie Roaf - My personal favorite offensive lineman ever.  The man dominated the entire decade of the 90's being named to 7 ProBowl's, despite blowing his knee out in 2001, came back to Probowl form in 2002 after being traded to my Chiefs and dominated his last 4 years in the league.  The man saw the game transition to the passing era where the defensive linemen went from being large ogres to hybrid freaks of nature, that have 9ft wingspans and run 4.4sec 40's without missing a beat.  The only man in the modern era that I've ever seen make Dwight Freeney look like a pedestrian trying to rush the passer.  Best Left tackle in the past 20 years and 2nd best of all-time.
3. Tony Bosellli - Prototypical modern day tackle.  Had all the tools to dominate (which he did).  The offensive lines equivalent to Bo Jackson, shoulder injuries shot his career down in his prime.  Fun fact, Tony Boselli has the distinction of being the only NFL player being the first ever draft selection of two different expansion franchises, being the #2 overall pick of the Jags in 1995, and the #1 overall pick of the Texans in the 2002 expansion draft (their first ever pick).
4. Walter Jones - Notice a trend?  3 out of the top 4 picks are from the modern era of Left Tackles for a reason.  NFL offenses are putting more emphasis on the pass, NFL defenses have subsequently put more of an emphasis on pressuring the QB.  Modern day NFL tackles need to be quick enough to hold up against the speed of Clay Matthews off the edge, while still being able to stand up to the bull rush from a 300lb 3-4 end like Darnell Dockett.  Walter Jones did just that for 13 seasons being named to 9 ProBowl's along the way.
5. Art Shell - Exemplified the phrase "speak softly and carry a big stick."  One of the most physical offensive linemen of all-time, teamed with Gene Upshaw to create the best left side of an offensive line ever.  Was still physically dominant in an era when the full use of hands was prohibited by offensive linemen (at the time was a 15 yard penalty).  Great offensive lineman, could have played in any era and been great.

Enjoy this last image of Anthony Munoz...

Completely MAV-O-LOUS ! !

Last Sunday night the Dallas Mavericks made history winning the 2011 NBA finals in stunning fashion over the heavily favored Miami Heat. The win in game 6 ended one of the most memorable playoff runs on record, I personally picked this Mavs team to get upset in round one by the Portland Trailblazers and funnier still was that it almost happened. Then I thought for certain my Lakers team would be too much for the Mavs and just when we had a large cushion in game one , the Mavs showed their incredible resolve and grit and came back to steal game one, then game 3 and finally the insanity 63% 3pt shooting beat down in a game 4 series clinching sweep. Mark Cubans bunch ousted the young OKC Thunder with ease and waltzed right into a heavyweight throw down with a young, high-flying, star laded Miami Heat team. After a game one loss many people thought that Dallas was just too old, too slow, to keep up with the Heat. Then came game two and through 42 minutes the Mavericks looked like they were well on there way to getting swept, that's when Dirk began his assault and brought them back from 16pts down in under 6 minutes to steal game 2. The Mavs went on to steal a couple more games they had no business being in, by that point the Heat were toast and were smothered out at home in game 6. This was just the type of series the NBA needed to ride a wave of momentum into an off-season of uncertainty and pending lockout. With Ratings up and jersey sales at an all time high, I firmly believe that the league and players will get the current issues resolved since this is the most invested fans have been since the Michael Jordan Era. However there are major issues and reconstructing that must take place to make sure team owners are not losing money. However for just a second lets give a round of applause to team basketball at its finest and the resolve of a true underdog the 2010-11 Dallas Mavericks ! Bravo !

NCAA Football - Everything comes to the light

With the recent scandal at Ohio State and USC being stripped of its best years during the Pete Carrol Era this week one has to wonder what the hell is going on with college football? I am not saying this SMU of the 1980's but coaches and players have to know with this being the golden age for the media blowing things completely out of the water and the NCAA spending more money on trying to catch somebody in the wrong, players and coaches margin for error is razor thin. Its actually kind of annoying. These investigations take up so much time and money that by the time they actually charge someone with something most of the parties involved have gone on about their lives. Really, what good came from taking away Reggie Bush's Heisman Trophy after he had already made millions and helped the Saints win a Superbowl? What moral objective was corrected by removing the USC teams accomplishments from the record books,? Is college basketball such a greater place by alienating the Michigan Fab 5 ( fan favorites) from the record books? I think its completely preposterous! Should the players have to mail in their rings? Does the Oklahoma team that got their asses kicked all over the field by USC in 2004 get to take the place of USC in the record books ? NOPE. Maybe the NCAA should go back and investigate every roster for every Nat'l champion over the last 70 years and see if some kid got taken out to dinner or if a booster gave someone a cash envelope or to see if Charlie Ward signed any autographs for anyone in Tallahassee. I believe its total bull shit, amateur athletics are always going to have someone trying to get something. When you are talented and under compensated like every single one of these kids are, then you are going to get what you can while you are hot commodity. Everyone knows the vast majority of these players will never sign a pro contract and once they graduate or are no longer a student athlete and relevant on the sports scene they can sell their memorabilia and sign autographs without any ramifications. Why are the Universities able to pimp out 18 and 19 year old kids and make 100's of millions of dollars a year, but a kid cant go out to dinner or sell his own autograph for profit ? The media and Universities are the ones that make these student athletes god-like in the minds of many, but are the first ones to run the kids through the dirt with public allegations and FBI like investigations. The total Hypocrisy in college athletics makes me fucking sick to my stomach. People can say what they want about the purity of the game, but the bottom line is that times have changed. I'm sorry but when Roger Staubach was playing QB the Universities were not making money like Microsoft. Pay these kids a fair wage, or leave them alone. Look for a follow up article in 2017 when Cam Newton sends back his Heisman and Auburn is stripped of its title, all the fans don't rip the tags off of your title shirts and hats, tell sports illustrated to shred the commemorative issues. What a shame.

15 THE GREATEST Running Backs in NFL HISTORY

1. Jim Brown - Cleveland

2. Barry Sanders - Detroit

3. Walter Payton - Chicago

4. Gayle Sayers - Chicago

5. Emmit Smith - Dallas/Arizona

6. Eric Dickerson - LA/ATL

7. Marshall Faulk - INDY/STL

8. Thurman Thomas - Buffalo/ Miami

9. Ladanian Tomlinson - San Diego/ New York

10. OJ Simpson - Buffalo / State Correctional Facility

11. Tony Dorsett - Dallas

12. Earl Campbell - HOuston

13. Marcus Allen - Oakland/KC

14. Curtis Martin - New England/ New York

15. Bo Jackson - Oakland

Replacing a Legend

With the recent success of QB Aaron Rodgers for the Green Bay Packers, I pondered how rare it is for a Hall of Fame NFL quarterback to be replaced by another all star or potential Hall of Famer? The most difficult postition in the most difficult and popular game in the USA its hard enough to find one Hall of Fame player in a 50 year span, let alone back to back at the QB Spot. I wanted to research and see what lucky fan bases have been spoiled with elite talent in consecutive decades. .... Alright well that was the easiest blog ever it looks like we have


SF 49ers - Joe Montana replaced by Steve Young

**** SD Chargers - Johnny Unitas ( One season ) followed by Dan Fouts

GB Packers - Brett Favre ( Sure H.O.F. Lock ) followed by Aaron Rodgers ?????

KC Selects Jon Baldwin with its 1st round pick.

The KC Chiefs reached a little bit for a position of need on Thursday night when they selected Jon Baldwin WR from the University of Pitt. KC originally had the 21st pick in the first round and many including myself were beyond excited when 2 of the premier offensive tackles in this years class BC's Anthony Castanzo and Wisconsins Gabe Carimi were right there for the taking. Instead of solidifying the offensive line the Chiefs traded back to pick #27 and due to some confusion by the Bears and Ravens ended up having the 26th pick overall. The reasoning behind calling this a slight reach is that every coach and annalist had give Baldwin and mid to late 2nd round draft grade ( meaning he could have been taken a round later.) I personally am never in favor of a reach as I think the teams that win the most in the league ( Packers, Steelers, Patriots, Ravens) always stick to the motto of drafting the best talent available. You can never have too many good football players and that was most evident this past season when the Packers deep roster won the SuperBowl despite having 13 players on the injured reserve. Lets get back to Jon Baldwin. Baldwin has freakish ability and is talented enough to warrant a first round pick. 6'4" 230lbs are fine measurables but when you back that up with a 4.49 -40 yard dash and 42 inch vertical you are talking about some serious athletic ability. He is a strider so it takes him a little bit of distance to get to his top end speed and that is event by his slow 20 yard shuttle time at the combine. You are probably now starting to question why he didn't have a first round grade. Answer, character. Baldin was arrested in 2009 and charged with disorderly conduct and harassment, although the charges were later dropped the stigma remained. Jon's hard work in the weight room was evident in his time at Pitt but at times he would dog it on the playing field. If the play was not directed at him or was a run play then sometimes he wouldn't give top effort to sell the play and that is a major concern, he also had a tendency to alligator arm some receptions and didn't always show a willingness to sacrifice his body to make the play and his route running definitely needs work. Jon had inconsistent numbers throughout his career but I believe that can be attributed to inconsistent QB play and a run first based offensive scheme. In closing I would rate this selection as an overall (B) Grade. Baldwin fills a huge need at receiver, has great instincts, size and is as good an athletic specimen as you will find at the Wide Reciever position. Hopefully he will reach his potential and put his maturity issues behind him. Scott Pioli sure better hope so because he has already blown one first round pick on Tyson Jackson in 2009. ( PROVE ME WRONG THIS YEAR TJACK )

#1 Overall Pick

My Buddy Mikey could not be more correct that today is the NFL's equivalent to Christmas. The most glorious slot is the #1 Overall pick, however this pick has not historically been a lock to NFL Success. Quarterback has been picked at #1 more than any other position over the last 20 years with 11 being take with the top choice. Cincinnati must feel like a cursed franchise with more #1's than any NFL team in the same span of 20 years (3) and not a post season win to show for it. The greatest #1 Pick over the last 20 years is QB Peyton Manning and its not even close. Nine Pro Bowls, a Superbowl ring and the pace to pass every significant passing record in the league he just might be the greatest #1 Pick EVER! ! ! Honestly folks look at the list and give me your thoughts.

2010	Sam Bradford	QB	Oklahoma	St. Louis Rams
2009	Matthew Stafford	QB	Georgia	Detroit Lions
2008	Jake Long	OT	Michigan	Miami Dolphins
2007	JaMarcus Russell	QB	LSU	Oakland Raiders
2006	Mario Williams	DE	N. Carolina State	Houston Texans
2005	Alex Smith	QB	Utah	San Francisco 49ers
2004	Eli Manning	QB	Mississippi	San Diego Chargers
2003	Carson Palmer	QB	Southern Cal.	Cincinnati Bengals
2002	David Carr	QB	Fresno State	Houston Texans
2001	Michael Vick	QB	Virginia Tech	Atlanta Falcons
2000	Courtney Brown	DE	Penn State	Cleveland Browns
1999	Tim Couch	QB	Kentucky	Cleveland Browns
1998	Peyton Manning	QB	Tennessee	Indianapolis Colts
1997	Orlando Pace	OT	Ohio State	St. Louis Rams
1996	Keyshawn Johnson	WR	Southern Cal.	New York Jets
1995	Ki-Jana Carter	RB	Penn State	Cincinnati Bengals
1994	Dan Wilkinson	DT	Ohio State	Cincinnati Bengals
1993	Drew Bledsoe	QB	Washington State	New England Patriots
1992	Steve Emtman	DT	Washington	Indianapolis Colts
1991	Russell Maryland	DT	Miami, (Fla.)	Dallas Cowboys

NFL Draft Eve

Less than 24hrs the first round of the 2011 NFL draft will be in the books.  It feels almost like Christmas eve at this point.  In the midst of the labor situation (which is currently in worse shape than Andre Smith was for his private workout in 2009, see picture below) and almost 3 months since the last time we saw a football game, the draft is a pleasant distraction from the unpleasant reality.  This years draft is especially crucial, without being able to rely on free agency to help get the final piece of the puzzle your team may have been missing, teams are under much more pressure to hit on their picks.  With all this said, no corrections to my mock draft, I know there are going to be mistakes, but I drafted more so what the teams SHOULD be drafting, not who I thought they should draft.  

Sleep tight my friends, for we're on the eve of the REAL start of this years football season.  Some teams will make a decision that will take years to recover from (Jamarcus Russell, former #1 overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft), others will grab a steal that will put them far ahead of where they thought they'd be with that pick (Tom Brady, former 6th round pick 2000 NFL Draft).  As a Chiefs fan, I just hope we are much closer to mirroring the 2010 draft rather than 2009.  I'll leave you with this last picture, reminding you that regardless of how big, strong, or well you did in college, if you have man-boobs, you should never run shirtless...

NBA Playoffs - First Round should be a warm up

IN 2003 the NBA made a bonehead move by changing the first round of the playoffs from a best of 5 series to a best of 7 series. As a lifelong NBA fan I am always in favor of high quality basketball but this was a huge mistake for the league. The best of 5 series was short, gritty and to the point with the feel of that driveway best 2 out of 3 game you have with a couple of friends or family members at your house or the local basketball court. Some of those great Knicks vs Heat series in the 90's epitomized what a best of 5 series is all about, a junkyard throw down! I also think that opening the first round with a shorter series gives the underdog a better chance at an upset, since they only have to win 3 games instead of 4. In a blue collar America with the economy in its current state and working folks getting bent over at the gas pumps, people can always use a good underdog story for inspiration. Much like professional baseball, the pro basketball season is a multi- month marathon and the playoff winners will endure another 7 weeks of travel plagued physical contest. I get the fact that you would only save about a week of actual games with the old format, but a week is a week. That means fresher rosters for Conference finals and championship finals and fresher legs translate into better quality basketball. The only thing constant in this world is change, but change isn't always necessary. I believe in this case changing the playoff format in round one from a best of 5 series to a best of 7 series reduces the overall quality of basketball for the duration of the playoffs. You are already going to get three heavyweight best of 7 game series for the main course, why not start the playoffs right with a classic best of 5 game appetizer to tantalize the taste buds.

BASEBALL STANDINGS

American League
EAST

New York Yankees	10	6	.625	--	8-3	2-3	4-3	4-2	2-1	Won 1	6-4
Tampa Bay Rays	9	10	.474	2.5	6-7	3-3	2-3	7-5	0-2	Lost 1	8-2
Baltimore Orioles	8	10	.444	3.0	5-5	3-5	3-2	4-6	1-2	Lost 1	2-8
Toronto Blue Jays	8	10	.444	3.0	5-3	3-7	2-4	2-1	4-5	Lost 1	3-7
Boston Red Sox	7	11	.389	4.0	5-4	2-7	5-4	0-3	2-4	Won 2	6-4

CENTRAL

Cleveland Indians	13	6	.684	--	7-2	6-4	6-0	3-4	4-2	Lost 1	6-4
Kansas City Royals	12	7	.632	1.0	9-5	3-2	0-0	6-5	6-2	Won 1	6-4
Detroit Tigers	9	10	.474	4.0	3-3	6-7	2-4	1-2	6-4	Won 1	6-4
Chicago White Sox	8	11	.421	5.0	4-6	4-5	4-4	3-2	1-5	Won 1	2-8
Minnesota Twins	7	12	.368	6.0	2-3	5-9	5-9	1-1	1-2	Won 1	4-6

WEST

Los Angeles Angels	12	7	.632	--	4-3	8-4	4-2	6-4	2-1	Lost 1	7-3
Texas Rangers	11	7	.611	0.5	7-2	4-5	6-3	1-2	4-2	Lost 2	4-6
Oakland Athletics	9	10	.474	3.0	4-5	5-5	2-3	6-4	1-3	Lost 2	5-5
Seattle Mariners	7	13	.350	5.5	4-6	3-7	2-1	2-8	3-4	Won 1	4-6

NATIONAL LEAGUE
EAST

Philadelphia Phillies	12	6	.667	--	7-4	5-2	7-4	4-2	1-0	Won 2	6-4
Florida Marlins	11	6	.647	0.5	6-3	5-3	6-5	5-1	0-0	Won 3	7-3
Washington Nationals	9	9	.500	3.0	5-4	4-5	5-7	4-2	0-0	Lost 2	6-4
Atlanta Braves	8	12	.400	5.0	4-5	4-7	6-6	1-3	1-3	Lost 2	4-6
New York Mets	6	13	.316	6.5	2-8	4-5	5-7	1-2	0-4	Won 1	2-8

CENTRAL

St. Louis Cardinals	10	9	.526	--	4-5	6-4	2-1	1-2	7-6	Won 2	7-3
Cincinnati Reds	10	9	.526	--	7-6	3-3	0-0	6-4	4-5	Won 1	4-6
Chicago Cubs	9	9	.500	0.5	5-4	4-5	0-0	4-5	5-4	Lost 1	5-5
Milwaukee Brewers	9	9	.500	0.5	5-2	4-7	5-5	4-4	0-0	Lost 1	6-4
Pittsburgh Pirates	8	11	.421	2.0	1-5	7-6	0-3	7-5	1-3	Lost 3	3-7
Houston Astros	7	12	.368	3.0	4-6	3-6	3-6	2-4	2-2	Lost 1	5-5

WEST

Colorado Rockies	13	5	.722	--	6-4	7-1	4-0	5-2	4-3	Won 1	7-3
San Francisco Giants	10	8	.556	3.0	4-2	6-6	0-0	2-1	8-7	Lost 1	6-4
Los Angeles Dodgers	10	10	.500	4.0	7-5	3-5	3-1	1-3	6-6	Won 2	4-6
Arizona Diamondbacks	8	9	.471	4.5	4-5	4-4	0-0	6-6	2-3	Lost 1	5-5
San Diego Padres	8	11	.421	5.5	3-6	5-5	0-1	6-7	2-3	Lost 1	4-6

HOT/ NOT

HOT -
Troy Tulowitzki (SS Colorado Rockies ) - Troy has taken charge the first month of season for a Rockies team that is tied with the best record in the majors through Wednesday. In addition to the teams success he currently leads MLB in Homeruns (7), his .323 batting average has been nothing to sneeze at.


Detroit Red Wings ( NHL) - The Wings were inconsistent down the final stretch of the regular season but have caught fire in the playoffs. They are the only team that hasn't lost a playoff game and with a 3-0 series lead they have a chance to sweep the series. They have outscored the Coyotes 12-7 through 3 games.


North Carolina Mens Basketball ( NCAA) - Monday the last of the trio of NBA prospects Harrison Barnes announced he would return to Chapel Hill to play for the Heels next season. Both Starting post players Tyler Zeller and John Henson said they would return as well. As if that news wasn't good enough UNC top recruit and McDonald's All American James McAdoo won co MVP of the Jordan Brand classic over the weekend. UNC should be the early favorite to win the NCAA tournament next year.


NOT -

Boston Red Sox ( MLB) - After many predicted a top finish in the AL East the Sox have struggled mightily to start the year. They are currently in the cellar with one of the worst records in baseball ( 5-11). To make matters worse they can't seem to do anything positive away from Fenway Park as their road record is 0-7.

NFL Owners - As the labor dispute continues and stories start to circulate about players taking other jobs as roofers, boxers, soccer players, the owners are starting to look more and more like greedy billionaire bastards. With the NFL draft on the docket next week and the 2011 schedules being released football crazed fans are tired of hearing about poor billionaires and only want to hear about the upcoming season.


NY Knicks ( NBA) - Happy New Yorkers expected a great series when the Knicks made the playoffs for the first time in 7 years, they have gotten two very good games. That's where the good news ends. Now for the bad, they are down 2-0 in the series vs the Celtics and they have been bitten by the injury bug. First Chauncey Billup's Knee and now Amare Stoudemire's back. Can they turn things around as the series shifts to the big apple?

APRIL 15 , 1947 ( #42)

When you are watching your favorite sporting event this weekend please take a long look at the players of the field, court, etc. We are so used to seeing a melting pot of nationalities playing the sports we love that most of us don't remember a time when things were quiet different. Prior to April 15, 1947 the vast majority of pro sports in our great country were not available for all of our fine Americans to play if they had the ability to play. Unfortunately for fans, players, and statistical records only White men were able to play most of these sports, but everyone knows that competition is what makes sports great and to be the best you have to compete against the best, in practice and in the games. If you can play you can play, it doesn't matter what your nationality, religion or sexual preference might be. Sports are a time to compete together for the love of the game and for anyone to not get that opportunity on the grandest of stages is an absolute travesty. April 15, 1947 Jackie Robinson made his pro debut for the Brooklyn Dodgers and finally broke the vaunted color barrier in professional sports. He went through an agony of hate mail, ignorant acts of many and just plain meanness that season in route to winning the inaugural MLB Rookie of the year award. What Jackie did was bigger though than any award or personal achievement, Jackie made it possible for every single kid in America to dream. Many other players and people were extremely influential to the color barrier being broken but Robinson is the man who took the leap of faith and became the first. Kudos to Jackie Robinson for breaking the color barrier we need to take the time to remember the agony he went through to make sure we are always moving forward. Here's to you MR. ROBINSON!

Old Dogs - Examining possible Lakers vs.Celtics Finals

For the first time since 2004 all 3 of the NBA's most popular teams are in the playoffs, the Knicks, Lakers, and Celtics have historically been the leagues biggest draw. Of the 3 aforementioned teams only two have these teams have been competitive in recent history as the Lakers and Celtics have met in 2 of the last 3 NBA Finals splitting world champions at one apiece. Last years finals were epic going seven full games. The 2009-2010 NBA Finals was a chippy nip tuck series that seamed to have a different hero every night. As the last few weeks of the season have unfolded the haters have been coming out of the woodwork listing out reasons why the Lakers and Celtics couldn't possibly match up in another Final. The biggest reason of all... AGE! For these two ball clubs the majority of their respective rosters are over the age of 30 while the new stars of the league are all under the age of 30 ( Derrick Rose, Lebron James, Dewayne Wade, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony) you get the idea. I would like to say one word to all the critics. Beware! You never under estimate the heart of a champion. Professional basketball has one of the longest and most grueling, travel plagued seasons in all of professional sports and its not always easy to keep your eye on the prize in a season that starts the week of Halloween and ends the steamy days of June. Both of these squads are stacked through the moon with savvy veteran players who have won on the biggest stage and more importantly hold others accountable. Kobe Bryant is one of the leagues all time biggest winners hoisting a handful of championship rings and has a supporting cast that includes a plethora of athletes, play makers and crazy length. The Celtics have the big 4 and a clutch shooter in Pierce along with tenacious defenders in PF Garnett and PG Rondo, and the most efficient 3 point sniper in NBA history RAY ALLEN.( Nailing more 3’s at a better percentage than any player in the history of the league and yes that includes Reggie Miller). UNDERRATED! Add some new faces like Matt Barnes, Shaquille Oneal, Jermaine Oneal, Jeff Green, and Steve Blake to the mix and this series could be made for the Silver Screen. Regardless of all of this, these are still the NBA Playoffs and as in any basketball tournament anything can happen. I have to seriously question the trade deadline deal that the Celtics made in shipping away big man Kendrick Perkins, he was a hard nosed defender that would really help them out with opposing post players and handle the dirty work in the paint. One has to wonder if Shaq can stay healthy enough to eat up space. The Celtics were destroyed on the glass this season, but the playoffs are a different animal. As for the Lakers it really comes down to health and focus. The Lakers have played more games over the past 4 years than any team in the league. With 3 straight finals appearances it would be easy for an older team to get complacent. If the Zen Master can keep the team focused (I would say he can -11 Rings) then L.A. has the arsenal of weapons to 3 peat. The Lakers need to remain healthy, they have a lot of people who know their roles and bring a different bag of tricks to the table and I think this years field of opponents is so strong that the Lake Show will need all of their ingredients to cook up another championship meal. I'm not Miss Cleo and unfortunately I cannot predict the future, but as a basketball fan I would love to see another version of the NBA's most fierce rivalry, Celtics vs. Lakers for all the marbles. Youth can wait.

Go Royals?

As I type this, the Royals are an inning away from being tied with Cleveland for first place.  I honestly dont know what to think.  All pre-season, all we heard in KC was how great our farm system is, how great we'll be in the future, and many rumblings about how this year would be tough to watch but worth it once our young players are over their growing pains...  

Interestingly enough, nobody has told this years team that they arent supposed to be this good?  Our bullpen has been one of the best in the league, the veterans we signed to help provide leadership, but little else expected, are playing as well as they had in their prime (Jeff Francoeur, Melky Cabrera, Matt Treanor, Jeff Francis).  We've also had something very exciting happen, Alex Gordon has finally found his swing at the plate, and looks like a natural in left field despite being a 3rd basemen his entire life.  With the emergence of forgotten talent like Gordon, and the veterans that have been added to help bring the young players along, this team is going to be very exciting to watch on offense and in the field this season.  

I'm still torn about whether I should start getting excited yet or not.  This team has shown signs of being a good team, their never quit attitude is something that we've been lacking for years.  This team honestly has a chance to win every night, which is another thing that we've not seen in years.  The argument could really be made that their only downfall is terrible starting pitching, a prime example is innings pitched.  The starters have only thrown about 25% more innings this year than the bullpen.  You can attribute part of that to the multiple extra inning games that the Royals have played this year, but the majority of it is the fact that the starters are averaging less than 6 IP per game!  Its a proven fact that overworked bullpens will eventually fall apart.  What does offer encouragement is how great our young pitchers are pitching.  Aaron Crow, already in the bigs, has been almost unhittable out of the pen, and Mike Montgomery, Danny Duffy, and John Lamb all looked fantastic throughout spring training causing management to put serious consideration into bringing them up earlier than they were really anticipating.  

My advice...  Proceed with extreme caution.  This years Royals have the ability to really make some things happen this year, we are loaded with young talent in the minors and in the big show.  We have the best farm system in baseball including a young pitching staff that has the potential to rival the great young pitching talent that carried the Braves throughout the 90s.  Try not to get too high or too low on this years team.  They have the talent and really appear to be headed in the right direction for the first time that I can remember, but are still very young.  The most encouraging sign is that this team is fighting through every game and are actually having fun out there while maintaining their focus.  Proceed with caution, but I'm saying they are fair game to get excited about.  

One last thought, do you think Greinke is regretting leaving just yet?  

NHL Playoff Matchups- PUCK'N' Awesome

Canucks

54-19-9 - 117 [p]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs CHI: 2-1-1

1 VS 8

Blackhawks

44-29-9 - 97 [x]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs VAN: 2-2-0

Sharks

48-25-9 - 105 [y]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs LAK: 3-1-2

2 VS 7

Kings

46-30-6 - 98 [x]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs
SJS: 3-3-0

Red Wings

47-25-10 - 104 [y]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs PHX: 2-1-1

3 VS 6

Coyotes

43-26-13 - 99 [x]

Ducks

47-30-5 - 99 [x]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs NSH: 1-3-0

4 VS 5

Predators

44-27-11 - 99 [x]

Capitals

48-23-11 - 107 [z]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs NYR: 1-2-1

1 VS 8

Rangers

44-33-5 - 93 [x]

Flyers

47-23-12 - 106 [y]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs BUF: 2-1-1

2 VS 7

Sabres

43-29-10 - 96 [x]

Bruins

46-25-11 - 103 [y]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs MTL: 2-3-1

3 VS 6

Canadiens

44-30-8 - 96 [x]

Penguins

49-25-8 - 106 [x]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs TBL: 2-2-0

4 VS 5

Lightning

46-25-11 - 103 [x]

Games Left: 0 (Home: 0, Away: 0) vs PIT: 2-2-0

Picked Last in Gym Class - NFL

In the modern day NFL you always hear about character, a guy didn't go in the first round due to character, a guy got traded because of character. Rather than string you along I will get to my point, does talent trump character ? Mike Vick got another chance in Philly and became more beloved in one year under center than Donovan Mcnabb ever was during his hall of fame career there. With Plaxico Burress on the market, will teams swoon to sign the big play receiver ? Last season we saw two of the best receivers in the history of the sport take a massive hit to their value based solely on the way they act rather than the production they show on the field. Terrel Owens had to wait an entire off season before the Bengals ponied up to give the Brash wideout a chance. The result of that experiment was a great statistical season for T.O. and another losing season for Bengals. Randy Moss too was in the bad attitude club, and the Pats decided to trade him early in the year rather than tolerate it. The result Pats made the playoffs and both teams Moss played for did not. This is a far cry from the old motto of professional sports where clubs would tolerate tirades and total bull shit from ego maniac star players but not in these times. Is the old adage correct, Does a bad apple spoil the whole bunch ? I guess there is no conclusive answer to this question, all I know is that many teams would take inferior talent with high character over uber talent with question marks.
( I want to know what you think, please leave comments, good , bad, ugly)

HOT / NOT

Hot

Kemba Walker - A week after winning the National Championship and being named to several all American team Walker has declared for the NBA draft where he is expected to be a lottery pick and secure millions of dollars.

Texas Rangers - Winners of 9 of their first 10 games the Rangers have caught fire, they currently have the best run differential in Major league baseball.

Carl Schwartzel - On Sunday he capped of the 75th version of The Masters with an epic if nobody else wants it ill take it type of win. The South African native will forever be in the Green Jacket club.


NOT

Manny Ramirez - One of Baseballs all time great sluggers secured his tarnished legacy by retiring over the weekend rather than face suspensions due to failed substance test. Rather than being remembered for his fierce bat he will be remembered as a clown just like Barry Bonds.

Rory McIlroy - Rory just completed arguably the greatest collapse in sports, blowing his massive final day lead on the back 9 of The Masters McIlroy will be forever known as one of the greatest choke artist in recent memory.

Thomas Blubaugh - KU Athletic consultant was sentenced to a 4 year prison term and forced to pay back 1.1 million in restitution for his part in the KU ticket scandal. I guess Blubaugh will have a case of Blue Balls with his time in the can.

YOU CALL THE SHOTS ! Best Sports Movies of alltime

Mikey and I are compiling a Top 10 list of the best sports movies of all time and we would like your input. That's right folks, you are calling the shots on this. Please post the comments with your favorite sports movie and why you love it. Everyone has a favorite and now its time for your voice to be heard. It does not matter the sport, the actor, the era, if you like it we want to know about it and hopefully with enough support it will crack the top #10.

Kobe & Lebron headline my list - NBA's TOP 5

The NBA Playoffs are looming and with the season winding down I am bringing out my Top 5 List at each Position. This list is the real deal, no cupcakes, no hype machine, this is my Fab Five at each position. If you are a one year wonder no need to apply, consistent players that bring it on a nightly basis.

-Center-

1. Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic) - This generations superman is superbad! Howard is a force on the Defensive End of the floor. There was a time when his defense was light years ahead of his offensive game but the addition of assistant coach Patrick Ewing a few years back has really helped Dwight add to his growing arsenal of post moves. If Dwight can continue to grow on offense and show a little more patience he can continue to be the most dominate center in basketball for another 8-10 years.

2.Andrew Bynum ( LA Lakers) - Drew has been a Monster since the all-star weekend showing intense focus and commitment to defense and rebounding despite the lack of offensive touches on a star laden roster. Despite past injuries Andrew runs the floor extremely well for his massive frame and showed his guts last year in the Finals playing on a bum leg. At only 23 years old Andrew can continue to get better and if he signs with the Lakers long term he could become the focal point of their offense in the future.

3.Tim Duncan ( SA Spurs) - The NBA's model of consistency is still Duncan. Although he has played most of his hall of fame career at the Power forward position he is listed as a Center on the Spurs roster and with the overwhelming depth at the PF position it helps that I can put THE BIG FUNDAMENTAL at the center spot on this list. Duncan is not quiet the dominate force he was a few years ago, but he still has more than enough post moves and is a consistent leader and winner on the floor

4.Yoa Ming (Hou Rockets?) - Ok , Ok I can hear the peanut gallery now since Ming didn't play a single minute this year and may never play again but I had to put him on the list for the simple reason that he is that damn good! Mings length makes him an opposing coaches nightmare on the defensive end not really as a shot blocker but a shot altering player in the paint. Ming has a nasty offensive game that reminds me of a combination of Rocket great Hakeem the Dream and NBA all time scoring leader Kareem Abdul Jabbar ! He has also been a great ambassador of the sport for all of the fans in Asia.

5.Andrew Bogut ( Mil Bucks ) - There are not enough TRUE skilled centers in the league so the Big Aussie rounds out my top 5. He averages 13ppg and 11 boards but what sets him apart is his willingness on the defensive end. With a healthy Bogut and one more upper tier player the Bucks could become a perennial playoff team.

POWER FORWARD

1. Kevin Garnett (Boston Celtics) - Garnett is #1 at this position for a couple of reasons, defense and leadership. Garnett logged heavy minutes with little help in his days in Minnesota and that has taken a toll on his legs and knees, but who else would you want at the PF position in a 7 game series. Garnett can still knock down the 17 footer with ease and holds everyone accountable on the floor. Enough said.

2. Pau Gasol (LA Lakers) - Critics always try to point out flaws in Gasol's game and try and label him soft. Soft players shy away from contact and that couldnt be further from the truth when talking about Gasol. He is a career 18ppg and 10 rebound player, he can shoot, pass, and rebound. Gasol has an array of offensive moves. Think if Kevin Mchale and Dirk Nowitzki had a baby it would come out something like Gasol. All hes done since showing up in L.A. is make 3 straight NBA finals appearances.

3. Lamarcus Aldridge (Port Blazers) - Some people will think this is too high on the list, but this guy passes the biggest test of all, the eye test. Every time you watch a Blazer game Aldridge is making play after play and for stretches looks like an unstoppable offensive force. He is just tapping into his full potential and has a chance to be even greater.

4. Amare Stoudemire (NY Knicks) - Amare has the tools to be #1 on this list, but he will never be any higher to me unless he plays some defense. Amare's mouth is a little stronger than his actual defense. He is a matador on that end of the floor. His offensive game continues to grow and he is one of the hardest dunkers in the league.

5. Kevin Love ( TWOLVES) - The guy set a record for consecutive double doubles, led the league in rebounds and was in the top 15 in scoring yet he refuses to get the respect he is due. He is not as flashy or physically imposing and maybe that is the reason he gets so little respect. One major concern is that his numbers do not translate into wins, that is a major problem. People will continue to argue that his stats are a byproduct of being on a horrible team. Its easier to grab rebounds when your team cant shoot the ball.

*** near misses***
Blake Griffin ( clippers) Zach Randolph ( Grizz) - These guys are really talented players that average over 20 and 12 per night. I simply didn't have enough room in the top 5 for these powers of the paint.


SMALL FORWARD

1. Lebron James ( Miami Heat) - 6'8" 265lbs runs like a gazelle and jumps out of the gym Lebron is possibly the most gifted athlete to ever play any sport. He can fill up a stat sheet with his scoring and passing ability. The only true question about his game is his willingness to give all that he has to be one of the all time greats, sometimes when people around you have preached how great you are since you were an 8 year old kid you might not have the drive deep inside to be the best. However with the set of skills and physical abilities he was blessed with he can still dominate at the highest level.

2. Dirk Nowitzki ( Dallas Mavericks) - Dirk is as good a player at scoring the basketball as the league has ever seen. The fact that he is 7 foot tall and loves David Hasselhoff is simply icing on the cake. I still think at times Dirk needs to be more aggressive in the post, but he is true testimonial to working hard to maximize your abilities. His game has grown by a mile since he arrived in the league.

3. Carmelo Anthony ( NY Knicks) - The pride of Baltimore Anthony is a match up nightmare, big enough to take you inside but quick enough to take you off the dribble. Anthony has an efficient mid-range game coupled with a deadly deep ball. Will he ever fully commit himself at the defensive end and work diligently to make his teammates better will determine if he becomes one of the all time greats.

4. Paul Pierce ( Boston Celtics) - Paul Pierce edged out Kevin Durant for this spot by the narrowest of margins. Pierce is a savvy vet that has mastered the art of using little moves inside of moves to get an open look. He physical skills have eroded some but you can never under estimate the heart of a champion and his willingness to lead by example. One of the all time great Celtics and clutch shooters the game has ever seen.

5. Kevin Durant ( OKC Thunder) - When Durant entered the league there were a lot of questions about his slight frame. I guess all of those questions have been answered by now, if you can score you can score ( A La Reggie Miller). The NBA's Reigning scoring champ is only beginning to tap into his insane potential and if he continues to score and evolve as a player he will be climbing up the NBA all time points ladder in no time at all.


Shooting Guard

1. Kobe Bryant ( LA Lakers) - 5 Championships, 6th all time in scoring , 1 MVP ( Ill say 2 MVPs 2005 was the greatest shame in the history of the award) however what sets him apart is his willingness to work. Nearing in on 33 years of age Kobe is still the best Shot Maker in basketball, Mr. Clutch has sampled moves from all of the NBA Hall of famers and loves competition more than any modern era player not named Jordan. Kobe has a chance to even further cement his legacy as he continues to play at a high level.

2. Dewayne Wade ( Miami Heat) - Flash is as exciting a player as the league has ever seen. He single handily willed the Heat to the 2006 NBA Finals championship. He attacks the rim with reckless abandon and is always willing to make the extra pass to get his teammates involved. Now that Wade has help in South Beach the sky is the limit.

3. Manu Ginobili (SA Spurs) - Manu is not what you would expect out of an international player, his game is not all finesse. He plays the game with a passion and desire that is extremely rare but quiet fun to watch. Ginobili is great at finishing around the basket, passes the ball well and plays solid defense. There are very few weak spots in his game, the Argentinian is point blank a very well rounded basketball player with great skills.

4. Monta Ellis ( Golden State Warriors ) - There are not a lot of premier SG in the league, but Monta is a true up and comer. If he can stay healthy and stay on the floor the ceiling couldn't get higher for Ellis at times he scores at will. The warriors roster has been depleted over the last couple years but I believe they are gaining the pieces needed to become a perennial playoff team if they build correctly around Ellis. Monta is a premier scorer and could use help on developing a more consistent jumper and defensive mentality he could one day take the #1 spot.

5. Joe Johnson ( ATL Hawks) - This Hawk just barely made the list this season. Joe has always been a feared scorer but has lacked in opportunities to turn up the volume during playoff time. The Hawks gave him big money to be the foundation of the franchise, but I believe they over paid. Johnson is a nice player with a nice jump shot and ability to score in bunches. I simply am not sold on him being the bedrock of a Title winning organization. I'm from the SHOW ME state, so I need to see a little more.

POINT GUARD

1. Derrick Rose ( Chicago Bulls) - Rose is about to win his first MVP award ( Making him the youngest in league history). In HS, one year at Memphis, and his time with the Bulls Rose has always had the great ability to get to the rim whenever he choses. This season he has taken his game to another notch. Defense and consistent jump shooting in addition to playing his best against the best is the sole reasons sports writers across the nation are slobbering. The next step is to remain consistent, win in the playoffs and continue to make your teammates better.

2. Chris Paul ( Hornets) - As a true point guard I don't believe there is anyone better than CP3. This kid sees the floor like no other, picks his spots to score and is an absolute thief on defense. Despite coming off a big time knee injury Paul has single handily put the Hornets in position to make the playoffs this season. If the Hornets can get him help or ship him to a place with a supporting cast than Paul could win big.

3. Deron Williams ( NJ Nets) - We don't know what the future will hold for Williams, what we do know is that the kid can ball! Mama taught him the right way and boy did Deron Listen. Some will question how great a team guy he is after his fall out in Utah, but the skills are undeniable. He can pass like Jason Kidd but score like Derrick Rose. Williams is a Face of a Franchise type player that was well worth the risk the NETS took.

4. Rajon Rondo ( Boston Celtics) - LENGTH! Rondo has the largest hands and longest arms of almost any player in the league. He still hasn't maxed out his skill set, but has gradually gotten better in his time in the League. Rondo is the motor that makes the Celtics go, when he is playing top end they are a tough out. Rondo is a stingy defender and is very unselfish ( almost to a fault) . He must watch the developmental history of Tony Parker ( develop a jumper) and he will continue to rise.

5. Tony Parker ( SA Spurs) - Eva Longoria knows now what the rest of the NBA has been learning the past few years. Tony Parker is one hard guy to cover. Tony is a blur and can get to the hole in an instant. He has worked so hard on getting more consistency out of his jump shot and its made his game blossom. Tony works hard to get others involved and is a very underrated PG and has been throughout his career.

MLB Standings after one week!

With only 300 million more games to go here are the early standings

AMERICAN LEAGUE

East

1. Balt 4-1
2. Jays 4-1
3. NYY 3-2
4. Bo Sox 0-5
5. Rays 0-5

Cent

1. KC 4-2
2. Wh Sox 3-2
3. Clev 3-2
4. Det 2-3
5. Twins 2-3

West

1. TEx 6-0
2. Angels 3-3
3. Seattle 2-4
4. A's 1-4

National League

West

1. Rockies 3-1
2. SD 3-2
3. LAD 3-3
4. DBACKS 2-3
5. SF 2-4

Central

1. Reds 5-0
2. Pirates 4-2
3. Cubs 3-3
4. Brewers 2-4
5. Cards 2-4
6. Astros 0-5

East

1. Philli 4-1
2. Marlins 3-2
3. Mets 3-2
4. ATL 3-3
5. Nats 1-4

QUEENS IN THE HOUSE - Getting to Know new Mizzou Basketball coach Frank Haith

Without much fanfare the Missouri Tigers finally found their replacement for coach Mike Anderson, who finally gave in to one of his many off season flirtations and took the coaching gig at the University of Arkansas. Tuesday Frank Haith accepted the coaching position. Haith 45, has quietly worked his way up the coaching ladder with assistant gigs at various programs the most prestigious of them being Wake Forest, Texas A&M and Texas. Frank took his first head coaching job 7 seasons ago at the "U" that's the University of Miami (FL) for those of you not hip to the lingo. Haith had mostly mixed results in his time in the Sunshine State winning 56% of his games while failing to make the NCAA tournament in all but one of his seasons there. Although his teams did make the NIT 4 times, the NIT will not be good enough for hoops hungry Tiger fans that believe the program should consistently make the NCAA tourney and stay in the top 25 polls on a regular basis. Hopefully Frank Haith can bring some of the Queens NY toughness that the Tigers routinely lacked last season, Missouri AD Mike Alden better hope so, as his leash is getting progressively shorter. Most of the fans of the black and gold were hoping for a big name, home run type of hire but instead must settle for Haith. In his interview Tuesday, the new coach shrugged off the criticism and even seemed to welcome the challenge when he said quote "I don't look at the negativity that I'm hearing so far as a negative," "I look at it as a positive. That's why I'm here. That's what I want. I want that passion. Because I want to win. I want to cut down nets. I'm not taking it the way you may think I should take it. I take it as a positive." The one major problem that former coach Mike Anderson had was his poor recruiting especially in the home state of Missouri. Recruiting could prove to be Frank's saving grace as he was a key recruiter for Rick Barnes at Texas and also recruit several talented players to the university of Miami. While coach Anderson did just OK when it came to recruiting Kansas City he missed out on potential NBA player Alec Burks ( Currently of Colorado )and he was horrible at recruiting the St. Louis area. St. Louis year in and year out produces elite prospects ranked in the top 100 players in America. This years class alone has two of the top 10 Shooting Guards in the Nation, both will not be attending a school in the state of Missouri next season. How quickly Haith can develop relationships with AAU coaches in the Midwest remains to be seen. Missouri fans must hope that Frank Haith has only scraped the surface of his coaching potential, at first glance this looks like quick trigger hire for a program scrambling. If Alden misses on this hire the Mizzou basketball program could go from a program on the rise back to mediocrity.