Dom's Dish - Friday, May 18, 2007
So after a few off weeks, and suffering from a serious case of the serious bug** (note below) , I've taken some advice from my good friend Bill Simmons and decided to start "loading one on" before getting too into this Dish:
"We [Boston Celtics] desperately need one of the top two picks or I'm going to develop a serious drinking problem. Those are the stakes. Now, you could argue that a serious drinking problem would inject some much-needed life into my column, and you might even be right."
Well I know I can, as my email signature states, so I know I'm right! For those that were at the Cinco Fiesta, I'll have you know that the leftover Pineapple infused Vodka has been in the freezer for just about two weeks now and BOY IS THAT GOOD! Boy, you're pretty good too! After an early morning session at the range hitting a bucket of balls, it's time to sit on down and "let the magic happen" - this is, after all, the place where "the magic happens," so onward and upward....
First off, I love the whole West-Coast basketball bias on ESPN and the other media outlets (really, can we call them outlets? I don't go buy cheap news because there's a stitch missing) and how the Suns/Spurs series "would have" been "one of the best" playoff series, but now it's been "diminished" because of Robert Horry. Come on - he's no goon - as Don Chaney (Temple) might phrase it - instead he's a "role player" that comes on in and hits a few shots and plays some defense while the likes on Tim Duncan and other starters rest. Now, I'll admit, it was an aggressive move on his part, however every time I see it, I really don't think his intent was to injure Nash, and I really do believe that if others in the area didn't react so quickly, Nash would not have charged after Horry and have to be split up in that quasi-melee. On the other hand, there is no doubt in my mind that Amare was going to go after Horry to defend Nash's honor - that sounds pretty chivalrous when you say it that way - but honestly, Amare did deserve the suspension. David Stern is a lot of things, but one that we cannot accuse him of is being soft. I saw him on PTI with Wilbon and Kornheiser on Wednesday, and he did kind of convince me that rules are rules and that he does have the best interest of the NBA in mind when making these rulings. Does it suck? Yes, sure it does, but that's the rule - as others pointed out, the Spurs players didn't move off the bench when it happened - maybe it was planned? Oh you darn conspiracy theorists! Regardless, the Suns came out hot and perhaps they would have held on at the end, but that's the way the ball bounces. Even with the Spurs dismal 1-3 record in closeout games, at home, after the first round, since 2001 (talk about getting stats to say what you want) - I'm picking the Spurs tonight, in San Antonio, to win the game, pending any major injuries to Duncan or Parker, in the second quarter, or later. How about that?
The NJ state assembly wants Rutgers to change their logo and put "NJ" in there somewhere. "No one knows where Rutgers is" - up until about 2 years ago, no one knew what the hell a Rutgers was....we're making progress here people. After all, they are "The State University of NJ" - I bet those assemblymen and lawmakers are the same ones that lobbied to change the TCNJ logo from the clock tower to the letters "TCNJ" all jumbled up. Here's an idea, have New Brunswick section off a small part of the town and make it a new municipality - Rutgers, NJ. It can be right near the grease trucks and frat house row on the Main Campus. I should be an assemblyman!
From the "That's what I'm talking about!" column - just yesterday, Braylon Edwards, the #3 pick in the 2005 NFL draft, WR in Cleveland, and his foundation, pledged $1 million to 100 eighth-grade students in Cleveland school districts. But he didn't just throw this money to the students, there's some living up to it on their end. The students, recommended by their teachers had to write essays on why they should be chosen, what their future plans are, etc. Braylon read over 1,000 essays that were submitted and picked the 100 students and vowed to give them $10,000 each upon graduation from high school. The catch? Be a student basically - maintain a 2.5 grade point average throughout high school, perform 15 hours of community service each year, and also can't have any unexcused absences. If they do all this, Edwards will help pay for their college education. Edwards will honor the students' commitment even if they do not intend to go to college, however "...A mother approached Edwards and said she hadn't even thought about college for her son until the boy was chosen for this award. At best, she figured, her son would have to go to a trade school." All I have to say is WOW - this guy really gets it. With the craziness of the NFL lately, this is something we need more of - I hope at least another 10 players follow suit - especially those top round draft picks, or others that make ridiculous amounts of money that don't necessarily earn every dime based on their play - see 75% of the Redskins roster, and others like Roger Clemens who make $100/minute. Braylon, I hope you make the Pro Bowl, the Super Bowl and the Hall of Fame - the NFL needs more good guys like you.
That is now two Phillies starters who have pitched no-hit games past the 6th inning in the three weeks! Jamie Moyer and Cole Hamels- such different pitching styles - one, a young-in lefty who throws an awesome change-up and a fastball in the mid-90's, the other a crafty 44 year old who pitches like it's a chess match with a fastball barely breaking 88 mph. Then there's Aaron Rowand, the little dude with the swimmer body, who leaps through fences and has 6 home runs already, batting .340!!! Regardless of the fact that Philly "can't win the big one" - they sure do have some entertaining sports teams. Aside from the Flyers the past few seasons, there sure has been some drama in this town, from TO to AI and Ryan Howard to Kevin Kolb, this is Philly sports. Sure, NY has A-Rod and Beltran, but you gotta stop comparing Philly to NYC - think of DC, Atlanta and San Francisco - I would be bored follow sports in those towns....aside from Ron Mexico...but still. Anyway, get on out to the ball park, hopefully the next time you walk in there and see all those people, the looks on the little kids' faces and the aroma of hot pretzels, burgers and fresh beer in the air, you'll get the goosebumps as I do every time I step into the park. Go Phils.
P.S. I almost caused myself to get thrown in jail yesterday. While sitting on the Major Deegan "Expressway" yesterday afternoon for over an hour on the ramp to get to the George Washington Bridge at 5pm, I watched not one, but two BUSSES and four trucks cut me off while in line. Honest, for 10 minutes, my car did not move even one inch. Let alone the numerous (probably about 20) cars that decided at the last minute that they were really going to NJ too. I finally wised up and went the opposite way on the Cross-Bronx, took the next exit for a u-turn and was in NJ on Rt 80 within 10 minutes. Talk about Road Rage man...it reinforced my point - I'm not fit for the commuter role....a straight jacket maybe....but no commuter. And if by almost in jail....I mean not almost at all.
Things to be thankful for on my birthday:
- Shrek the Third, FINALLY, in theaters.
- Bingo Night in America, FINALLY, on TV
- NJ launching a new "Click it or ticket" campaign to waste my money because of a stupid Governor
....Conflict boils over like an angry sludge....
Around the Balls:
Brown-oblong- For those that watched the NFL draft, as I did, on that Saturday afternoon, you probably are just as perplexed and even touched by the Keyshawn Johnson situation. No granted, I am from Garfield, NJ, the hometown of Wayne Chrebet, who was the source of "Me-Shawn's" frustration years back as a Jet, but I don't hold a grudge. Keyshawn, with that huge ass smile seems like an alright guy and seems to have "chilled out" since his days as a diva WR. It kind of stinks looking back, how excited he was, thinking he would have the chance to play with Dwayne Jarrett in Carolina, a few days before he was cut. Obviously teams like San Fran, Oakland and Philly are weary of signing another TO or Moss-like player, but I honestly think he's mellowed out and can still provide a spark for a team. Maybe not a Top 5 or even 10 round Fantasy pick, but still a contributor in the locker room with some young wide-outs...speaking of Young - I believe he'll go to Tennessee and help out a much needed WR corps.
Giant-orange- Did anyone else listen to LeBron's post-game news conference the other night? "I have a family at home I'm more worried about" - maybe I'm reading too much into it....maybe he's playing the media and the fans. Either way, my heart wants Cleveland to win tonight in Jersey, but my mind is tellin' me no!
White-stitched- In the time you read up until now, Roger Clemens made another $600. Thanks for playing.
** I know this because, apparently no one is reading this anymore! Last week I mentioned in the "Around the Balls" section of this column that "Tank Williams" was getting out of prison....Tank Williams was a safety with the Tennessee Titans a few years back....Tank Johnson is the huge dude from Chicago with guns and dogs and jail time!
Program Alerts!!!:
Cavs/Nets - Game 6 tonight. Suns/Spurs - Game 6 tonight. "The Preakness" tomorrow on NBC.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Friday, May 11, 2007
Dom's Dish - $100 minute edition
Dom's Dish - Friday, May 11, 2007
Breaking News: After applying for reinstatement to the league, Ricky Williams has failed another drug test. What a moron, talk about a character issue.
So we all know about the Yankees and hopefully their "savior" this year whom they just signed to a one-year $28 million contract. We all know about the "Clemens Clause" in which he can skip out on games that he doesn't pitch and be with his family. How good is Roger Clemens? Possibly the best pitcher of all times. The wins, the ERA, the strikeouts. How much is he worth? We all heard $28 million - but that's prorated. He doesn't get paid for April and May. But still, an astonishing fact, Roger Clemens will make $102.46 per minute. Imagine that. By the time you finish reading this Dish, he will have made over $500. To most, that is a good weekly salary. That's $6,147.60 in one hour - how many make that in a month? $147,000+ in one day.
And here it is again, another favorite time of the year for me. It's Friday morning, I'm watching ESPN, and already know it. "ESPN has learned that Dirk Nowitzki will be named the NBA Most Valuable Player on Tuesday." WHAT!? How does that happen? Why Tuesday? Everyone knows 4 days ahead of time, how is that fair?
So, the big news yesterday was that Dale Earnhart, Jr. will be leaving DEI (D. Earnhart, Inc.). His step-mother wouldn't give him the 51% share and control of company, and now with this decision, there won't be much to DEI. The biggest name in NASCAR is a free agent and talk already this morning is that he'll end up with the same team his daddy was with. Talk about splitting the family up - his sister is his agent and at the presser yesterday he mentioned his aunt too. I just wanna go grab a Busch for some reason...
Speaking of Busch...The Bulls collapsed last night. Already down 2-0 in the series, they had a 17 pt lead and blew it in the second half. I guess they're making progress, this team is the first to win a playoff series since the days of MJ. And I thought Philly was bad...talk about a city to suffer heartache: Kerry Wood, Mark Prior, Rex Grossman and now the Bulls...I'm not so sure the White Sox shouldn't be considered a non-Chicago team.
So, everyone gets into these NFL Draft wrap ups. You don't know and won't for 2 years how good it was. I mean, come on - for every Tim Couch or Ryan Leaf (busts) there is a Peyton Manning (1st ballot HOF-er) and for every Ben Roethlisberger (starts fast) there is a Lee Evans (better over time). There are also the Michael Clayton and Cadillac Williams's (great rookie seasons), who counter their production with a horrible year. And those are only some first round names! Everyone makes a big deal about the Eagles draft, trading back, but not as much is said for teams that mortgage the farm - NY Giants for Eli Manning. There are all tons of different scenarios that will play out - no one can accurately project a player's fortune or misfortune in the NFL from a college career. Players get drafted from big schools, small schools; we've seen them on TV, or we never heard of them until Bowl season. Point being - look back to the 2005 draft and analyze that. Alex Smith, Ronnie Brown, Braylon Edwards, Cedric Benson and Cadillac Williams. Even they won't be viewed the same at the end of this season as they are now. Why should this year's class be any different?
Five bricks. No one has ever jumped five bricks. There's talk that some kid in the next town jumped four bricks and a small piece of wood...
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The Cavs, led by 'Bron Bron, are up 2-0 on the Nets heading into tomorrow's Game 3 in East Rutherford. The younger, more physical Cavs are out-hussling and out-rebounding the older, more feeble Nets. Hey, at least the NJ teams got to the playoffs!!!
White-leather-stitched- Colbert Richard Hamels is on the mound tonight against the Cubs. His mid-three ERA and 4-1 record against a Chicago team under Lou Pinella that is 6-3 in their last nine. Cole's second in the NL with 52 K's in 47.2 IP. If he is to reach his goal of 20 wins, he better have a good game tonight. Hopefully he can get some run support. Aaron Rowand for MVP baby!
Rubber-non- Hockey is still going on? I tell you what, watch the end of this Buffalo/Ottowa series. It's gonna get ugly. Maybe the goalies will meet at center ice again to throw down.
Big-brown-oblong- Tank Williams is getting out of jail on Sunday and will meet with Commish Goodell on Wednesday. There's talk he'll be punished less harshly due to "time already served." How does that make any sense? He was actually punished to jail time, already been convicted of a weapons charge and a parole violation. How is that any better than being questioned by the Po-po 10 times and raising dogs for fighting?
Tiny-white- Tiger is in FL this weekend trying to avoid the smoke and winds to win another tourney. "The unofficial 5th major" they say, the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. Look out for Lefty- already at 6 under on day 2. And I'm the "unofficial next Bill Simmons."
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer lost to someone on clay not named Rafael Nadal. How about that?
Program Alert:
NBA Playoffs all weekend and tons of baseball.
Breaking News: After applying for reinstatement to the league, Ricky Williams has failed another drug test. What a moron, talk about a character issue.
So we all know about the Yankees and hopefully their "savior" this year whom they just signed to a one-year $28 million contract. We all know about the "Clemens Clause" in which he can skip out on games that he doesn't pitch and be with his family. How good is Roger Clemens? Possibly the best pitcher of all times. The wins, the ERA, the strikeouts. How much is he worth? We all heard $28 million - but that's prorated. He doesn't get paid for April and May. But still, an astonishing fact, Roger Clemens will make $102.46 per minute. Imagine that. By the time you finish reading this Dish, he will have made over $500. To most, that is a good weekly salary. That's $6,147.60 in one hour - how many make that in a month? $147,000+ in one day.
And here it is again, another favorite time of the year for me. It's Friday morning, I'm watching ESPN, and already know it. "ESPN has learned that Dirk Nowitzki will be named the NBA Most Valuable Player on Tuesday." WHAT!? How does that happen? Why Tuesday? Everyone knows 4 days ahead of time, how is that fair?
So, the big news yesterday was that Dale Earnhart, Jr. will be leaving DEI (D. Earnhart, Inc.). His step-mother wouldn't give him the 51% share and control of company, and now with this decision, there won't be much to DEI. The biggest name in NASCAR is a free agent and talk already this morning is that he'll end up with the same team his daddy was with. Talk about splitting the family up - his sister is his agent and at the presser yesterday he mentioned his aunt too. I just wanna go grab a Busch for some reason...
Speaking of Busch...The Bulls collapsed last night. Already down 2-0 in the series, they had a 17 pt lead and blew it in the second half. I guess they're making progress, this team is the first to win a playoff series since the days of MJ. And I thought Philly was bad...talk about a city to suffer heartache: Kerry Wood, Mark Prior, Rex Grossman and now the Bulls...I'm not so sure the White Sox shouldn't be considered a non-Chicago team.
So, everyone gets into these NFL Draft wrap ups. You don't know and won't for 2 years how good it was. I mean, come on - for every Tim Couch or Ryan Leaf (busts) there is a Peyton Manning (1st ballot HOF-er) and for every Ben Roethlisberger (starts fast) there is a Lee Evans (better over time). There are also the Michael Clayton and Cadillac Williams's (great rookie seasons), who counter their production with a horrible year. And those are only some first round names! Everyone makes a big deal about the Eagles draft, trading back, but not as much is said for teams that mortgage the farm - NY Giants for Eli Manning. There are all tons of different scenarios that will play out - no one can accurately project a player's fortune or misfortune in the NFL from a college career. Players get drafted from big schools, small schools; we've seen them on TV, or we never heard of them until Bowl season. Point being - look back to the 2005 draft and analyze that. Alex Smith, Ronnie Brown, Braylon Edwards, Cedric Benson and Cadillac Williams. Even they won't be viewed the same at the end of this season as they are now. Why should this year's class be any different?
Five bricks. No one has ever jumped five bricks. There's talk that some kid in the next town jumped four bricks and a small piece of wood...
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The Cavs, led by 'Bron Bron, are up 2-0 on the Nets heading into tomorrow's Game 3 in East Rutherford. The younger, more physical Cavs are out-hussling and out-rebounding the older, more feeble Nets. Hey, at least the NJ teams got to the playoffs!!!
White-leather-stitched- Colbert Richard Hamels is on the mound tonight against the Cubs. His mid-three ERA and 4-1 record against a Chicago team under Lou Pinella that is 6-3 in their last nine. Cole's second in the NL with 52 K's in 47.2 IP. If he is to reach his goal of 20 wins, he better have a good game tonight. Hopefully he can get some run support. Aaron Rowand for MVP baby!
Rubber-non- Hockey is still going on? I tell you what, watch the end of this Buffalo/Ottowa series. It's gonna get ugly. Maybe the goalies will meet at center ice again to throw down.
Big-brown-oblong- Tank Williams is getting out of jail on Sunday and will meet with Commish Goodell on Wednesday. There's talk he'll be punished less harshly due to "time already served." How does that make any sense? He was actually punished to jail time, already been convicted of a weapons charge and a parole violation. How is that any better than being questioned by the Po-po 10 times and raising dogs for fighting?
Tiny-white- Tiger is in FL this weekend trying to avoid the smoke and winds to win another tourney. "The unofficial 5th major" they say, the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. Look out for Lefty- already at 6 under on day 2. And I'm the "unofficial next Bill Simmons."
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer lost to someone on clay not named Rafael Nadal. How about that?
Program Alert:
NBA Playoffs all weekend and tons of baseball.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Dom's Dish - 2007 NFL Draft Preview edition
Dom's Dish - Friday, April 27, 2007
The NFL Draft starts tomorrow. Seven rounds over two days - 1-3 tomorrow, 4-7 on Sunday. Quinn, Russell, Peterson, Jarrett, Gaines, Calvin, Troy, Leak...all one names that have been engrained into our head for months, and this will be the moment of truth. Who goes where? I have to say, I'm not to sure about this year's draft class. Last year it was Leinert, Bush and Young as the big three - who are they this year? Is it Peterson-Quinn-Russell? Peterson-Russell-Johnson? Johnson-Russell-Thomas? Who knows? Who will be the Tom Brady or Marques Colston of 2007 - if any? Will Trent Green move to Miami? How does Dante Culpepper fit in? Do the Browns have faith in Jamal Lewis? Where do the Giants, Jets and Eagles fit in?
First, let's get a few things straight. Anything can happen, it depends on how much teams are willing to wager, whether in trades or actual draft picks. Some teams draft on need, others on talent available, unlike what anyone says, there is no exact science to it, there is some luck thrown in, as well as some real talent from a scouting perspective in selecting the right player. The draft isn't over after the first day, nor even round seven.
Now that we have laid the ground work, let's look at the key players this year. Almost everyone has JaMarcus Russell, the big guy out of LSU going to the Raiders. The only possibility out there would be if Daunte Culpepper became available through the Dolphins releasing him in favor of Trent Green. A 2 and a 7 are what the 'Fins got for Wes Welker (my bust trade of the offseason) and the Chiefs are smart enough to realize the 'Fins robbed the Patriots of those two picks. I'm glad they're holding out for a 2 and a 7 now, but you know what happens - they'll see someone on the board they really like in Round 3 and take that extra 3rd round pick and a 7th for Green. By that point, Russell, who's healthy, has been drafted by the Raiders. I won't call it a lock that Russell is in black and silver next year, but can Lane Kiffin really expect that Andrew Walter is gonna be their guy? The Raiders got to a Super Bowl with Rich Gannon a few years back - someone they didn't draft, perhaps 2007 is finally the year to make the investment in an offensive player. The Raiders #1 draft picks from 2006 back to 1997 - S, CB, OT, CB, DE, CB, LB, S, K, OT, CB, OT, DT. Not one offensive skill player! During that same time frame, only 7 of their top 3 rounds' picks were skill players: names like Jon Ritchie, Teyo Johnson, Doug Jolley, Justin Fargas, Andrew Walter, Marques Tuiasasopo and Jerry Porter. You know the names because you might have drafted them for Fantasy purposes, but they have done diddily squat and/or have been unreliable. Sure you could build around Andrew Walter and that defense, but JaMarcus has the arm. Pick one done - I just wonder if we'll hear about the signing tonight before bed time like the Mario Williams signing last year?
After that, is where it gets interesting. You know a few trades will occur, but not since the Eli deal has there been much movement at the top...until now. Calvin Johnson is still on the board. Jon Gruden is salivating. The skins need a LB and the Briggs deal is still in the works. I say at least one move will occur - either Briggs to 'Skins for the #5 pick, or the Bucs trading up to #2 for Calvin Johnson, where the Lions will get Gaines Adams and a pick from the Bucs. Aside from that, I could go on forever about each pick - who goes where, etc. But that's not my job - Mel Kiper and those other "experts" do a good enough job. Let's break down a few teams and see where they're gonna go...
NY Jets: After a playoff run last year under rookie head coach Eric the Man-genious, and a quiet but effective offseason, they're in great shape for the draft. Most list their biggest needs as CB, OLB, WR, TE and DT. Obviously their trading for Thomas Jones...for a mere 21 places in the second round was the move of the year in my opinion. Leon Washington, Nick Mangold, Brad Smith and D'Brickashaw Ferguson were their best performers from last year's draft. A second year in the system will only help Kellen Clemens as he backs up Chad, Chris Baker is a solid blocking TE, but a threat like Shockey is always a possibility - see Greg Olsen (Wayne Hills H.S. graduate). With two picks in the second round and the 25th pick in the 1st round, moving up is a possibility for the J-e-t-s Jets Jets Jets. However with the need for more young talent on the team, trading down is just as likely since the Jets only have 6 picks. It's a deep WR draft and finding a big body from a smaller school to play DT is an option. Look for the Jets to take a LB or CB in the first two rounds, followed by some receivers further down in Day 1.
NY Giants: Since they called out of the free agency period, they must be set. With eight picks and a quiet offseason (aside from letting their LT go), look for them to draft some OT help and obviously defense. ALL parts of defense. Injuries to their Defensive line have killed them, the Lavar Arrington experiment failed, their secondary are all 30-something former free agents, and oh and their down a Tiki. Aside from my being an Eagles fan, this team is going backwards...fast. Unless Eli turns things around and starts looking more like his brother than a Disney cartoon character, it's not going to matter who they draft.
Philadelphia Eagles: The questions already: Is it time to draft a QB? How about a big RB? They still need a WR, right? How about drafting a LB? What happens if B-Dawk goes down? My answers and projections - Y Y N Y Y. Andy Reid loves linemen in the first round - he's moved up to get Shawn Andrews, and got screwed taking Freddie Mitchell. They'll draft a QB - if Jon Beck of BYU is still available in the mid-to-late second round, you know Andy Reid loves his Cougars (of BYU, and K Wright). With the way Michael Bush has fallen with his broken leg, Brian Leonard because people don't know if he's a RB or FB, and Tony Hunt's size...if one of them is there in the second round - they need to take them too. Look for a first round selection of Chris Houston or Daymeion Hughes, CB's out of Arkansas or Cal respectively. Decisions, decisions - if Paul Posluzny is still available in the first round, could they take him? I actually think the Eagles will trade down at least once to acquire more picks and you know they'll make another player-for-pick trade too - possibly Jerome McDougle (if anyone out there still wants him), Dhani Jones, Sam Rayburn or William Thomas as they are deep at those positions. L.J. Smith is the big name heading into a contract year, so look for them to draft a TE in the mid rounds 4/5. You know the 6 draft picks they have will turn into more - and with their close proximity to the edge of the salary cap, trading down is an great play. It doesn't appear that we've heard much buzz about their potential picks in the first round this year - maybe that's saying something?
Some players worth pointing out that may have an impact next season?
David Harris, LB Michigan
Chris Houston, CB Arkansas
Adrian Peterson, RB Oklahoma
Joe Staley, OT Central Michigan
Mason Crosby, K Colorado
Dom's Dark horses:
David Ball, WR New Hampshire
Jared Zabransky, QB Boise State
Cameron Stephenson, OG Rutgers
Joe Newton, TE Oregon State
Tim Shaw, OLB Penn State
Program Alert:
NFL Draft coverage begins at 11am on Saturday - really the draft starts at 12 noon, but an hour extra of ESPN isn't bad...
The NFL Draft starts tomorrow. Seven rounds over two days - 1-3 tomorrow, 4-7 on Sunday. Quinn, Russell, Peterson, Jarrett, Gaines, Calvin, Troy, Leak...all one names that have been engrained into our head for months, and this will be the moment of truth. Who goes where? I have to say, I'm not to sure about this year's draft class. Last year it was Leinert, Bush and Young as the big three - who are they this year? Is it Peterson-Quinn-Russell? Peterson-Russell-Johnson? Johnson-Russell-Thomas? Who knows? Who will be the Tom Brady or Marques Colston of 2007 - if any? Will Trent Green move to Miami? How does Dante Culpepper fit in? Do the Browns have faith in Jamal Lewis? Where do the Giants, Jets and Eagles fit in?
First, let's get a few things straight. Anything can happen, it depends on how much teams are willing to wager, whether in trades or actual draft picks. Some teams draft on need, others on talent available, unlike what anyone says, there is no exact science to it, there is some luck thrown in, as well as some real talent from a scouting perspective in selecting the right player. The draft isn't over after the first day, nor even round seven.
Now that we have laid the ground work, let's look at the key players this year. Almost everyone has JaMarcus Russell, the big guy out of LSU going to the Raiders. The only possibility out there would be if Daunte Culpepper became available through the Dolphins releasing him in favor of Trent Green. A 2 and a 7 are what the 'Fins got for Wes Welker (my bust trade of the offseason) and the Chiefs are smart enough to realize the 'Fins robbed the Patriots of those two picks. I'm glad they're holding out for a 2 and a 7 now, but you know what happens - they'll see someone on the board they really like in Round 3 and take that extra 3rd round pick and a 7th for Green. By that point, Russell, who's healthy, has been drafted by the Raiders. I won't call it a lock that Russell is in black and silver next year, but can Lane Kiffin really expect that Andrew Walter is gonna be their guy? The Raiders got to a Super Bowl with Rich Gannon a few years back - someone they didn't draft, perhaps 2007 is finally the year to make the investment in an offensive player. The Raiders #1 draft picks from 2006 back to 1997 - S, CB, OT, CB, DE, CB, LB, S, K, OT, CB, OT, DT. Not one offensive skill player! During that same time frame, only 7 of their top 3 rounds' picks were skill players: names like Jon Ritchie, Teyo Johnson, Doug Jolley, Justin Fargas, Andrew Walter, Marques Tuiasasopo and Jerry Porter. You know the names because you might have drafted them for Fantasy purposes, but they have done diddily squat and/or have been unreliable. Sure you could build around Andrew Walter and that defense, but JaMarcus has the arm. Pick one done - I just wonder if we'll hear about the signing tonight before bed time like the Mario Williams signing last year?
After that, is where it gets interesting. You know a few trades will occur, but not since the Eli deal has there been much movement at the top...until now. Calvin Johnson is still on the board. Jon Gruden is salivating. The skins need a LB and the Briggs deal is still in the works. I say at least one move will occur - either Briggs to 'Skins for the #5 pick, or the Bucs trading up to #2 for Calvin Johnson, where the Lions will get Gaines Adams and a pick from the Bucs. Aside from that, I could go on forever about each pick - who goes where, etc. But that's not my job - Mel Kiper and those other "experts" do a good enough job. Let's break down a few teams and see where they're gonna go...
NY Jets: After a playoff run last year under rookie head coach Eric the Man-genious, and a quiet but effective offseason, they're in great shape for the draft. Most list their biggest needs as CB, OLB, WR, TE and DT. Obviously their trading for Thomas Jones...for a mere 21 places in the second round was the move of the year in my opinion. Leon Washington, Nick Mangold, Brad Smith and D'Brickashaw Ferguson were their best performers from last year's draft. A second year in the system will only help Kellen Clemens as he backs up Chad, Chris Baker is a solid blocking TE, but a threat like Shockey is always a possibility - see Greg Olsen (Wayne Hills H.S. graduate). With two picks in the second round and the 25th pick in the 1st round, moving up is a possibility for the J-e-t-s Jets Jets Jets. However with the need for more young talent on the team, trading down is just as likely since the Jets only have 6 picks. It's a deep WR draft and finding a big body from a smaller school to play DT is an option. Look for the Jets to take a LB or CB in the first two rounds, followed by some receivers further down in Day 1.
NY Giants: Since they called out of the free agency period, they must be set. With eight picks and a quiet offseason (aside from letting their LT go), look for them to draft some OT help and obviously defense. ALL parts of defense. Injuries to their Defensive line have killed them, the Lavar Arrington experiment failed, their secondary are all 30-something former free agents, and oh and their down a Tiki. Aside from my being an Eagles fan, this team is going backwards...fast. Unless Eli turns things around and starts looking more like his brother than a Disney cartoon character, it's not going to matter who they draft.
Philadelphia Eagles: The questions already: Is it time to draft a QB? How about a big RB? They still need a WR, right? How about drafting a LB? What happens if B-Dawk goes down? My answers and projections - Y Y N Y Y. Andy Reid loves linemen in the first round - he's moved up to get Shawn Andrews, and got screwed taking Freddie Mitchell. They'll draft a QB - if Jon Beck of BYU is still available in the mid-to-late second round, you know Andy Reid loves his Cougars (of BYU, and K Wright). With the way Michael Bush has fallen with his broken leg, Brian Leonard because people don't know if he's a RB or FB, and Tony Hunt's size...if one of them is there in the second round - they need to take them too. Look for a first round selection of Chris Houston or Daymeion Hughes, CB's out of Arkansas or Cal respectively. Decisions, decisions - if Paul Posluzny is still available in the first round, could they take him? I actually think the Eagles will trade down at least once to acquire more picks and you know they'll make another player-for-pick trade too - possibly Jerome McDougle (if anyone out there still wants him), Dhani Jones, Sam Rayburn or William Thomas as they are deep at those positions. L.J. Smith is the big name heading into a contract year, so look for them to draft a TE in the mid rounds 4/5. You know the 6 draft picks they have will turn into more - and with their close proximity to the edge of the salary cap, trading down is an great play. It doesn't appear that we've heard much buzz about their potential picks in the first round this year - maybe that's saying something?
Some players worth pointing out that may have an impact next season?
David Harris, LB Michigan
Chris Houston, CB Arkansas
Adrian Peterson, RB Oklahoma
Joe Staley, OT Central Michigan
Mason Crosby, K Colorado
Dom's Dark horses:
David Ball, WR New Hampshire
Jared Zabransky, QB Boise State
Cameron Stephenson, OG Rutgers
Joe Newton, TE Oregon State
Tim Shaw, OLB Penn State
Program Alert:
NFL Draft coverage begins at 11am on Saturday - really the draft starts at 12 noon, but an hour extra of ESPN isn't bad...
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Dom's Dish - Character edition
Dom's Dish - Thursday, April 26, 2007
So how about them NBA awards, eh? Sam Mitchell of the Raptors won the Coach of the Year Award, Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors won the most improved award and Leandro Barbosa of the Suns won the sixth man award. Even for someone like me, the casual fan, these names don't mean anything to me. Ok, maybe Barbosa - "The Brazilian Blur" - since he's on the Suns and they get a lot of playing time on national TV. It's funny to me that this doesn't even create a buzz - think NFL and MLB - there's speculation for weeks and months about these awards. If baseball is the "National Past time" and football is "America's Game," that definitely leaves basketball as "the sport America exported." Ever since the days of Larry versus Magic and MJ, basketball has been on the decline. I think someone should let David Stern know.
One day to the big Dom's Dish draft preview - however here is a preview of the preview. The word of the year that already is turning my stomach every time I hear it now...over and over...is "character." I have not heard that word so much since English class junior year in high school!!! Damn you Pacman Jones - it's your fault. You and the Cincinnati Bengals! Couldn't you just party at home? Do you have to drink and drive, while transporting baggies and then carry guns around while doing it? Really? Did you have to go to Vegas to party with the NBA stars....with guns? Now we'll be inundated all day Saturday from Mel Kiper, Chris Berman and TJ about the word. Maybe Suzy Kolber will be there to discuss it too? Andrea Kramer? They'll have reporters everywhere discussing character, character, character.
The one thing I don't like is the fact that this new "Conduct Policy" is being enforced and presided over by one man - Roger Goodell. Even with his "players advisory committee" his power is fast approaching David Stern level.
The Phillies have won five straight after Charlie Manuel's pep talk before Saturday's game. Some key factors? The bullpen isn't giving up tons of runs, they're all actually hitting the ball. Nice pep talk - hit the ball! Stop giving up runs! Man I should be a manger! (Of course as I write this, they're down 3-0 in the top of the sixth inning with the bases loaded)
Is that American Idol crap over yet? I can't wait to start watching "Bingo night in America" or whatever....I can't wait for the "Dom Show" where I just sit at the computer and flip through the channels - it'll be real reality TV!
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The Lebron's are beating up on the Wizards. The kid is still averaging 25 pts, 8.5 boards and 7 assists in the two games. Without Caron Butler and Agent Zero - Gilbert Arenas, the Cavs are gonna sweep them.
White-leather-stitched- Did you hear? Torii Hunter sent some bottles of champagne to the KC Royals as promised for last years season-ending sweep of the Tigers (by the Royals), propelling the Twins into the playoffs? Now he may face a minimum 3-year suspension from the game for gift giving? Maybe even the Royals too. Tradition is tradition, but sounds like a.) he shouldn't have kept his promise and b.) this is a stupid rule.
Rubber-non- Devils win 3 straight. Already in the second round of the NFL playoffs, it'll be interesting to see how this round plays out. It really sucks that you can only watch the games on Channel "772" and pay for it, or 59 - "Versus". Then they wonder why people don't call it a major sport- what came first, no playoffs on national TV or no one watching?
Big-brown-oblong- The Draft is 2 days away. Are you excited yet? With all this talk of trades and what-if scenarios...it's making my head spin. BTW, I hope no one needs me Saturday afternoon from about 11am to 6 or 7pm....
Tiny-white- Everyone is up in arms about this weekend's event - the Byron Nelson Open - and the fact that 11 of the top 15 in the world will not be at the event. I love golf and all, but even for an individual sport, it's too much to keep calling it a sport. It's more like a hobby. "Eh, I'm busy this week with doing nothing, maybe next week?"
Green-fuzzy- Rafael Nadal again beat Roger Federer on clay, this time the Barcelona Open. He has won 69 consecutive matches on clay, one short of the record. "Clay. Bill Clay." Good one Hans - McLean almost had you that time. "No bullets!"
Program Alert:
NFL Draft coverage begins at 11am on Saturday - really the draft starts at 12 noon, but an hour extra of ESPN isn't bad...
So how about them NBA awards, eh? Sam Mitchell of the Raptors won the Coach of the Year Award, Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors won the most improved award and Leandro Barbosa of the Suns won the sixth man award. Even for someone like me, the casual fan, these names don't mean anything to me. Ok, maybe Barbosa - "The Brazilian Blur" - since he's on the Suns and they get a lot of playing time on national TV. It's funny to me that this doesn't even create a buzz - think NFL and MLB - there's speculation for weeks and months about these awards. If baseball is the "National Past time" and football is "America's Game," that definitely leaves basketball as "the sport America exported." Ever since the days of Larry versus Magic and MJ, basketball has been on the decline. I think someone should let David Stern know.
One day to the big Dom's Dish draft preview - however here is a preview of the preview. The word of the year that already is turning my stomach every time I hear it now...over and over...is "character." I have not heard that word so much since English class junior year in high school!!! Damn you Pacman Jones - it's your fault. You and the Cincinnati Bengals! Couldn't you just party at home? Do you have to drink and drive, while transporting baggies and then carry guns around while doing it? Really? Did you have to go to Vegas to party with the NBA stars....with guns? Now we'll be inundated all day Saturday from Mel Kiper, Chris Berman and TJ about the word. Maybe Suzy Kolber will be there to discuss it too? Andrea Kramer? They'll have reporters everywhere discussing character, character, character.
The one thing I don't like is the fact that this new "Conduct Policy" is being enforced and presided over by one man - Roger Goodell. Even with his "players advisory committee" his power is fast approaching David Stern level.
The Phillies have won five straight after Charlie Manuel's pep talk before Saturday's game. Some key factors? The bullpen isn't giving up tons of runs, they're all actually hitting the ball. Nice pep talk - hit the ball! Stop giving up runs! Man I should be a manger! (Of course as I write this, they're down 3-0 in the top of the sixth inning with the bases loaded)
Is that American Idol crap over yet? I can't wait to start watching "Bingo night in America" or whatever....I can't wait for the "Dom Show" where I just sit at the computer and flip through the channels - it'll be real reality TV!
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The Lebron's are beating up on the Wizards. The kid is still averaging 25 pts, 8.5 boards and 7 assists in the two games. Without Caron Butler and Agent Zero - Gilbert Arenas, the Cavs are gonna sweep them.
White-leather-stitched- Did you hear? Torii Hunter sent some bottles of champagne to the KC Royals as promised for last years season-ending sweep of the Tigers (by the Royals), propelling the Twins into the playoffs? Now he may face a minimum 3-year suspension from the game for gift giving? Maybe even the Royals too. Tradition is tradition, but sounds like a.) he shouldn't have kept his promise and b.) this is a stupid rule.
Rubber-non- Devils win 3 straight. Already in the second round of the NFL playoffs, it'll be interesting to see how this round plays out. It really sucks that you can only watch the games on Channel "772" and pay for it, or 59 - "Versus". Then they wonder why people don't call it a major sport- what came first, no playoffs on national TV or no one watching?
Big-brown-oblong- The Draft is 2 days away. Are you excited yet? With all this talk of trades and what-if scenarios...it's making my head spin. BTW, I hope no one needs me Saturday afternoon from about 11am to 6 or 7pm....
Tiny-white- Everyone is up in arms about this weekend's event - the Byron Nelson Open - and the fact that 11 of the top 15 in the world will not be at the event. I love golf and all, but even for an individual sport, it's too much to keep calling it a sport. It's more like a hobby. "Eh, I'm busy this week with doing nothing, maybe next week?"
Green-fuzzy- Rafael Nadal again beat Roger Federer on clay, this time the Barcelona Open. He has won 69 consecutive matches on clay, one short of the record. "Clay. Bill Clay." Good one Hans - McLean almost had you that time. "No bullets!"
Program Alert:
NFL Draft coverage begins at 11am on Saturday - really the draft starts at 12 noon, but an hour extra of ESPN isn't bad...
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Dom's Dish - Incomplete Dish edition
Thursday, April 19, 2007
I would be remiss without mentioning the horror that happened down in Blacksburg, VA this week. It again reinforces how short life is and how there is so much more to this world and the billions of people in it, than we can all fathom. Any college, any town, anywhere that could have happened and in the blink of an eye, 32 innocent are dead (why do they include the idiot shooter in the count?). The only thing that irks me is the whole display that goes on afterward - the tons of reporters on campus there, but more related to sports, the hat thing. I just worry that sometimes it's taken too far and it becomes the "hip" or "in" thing to do - much like the NYPD and FDNY hats that are still worn. I still worry that sometimes people treat them as something to make them cool as opposed to what it should be - a reminder. Sometimes saying "we will never forget" goes a little overboard in my mind. The USA Today had a list of tragic events in "their lifetime" (the current VT college students) that included Challenger, Waco, Oklahoma City, the Atlanta Bombings, Columbine, 9/11, Columbia, the Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina, and now this. Those aren't all things I think of each day, but they're things I'll never forget. Some other things that will serve as a reminder, regardless: any mention of Oklahoma City, the word tsunami, and most obvious - I will never not think of 9/11 when seeing a 767-type plane bank on a turn. If you saw it live on TV or the tape of it hundreds of times, to me, it is the biggest reminder or symbol of them all. That being said the VT logo will never be seen the same.
Mark Buehrle (pronounced bur-ley) of the Chicago White Sox pitched a no-hitter Wednesday night! The first one of the season. Great accomplishment - he walked one base runner then threw him out - Sammy Sosa at first base. One corked-bat away from a perfect game!
Charlie Manuel is fired up! Trying to fight Howard Eskin during/after the postgame news conference? Good for him - that jerk needs a good whopping! Hopefully that will fire the team up? I mean something needs to happen soon, right?
The Joey Crawford / Tim Duncan incident is pretty funny. This isn't the first time Joey Crawford, the ref, has been accused of "gunning" for a player. After 31 years, maybe it's time to hang it up - and now that David Stern aka the God of basketball, has made his decision to suspend - maybe we'll see Joey Crawford refereeing some celebrity baseball game on MTV this summer?
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The sixers won six of their last 10 games. I'm going on the record to say barring any major injuries to the new AI - the Sixers will make the playoffs next season and finish second in the Atlantic Division, if not better. With their pick and two others in the first round, likely around a #12, a low 20 and a high 20 pick (Denver and Dallas respectively), look for them to trade up or move one of them - the Andre Miller experiment worked and all the other talent has picked up. Then again, this is Philly - look at the Phils this season...
White-leather-stitched- Speaking of the Phils...how about Alex Rodriguez? Hit his 10th HR in 14 games! Now as much as I still don't really like Barry Bonds - he's up to 738 now and he actually is running the bases and playing the field. Who knows, maybe June 3rd at the Phils we'll see history?
Rubber-non- The Devils almost gave us all in Jersey a scare. Huge difference between going down 3-1 versus the even 2-2. Even 2-0 isn't bad to come back from. Brodeur has looked pretty bad this series - something about the Lightning - hopefully the home game Friday night is the one to get him back on track - close out strong in the Continental Arena!
Big-brown-oblong- Brian Urlacher was fined $100K for his wearing of a hat and drinking something at Super Bowl media day. In case you missed it - the NFL has decided to fine him and is now made public (possibly because of an appeal?) 2 months after the Super Bowl. He wore a "Vitamin Water" had and was drinking the stuff during media day - Vitamin Water is not an approved NFL sponsor, so they're not allowed to be displayed. I understand both sides of this, and I hope his sponsor gives him the $100K to cover the fine - all of the sudden I want to try one of them - their ploy worked!
I would be remiss without mentioning the horror that happened down in Blacksburg, VA this week. It again reinforces how short life is and how there is so much more to this world and the billions of people in it, than we can all fathom. Any college, any town, anywhere that could have happened and in the blink of an eye, 32 innocent are dead (why do they include the idiot shooter in the count?). The only thing that irks me is the whole display that goes on afterward - the tons of reporters on campus there, but more related to sports, the hat thing. I just worry that sometimes it's taken too far and it becomes the "hip" or "in" thing to do - much like the NYPD and FDNY hats that are still worn. I still worry that sometimes people treat them as something to make them cool as opposed to what it should be - a reminder. Sometimes saying "we will never forget" goes a little overboard in my mind. The USA Today had a list of tragic events in "their lifetime" (the current VT college students) that included Challenger, Waco, Oklahoma City, the Atlanta Bombings, Columbine, 9/11, Columbia, the Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina, and now this. Those aren't all things I think of each day, but they're things I'll never forget. Some other things that will serve as a reminder, regardless: any mention of Oklahoma City, the word tsunami, and most obvious - I will never not think of 9/11 when seeing a 767-type plane bank on a turn. If you saw it live on TV or the tape of it hundreds of times, to me, it is the biggest reminder or symbol of them all. That being said the VT logo will never be seen the same.
Mark Buehrle (pronounced bur-ley) of the Chicago White Sox pitched a no-hitter Wednesday night! The first one of the season. Great accomplishment - he walked one base runner then threw him out - Sammy Sosa at first base. One corked-bat away from a perfect game!
Charlie Manuel is fired up! Trying to fight Howard Eskin during/after the postgame news conference? Good for him - that jerk needs a good whopping! Hopefully that will fire the team up? I mean something needs to happen soon, right?
The Joey Crawford / Tim Duncan incident is pretty funny. This isn't the first time Joey Crawford, the ref, has been accused of "gunning" for a player. After 31 years, maybe it's time to hang it up - and now that David Stern aka the God of basketball, has made his decision to suspend - maybe we'll see Joey Crawford refereeing some celebrity baseball game on MTV this summer?
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- The sixers won six of their last 10 games. I'm going on the record to say barring any major injuries to the new AI - the Sixers will make the playoffs next season and finish second in the Atlantic Division, if not better. With their pick and two others in the first round, likely around a #12, a low 20 and a high 20 pick (Denver and Dallas respectively), look for them to trade up or move one of them - the Andre Miller experiment worked and all the other talent has picked up. Then again, this is Philly - look at the Phils this season...
White-leather-stitched- Speaking of the Phils...how about Alex Rodriguez? Hit his 10th HR in 14 games! Now as much as I still don't really like Barry Bonds - he's up to 738 now and he actually is running the bases and playing the field. Who knows, maybe June 3rd at the Phils we'll see history?
Rubber-non- The Devils almost gave us all in Jersey a scare. Huge difference between going down 3-1 versus the even 2-2. Even 2-0 isn't bad to come back from. Brodeur has looked pretty bad this series - something about the Lightning - hopefully the home game Friday night is the one to get him back on track - close out strong in the Continental Arena!
Big-brown-oblong- Brian Urlacher was fined $100K for his wearing of a hat and drinking something at Super Bowl media day. In case you missed it - the NFL has decided to fine him and is now made public (possibly because of an appeal?) 2 months after the Super Bowl. He wore a "Vitamin Water" had and was drinking the stuff during media day - Vitamin Water is not an approved NFL sponsor, so they're not allowed to be displayed. I understand both sides of this, and I hope his sponsor gives him the $100K to cover the fine - all of the sudden I want to try one of them - their ploy worked!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Dom's Dish - OH NO, Friday the 13th edition
Dom's Dish - Friday, April 13, 2007
Kind of a slow week in sports. Baseball is in full swing - no pun intended - Hockey is in the postseason already, basketball has about 4 or 5 games left, the NFL draft is in 2 weeks (less than 2 weeks to the Dom's Dish NFL Draft preview special), and the Masters' and College Hoops just passed. With all of that said, the news of the week in my mind, is Kevin Durant.
Kevin Durant has declared for the NBA Draft. "One and done" if you will. He won all 6 national player of the year awards, first to do so as a freshman. Worst thing about the draft is that he'll wind up going to the team with the top pick - most likely the Memphis Grizzlies (formerly of Vancouver), the Boston Celtics (formerly a respected franchise) or the Milwaukee Bucks (former 1971 NBA champs). As great as he is, Durant will be a swing man scorer who hopefully will not be playing with a bunch of scrubs. Now granted, each of these teams has a few great talents, but their records don't show it. My guess is Boston will get lucky this time - Red Auerbach will control fate from the grave and Danny Ainge (who coincidentally sat next to Mrs. Durant in the NCAA tournament) will get his wish. Then the Celts will have Paul Pierce, Al Jefferson and Kevin Durant in their front court. Bill Simmons will be happy and Boston again will be the focus of major sports and we can all hear "ca-ar" and "ya-ard" and all will be right in the world. Who can stop them in the NBA Atlantic Division? The Nets will be without at least Kidd or Carter or both, the Sixers are further away, Toronto is still Toronto and the Knicks, well their story is below.
I was up in NYC the other night and got to see the post game interview of Isiah Thomas after their near 30 pt loss to the Chicago Bulls. That dude always has the biggest shit-eating grin on his face. Now, you never notice it, because he keeps his lips over his teeth and mouth closed, but you can see it. Is he always smirking because he has not only tanked the CBA, but now the Knicks two years in a row? Worst part is, he has a multi-year extension and the Knicks #1 pick in a "deep draft" is headed to the Bulls in the Eddie Curry deal. Someone needs to slap that grin off his face - maybe ask 'Melo to do it and run again?
So I haven't played competitive baseball since I was 10. I don't claim to be an expert - I'll go to my brother-in-law (aka "blood brother") or former SGA president friend (never answers phone) for some hard core baseball knowledge or stats. One thing though I might have to ask them for is a real explanation and history of the blank wall in center field. I'm pretty sure every park has it - dead center field so the hitter has a solid background to look at while the little white stitched ball comes at them at 80+ mph. I think it's time to change the rule though. I mean basketball makes it hard - clear glass backboard, small circular orange hoop and tons of people waving stupid balloons in the background. It's worth a shot to do that in baseball - maybe the hitters in the major leagues would hit better than 25% of the time? That would be something the fans in Philly would eat up - giant cheese steaks in center field = more hits and homers for "Pat the bat" or Ryan "Fatty McHoward".
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Adam Morrison was fined $25,000 by the NBA for an obscene gesture he made to the crowd last week. Funny, I've been wondering when they were gonna fine him for that porn 'stache...
White-leather-stitched- A-Rod is H-O-T!!! I think my favorite part is that he is getting cheered in NY finally - like he wasn't worth it before. Granted he'll need to keep it up into the post season, but I also love how John Kruk points out his "figure" on the tele-strator on "Baseball Tonight", showing how he sticks his ass out. Hey Kruk - is that a mullet or a full blown pony tail?
Rubber-non- Martin Brodeur and the NJ Devils are off to a 1 game lead in the opening round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Big-brown-oblong- Pacman Jones is out for the year - Roger Goodell put his foot down. I'm glad someone finally did. I just hope that Pacman isn't stupid enough to appeal. Best quote was his mother saying "it wasn't fair" - people got shot, do you think that is fair?
Tiny-white- I was wrong about Tiger. I didn't have my weather forecast handy to see that there would be 25 mph winds either. Best shot of the weekend was when he snapped his 7 iron on the tree, then cracked it over his knee. No grand slam this year :-(
Program Alert: Watch some playoff hockey! The one game the other night went to 4 OT's and they don't clean off the ice! Guys were tripping and falling- it's fun!
Kind of a slow week in sports. Baseball is in full swing - no pun intended - Hockey is in the postseason already, basketball has about 4 or 5 games left, the NFL draft is in 2 weeks (less than 2 weeks to the Dom's Dish NFL Draft preview special), and the Masters' and College Hoops just passed. With all of that said, the news of the week in my mind, is Kevin Durant.
Kevin Durant has declared for the NBA Draft. "One and done" if you will. He won all 6 national player of the year awards, first to do so as a freshman. Worst thing about the draft is that he'll wind up going to the team with the top pick - most likely the Memphis Grizzlies (formerly of Vancouver), the Boston Celtics (formerly a respected franchise) or the Milwaukee Bucks (former 1971 NBA champs). As great as he is, Durant will be a swing man scorer who hopefully will not be playing with a bunch of scrubs. Now granted, each of these teams has a few great talents, but their records don't show it. My guess is Boston will get lucky this time - Red Auerbach will control fate from the grave and Danny Ainge (who coincidentally sat next to Mrs. Durant in the NCAA tournament) will get his wish. Then the Celts will have Paul Pierce, Al Jefferson and Kevin Durant in their front court. Bill Simmons will be happy and Boston again will be the focus of major sports and we can all hear "ca-ar" and "ya-ard" and all will be right in the world. Who can stop them in the NBA Atlantic Division? The Nets will be without at least Kidd or Carter or both, the Sixers are further away, Toronto is still Toronto and the Knicks, well their story is below.
I was up in NYC the other night and got to see the post game interview of Isiah Thomas after their near 30 pt loss to the Chicago Bulls. That dude always has the biggest shit-eating grin on his face. Now, you never notice it, because he keeps his lips over his teeth and mouth closed, but you can see it. Is he always smirking because he has not only tanked the CBA, but now the Knicks two years in a row? Worst part is, he has a multi-year extension and the Knicks #1 pick in a "deep draft" is headed to the Bulls in the Eddie Curry deal. Someone needs to slap that grin off his face - maybe ask 'Melo to do it and run again?
So I haven't played competitive baseball since I was 10. I don't claim to be an expert - I'll go to my brother-in-law (aka "blood brother") or former SGA president friend (never answers phone) for some hard core baseball knowledge or stats. One thing though I might have to ask them for is a real explanation and history of the blank wall in center field. I'm pretty sure every park has it - dead center field so the hitter has a solid background to look at while the little white stitched ball comes at them at 80+ mph. I think it's time to change the rule though. I mean basketball makes it hard - clear glass backboard, small circular orange hoop and tons of people waving stupid balloons in the background. It's worth a shot to do that in baseball - maybe the hitters in the major leagues would hit better than 25% of the time? That would be something the fans in Philly would eat up - giant cheese steaks in center field = more hits and homers for "Pat the bat" or Ryan "Fatty McHoward".
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Adam Morrison was fined $25,000 by the NBA for an obscene gesture he made to the crowd last week. Funny, I've been wondering when they were gonna fine him for that porn 'stache...
White-leather-stitched- A-Rod is H-O-T!!! I think my favorite part is that he is getting cheered in NY finally - like he wasn't worth it before. Granted he'll need to keep it up into the post season, but I also love how John Kruk points out his "figure" on the tele-strator on "Baseball Tonight", showing how he sticks his ass out. Hey Kruk - is that a mullet or a full blown pony tail?
Rubber-non- Martin Brodeur and the NJ Devils are off to a 1 game lead in the opening round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Big-brown-oblong- Pacman Jones is out for the year - Roger Goodell put his foot down. I'm glad someone finally did. I just hope that Pacman isn't stupid enough to appeal. Best quote was his mother saying "it wasn't fair" - people got shot, do you think that is fair?
Tiny-white- I was wrong about Tiger. I didn't have my weather forecast handy to see that there would be 25 mph winds either. Best shot of the weekend was when he snapped his 7 iron on the tree, then cracked it over his knee. No grand slam this year :-(
Program Alert: Watch some playoff hockey! The one game the other night went to 4 OT's and they don't clean off the ice! Guys were tripping and falling- it's fun!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Dom's Dish - April showers edition
Dom's Dish - Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Eddie Robinson passed away last night at 88, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. I don't remember much about Eddie, except seeing him but once a year for the annually televised Grambling / Southern football game, usually on NBC. The halftime show battle of the marching bands was always fun to watch, but so was Eddie, always in a suit and tie on the sidelines, directing traffic. Such a passionate and amazing man. Some amazing stats: 80% of his players graduated, 17 Southwestern Athletic Conference championships, 408 wins, over 200 players that went on to the NFL, only 8 losing seasons in 56 - yes, fifty-six consecutive seasons as a coach, from 1941 to 1997. You really need to read this article to appreciate the hard times, and the class of man he was: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2825016
Florida won the NCAA Tournament. Even though I dislike them for one player and the school as a whole, it is still pretty impressive winning 2 in a row in this day in age, especially since all 5 starters returned for school this year.
Oh Lou Lamoriello! Three games to go in the regular season and he fires the coach of the NJ Devils, Claude Julien. I've never met the man, but after 20 years as the Devils GM, I feel I know him. Having had a slump in the past month: In February, the Devils were a hot 10-3, however for the month of March they were 6-8. With the playoffs right around the corner, perhaps lightning will strike again for Lou - he's twice had to make a coaching change late in the season for a playoff run - once in 2000 (Larry Robinson stepped in and they won The Cup and last year Lou stepped in after Larry Robinson left in the middle of last season. With all of this going on, and both side alleging no "bad blood", this doesn't appear to be an A.J. Smith/Marty Schottenheimer deal. Plus, the Devils have lots to look forward to: Martin Brodeur last night tied the record for wins in a season (47 - 2 games to go), and the Devils are in the driver's seat for the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference. Plus, Patrick Elias, Brian Gionta and John Madden are all healthy from their mid-season injuries. They don't score as many goals as most teams, but their #1 in goals against in the Eastern conference, thanks to Brodeur and their trap defense. (For those Devils fans in South Jersey, they will be on tomorrow night against the Flyers at 7pm on Comcast SportsNet. A win clinches the Atlantic Division for the Devils.)
For those that missed it last week, the "Peyton Manning" dude, can't change his name after all. As predicted right here in "The Dish" on February 8th, the judge did not allow it "...because it would be too confusing and might infringe on the privacy of the Indianapolis Colts quarterback." And I quote: "I'll tell you now, it isn't going to happen. He filed paperwork yesterday and now will have to appear before a judge to make this official." Now if only I put my emotions aside and predicted Florida would win it all, you all might have some more cashola in your pah-quettes!
Breaking News: Mike Doss, signs with the Minnesota Vikings. The best of the remaining free agents, the safety formerly of the Colts is now a Viking. No more chance for the Eagles, but you have to bet they at least contacted him...
Some randomness:
South Park - 24 "hill dog" - it was only a matter of time. Right in her sniz. Hope a few of you watched in laughter as did I. By the way, I got an email about the US Airways merger with America West Airlines from the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Ready for this? Ready? His name is H. Travis Christ. See that's the problem with US Airways! Your sales guy is Christ and he still can't control the weather in Philly!!!
Kelly Holcomb = Taylor Hicks? At least Kelly Holcomb is in his 30's though: http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/homeNewsDetail.jsp?id=66789
So, yeah, I had asparagus recently. Made it on the grill, wrapped in foil with some butter, and garlic powder. (I've had it like that before, but usually over the brother-in-laws, and usually with about "a few" beers, so I didn't notice it then.) I went to urinate later that night and almost passed out from the smell! Now, after a while, coffee "scented" urine, is nice. Asparagus urine is just wrong! Here's a tip - drink at least 48 oz of fluid next time you eat asparagus.
By the way, I hate when my bowling ball pours Portland Cement into my washing machine. Oh, and March: "Came in like a lion, went out like a lamb" - anyone else know what I'm talkin' about?
Finishing this up - I'm watching "Undercover Brother" on USA network. Chappelle, Doogie Howser, the Principal from "Boston Public" - I may have to do like Eddie Griffin says and get it on DVD. (I'll avoid driving like him though) Talking into my baseball mitt...
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- In a little smaller than giant - the Lady Scarlet Nights of Rutgers came up short last night in the championship game. Pat Summitt and the Lady Volunteers of Tennessee are just too good. That was Pat Summitt's seventh - yes, 7th, Division I Championship. Talk about impressive. Not too sure she was as great a cheerleader as Bruce Pearl was painted orange, but 7 Championships is nothing to laugh at. Neither is Candace Parker, though a very beautiful woman, she's a beast on the court.
White-leather-stitched- When is opening day again? JK - I bowed out early on the NCAA game Monday night to watch some of the Angels/Rangers game in Los Angeles, err...California, err...Anaheim. The game is really starting to grow on me - kinda like that skin tag on my left armpit!
Rubber-non- Only 2 or 3 games left in the regular season. Post-season hockey might be better than post-season basketball. No, it is.
Big-brown-oblong- Commish Roger Goodell met with Pacman Jones and Chris Henry yesterday and set up an "Advisory Committee"
Tiny-white- The Masters begins tomorrow and continues through Sunday (FYI, most golf tournaments are 4 rounds, in case you didn't know). I'm still taking Tiger. I'm not sure if he'll win by 12 strokes like he did in 1997, but Tiger is going for "one for the thumb".
Program Alert:
The Masters - coverage begins tomorrow, 4pm on USA.
Chevelle's new CD "Vena Sera" hit stores yesterday. I rate my "music" for my iPod by the intensity (speed/anger being a 5, mellow being a 1) - this CD has almost all "4's" on the Dom scale.
Links:
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2825016 - Eddie Robinson - nice video on there
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2818261 - Brodeur article - not ordinary
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2823081 - Devils GM fires coach - more perspective
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2816559 - Peyton Manning name change guy
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For those new to "the dish", I once dreamed of being a sports-caster having my own column. Let me know if you don't like it, and/or want to be discontinued from the list. If you have another email address to send it to, send that to me also. For older issues of the dish, email me. domsdish@gmail.com or go to http://domsdish.blogspot.com
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