As life moves on, sometimes we don't get to do the things we once loved. Whether it's sleeping in past 8:00 am, staying up until 5:00 am drinking, playing hours of video games, going to the gym or eating whatever you feel like, growing old has it's perks and realities. And ever increasing responsibility. From the days when I had 2 or 6 hour flights to kill by writing Dom's Dish to "moving up the corporate ladder" and extra daily commute time, sometimes things change. I've come to realize this, and I've come to terms with adapting to the changes as the days, weeks, months and years go by. I wish I could say that for my favorite sport. Football.
From my early days, I can remember sitting back to watch games on Sundays. Saturdays, not so much - we didn't have any "big" teams to follow up in North Jersey. I remember rooting for the Jets - Freeman McNeil, Kenny O'Brien and Al Toooooon. I also remember the amazing run the Giants had for Super Bowl XXI and that Zeke Mowatt - the TE - came to my school. I was in 2nd grade (that was also the year we hatched butterflies). Looking back, Zeke had 1 catch for 6 yards that game, but he was in my grammar school, 6 foot something, and I got a picture with him (actually it was a Polaroid). Also looking back at a quick wikipedia article, a 30-second spot cost a mere $600,000.
From that point forward, I jumped teams - Jets (pics will show me and my younger brother geared up in uniforms and helmets in the backyard), KC Chiefs (got a nice windbreaker that mom gave me, times were tough, but I liked the colors), Redskins (probably a bandwagon fan around the time of Doug Williams, I did ask for and receive a Starter jacket around 7th grade), Giants (who can forget Super Bowl XXV - Desert Storm, Whitney Houston, that 9+ minute drive with Otis Anderson and of course, Wide Right!) Heck, I even played football in 7th and 8th grade - I recall the "camp" style practices hitting the sleds, playing in games, making tackles, missing blocks. Then, throughout much of high school though, I had lost interest. My concentration was on high school and all the activities I could pull off - marching band, Boilermaker football, HS plays, Student Government, girlfriends, Track, more drama club, Math Club.....bottom line, anything to get out of the house. More on that later. Bottom line, aside from a few Knicks or Rangers games on the 10 inch TV in my room and maybe passing by the TV in the living room or at a grandparents' house, Football was "meh" for me at the time.
Even into college, I hadn't watched much pro football the first few years. However, I started to get into the college games on Saturday more - there were a lot more options. I remember catching a few games when Syracuse would play and that Donovan McNabb was something to watch. I remember watching the draft when he got boo'ed. I didn't really care, but hoped he would prove the fans wrong. By this time I was pretty much out of my house. Had spent summers at school and Central Jersey was my new home. I found myself getting more into football and had settled on the Eagles as a team to follow for two main reasons: convenience (broadcast option) and McNabb. Never having hated or been against any team (except one), there was no reason I couldn't like the Eagles. Over the next 4-5 years, I would follow them closer. When I got big - I mean BIG into Madden Football, the Eagles were always my franchise. I would build around McNabb, Westbook, anyone else who came along. Cherry pick from other teams and take the Eagles to the Super Bowl - being a bartender much of this time, left me plenty of time to play video games, and the schedule allowed me to stay up til 3, 4, 5am playing. I remember playing so long my eyes hurt - but we won that Lombardi trophy together McNabb!
Staying in the greater Philadelphia area over the past 13 years, I've risen and fallen with the Eagles fans and the roller coaster of emotion. From the many NFC Championship games, to the acquisition of T.O. and the Super Bowl appearance....to seeing the choppers over T.O.'s house on my commute home while he did situps in his driveway, to many Andy Reid press conferences, draft picks, and more disappointments. All the while, learning more and more about the game and paying attention to more of the league via Fantasy Football. Oh yeah, and that little "blog" I was doing along the way, talking mainly about Pro Football, "covering" scandals like the Michael Vick (dogs, Ron Mexico), also MLB, NCAA, golf and more. But mainly, the NFL became the focus of my sports interests.
Reading as much as I did about the NFL over the years, and listening to sports talk radio as much as I have (Mike & Mike, Mike Missanelli, NFL Sirius radio) and especially my interest in the "scandals" and legal system, I've come to learn a few things. From the Big Ben issue in Colorado to Michael Vick to Plaxico Burress's misfire, to many DUI's along the way, it was always stated how powerful NFL Security has been. And more increasingly over the past few years, hiring former federal investigators and retired law enforcement.From the appointment of Roger Goodell and the "hard-ass" he was early on, and the millions and millions and billions and billions of dollars thrown at players via free agency, TV contracts, etc. "Protect the shield" was a term thrown around by many.
In terms of all corporations out there - even Apple, Google, Pharmaceuticals, News agencies, Political parties, Disney, and any Wall Street firm.....up against any other sports league - the NFL is pretty much the most powerful corporation in USA - maybe even the Western Hemisphere....quite possibly the world. The numbers in revenue alone speak for themselves, and the fact that there isn't really any competition to keep them honest....think about it. Aside from actual Governments and Terrorist organizations that bring actual force.....
When Roger Goodell came into office, he was the no-joke commissioner. I wrote about it here, and referenced his reputation as a Fantasy Commissioner. Harsh suspensions, fines - protect that shield or pay the price. Then over time he softened. Then, a lock-out - a multi-billion dollar organization lose money? Soften the stance and give some "bro-hugs" on draft night to ease the pain.
Then one the players kills his girlfriend, then turns the gun on himself at the stadium before gameday? It was more about gun control and him suffering too many concussions. (Jevon Belcher, 12/1/2012) Everyone missed the boat that domestic violence was the point to be taken from that tragic situation.
By now you know what I'm getting at. Ray Rice - caught on camera outside an elevator dragging his girlfriend out treating her like a rag doll or corpse. No jail time. He's a good guy, it was a one time thing. He's good for the Baltimore Ravens. He accepts his 2 games. We all know the criticism - 4 games for PED's or pot, 2 games for hitting a woman; a season for smoking pot a few times, 2 games for Ray. Public outcry? We made a mistake - 6 games next time, but Ray is good with 2. The lack of consistency during Roger's term is just ludicrous. A few weeks back, a kicker gets 4 games for having a beer while on vacation from work at his house. Now someone is convicted of Domestic Violence and gun charges, but no action from the NFL.
Listen, I was not present in the meetings on Park Avenue between Roger, Ray and his now wife Janay, Ravens leadership and everyone else in the room. I wasn't there to know that they did or didn't review the video. But having the police report being out there citing what happened (later corroborated by the inside elevator video) 2 games was not enough. Bull crap that there wasn't a policy for domestic violence and nothing to go by. Roger nearly ruled with an iron fist those first few years. There is no doubt in my mind that someone paid by the NFL (someone in security force of former FBI agents, etc) could have "found a way" to watch the now famous elevator footage in the five months before the ruling was handed down. I don't know that Roger viewed it, but when you're the head honcho of a multi-billion dollar organization that needs public trust to do business, you've got to find a way.
As stated pertaining to me, I know things are changing. Back on 9/11/2001 there was no Social Media. Youtube, cell phone video? Our phones could barely take pictures. Back during Super Bowl XXI a 30-second spot was about 1/7th off what it was earlier this year. As time goes by, we must adapt. From iReports to instant Twitter feedback, 2014 is much different than 2001, let alone 1987. We must progress as a society. The NFL has fallen behind on domestic violence, and other issues.
Three things come to my mind right now: Terminator X, Willy Santiago and Staind.
Staind (rock/metal band) released "Break the Cycle" back in 2001. Even though no song really fits what I'm trying to say - we as a society need to break the cycle when it comes to domestic violence. It's one thing if it's two people locked away somewhere and a dysfunctional dependent relationship, but in this case, as with many, children and families are involved. What Ray Rice did in that elevator is inexcusable. His reaction to her unconscious body is what makes it worse. What tops it off is his request for "no cops" and his ability to escape from any legal consequences. Another privileged athlete/celebrity getting away with something they shouldn't.
Hearing tales from survivors that were able to escape abusive relationships, while in the relationship, the victims convince themselves that they are at fault. They make excuses for their abusers, When asked to press charges they decline more often than not. This caused changes in laws in many places - if the "state" has evidence, they choose to charge the abuser regardless of what the victim says. I don't know if that was the first time Ray Rice got into it with his girlfriend/wife. I hope for their sake it hasn't happened since. While I don't know if it was the first time - I have a guess based on the footage: it wasn't anything new. Janay's statements on Tuesday supporting her husband still and slamming the media for "causing this" to me is more proof that the relationship is dysfunctional. On to Willy Santiago - [spoiler alert] the character from "A Few Good Men" who received the Code Red and dies, sparking a trial. Near the end of the movie, after the verdict is handed down, the two Marines are dishonorably discharged from the Marine Corps. When debating whether or not they did anything wrong, a quote is delivered by Dawson that totally summarizes my point: "We were supposed to fight for people who couldn't fight for themselves. We were supposed to fight for Willy." In this case, the NJ Justice System and the NFL were supposed to fight for Janay, and thereby act as a voice for all victims of domestic violence. Whether her stories of support for Ray lead to the elimination/reduction of the punishment, apparently more education on the dynamics of abusive relationships and domestic violence victims needs to be our there for the "leaders" in law enforcement and the NFL to follow.
A product of a variety of music growing up, one song I had taped from the radio from the early 90's by Terminator X definitely summarizes my feelings on the NFL and this situation. For Roger Goodell, the Baltimore Ravens and Ray Rice: "It all comes down to the money" ..."whether it's rainy or snowy or sunny, funny, I'm in it for the cash, I'm in it for the cash...the more you get, the more you want..."
The remarks of some of the NFL owners supporting Roger Goodell are appalling. I'll give you, for argument's sake, that he didn't see the tape (I don't believe it, but I'll concede that). But for as powerful a private corporation that they are; they could and should have seen the video. Two games? You support Roger still? Oh, so appoint an "independent investigation" with someone who has done business with the NFL before and two owners to oversee it? This conspiracy and cover-up is Nixonian at best. Probably more along the lines of JFK. Problem is, the truth will catch up to everyone involved. I hope for his daughter's sake Ray Rice breaks the cycle. I hope this raises more awareness for those who can't fight for themselves. And remember folks - it all comes down to the money. The arrogant owner, Roger, agents and a greedy player and his wife tried to sweep it under a rug. Too bad the rug wasn't big enough: some casino closed, people lost their jobs, and some smart man or woman cashed in with TMZ exposing the hypocrisy of it all.
Bottom line, there are us among the viewing public who saw that video inside the elevator and didn't just see two people, we saw our loved ones and recalled the violent acts committed against our family and friends that may have gone hidden for some time. I
applaud the strong women who have called into sports talk radio or written to key bloggers/writers to share their emotional stories about what it's like to be in a dysfunctional and abusive relationship. It's not always just the physical violence, it's also verbal and emotional abuse that leads some to become a shell of themselves after months or years of abuse. I was shocked when it was two games, but figured the NFL did it's homework.
Obviously, having lived through this myself, this story has piqued my interest and I have listened closely along the way. I referenced a few teams I've been a fan of and why I was able to become an Eagles fan so easily: it wasn't the Cowboys. He was a Cowboys fan. I'm breaking the cycle.
I didn't watch tonight's Baltimore game. For the first time in many years, I'm questioning when I'll watch again. Shame on those who commit domestic violence. Shame on the NJ court system. Shame on the NFL.
Links:
http://deadspin.com/ray-rice-arrested-in-atlantic-city-after-altercation-wi-1524046109
http://www.tmz.com/videos/0_c5nk3w3n/
http://www.tmz.com/2014/09/08/ray-rice-elevator-knockout-fiancee-takes-crushing-punch-video/
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104257/quotes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6MLLSArEz4
http://grantland.com/the-triangle/roger-goodell-need-to-step-down/
Showing posts with label NFL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NFL. Show all posts
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Friday, February 29, 2008
Dom's Dish - LEAP ahead edition
Dom's Dish - Friday, February 29, 2008
"Well, well, well, DominNIC, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN???"
So after a five...no, NINE month hiatus of officially writing the dish, not just giving it to those of you I've seen at parties...there is a lot to recap. I have been right and I have been wrong....there have been ups and definitely downs. Mitchell released his report, Obama is taking the US by storm, I witnessed the Phillies clinch the NL East, the Pats went 18-0 only to lose to the Giants, the Big 3 in Boston, Tiger added a major, and I have been to a total of 17 states*, watching it all. So without much further ado about where I've been and what I've been up to, it's time to delve right in...
I was right:
Michael Vick. Need I say more?
I mentioned that they may put Parcells on MNF on ESPN to replace Theismann (Jan 22, 2007) - I was close, at least they did the right thing and get rid of broken leg Joe. Ron Jaworski had a good first season, and he did give me plenty of material for when I play at RON JAWORKSI'S Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, NJ! Jaws here!
I was wrong:
Wes Welker - and I quote from March 6, 2007: "I rescind my offer that Jeff Garcia will end up the Gil Meche of the NFL free agency period. That title now goes to Wes Welker." Wrong on both accounts but I did go on to say "He does fit the Patiot-jack-of-all-trades mold".
Billy Donovan - remember that? My last dish on June 1 was right after he signed with Orlando of the NBA for all that money. I praised him and thought he might be a good NBA coach...only to have him rescind and go back to the University of Florida.
Ok, and now on to the topics...
NFL Free Agency is here! Big news? Asante Samuel in Philadelphia? More on that in a bit. Well, Derek Anderson rejected the Browns one year offer and hit the open market after midnight. Good news for those Brady Quinn fans out there, or is it? Late report is that Anderson has agreed to a multi-year deal with the Browns now. It hasn't been too crazy yet these last 16 hours - no big names off the board yet (Randy Moss, Lance Briggs, Bernard Berrian, Alen Faneca, Michael Turner, Asante Samuel). However the 49ers have made a number of moves for some mid-grade players- LB Dontarrio Thomas, QB J.T. O'Sullivan, KR Allen Rossum and RB DeShaun Foster. A lot of lobbying for position as of now - trying to convince these free agents to come on out to sign those enormous contracts - in terms of green, not paper. Speaking of green, apparently one of those teams who was able to convince a visit - Asante Samuel is in Philadelphia and word is a 6 year $60 million contract by days' end is possible. It would be a great sign for the Eagles, but word is Lito Shepphard would become expendable. It's just about 6 months to the beginning of the season, can you feel the excitement yet?
The Super Bowl Champs lost a player (Kawika Mitchell to the Bills) and word is that teams are inquiring about Jeremy Shockey. Aside from that, a lot of rumors abound, I sit amazed the number of items on the Bottom Line of ESPN News. It should be an interesting weekend into next week.
Big news for all you Europeans out there...Soccer will be coming to Philly in 2010! The MLS - that stands for Major League Soccer NOT Multiple Listing Service (AKA MLS number for all you homebuyers out there) - has agreed to give Philadelphia a franchise that will start up in two years. No word on team name during the press conference yesterday, but work is set to begin on a new stadium just south of the Commodore Barry Bridge in Chester, PA. The stadium will be right along the waterfront bringing some economic opportunity to an area that could use it. Now, I'm no soccer fan, but with the MLS's new contract and a team in Philly, I could be.
So, the NBA trade deadline has come and gone with a lot more moves than normal. For those even following along even with ESPN highlights you know how ridiculous the difference in conferences is - East vs. West. In the West, there are 9 teams seperated by 6 1/2 games - so all of these games down the stretch will count big time. With the trades, we all know about Shaq to the Suns, Paul Gasol to the Lakers and Jason Kidd to Dallas. The West all got better, but again it is going to be a blood bath in the playoffs as they are all evenly matched. Somehow the Lakers have won 10 straight out there and as they work in Paul Gasol, they are every NBA Analysts' favorite for the NBA Western Conference and NBA Title. Not bad for going back a few months when Kobe wanted out of L.A. But don't leave out the Eastern Conference - the Big 3, and not just Boston - Detroit and Cleveland could be in there as well. Detroit is far and away the definition of team basketball, Boston has a great defense led by Kevin Garnett, and Cleveland...they have LeBron. Nice trade at the wire for the Cavs to get some nice role players around King James. Many think Kobe is the best player in the league right now, but we'll see as the stretch run comes. That would be an awesome NBA Finals - Kobe vs LeBron? We could only hope, except Kobe would have the disadvantage as there is only one of him and four LeBron's.
Steroids in Baseball - like you, I'm sick of hearing about it. As certain as I am that Barry was involved with BALCO and "the clear", I am now certain that Roger Clemens tried it once or twice. Now granted, this Brian McNamee is one shady character keeping "stuff" for years and years, I mean how do we know that he hasn't doctored the evidence in his basement (by the way Nic Santillo, I have a very sugary cereal bowl with your DNA all over it from when you were 7 years old). I don't want to spend too much time or energy on this (I'm winded from writing this much already) but it's sad to see such a controversy like this, especially with the prosperity of the game now. I hope Roger and Barry don't come back this year -
As a follow-up to my last dish, I spoke about plumbing and bathroom design. It's still something I notice while washing hands - finally last week I had an "almost" - outside Denver in the staff lounge at the hospital where I worked - very nice, deep place to wash your hands without touching the side of the sink...except the faucet only had one speed - full on, and water goes everywhere. Oh, so close!
Happy Leap Year Day everyone! I would be remiss if I didn't give a shout out to my beautiful wife Beth on our special day today... "last year" I proposed to her, and it's been bliss ever since.
"They must be Oakland fans....did you hear the latest injury report? POSERS!"
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Kelvin Sampson, the former Indiana Hoosier head coach is a cheater. No big surprise there, my buddy Matt in Illinois told me this all last year - this after he recruited a player who had already verbally committed to Illinois. Anyway, College Basketball is heating up - only about 2 weeks before the NCAA brackets are on everyone's mind. Memphis got the loss out of the way in a great game, can they be the favorite heading into the tournament? Will Villanova make it? If not, can they win the NIT?
White-leather-stitched- In case you're living on the moon, you realize it's staying light out later and know that Daylight Savings is coming up on March 9...so you know that Spring Training has started in Florida and Arizona.
Rubber-non- The Devils are up top in the Eastern Conference, Sid the Kid is still out with an ankle, and Alexander Ovechkin is scoring goals at will. The season is about to wrap up - I guess more people would care if it were actually on some sort of TV Network other than "Versus" and NBC on Sunday afternoons occasionally.
Big-brown-oblong- Aside from the Free Agency period, the Combine and the upcoming draft, keep an eye and ear on the situation with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Tiny-white- Tiger is three for three this year - Dubai, Torrey Pines and Accenture Match play. Good thing that the US Open is in California at Torrey Pines - looks like another major. For those that missed his interview about a perfect season you need to see the ESPN.com video about him peaking.
Green-fuzzy- Somehow Roger Federer lost in the semi's of the Australian Open - he must have been hurt or something. Maria Sharapova won the Australian Open - she was just in a zone that last match. Funny news - A 9-year-old girl from Melbourne, Australia has been banned from playing tennis at her local club over the grunting noise she makes while competing. Her favorite player is Maria Sharapova. Hopefully more people will do this - it's so annoying watching the Williams sisters and others.
Big-black-and-white- Reports say that Jose Mourinho turned down an offer to coach Lyon after leaving Chelsea. I don't know what that means, but it's my duty to report it.
Giant-black-holey- Sundays are for bowling. Nothing new here, just pins and balls.
Rubber-wheels- Ryan Newman won the Daytona 500. Dale Jr. has a new team and a behind the scenes show on ESPN. Yeah, cars going in circles - fun to watch when nothing else is on.
Program Alert:
Jackie Moon and Semi-Pro debuts in theaters today! I'll spend $10 to laugh for 90 minutes at Will Ferrell's fro!
Links:
Tiger Video: http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3254792
* - states outside NJ since June 07 - California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ontario (Canada), Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia
--------------------------------
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/
"Well, well, well, DominNIC, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN???"
So after a five...no, NINE month hiatus of officially writing the dish, not just giving it to those of you I've seen at parties...there is a lot to recap. I have been right and I have been wrong....there have been ups and definitely downs. Mitchell released his report, Obama is taking the US by storm, I witnessed the Phillies clinch the NL East, the Pats went 18-0 only to lose to the Giants, the Big 3 in Boston, Tiger added a major, and I have been to a total of 17 states*, watching it all. So without much further ado about where I've been and what I've been up to, it's time to delve right in...
I was right:
Michael Vick. Need I say more?
I mentioned that they may put Parcells on MNF on ESPN to replace Theismann (Jan 22, 2007) - I was close, at least they did the right thing and get rid of broken leg Joe. Ron Jaworski had a good first season, and he did give me plenty of material for when I play at RON JAWORKSI'S Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, NJ! Jaws here!
I was wrong:
Wes Welker - and I quote from March 6, 2007: "I rescind my offer that Jeff Garcia will end up the Gil Meche of the NFL free agency period. That title now goes to Wes Welker." Wrong on both accounts but I did go on to say "He does fit the Patiot-jack-of-all-trades mold".
Billy Donovan - remember that? My last dish on June 1 was right after he signed with Orlando of the NBA for all that money. I praised him and thought he might be a good NBA coach...only to have him rescind and go back to the University of Florida.
Ok, and now on to the topics...
NFL Free Agency is here! Big news? Asante Samuel in Philadelphia? More on that in a bit. Well, Derek Anderson rejected the Browns one year offer and hit the open market after midnight. Good news for those Brady Quinn fans out there, or is it? Late report is that Anderson has agreed to a multi-year deal with the Browns now. It hasn't been too crazy yet these last 16 hours - no big names off the board yet (Randy Moss, Lance Briggs, Bernard Berrian, Alen Faneca, Michael Turner, Asante Samuel). However the 49ers have made a number of moves for some mid-grade players- LB Dontarrio Thomas, QB J.T. O'Sullivan, KR Allen Rossum and RB DeShaun Foster. A lot of lobbying for position as of now - trying to convince these free agents to come on out to sign those enormous contracts - in terms of green, not paper. Speaking of green, apparently one of those teams who was able to convince a visit - Asante Samuel is in Philadelphia and word is a 6 year $60 million contract by days' end is possible. It would be a great sign for the Eagles, but word is Lito Shepphard would become expendable. It's just about 6 months to the beginning of the season, can you feel the excitement yet?
The Super Bowl Champs lost a player (Kawika Mitchell to the Bills) and word is that teams are inquiring about Jeremy Shockey. Aside from that, a lot of rumors abound, I sit amazed the number of items on the Bottom Line of ESPN News. It should be an interesting weekend into next week.
Big news for all you Europeans out there...Soccer will be coming to Philly in 2010! The MLS - that stands for Major League Soccer NOT Multiple Listing Service (AKA MLS number for all you homebuyers out there) - has agreed to give Philadelphia a franchise that will start up in two years. No word on team name during the press conference yesterday, but work is set to begin on a new stadium just south of the Commodore Barry Bridge in Chester, PA. The stadium will be right along the waterfront bringing some economic opportunity to an area that could use it. Now, I'm no soccer fan, but with the MLS's new contract and a team in Philly, I could be.
So, the NBA trade deadline has come and gone with a lot more moves than normal. For those even following along even with ESPN highlights you know how ridiculous the difference in conferences is - East vs. West. In the West, there are 9 teams seperated by 6 1/2 games - so all of these games down the stretch will count big time. With the trades, we all know about Shaq to the Suns, Paul Gasol to the Lakers and Jason Kidd to Dallas. The West all got better, but again it is going to be a blood bath in the playoffs as they are all evenly matched. Somehow the Lakers have won 10 straight out there and as they work in Paul Gasol, they are every NBA Analysts' favorite for the NBA Western Conference and NBA Title. Not bad for going back a few months when Kobe wanted out of L.A. But don't leave out the Eastern Conference - the Big 3, and not just Boston - Detroit and Cleveland could be in there as well. Detroit is far and away the definition of team basketball, Boston has a great defense led by Kevin Garnett, and Cleveland...they have LeBron. Nice trade at the wire for the Cavs to get some nice role players around King James. Many think Kobe is the best player in the league right now, but we'll see as the stretch run comes. That would be an awesome NBA Finals - Kobe vs LeBron? We could only hope, except Kobe would have the disadvantage as there is only one of him and four LeBron's.
Steroids in Baseball - like you, I'm sick of hearing about it. As certain as I am that Barry was involved with BALCO and "the clear", I am now certain that Roger Clemens tried it once or twice. Now granted, this Brian McNamee is one shady character keeping "stuff" for years and years, I mean how do we know that he hasn't doctored the evidence in his basement (by the way Nic Santillo, I have a very sugary cereal bowl with your DNA all over it from when you were 7 years old). I don't want to spend too much time or energy on this (I'm winded from writing this much already) but it's sad to see such a controversy like this, especially with the prosperity of the game now. I hope Roger and Barry don't come back this year -
As a follow-up to my last dish, I spoke about plumbing and bathroom design. It's still something I notice while washing hands - finally last week I had an "almost" - outside Denver in the staff lounge at the hospital where I worked - very nice, deep place to wash your hands without touching the side of the sink...except the faucet only had one speed - full on, and water goes everywhere. Oh, so close!
Happy Leap Year Day everyone! I would be remiss if I didn't give a shout out to my beautiful wife Beth on our special day today... "last year" I proposed to her, and it's been bliss ever since.
"They must be Oakland fans....did you hear the latest injury report? POSERS!"
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Kelvin Sampson, the former Indiana Hoosier head coach is a cheater. No big surprise there, my buddy Matt in Illinois told me this all last year - this after he recruited a player who had already verbally committed to Illinois. Anyway, College Basketball is heating up - only about 2 weeks before the NCAA brackets are on everyone's mind. Memphis got the loss out of the way in a great game, can they be the favorite heading into the tournament? Will Villanova make it? If not, can they win the NIT?
White-leather-stitched- In case you're living on the moon, you realize it's staying light out later and know that Daylight Savings is coming up on March 9...so you know that Spring Training has started in Florida and Arizona.
Rubber-non- The Devils are up top in the Eastern Conference, Sid the Kid is still out with an ankle, and Alexander Ovechkin is scoring goals at will. The season is about to wrap up - I guess more people would care if it were actually on some sort of TV Network other than "Versus" and NBC on Sunday afternoons occasionally.
Big-brown-oblong- Aside from the Free Agency period, the Combine and the upcoming draft, keep an eye and ear on the situation with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Tiny-white- Tiger is three for three this year - Dubai, Torrey Pines and Accenture Match play. Good thing that the US Open is in California at Torrey Pines - looks like another major. For those that missed his interview about a perfect season you need to see the ESPN.com video about him peaking.
Green-fuzzy- Somehow Roger Federer lost in the semi's of the Australian Open - he must have been hurt or something. Maria Sharapova won the Australian Open - she was just in a zone that last match. Funny news - A 9-year-old girl from Melbourne, Australia has been banned from playing tennis at her local club over the grunting noise she makes while competing. Her favorite player is Maria Sharapova. Hopefully more people will do this - it's so annoying watching the Williams sisters and others.
Big-black-and-white- Reports say that Jose Mourinho turned down an offer to coach Lyon after leaving Chelsea. I don't know what that means, but it's my duty to report it.
Giant-black-holey- Sundays are for bowling. Nothing new here, just pins and balls.
Rubber-wheels- Ryan Newman won the Daytona 500. Dale Jr. has a new team and a behind the scenes show on ESPN. Yeah, cars going in circles - fun to watch when nothing else is on.
Program Alert:
Jackie Moon and Semi-Pro debuts in theaters today! I'll spend $10 to laugh for 90 minutes at Will Ferrell's fro!
Links:
Tiger Video: http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3254792
* - states outside NJ since June 07 - California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ontario (Canada), Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia
--------------------------------
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/
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...
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Dom's Dish - Spring Sprung edition
Dom's Dish - Wednesday, March 21, 2007
The NCAA tournament. What else can I say? So far my prediction has held up: "Memphis, Georgetown, Ohio State, UCLA will go far." The first and second round games were somewhat uneventful. Not many upsets, and not many last second or OT wins. Sure, everyone's brackets are screwed, but that's every year. Problem is, almost every year, the 5/12 matchup is the biggest upset. Not one time did that hold true this year. All 7's won (over 10's), two 11's beat 6's, no 1's or 2's lost in the opening round, however three 9's beat 8's. The seeds left? 1-5, 3-7; 1-4, 3-2; 1-5, 6-2; 1-5, 3-2. Bad year to be a 4 seed - UVA, Maryland, Texas - 7, UNLV and 6, Vanderbilt have the chance to be "Cinderellas" if you can call a 6 or 7 an underdog. There have never been all four #1 seeds in the Final Four - will 2007 be the year? (Why is six afraid of seven? Because 7-8-9!) I should have checked with a doctorate in Stat before filling out my bracket this year!
(Someone let President Bush know that he is not Donald Trump - "ya fired!" Eight US attorneys let go? What's going on, lame duck?)
Breaking news: The Eagles have signed DT Montae Reagor, formerly of the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, to a 3 year $8.25 mil. I was waiting for over 20 minutes for the "11:30" news conference, but Adam Schefter of the NFL network had already reported it. I was able to listen to Dave Spadaro while I waited! Reagor is 6-3, 285. His season was ended prematurely last year because of an automobile accident on his way to a home game in Indianapolis, week 6 last year. He did not play another game after the accident on the Colts Super Bowl run. (The accident caused a fractured orbital bone below his left eye, that required surgery.) "Experts" are already questioning his ability to come back from this injury, but we're not talking an ACL or hamstring injury. Then I looked at him once the PC started. Wow. His face is swollen and his eye is almost shut, however he did just have cosmetic surgery this past Friday. As long as the swelling goes down by the middle of Training Camp, expect Reagor to be on the roster as a DT, specializing in the pass rush. What does that mean to the DT picture? Gut feeling? Don't be surprised if Jerome McDougle and/or Darwin Walker wind up being traded before or on draft day for some more draft picks. Why them? Expiring contracts - 2007 and 2008, respectively. (last year, Hank Fraley, Hollis Thomas, Josh Parry, and Mark Simoneau were all traded - contracts were set to expire 2006, 2006, 2007 and 2007 respectively)
No doubt, free agency for the Eagles has been subdued (compared to the T.O., Kearse year and frenzy last year), however when asked for comment on the recent free agent signings, die hard Eagles fan "Cougar" Wright on the Kevin Curtis signing, "It's good!" Thanks Cougar, back to Merrill in the studio...
"Sorry Roger, you tiger now"
(After too many years, I've officially had a "Philly Cheesesteak". Sunday marked the day (National Irish Hangover Day) that a car load of four of us went down to Sout' Philly and got ourselves the glorious sandwich. Not Geno's or Pat's, we tried the place that Bobby Flay challenged on "Throwdown" - Tony Luke's right near the stadium and food warehouse section of town. We parked right under 95 - lots of pigeon shit there - and we tried the more modern "beef and beer" building. Onions, provolone and pure 100% rib eye steak - scrumptious. And you don't have to worry about how the heck you order it. The wings are good too! I can now say I am from "South Jersey" after all these years. Now I can live up to my name = "Cheesesteak.")
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Gilbert Arenas and John Dorian, what do they have in common? Both shout odd things after a "zinger" of sorts. "Zoom zoom zoom" is what J.D. (of "Scrubs") shouts after a good zinger. "Hibachi!" is what Arenas aka "Agent Zero" shouts after he knows a shot is going in...I don't know what my thing will be, but you'll know it...
White-leather-stitched- There is still talk that the Phils will trade Jon Lieber, a starting pitcher, for a reliever. I still question the possible move - traditionally it's harder to find a good starting pitcher who can throw for 6-7 innings every five days versus a guy to throw 1-2 quality innings every other or third day, right? Maybe I don't know enough about baseball, but still there's the possibility of injury, then they're up a creek...
Big-brown-oblong- Word on the street is that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (no, not Dom Goodell) may in fact suspend Adam "Pac man" Jones for up to 1 year for his conduct off the field. For those that missed all 10 run-ins with the law since his draft in 2005, the kid "can't cut off his friends" according to interviews that appeared on ESPN all weekend long. He's going to wind up suspended, piss the rest of his money away and be broke by 32. Sad.
Tiny-white- Tiger collapsed last weekend. From 6-under the first day, he had a three-hole series of bogey, double-bogey, triple-bogey. With only two weeks to go, I'm sure he'll be out on the range and on the course every day until Augusta begins. Tiger or the field in the Masters? I'll Take Tiger.
--------------------------------
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/
The NCAA tournament. What else can I say? So far my prediction has held up: "Memphis, Georgetown, Ohio State, UCLA will go far." The first and second round games were somewhat uneventful. Not many upsets, and not many last second or OT wins. Sure, everyone's brackets are screwed, but that's every year. Problem is, almost every year, the 5/12 matchup is the biggest upset. Not one time did that hold true this year. All 7's won (over 10's), two 11's beat 6's, no 1's or 2's lost in the opening round, however three 9's beat 8's. The seeds left? 1-5, 3-7; 1-4, 3-2; 1-5, 6-2; 1-5, 3-2. Bad year to be a 4 seed - UVA, Maryland, Texas - 7, UNLV and 6, Vanderbilt have the chance to be "Cinderellas" if you can call a 6 or 7 an underdog. There have never been all four #1 seeds in the Final Four - will 2007 be the year? (Why is six afraid of seven? Because 7-8-9!) I should have checked with a doctorate in Stat before filling out my bracket this year!
(Someone let President Bush know that he is not Donald Trump - "ya fired!" Eight US attorneys let go? What's going on, lame duck?)
Breaking news: The Eagles have signed DT Montae Reagor, formerly of the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, to a 3 year $8.25 mil. I was waiting for over 20 minutes for the "11:30" news conference, but Adam Schefter of the NFL network had already reported it. I was able to listen to Dave Spadaro while I waited! Reagor is 6-3, 285. His season was ended prematurely last year because of an automobile accident on his way to a home game in Indianapolis, week 6 last year. He did not play another game after the accident on the Colts Super Bowl run. (The accident caused a fractured orbital bone below his left eye, that required surgery.) "Experts" are already questioning his ability to come back from this injury, but we're not talking an ACL or hamstring injury. Then I looked at him once the PC started. Wow. His face is swollen and his eye is almost shut, however he did just have cosmetic surgery this past Friday. As long as the swelling goes down by the middle of Training Camp, expect Reagor to be on the roster as a DT, specializing in the pass rush. What does that mean to the DT picture? Gut feeling? Don't be surprised if Jerome McDougle and/or Darwin Walker wind up being traded before or on draft day for some more draft picks. Why them? Expiring contracts - 2007 and 2008, respectively. (last year, Hank Fraley, Hollis Thomas, Josh Parry, and Mark Simoneau were all traded - contracts were set to expire 2006, 2006, 2007 and 2007 respectively)
No doubt, free agency for the Eagles has been subdued (compared to the T.O., Kearse year and frenzy last year), however when asked for comment on the recent free agent signings, die hard Eagles fan "Cougar" Wright on the Kevin Curtis signing, "It's good!" Thanks Cougar, back to Merrill in the studio...
"Sorry Roger, you tiger now"
(After too many years, I've officially had a "Philly Cheesesteak". Sunday marked the day (National Irish Hangover Day) that a car load of four of us went down to Sout' Philly and got ourselves the glorious sandwich. Not Geno's or Pat's, we tried the place that Bobby Flay challenged on "Throwdown" - Tony Luke's right near the stadium and food warehouse section of town. We parked right under 95 - lots of pigeon shit there - and we tried the more modern "beef and beer" building. Onions, provolone and pure 100% rib eye steak - scrumptious. And you don't have to worry about how the heck you order it. The wings are good too! I can now say I am from "South Jersey" after all these years. Now I can live up to my name = "Cheesesteak.")
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Gilbert Arenas and John Dorian, what do they have in common? Both shout odd things after a "zinger" of sorts. "Zoom zoom zoom" is what J.D. (of "Scrubs") shouts after a good zinger. "Hibachi!" is what Arenas aka "Agent Zero" shouts after he knows a shot is going in...I don't know what my thing will be, but you'll know it...
White-leather-stitched- There is still talk that the Phils will trade Jon Lieber, a starting pitcher, for a reliever. I still question the possible move - traditionally it's harder to find a good starting pitcher who can throw for 6-7 innings every five days versus a guy to throw 1-2 quality innings every other or third day, right? Maybe I don't know enough about baseball, but still there's the possibility of injury, then they're up a creek...
Big-brown-oblong- Word on the street is that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (no, not Dom Goodell) may in fact suspend Adam "Pac man" Jones for up to 1 year for his conduct off the field. For those that missed all 10 run-ins with the law since his draft in 2005, the kid "can't cut off his friends" according to interviews that appeared on ESPN all weekend long. He's going to wind up suspended, piss the rest of his money away and be broke by 32. Sad.
Tiny-white- Tiger collapsed last weekend. From 6-under the first day, he had a three-hole series of bogey, double-bogey, triple-bogey. With only two weeks to go, I'm sure he'll be out on the range and on the course every day until Augusta begins. Tiger or the field in the Masters? I'll Take Tiger.
--------------------------------
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/
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Dom's Dish - Throwback uni's, NCAA confusion and Jehova's edition
Dom's Dish - Thursday, March 15, 2007
The Ides of March have come....Aye, but not gone, Caesar! (Happy Belated Pi Day to everyone: 3-14! ~ 355/113 baby!)
Ah, the throwback uni! I have to say, it seems like the NBA teams wear throwback or special uniforms about 20 of their 80 game schedule. One I'm kind of sick of, is the neon orange Cleveland Cavaliers uni. I mean, they're ORANGE! I don't know what it is about orange, I'm just not a fan, especially for uniforms. Now some people in my family will say that I have "orange" Reebok mesh shorts, but I will dispute that and mention that they initially were "rust" color, and are now, especially after about 9 years of service. The one exception though, is Syracuse. It's just a nice orange. The other night, the Chicago Bulls wore green uni's in honor of Saturday's Holiday.
One I am fond of that I saw last night, is the Dallas Mavericks green and blue trim. Back in 1992 (when I had the full set of NBA Fleer trading cards) (and also had Run DMC "Down with the King" for my "Walkman") when I was really getting into the league, I thought the green uni's were one of the best in the NBA. Seeing those throwback colors reminded me of the old Hartford Whalers (NHL) uniforms. But I digress...great uni's, but an even better battle between the Suns and Mavericks. I do enjoy the half-court offense mentality of the East Coast - it's like a chess match, but the style of play these two teams run is like a fast half-court offense. It's unbelievable how fast they can score without even a real "fast-break". It's crazy how good the teams shoot - obviously both defenses are not top in the league, but the "plays" they run where someone is almost always open for a 3-ball, all the movement away from the ball, and the high percentages they shoot, they epitomize professional basketball. Talk about entertaining - fans there barely sat down from the mid-4th quarter on! (Side note, the announcers just mentioned that Jason Terry (Mavs) wears 5 pair of socks for each game - that has to add like a shoe size and a half - good cushioning, but when they say he's on fire, do they mean his feet?) What a shot by Terry with 4.9 seconds left in OT to tie it up with Nash's hand in his face! Now into the second OT, I've decided Steve Nash should definitely appear next to the word "awareness" in the dictionary. Double team him? He'll make an amazing dish. Single coverage, he'll put it up from anywhere or drive on you. Someone should give him an award! And, oh by the way, Amare Stoudamire is back: 41 pts on 16-19 FG, 9-12 FT, 10 REB, 2 BLK.
Lance Briggs' agent? Drew Rosenhaus. Bears coming off a Super Bowl loss, 2 years ago, the Eagles were too when T.O. made noise in the offseason. Chicago and Philly are both blue-collar towns. In an interview on ESPN, he likened his job to, in a way, being an average Joe. Last I checked, not many of "us" have $7.2 mil on the table or would have turned down a 7-yr $33 mil deal (as he did last offseason. To quote Little Richard from the Geico commercial: "Oooo - LOOK OUT!"
Apparently the NCAA Tournament starts this week. Who knew!? You all probably filled out your brackets by now, but here's a few predictions: Memphis, Georgetown, Ohio State, UCLA will go far. In maybe five brackets I've filled out, I have Ohio State, UCLA, Memphis, Georgetown and UNC winning it all, pick one. Still never a 16 has beaten a 1. 12/5 and 8/9 are the most common upsets. Aside from that, you might statistically be better off picking the higher seed in the rest of the games. (I'll have to ask somebody I know with a doctorate in Stat) Some major complaints: what the hell is this "opening round" / "play-in" game b.s.? What about this East/West/South/Midwest two years ago to city names last year to city names AND "regions" this year? How about mixed regions playing in the same place? (West and Midwest playing opening round games in Buffalo, NY) What is going on? Disorder! Disorder! Dis-Ooooerder! And they talk of expanding the field from 64....er, 65? I guess we can go to 256 teams. That might satisfy everyone. 256 to 128 to 64 in one weekend (last weekend), then 64 on from this weekend. Now that would be some madness! I mean after all, there are only 119 D-I football teams and all those Bowl games (33 in 2006/2007) - there are 326 D-I Mens basketball teams. Tennessee Technological University? Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University? University of Texas, Pan American? NCAA - if you do expand, my vote is 256! Then every network will have to cover those games.
Little did I know when my wife and I were looking for a house, but my neighborhood is definitely the "training grounds" for Jehova's Witnesses. To each his own - religion and spiritualism is something that I believe is, and should remain personal for everyone. Each has their own way (or non-way) of expressing it, and their own beliefs. Anyway, being that I work from home now and used to work odd hours in the restaurant business and be home during days, I've been caught standing at the door talking to them twice before. It's crazy, a mini-van will pull up, 10 people pile out and walk the streets. It kind of reminds me of a large family of trick-or-treaters in a safe neighborhood, a family dispersing in the mall with a meeting time/place, or worse yet, a clown car, except in suits and ties wielding pamphlets. They won't catch me anymore. Yesterday, while waiting for a fence estimate, the doorbell rang; but before I unlocked the door, I spotted the guy in the suit and army crawled right behind the chair. I tell you, I hid quicker and better than my brother watching the Wicked Witch in "The Wizzard of Oz." Yeah sure, that was last weekend, but I learn quick. Those Jehova's weren't gonna get me this time, no sir. Morale of the story? Nothing good ever happens when someone wearing a suit shows up at your front door. By the way, if anyone wants me to scan in the latest copy of the "Watchtower" pamphlet, let me know.
Some more of the best commercials on TV:
- "Carne asada." "CAAAR-nay Asada." "Ricardo Montelban?" (Taco Bell lions)
- "MOOOU-LA!" "You save El-Moula!" (Comcast Cable)
- The catchy acoustic guitar playing the background music for "Zoom zoom zoom!" (Mazda)
- "YOU COME PUSH IT! You push it real good!" (Comcast)
(Speak of the devil, Comcast all of the sudden sucks ass in my neighborhood - I feel like Mr. Slowsky during the day on the internet and at times at night, I'm lucky if I get every third word on digital cable, watching through the green bars)
For the catch phrases:
- "Boost mobile! Where you AT!?!"
- The new "Day Dreams" commercials (gentleman's club in Philly) "Where the girls wear nothing but a smile."
The worst:
- The Mazda commercial with the song "Let the sunshine...." (getting up there in frequency with the Dodge Rock-em sock-em commercial)
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Syracuse did not disappoint as did Drexel. 10-6 in the Big East gets an NIT birth, not even a #1 seed there either. I think they'll win it all, Jim Boeheim is that kind of coach. On great coaching - any press conference with Bobby Knight is worth watching. Such an entertaining cocky prick.
White-leather-stitched- Gary Matthews Jr. finally came out and said he never took HGH. Yeah, we believe you know that you're all lawyered up (such a good term, "Law & Order"). Oh yeah and Pete Rose said yesterday - on radio - that he bet on the Reds while managing them, every night.
Rubber-non- The Flyers gave their new GM Paul Holmgren a 2-year contract extension. Am I missing something? "Has made great moves since taking over in late October," so says The Hockey News. They are in last place, right? Ah well, go Devils - get healthy, will ya!
Big-brown-oblong- JaMarcus Russell of LSU had his Pro Day yesterday. He's dropped 10 lbs since the combine and he again flaunted his arm strength. (85 yards standing up, 65 yards from his knees and 45 yards from his back) Hopefully he is all the Raiders need to again come back from the "black hole" they're in. Otherwise he might be the next Tim Couch or David Carr, and throwing from his back will be a useful trait.
Program Alert:
Uh....someone said the NCAA Tournament started sometime soon....not sure when...ah well, maybe it'll be on ESPN sometime?
Game of the workday prediction: 10 Texas Tech vs. 7 Boston College - 12:25pm EDT
Links:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/photos?photoId=1480360&gameId=270314006 - Mavs in green
http://web1.ncaa.org/onlineDir/exec/sponsorship?sortOrder=0&division=1&sport=MBB - 326 teams
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi - Pi
--------------------------------
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/
The Ides of March have come....Aye, but not gone, Caesar! (Happy Belated Pi Day to everyone: 3-14! ~ 355/113 baby!)
Ah, the throwback uni! I have to say, it seems like the NBA teams wear throwback or special uniforms about 20 of their 80 game schedule. One I'm kind of sick of, is the neon orange Cleveland Cavaliers uni. I mean, they're ORANGE! I don't know what it is about orange, I'm just not a fan, especially for uniforms. Now some people in my family will say that I have "orange" Reebok mesh shorts, but I will dispute that and mention that they initially were "rust" color, and are now, especially after about 9 years of service. The one exception though, is Syracuse. It's just a nice orange. The other night, the Chicago Bulls wore green uni's in honor of Saturday's Holiday.
One I am fond of that I saw last night, is the Dallas Mavericks green and blue trim. Back in 1992 (when I had the full set of NBA Fleer trading cards) (and also had Run DMC "Down with the King" for my "Walkman") when I was really getting into the league, I thought the green uni's were one of the best in the NBA. Seeing those throwback colors reminded me of the old Hartford Whalers (NHL) uniforms. But I digress...great uni's, but an even better battle between the Suns and Mavericks. I do enjoy the half-court offense mentality of the East Coast - it's like a chess match, but the style of play these two teams run is like a fast half-court offense. It's unbelievable how fast they can score without even a real "fast-break". It's crazy how good the teams shoot - obviously both defenses are not top in the league, but the "plays" they run where someone is almost always open for a 3-ball, all the movement away from the ball, and the high percentages they shoot, they epitomize professional basketball. Talk about entertaining - fans there barely sat down from the mid-4th quarter on! (Side note, the announcers just mentioned that Jason Terry (Mavs) wears 5 pair of socks for each game - that has to add like a shoe size and a half - good cushioning, but when they say he's on fire, do they mean his feet?) What a shot by Terry with 4.9 seconds left in OT to tie it up with Nash's hand in his face! Now into the second OT, I've decided Steve Nash should definitely appear next to the word "awareness" in the dictionary. Double team him? He'll make an amazing dish. Single coverage, he'll put it up from anywhere or drive on you. Someone should give him an award! And, oh by the way, Amare Stoudamire is back: 41 pts on 16-19 FG, 9-12 FT, 10 REB, 2 BLK.
Lance Briggs' agent? Drew Rosenhaus. Bears coming off a Super Bowl loss, 2 years ago, the Eagles were too when T.O. made noise in the offseason. Chicago and Philly are both blue-collar towns. In an interview on ESPN, he likened his job to, in a way, being an average Joe. Last I checked, not many of "us" have $7.2 mil on the table or would have turned down a 7-yr $33 mil deal (as he did last offseason. To quote Little Richard from the Geico commercial: "Oooo - LOOK OUT!"
Apparently the NCAA Tournament starts this week. Who knew!? You all probably filled out your brackets by now, but here's a few predictions: Memphis, Georgetown, Ohio State, UCLA will go far. In maybe five brackets I've filled out, I have Ohio State, UCLA, Memphis, Georgetown and UNC winning it all, pick one. Still never a 16 has beaten a 1. 12/5 and 8/9 are the most common upsets. Aside from that, you might statistically be better off picking the higher seed in the rest of the games. (I'll have to ask somebody I know with a doctorate in Stat) Some major complaints: what the hell is this "opening round" / "play-in" game b.s.? What about this East/West/South/Midwest two years ago to city names last year to city names AND "regions" this year? How about mixed regions playing in the same place? (West and Midwest playing opening round games in Buffalo, NY) What is going on? Disorder! Disorder! Dis-Ooooerder! And they talk of expanding the field from 64....er, 65? I guess we can go to 256 teams. That might satisfy everyone. 256 to 128 to 64 in one weekend (last weekend), then 64 on from this weekend. Now that would be some madness! I mean after all, there are only 119 D-I football teams and all those Bowl games (33 in 2006/2007) - there are 326 D-I Mens basketball teams. Tennessee Technological University? Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University? University of Texas, Pan American? NCAA - if you do expand, my vote is 256! Then every network will have to cover those games.
Little did I know when my wife and I were looking for a house, but my neighborhood is definitely the "training grounds" for Jehova's Witnesses. To each his own - religion and spiritualism is something that I believe is, and should remain personal for everyone. Each has their own way (or non-way) of expressing it, and their own beliefs. Anyway, being that I work from home now and used to work odd hours in the restaurant business and be home during days, I've been caught standing at the door talking to them twice before. It's crazy, a mini-van will pull up, 10 people pile out and walk the streets. It kind of reminds me of a large family of trick-or-treaters in a safe neighborhood, a family dispersing in the mall with a meeting time/place, or worse yet, a clown car, except in suits and ties wielding pamphlets. They won't catch me anymore. Yesterday, while waiting for a fence estimate, the doorbell rang; but before I unlocked the door, I spotted the guy in the suit and army crawled right behind the chair. I tell you, I hid quicker and better than my brother watching the Wicked Witch in "The Wizzard of Oz." Yeah sure, that was last weekend, but I learn quick. Those Jehova's weren't gonna get me this time, no sir. Morale of the story? Nothing good ever happens when someone wearing a suit shows up at your front door. By the way, if anyone wants me to scan in the latest copy of the "Watchtower" pamphlet, let me know.
Some more of the best commercials on TV:
- "Carne asada." "CAAAR-nay Asada." "Ricardo Montelban?" (Taco Bell lions)
- "MOOOU-LA!" "You save El-Moula!" (Comcast Cable)
- The catchy acoustic guitar playing the background music for "Zoom zoom zoom!" (Mazda)
- "YOU COME PUSH IT! You push it real good!" (Comcast)
(Speak of the devil, Comcast all of the sudden sucks ass in my neighborhood - I feel like Mr. Slowsky during the day on the internet and at times at night, I'm lucky if I get every third word on digital cable, watching through the green bars)
For the catch phrases:
- "Boost mobile! Where you AT!?!"
- The new "Day Dreams" commercials (gentleman's club in Philly) "Where the girls wear nothing but a smile."
The worst:
- The Mazda commercial with the song "Let the sunshine...." (getting up there in frequency with the Dodge Rock-em sock-em commercial)
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Syracuse did not disappoint as did Drexel. 10-6 in the Big East gets an NIT birth, not even a #1 seed there either. I think they'll win it all, Jim Boeheim is that kind of coach. On great coaching - any press conference with Bobby Knight is worth watching. Such an entertaining cocky prick.
White-leather-stitched- Gary Matthews Jr. finally came out and said he never took HGH. Yeah, we believe you know that you're all lawyered up (such a good term, "Law & Order"). Oh yeah and Pete Rose said yesterday - on radio - that he bet on the Reds while managing them, every night.
Rubber-non- The Flyers gave their new GM Paul Holmgren a 2-year contract extension. Am I missing something? "Has made great moves since taking over in late October," so says The Hockey News. They are in last place, right? Ah well, go Devils - get healthy, will ya!
Big-brown-oblong- JaMarcus Russell of LSU had his Pro Day yesterday. He's dropped 10 lbs since the combine and he again flaunted his arm strength. (85 yards standing up, 65 yards from his knees and 45 yards from his back) Hopefully he is all the Raiders need to again come back from the "black hole" they're in. Otherwise he might be the next Tim Couch or David Carr, and throwing from his back will be a useful trait.
Program Alert:
Uh....someone said the NCAA Tournament started sometime soon....not sure when...ah well, maybe it'll be on ESPN sometime?
Game of the workday prediction: 10 Texas Tech vs. 7 Boston College - 12:25pm EDT
Links:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/photos?photoId=1480360&gameId=270314006 - Mavs in green
http://web1.ncaa.org/onlineDir/exec/sponsorship?sortOrder=0&division=1&sport=MBB - 326 teams
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi - Pi
--------------------------------
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/
Friday, March 9, 2007
Dom's Dish - March Craziness edition
Dom's Dish - Friday, March 9, 2007
So, I was up in North Jersey, away from home, and I briefly caught something about this somewhere on ESPN or the radio, but didn't get all the specifics. Then I found an article in USA Today and had to rip it out, since I was perplexed at the story. You probably heard about this huge steroid bust/online pharmacy sting that involves the states of NY, FL and Alabama (AL - I know AL is the state abbreviation, but not sure if all of you out there do...). First, Gary Matthews, Jr. a baseball player who was a Texas Ranger, but in "hot stove" negotiations got sent to the Anaheim/LA Angels (I think they're still "The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim") accepting a 5 year $50 million contract. When it leaked that he might be involved, he did not refute or deny the statement like many before him (Palmiero, Bonds, McGuire) that were suspected. Nope, he said "he needed more information." Earlier this week, he hired star attorney Robert Shapiro, yes, THAT Robert Shapiro of O.J. Simpson fame. (I wonder if Shapiro will use a Cochran move and have Matthews try on an old batting glove...never mind) Ridiculous what all of this means, especially getting to my next point...
...So, the article I clipped was one that cited a report on all of this that a former major leaguer right here in the Philly area received up to 6 shipments of HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) for a "medical condition." The player is former third baseman, David Bell. Now, when I read this, I thought, "self, there's no way," I mean, the guy's father, Buddy Bell is the skipper of the KC Royals and had an MLB career, maybe that's why he's stuck around this league so long. Like others suspected before him though, they got bigger, stronger and performed better. Not David Bell. Unless we're talking about his stats from 2004 that shot up with the Phils from .195 AVG in 85 games with 4 HR in 2003 to a stunning .291 with 18 HR in 143 games in 2004. Even still, the average isn't indicative of a "performance enhancing drug" - they don't improve eye-hand coordination, do they? Also in this 37-pg report, it points out one common factor: Bell, Matthews and Jerry Hairston all have former major league fathers. Conspiracy theory? Now, David Bell is nowhere to be found on any MLB roster after not being re-signed by the Milwaukee Brewers, so there's no reason to rain on his non-parade. I'd still have to say that these "performance enhancers" didn't work for David and do wholeheartedly agree with the guy, who looked like Hugo from "Lost," in section 104 of Citizen's Bank Park - "David Bell: YOU SUCK!"
Dominic Rhodes, near Super Bowl MVP, has visited more than a few teams in this free agency period, including the Giants and Bills. However, today he agreed to a deal with the....Oakland Raiders? Lamont Jordan restructured his deal a week ago, now they bring in another back? I guess Lane Kiffin (31 yr old coach) who at USC last year, didn't have a "feature back" plans to utilize the same system. I guess Dominic's DWI charge a few weeks ago really made an impact - he's sent to the island of misfit toys...er, NFL players, out in Oaktown. And it was mentioned yesterday on NFL radio by the Afternoon Blitz team - do the Giants know free agency started? They've lost a good kicker (Jay Feely to Miami), a huge Left Tackle (cut Luke Pettigout, now in Tampa) and cut a mistake they made last offseason (Lavar Arrington).
What's with the ACC Championship location? The majority of the conference is centered around the Carolinas (with BC being in Mass.), and they hold the tournament down in Tampa? Great city, but why make 90% of the teams travel on a 1 1/2 hour flight? Couldn't get the arena in Charlotte or DC this year? And I don't get how some tournaments let everyone in. Miami was 4-12 in the ACC this year, and they almost had another upset. I guess 5 wins in a row is a big feat for an NCAA auto-bid.
This whole new Daylight Savings Time is getting out of hand. So a few people will be late for meetings? I heard people compare it to Y2K. What? The threat of financial institutions shutting down back in 1999 vs. a few people being at the right place at the wrong time? There is no other comparison other than the fact that it affects all computers and has to do with date/time. P.S. don't forget to spring forward and lose sleep on Sunday morning at 2am! A week into free agency, with all the money being thrown about, the Eagles are entering the fold. For those out there calling for a WR, you've got one and maybe another on the way. Those same people won't be happy even still. Bethel Johnson? Kevin Curtis, possibly? Does anyone remember how excited we got about Jabar Gaffney last year? Look where he ended up, not on this roster. Today, they added William James, my guess is that he'll be their Nickel CB for the year, but don't be surprised if they draft a CB this year in the late rounds (for cheap).
(side note - not just because I'm an Eagles fan, but I've visited most every NFL site, and am perplexed to see that not many of them keep writing articles and updating all areas of their site during the offseason. http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/ has a great staff, has won awards for NFL content, have a regular contributor in Dave Spadaro (who honestly writes a column 330 of the 365 days every year I bet) and always have new features and interviews with players. I guess other teams don't see the value...)
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- Villanova was getting spanked yesterday and nearly came close to tying the game in the final minutes. For a team who lost some key pieces to the pie in the last few years to the NBA: Randy Foye, Allan Ray, Kyle Lowry, etc. they're having a great season. Goes to show Jay Wright is a great coach and Nova will definitely be in the brackets come Sunday night.
White-leather-stitched- Mike Hampton of the Braves, a pitcher, who was trying to come back from an elbow injury, was injured the other day while taking batting practice. He strained his left oblique while swinging and could be out 2 months. To DH or not to DH? Another chip for the entire league to go DH...?
Rubber-non- It's definitely worth watching the hit, as it's up there with the Todd Bertuzzi hit a few years ago (when he slammed another player's head into the ice). Last night, Chris Simon of the NY Islanders used his stick to hit NY Ranger Ryan Hollweg in the face. Ok, sure he got put in the boards by another player, but holy cow - he used his stick swinging it at Hollweg's face like a baseball bat or an axe. Ugly. I'm all for fights in hockey, but totally uncalled for. He's been suspended for (my favorite word that I don't know what it means:) indefinitely. Probably the remainder of the season.
Big-brown-oblong- Willis McGahee was traded from Buffalo to Baltimore for 3 draft picks - 2 in April and one in 2008. Funny, that's also the number of children he has supposedly fathered during his stay in Buffalo...
...March definitely has "come in like a lion"...
Program Alert:
Borat is out on DVD as of Tuesday. Very nice!
Sunday night, NCAA Brackets come out. If you don't watch, you're not a true sports fan...or you're busy. Whether you watch on CBS or ESPN, you're right!
--------------------------------
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/
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Dom's Dish - Free Agency - eNormously Frikken Loaded edition
Dom's Dish - Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Since Friday, the NFL "business season" has not disappointed. (There is no offseason people). With well over $1/2 billion thrown around on contracts to players in these last five days, there sure are some hefty signing bonuses being thrown around. And how about those that have signed in the state of Florida - Dennis Northcut and Tony Pashos (JAX), Joey Porter and David Martin (Miami), and Jeff Garcia (Tampa) who soon will suddenly realize that their signing bonuses are state income tax free! But it's been crazy all the moves thus far. And most of the names recently are 30-something players: Brad Johnson (Dallas), Ahman Green (Texans), Joey Porter (30 in 2 weeks) (Miami), Jeff Garcia (Bucs), and Kevin Carter (Bucs).
For all these years, the Patriots have kept quiet in free agency and been praised for the way they have managed the cap. What happens? They lose to the Colts who win the big one and now they skip their management style? Throwing all kinds of money around...on Kyle Brady, Adalius Thomas, Sammy Morris and Wes Welker. I rescind my offer that Jeff Garcia will end up the Gil Meche of the NFL free agency period. That title now goes to Wes Welker. Welker signed a 5 year, $18.1 million contract (with $9 mil guaranteed money in bonuses), AND the Patriots gave up two draft picks for him to Miami (2nd and 7th), all for a 5-9 wide receiver who had a freak season last year with 67 catches. He does fit the Patiot-jack-of-all-trades mold, he is a returner and actually back in his rookie season (2004), kicked a 29-yd field goal and an extra point during the regular season. But only two career TD's - one return and one reception. The next Wayne Chrebet? Last year, of his 67 catches, more than 30 went for 1st downs. Still, $18 million?!? And oh, by the way, 12 fumbles in 3 years (most as a returner).
And how about the Cowboys? Leonard Davis was a bust for years in Arizona, so sign him to a huge deal. Best signing though is Brad Johnson. He can still play, yes, but in the past few years, the Cowboys have tried Vinny Testaverde, Drew Bledsoe and now Brad Johnson as a QB for their roster. This is 2007 and not 1997, right?
(Moral of the story, when you're sitting in the first row and the flight attendant asks you to turn off the cell phone, do it. I don't agree with it, especially when still on the ground and at the gate, but on Friday I witnessed a male flight attendant go off on some guy sitting right in front of me. Apparently, the gentleman (passenger) gave a signal like brushing off the flight attendant's request. After the second time and during the safety presentation (that this flight attendant apparently takes very seriously), the gentleman turned his phone back on to do something. Whoah! The flight attendant yelled at the passenger so loud I can only compare it to a teacher yelling at a kid with their hand on the fire alarm. The passenger took it well, but when he asked the flight attendant his name calmly, he went off even more. After a call to the captain to notify of the situation, an announcement from the captain to follow the direction of flight attendants, and a call from the captain to the flight attendant to ask the gentleman if he wanted "to fly with us today" (mind you the flight was already delayed 2 hours and we were pushed back from the gate)...we finally left. It made for an uncomfortable first hour of this three hour "US Airways Express" flight from Houston to Philadelphia! After having to serve the passenger a drink and that hour to calm down, eventually the gents shook hands and all was well. Was even more fun "waiting for a gate" on the ground in Philly, that the pilot then overshot and had to do some interesting things with the engines to move us toward the gate, then the gate attendant not being able to open the front door. And then US Airways has problems with their reservation system...I think I'll fly United or Continental from now on....all I could do was laugh the entire way home.)
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- From the NCAA, Sam Ashaolu, the Duquesne player who was the most seriously injured of the group of players shot on campus on Sept 17, was cleared to begin participating in the offseason program in a few weeks. Ashaolu still has two fragments of a bullet in his head, but has recovered from his near-death experience. The announcement comes today, one day before the Atlantic-10 tourney in AC, NJ when the Duquesne Dukes (10-18) play an opening round game. The Dukes will also receive an award at the Final Four for being the Most Courageous NCAA team.
White-leather-stitched- Cole Hamels of the Phillies has drawn lots of criticism already for his comments the other day in which he said he expects to win 20 games this season. Hey, that may not be far off with the lineup the Phils have. Hey, I hope he does, 20-wins would most certainly mean a Cy Young winner in Philly, on the way to a NL East title.
Rubber-non- The Pittsburgh Penguins are moving again. They are, they aren't, they are...I wish someone had a blue streak following this story so I knew what the progress of the talks for the new arena were...
Big-brown-oblong- Brady Quinn, "the most NFL ready QB in the draft" worked out in Notre Dame on Sunday at his "pro day." And, the Detroit Lions weren't there at his workout. I guess they're looking hard at drafting another WR with their second pick. They've made some nice moves this offseason, but leave it to Matt Millen to start messing up draft time. Talk about a franchise that should move to Los Angeles...
Tiny-white- Did you see, some guy missed a 3 foot putt and as a result lost out on the top prize of $990k and a 3 year exemption from qualifying for the PGA tour? And no, his name was not Dominic Santillo.
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer won in Dubai. 41 straight matches and counting, six more sets an all time record with 47. He hasn't lost a match since August.
Big-black-and-white- David Beckham bent something other than the ball this past weekend, his knee. Reports out of Spain, Real Madrid (I hate that fake one) say that it could be his MCL (which would be a 6-week injury recoup time) or his ACL (possibly up to a 6 month recovery). Stinks throwing $250 million at someone who is hurt. And then you wonder why the world hates the US.
Giant-black-holey- The PBA Open (yeah, bowling) was held in NJ this past weekend, up in New Brunswick. And I thought bowling was a teenager and midwest thing...
Program Alert:
Beginning tomorrow night, the mens Big East starts at MSG in NYC on ESPN. With Villanova cruising lately, if they make some noise in NYC, expect them to be higher than a #8 seed this year. If they win it all, I predict a #4 or 5 seed for the Wildcats.
--------------------------------
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/
Since Friday, the NFL "business season" has not disappointed. (There is no offseason people). With well over $1/2 billion thrown around on contracts to players in these last five days, there sure are some hefty signing bonuses being thrown around. And how about those that have signed in the state of Florida - Dennis Northcut and Tony Pashos (JAX), Joey Porter and David Martin (Miami), and Jeff Garcia (Tampa) who soon will suddenly realize that their signing bonuses are state income tax free! But it's been crazy all the moves thus far. And most of the names recently are 30-something players: Brad Johnson (Dallas), Ahman Green (Texans), Joey Porter (30 in 2 weeks) (Miami), Jeff Garcia (Bucs), and Kevin Carter (Bucs).
For all these years, the Patriots have kept quiet in free agency and been praised for the way they have managed the cap. What happens? They lose to the Colts who win the big one and now they skip their management style? Throwing all kinds of money around...on Kyle Brady, Adalius Thomas, Sammy Morris and Wes Welker. I rescind my offer that Jeff Garcia will end up the Gil Meche of the NFL free agency period. That title now goes to Wes Welker. Welker signed a 5 year, $18.1 million contract (with $9 mil guaranteed money in bonuses), AND the Patriots gave up two draft picks for him to Miami (2nd and 7th), all for a 5-9 wide receiver who had a freak season last year with 67 catches. He does fit the Patiot-jack-of-all-trades mold, he is a returner and actually back in his rookie season (2004), kicked a 29-yd field goal and an extra point during the regular season. But only two career TD's - one return and one reception. The next Wayne Chrebet? Last year, of his 67 catches, more than 30 went for 1st downs. Still, $18 million?!? And oh, by the way, 12 fumbles in 3 years (most as a returner).
And how about the Cowboys? Leonard Davis was a bust for years in Arizona, so sign him to a huge deal. Best signing though is Brad Johnson. He can still play, yes, but in the past few years, the Cowboys have tried Vinny Testaverde, Drew Bledsoe and now Brad Johnson as a QB for their roster. This is 2007 and not 1997, right?
(Moral of the story, when you're sitting in the first row and the flight attendant asks you to turn off the cell phone, do it. I don't agree with it, especially when still on the ground and at the gate, but on Friday I witnessed a male flight attendant go off on some guy sitting right in front of me. Apparently, the gentleman (passenger) gave a signal like brushing off the flight attendant's request. After the second time and during the safety presentation (that this flight attendant apparently takes very seriously), the gentleman turned his phone back on to do something. Whoah! The flight attendant yelled at the passenger so loud I can only compare it to a teacher yelling at a kid with their hand on the fire alarm. The passenger took it well, but when he asked the flight attendant his name calmly, he went off even more. After a call to the captain to notify of the situation, an announcement from the captain to follow the direction of flight attendants, and a call from the captain to the flight attendant to ask the gentleman if he wanted "to fly with us today" (mind you the flight was already delayed 2 hours and we were pushed back from the gate)...we finally left. It made for an uncomfortable first hour of this three hour "US Airways Express" flight from Houston to Philadelphia! After having to serve the passenger a drink and that hour to calm down, eventually the gents shook hands and all was well. Was even more fun "waiting for a gate" on the ground in Philly, that the pilot then overshot and had to do some interesting things with the engines to move us toward the gate, then the gate attendant not being able to open the front door. And then US Airways has problems with their reservation system...I think I'll fly United or Continental from now on....all I could do was laugh the entire way home.)
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- From the NCAA, Sam Ashaolu, the Duquesne player who was the most seriously injured of the group of players shot on campus on Sept 17, was cleared to begin participating in the offseason program in a few weeks. Ashaolu still has two fragments of a bullet in his head, but has recovered from his near-death experience. The announcement comes today, one day before the Atlantic-10 tourney in AC, NJ when the Duquesne Dukes (10-18) play an opening round game. The Dukes will also receive an award at the Final Four for being the Most Courageous NCAA team.
White-leather-stitched- Cole Hamels of the Phillies has drawn lots of criticism already for his comments the other day in which he said he expects to win 20 games this season. Hey, that may not be far off with the lineup the Phils have. Hey, I hope he does, 20-wins would most certainly mean a Cy Young winner in Philly, on the way to a NL East title.
Rubber-non- The Pittsburgh Penguins are moving again. They are, they aren't, they are...I wish someone had a blue streak following this story so I knew what the progress of the talks for the new arena were...
Big-brown-oblong- Brady Quinn, "the most NFL ready QB in the draft" worked out in Notre Dame on Sunday at his "pro day." And, the Detroit Lions weren't there at his workout. I guess they're looking hard at drafting another WR with their second pick. They've made some nice moves this offseason, but leave it to Matt Millen to start messing up draft time. Talk about a franchise that should move to Los Angeles...
Tiny-white- Did you see, some guy missed a 3 foot putt and as a result lost out on the top prize of $990k and a 3 year exemption from qualifying for the PGA tour? And no, his name was not Dominic Santillo.
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer won in Dubai. 41 straight matches and counting, six more sets an all time record with 47. He hasn't lost a match since August.
Big-black-and-white- David Beckham bent something other than the ball this past weekend, his knee. Reports out of Spain, Real Madrid (I hate that fake one) say that it could be his MCL (which would be a 6-week injury recoup time) or his ACL (possibly up to a 6 month recovery). Stinks throwing $250 million at someone who is hurt. And then you wonder why the world hates the US.
Giant-black-holey- The PBA Open (yeah, bowling) was held in NJ this past weekend, up in New Brunswick. And I thought bowling was a teenager and midwest thing...
Program Alert:
Beginning tomorrow night, the mens Big East starts at MSG in NYC on ESPN. With Villanova cruising lately, if they make some noise in NYC, expect them to be higher than a #8 seed this year. If they win it all, I predict a #4 or 5 seed for the Wildcats.
--------------------------------
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/
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Dom's Dish - On the Brink Edition
Dom's Dish - Thursday, March 1, 2007
31 days to Phillies opening day! With the March 11th deadline fast approaching to sign MVP Ryan Howard, word is Howard will finally get a little dough in the area of $1 million for the year. Doing so, the Phils payroll would be in the area of $95-$100 million this year. Big news for small market teams, but Philly is no small market. With the Yankees consistently over the $200 M mark and the Mets fast approaching, a state of the art ballpark (it gets rowdy in Left field), and some die hard fans looking for a pennant run this season, $100 M is not too big a deal to me. At least the Phils didn't overpay for Soriano or Gil Meche! Now if we can only find a way to keep the starting pitching healthy, Lieber under 250 and Burrell to hit at least .275, that pennant run isn't so far off after all.
Lovie pay day! The Super Bowl (losing) coach who was the worst paid (not least, worst paid) in the league last year, well now he'll make up for those years. The coach received a 4-yr $22 million extension putting him in the elite $5 mil club. It sure did take them long enough, everyone out in Chicago was starting to worry "on the inside" and if by "on the inside" I mean "in public" "in newspapers" and "not on the inside." I do wonder though if the contract includes a clause whether or not to back Rex Grossman as his QB?
NFL free agency starts in 7 hours! Word is Jeff Garcia will be elsewhere (likely the Raiders now since his former QB Coach is there in Oak-town) and since Stallworth hasn't been signed, the Eagles will be sticking to their guns in not overpaying for older and injury prone players. Some other big names have already moved around and/or been re-signed. My boys out in San Diego have re-signed Lorenzo Neal and cut Keenan McCardell. Some other big names cut: Jamal Lewis (RB, Ravens), Joey Porter (LB, Steelers) and Brad Johnson (QB, Minnesota). Already a trade involving 3 players and a pick, the Lions get RB Tatum Bell, T George Foster and likely a 5th round pick for CD Dre Bly. Dre Bly, Champ Bailey, John Lynch all in the same defensive backfield? That sure will be a force to stop the Colts. As for players that have already re-signed? Mike Alstott and Fred Taylor in the state of Florida. Some big names to watch out for and the huge contracts they'll get: Adalius Thomas, who has played every defensive position for at least one snap the Ravens in the past few years - wow, Nate Clements, a "shut-down" type corner up in Buffalo who will be worth every penny if not hurt. The Gil Meche of this year's offseason who gets extremely overpaid? I'd hate to say it, but Jeff Garcia or Leonard Davis (T from the Az Cardinals). Let the madness begin tonight!
Oh and by the way, Bill Parcells signed with ESPN as an analyst and will be on radio and TV for the upcoming system. No maybe they're out of room for Marty-ball?
What's the deal with the Oscar's? It's worse than a Monday Night Football Overtime game! I was up until like 12:45 am watching so I could see who won Best Picture! Every year, they know it is going to run late, but why do they insist on pushing the start time back to 8:30pm EST this year? I don't watch it religiously, but it seemed to lack some of the star quality at the event, at least they didn't show them on TV. It seemed to be a much older, more serious crowd. Again, maybe that's just me. And Jack Nicholson - what a piece of work. I can't wait to actually see The Departed.
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- LeBron James' girlfriend is expecting the couple's second child. Second?!? I didn't know he had a first? I guess David Stern looks down on it, since a.) it was out of wedlock and b.) LeBron, Jr. doesn't wear a 3-piece suit to home games. Though I'm told Jr. does play with a plastic ball, not a leather one. This also explains why LeBron always looks tired. Base- Something you may have seen, the 2007 Topps Derek Jeter baseball card contains Photoshopped images of Mickey Mantle holding a bat and watching Jeter hit, and President George Bush. I'm sure having Mantle on the card will appreciate the value of the card, however I am a little skeptical as to President Bush on the card. At least he doesn't have a cartoon bubble coming out of his mouth saying something dumb...
Rubber-non- Man I hate still bringing this up, but Martin Brodeur is a beast. The other night he posted his 12th shutout of the season. He is in his 13th season in the league and this is his best so far, in a "new game" that's supposed to be higher scoring and more exciting. Gary Bettman, the Commish must hate him. Talk about hot too - 10-3 the NJ Devils went in the month of Feb!
Brown-oblong- For those that missed the combine coverage, the best part (aside from John Locke, the Strength coach from Arizona that yells and calls everyone meatheads) was the coin toss. The toss decided the draft order between two teams for the 3rd pick in the draft: Tampa Bay and Cleveland. Cleveland won that one. (They have to NBA-ify the draft in some way) Now if they could only stop ending up at the top of the draft every year.
Little-white- So, maybe Tiger is not back. Then again, the media will come up with something saying that a match play tournament is not a "real tournament" and they'll keep his 7-event PGA streak going. Either way, I think the pressure is off and in about a month at the Masters Tiger will prevail for his fifth Green Jacket.
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer, though, is still going. 38 straight wins and counting. This time he is doing it down in Dubai, U.A.E. He is having much success there as has Tiger and former TCNJ President Harold Eickhoff (of Eickhoff Commons fame (TCNJ dining hall)). He is only 8 away from the record set in 1977. Again, instead of an ambulance chaser, I'm a history chaser. Go Roger!
Program Alert:
This Sunday on ABC, Arena Football, the ESPN way. Mike and Mike (ESPN Radio morning hosts) will be leading the coverage. This coupled with free agent news, FOOTBALL IS BACK!!!
--------------------------------
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. domsantillo@gmail.com
31 days to Phillies opening day! With the March 11th deadline fast approaching to sign MVP Ryan Howard, word is Howard will finally get a little dough in the area of $1 million for the year. Doing so, the Phils payroll would be in the area of $95-$100 million this year. Big news for small market teams, but Philly is no small market. With the Yankees consistently over the $200 M mark and the Mets fast approaching, a state of the art ballpark (it gets rowdy in Left field), and some die hard fans looking for a pennant run this season, $100 M is not too big a deal to me. At least the Phils didn't overpay for Soriano or Gil Meche! Now if we can only find a way to keep the starting pitching healthy, Lieber under 250 and Burrell to hit at least .275, that pennant run isn't so far off after all.
Lovie pay day! The Super Bowl (losing) coach who was the worst paid (not least, worst paid) in the league last year, well now he'll make up for those years. The coach received a 4-yr $22 million extension putting him in the elite $5 mil club. It sure did take them long enough, everyone out in Chicago was starting to worry "on the inside" and if by "on the inside" I mean "in public" "in newspapers" and "not on the inside." I do wonder though if the contract includes a clause whether or not to back Rex Grossman as his QB?
NFL free agency starts in 7 hours! Word is Jeff Garcia will be elsewhere (likely the Raiders now since his former QB Coach is there in Oak-town) and since Stallworth hasn't been signed, the Eagles will be sticking to their guns in not overpaying for older and injury prone players. Some other big names have already moved around and/or been re-signed. My boys out in San Diego have re-signed Lorenzo Neal and cut Keenan McCardell. Some other big names cut: Jamal Lewis (RB, Ravens), Joey Porter (LB, Steelers) and Brad Johnson (QB, Minnesota). Already a trade involving 3 players and a pick, the Lions get RB Tatum Bell, T George Foster and likely a 5th round pick for CD Dre Bly. Dre Bly, Champ Bailey, John Lynch all in the same defensive backfield? That sure will be a force to stop the Colts. As for players that have already re-signed? Mike Alstott and Fred Taylor in the state of Florida. Some big names to watch out for and the huge contracts they'll get: Adalius Thomas, who has played every defensive position for at least one snap the Ravens in the past few years - wow, Nate Clements, a "shut-down" type corner up in Buffalo who will be worth every penny if not hurt. The Gil Meche of this year's offseason who gets extremely overpaid? I'd hate to say it, but Jeff Garcia or Leonard Davis (T from the Az Cardinals). Let the madness begin tonight!
Oh and by the way, Bill Parcells signed with ESPN as an analyst and will be on radio and TV for the upcoming system. No maybe they're out of room for Marty-ball?
What's the deal with the Oscar's? It's worse than a Monday Night Football Overtime game! I was up until like 12:45 am watching so I could see who won Best Picture! Every year, they know it is going to run late, but why do they insist on pushing the start time back to 8:30pm EST this year? I don't watch it religiously, but it seemed to lack some of the star quality at the event, at least they didn't show them on TV. It seemed to be a much older, more serious crowd. Again, maybe that's just me. And Jack Nicholson - what a piece of work. I can't wait to actually see The Departed.
Around the balls:
Giant-orange- LeBron James' girlfriend is expecting the couple's second child. Second?!? I didn't know he had a first? I guess David Stern looks down on it, since a.) it was out of wedlock and b.) LeBron, Jr. doesn't wear a 3-piece suit to home games. Though I'm told Jr. does play with a plastic ball, not a leather one. This also explains why LeBron always looks tired. Base- Something you may have seen, the 2007 Topps Derek Jeter baseball card contains Photoshopped images of Mickey Mantle holding a bat and watching Jeter hit, and President George Bush. I'm sure having Mantle on the card will appreciate the value of the card, however I am a little skeptical as to President Bush on the card. At least he doesn't have a cartoon bubble coming out of his mouth saying something dumb...
Rubber-non- Man I hate still bringing this up, but Martin Brodeur is a beast. The other night he posted his 12th shutout of the season. He is in his 13th season in the league and this is his best so far, in a "new game" that's supposed to be higher scoring and more exciting. Gary Bettman, the Commish must hate him. Talk about hot too - 10-3 the NJ Devils went in the month of Feb!
Brown-oblong- For those that missed the combine coverage, the best part (aside from John Locke, the Strength coach from Arizona that yells and calls everyone meatheads) was the coin toss. The toss decided the draft order between two teams for the 3rd pick in the draft: Tampa Bay and Cleveland. Cleveland won that one. (They have to NBA-ify the draft in some way) Now if they could only stop ending up at the top of the draft every year.
Little-white- So, maybe Tiger is not back. Then again, the media will come up with something saying that a match play tournament is not a "real tournament" and they'll keep his 7-event PGA streak going. Either way, I think the pressure is off and in about a month at the Masters Tiger will prevail for his fifth Green Jacket.
Green-fuzzy- Roger Federer, though, is still going. 38 straight wins and counting. This time he is doing it down in Dubai, U.A.E. He is having much success there as has Tiger and former TCNJ President Harold Eickhoff (of Eickhoff Commons fame (TCNJ dining hall)). He is only 8 away from the record set in 1977. Again, instead of an ambulance chaser, I'm a history chaser. Go Roger!
Program Alert:
This Sunday on ABC, Arena Football, the ESPN way. Mike and Mike (ESPN Radio morning hosts) will be leading the coverage. This coupled with free agent news, FOOTBALL IS BACK!!!
--------------------------------
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. domsantillo@gmail.com
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