Tuesday, June 17, 2008
No More New England
There are too many fans growing up in the North Eastern part of the country with a very unrealistic view of sports. Since 2001 Boston has won 3 Superbowls, 2 World Series, and now one basketball world championship. ENOUGH!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Juno
This year I have not seen very many quality film, Juno is an exception. Truly a remarkable film--somewhat in the spirt of both Garden State and Knocked Up, but centered on high school. The acting performance from Ellen Page is probably going to get her an oscar nod, plus the soundtrack is one of the best I've come across in the past few years. If you see one film this holiday season (though this is not a holiday film in anyway) make it Juno.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
I'm Back--VD Edition
I have been absent from posting recently, but I make an undying promise that this is to be amended. In the future expect more random thoughts and feelings from this guy. And so, as a single man drinking vino on this day of love, I share with you my personal reflection.
Top 5 Valentines Day Songs:
1. Wonderful Tonight--Eric Clapton (hopefully my wedding song as well)
2. Sexual Healing--Ben Harper (this is the version I prefer)
3. Say Yes--Elliott Smith (puts me to sleep every time)
4. At my window sad and lonely--Wilco (Woodie Guthrie lyrics)
5. Hope that I don't fall in love with you--Tom Waits
Have your own top 5? Do share...
Top 5 Valentines Day Songs:
1. Wonderful Tonight--Eric Clapton (hopefully my wedding song as well)
2. Sexual Healing--Ben Harper (this is the version I prefer)
3. Say Yes--Elliott Smith (puts me to sleep every time)
4. At my window sad and lonely--Wilco (Woodie Guthrie lyrics)
5. Hope that I don't fall in love with you--Tom Waits
Have your own top 5? Do share...
Thursday, December 21, 2006
A Year in Review
The Best of 2006
My roommate asked me to help him come up with some of the best albums of 2006 and I had trouble coming up with even one. I then tried to decide what my favorite movies of the year were and realized that during the course of the year I had only been to a handful of films. It was at this point I broke out into a cold sweat and realized that I may be out of touch with pop culture, a damning conclusion for a man committed to remaining young and current for the rest of eternity. I do not make New Year’s resolutions, but next year I will definitely try to A). attend more films B). download/purchase more music and C). get both HBO and Netflix. With these small changes in my media viewing I will be able to better assess the highs and lows of 2007.
However, I did enjoy many holidays/events in excellent form during 2006 and will rank those for you instead.
1. Tahoe (October)—Though not a true “holiday” it has become an annual trip that I look forward to every year. This year seemed to pack an even greater punch than usual as everyone was required to bring a game with them. I do not think I will ever be able to participate in the Century Club again without recalling this trip. Plus my version of Jenga has been an excellent addition to my house.
2. Vegas (July)—There really is not anything more that I should have to say. For me, my first time in Sin City was definitely memorable and I am looking forward to many future visits for bachelor parties, reunions, and guy’s weekends. Hopefully in the future I will refrain from getting expelled from clubs.
3. My Birthday (24 on September 16th)—This day is generally one of my craziest, best days of the year and I was a bit worried that may change this year upon my move to Portland. However, I was pleasantly surprised to very much enjoy my annual day in usual top form.
4. Josh and Rheem’s Wedding (April)—This will be a difficult celebration for all future couples to top. If this event had been held in a city rather than a cow town it could have gone down as epic. We all have future anniversary parties to look forward to.
5. Memorial Day Weekend (May)—Camping + Beer + Rafting=Bliss. This was an incredible weekend that will be difficult to replicate. Add in my affinity for camping and rivers and all of the elements were there. Though some fellow rafters may not have appreciated my “skills,” I think all drank enough to forgive me. May be gender separated rafts next time? Just a thought.
6. Rina’s Birthday (?)—One of the top things I miss from San Francisco that I wish Portland had is more Saki Bombing. This was one of the best Saki Bombing events I have ever been a part of and I can only hope there are more to come.
7. Graduation Festivities (May/June)—This particular event is combined into two separate celebrations: 1st is the party the day we walked. Excellent time and I believe some people, “danced on tables.” Also, three weeks later when we finished our last day of student teaching in June was similarly rewarding.
8. St. Paddy’s Day (March)—Since I consider this my own personal Christmas, it had to make the list. Always an incredible day it did not fail to impress this past year. It may be a day that will cause my return to the city (Is it a bad sign if you schedule your vacation time based on drinking? I say no, that’s part of relaxing which is what vacation is all about).
9. Notre Dame v. USC (November)—The game did not have the outcome I would have desired, but the evening more than delivered. The new 90” projection screen was clearly the star of the show, but it also could have been the presence of Big TI-money. Truly it is a day steeped in lore that will resonate through the years.
10. Union Street Fair (June)—There are many fairs during the end of Spring in San Francisco, but this one stood out amongst them this past year. I recall that an entire building hosted a party and I enjoyed myself thoroughly, even though there were others (for a change) that may have been having more fun that me (Cough!—Sarge). Luckily Portland also has some wonderful outdoor street events once the rain has disappeared, and I will look forward to those this coming year.
I should also take the time to mention that a few other observations on 2006. My choice for movie of the year would be Little Miss Sunshine even though the first time I viewed the film it was ruined by the white trash drunk woman in front of me repeating every line. If not for the cool beer comforting me through I may have left the theater. My soundtrack for the year was the Magnetic Fields, even though they did not release an album in 2006. It was the year I discovered them and there are few memories, musically, I have regarding the year that do not involve them. In the important world of television, Grey’s Anatomy continued to assert itself as the only network television show that is in anyway important, while cable staples Entourage and Rescue Me cemented themselves as my favorite shows. If you do not watch these shows then you are doing something wrong and I feel terrible for you. Sometimes television is important, these are examples.
My roommate asked me to help him come up with some of the best albums of 2006 and I had trouble coming up with even one. I then tried to decide what my favorite movies of the year were and realized that during the course of the year I had only been to a handful of films. It was at this point I broke out into a cold sweat and realized that I may be out of touch with pop culture, a damning conclusion for a man committed to remaining young and current for the rest of eternity. I do not make New Year’s resolutions, but next year I will definitely try to A). attend more films B). download/purchase more music and C). get both HBO and Netflix. With these small changes in my media viewing I will be able to better assess the highs and lows of 2007.
However, I did enjoy many holidays/events in excellent form during 2006 and will rank those for you instead.
1. Tahoe (October)—Though not a true “holiday” it has become an annual trip that I look forward to every year. This year seemed to pack an even greater punch than usual as everyone was required to bring a game with them. I do not think I will ever be able to participate in the Century Club again without recalling this trip. Plus my version of Jenga has been an excellent addition to my house.
2. Vegas (July)—There really is not anything more that I should have to say. For me, my first time in Sin City was definitely memorable and I am looking forward to many future visits for bachelor parties, reunions, and guy’s weekends. Hopefully in the future I will refrain from getting expelled from clubs.
3. My Birthday (24 on September 16th)—This day is generally one of my craziest, best days of the year and I was a bit worried that may change this year upon my move to Portland. However, I was pleasantly surprised to very much enjoy my annual day in usual top form.
4. Josh and Rheem’s Wedding (April)—This will be a difficult celebration for all future couples to top. If this event had been held in a city rather than a cow town it could have gone down as epic. We all have future anniversary parties to look forward to.
5. Memorial Day Weekend (May)—Camping + Beer + Rafting=Bliss. This was an incredible weekend that will be difficult to replicate. Add in my affinity for camping and rivers and all of the elements were there. Though some fellow rafters may not have appreciated my “skills,” I think all drank enough to forgive me. May be gender separated rafts next time? Just a thought.
6. Rina’s Birthday (?)—One of the top things I miss from San Francisco that I wish Portland had is more Saki Bombing. This was one of the best Saki Bombing events I have ever been a part of and I can only hope there are more to come.
7. Graduation Festivities (May/June)—This particular event is combined into two separate celebrations: 1st is the party the day we walked. Excellent time and I believe some people, “danced on tables.” Also, three weeks later when we finished our last day of student teaching in June was similarly rewarding.
8. St. Paddy’s Day (March)—Since I consider this my own personal Christmas, it had to make the list. Always an incredible day it did not fail to impress this past year. It may be a day that will cause my return to the city (Is it a bad sign if you schedule your vacation time based on drinking? I say no, that’s part of relaxing which is what vacation is all about).
9. Notre Dame v. USC (November)—The game did not have the outcome I would have desired, but the evening more than delivered. The new 90” projection screen was clearly the star of the show, but it also could have been the presence of Big TI-money. Truly it is a day steeped in lore that will resonate through the years.
10. Union Street Fair (June)—There are many fairs during the end of Spring in San Francisco, but this one stood out amongst them this past year. I recall that an entire building hosted a party and I enjoyed myself thoroughly, even though there were others (for a change) that may have been having more fun that me (Cough!—Sarge). Luckily Portland also has some wonderful outdoor street events once the rain has disappeared, and I will look forward to those this coming year.
I should also take the time to mention that a few other observations on 2006. My choice for movie of the year would be Little Miss Sunshine even though the first time I viewed the film it was ruined by the white trash drunk woman in front of me repeating every line. If not for the cool beer comforting me through I may have left the theater. My soundtrack for the year was the Magnetic Fields, even though they did not release an album in 2006. It was the year I discovered them and there are few memories, musically, I have regarding the year that do not involve them. In the important world of television, Grey’s Anatomy continued to assert itself as the only network television show that is in anyway important, while cable staples Entourage and Rescue Me cemented themselves as my favorite shows. If you do not watch these shows then you are doing something wrong and I feel terrible for you. Sometimes television is important, these are examples.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
NFL Predictions:
With two weeks left on a season crippled with parity, it comes time to examine what will happen to shape the playoffs and determine a Super Bowl champion. This past week of action provided plenty of evidence to establish teams that are playoff bound, playoff hopefuls, and those teams that are planning for the future. Because of the divisional and wild card make up of the playoffs it really does not benefit anyone to rank the teams 1-32, even though I believe the AFC has four maybe even five teams better than any team in the NFC. What matters is who is in and who is out.
NFC:
Playoff Bound:
Chicago Bears—Bears fans are very happy that their team has secured the number one seed throughout the playoffs, will have a first round bye, and host all games at home. Based on their performance at home Sunday it is evident that though their record is first their play more resembles a superior high school team. You know, the team your extremely gifted cousin plays on that seems to dominate every week even when they play horrible football, simply because they have superior athletes? They gave up 21 points to Tim Rattay in the 4th quarter and nearly blew the game! Remember when we were trying to compare the ’06 defense to The Monsters of the Midway? I wouldn’t book any flights to South Beach this year Bears fans.
New Orleans Saints—Yes they lost this past weekend to a team they should have beat in a dome where they are supposedly indestructible. All that sane, rationality aside I still like this team. Brees, with all due respect to LT, had his first OK game of the season and should be this year’s MVP. They have major weapons with Bush, McAllister, Colston, and Horn. If their defense can play like it did against Dallas they will represent the NFC in Miami.
Dallas—Beating Atlanta was a great rebound victory after what happened against the Saints. There are still many questions with this team. As good as Tony Romo has played he has no playoff experience and thus far has mixed reviews in big games (Saints one week, Atlanta the next). Also, the catastrophe that is T.O. and his ego will play a large roll in how this team fares. Honestly though, the NFC is so wide open anyone could go to the Super Bowl this year, so why not Dallas?
Hopefuls:
Seattle—First of all, lets take a moment to realize that there are only three teams planning for the playoffs in the NFC……Wow, as much as parity creates multiple fan bases with teams with legitimate opportunities to win championships (like in the AFC), it also can backfire and create a league filled with pathetic teams struggling with identities and continually causing their fans to jump off the boat only to be pulled back by a life preserver. Seattle could, and should, have wrapped up the West in Arizona. They failed. They should have beaten the 49ers at home on a Thursday night in driving rain. They were out played. They control their own destiny, win and they’re in. This may be easier said than done.
Philadelphia Eagles—Jeff Garcia looks long and throws down field……touchdown!!! I bet Eagles fans did not think that they would be hearing those words in week 15 and think they had a shot at the playoffs, but in the wacky NFC all bets are off. Jeff, way to channel your inner youth for one last run. Win and you’re in. (Wait, really? Is that possible? Yes.)
Atlanta Falcons—During the first quarter against Dallas I thought your season was over and that Vick should be benched. After the second quarter I thought you could beat anyone in the NFC and that Vick was the most athletic quarterback in history. After the game Mora should look into the possibilities at UW, and Vick should go talk to Randell Cunningham more. They ran far too many trick plays. Stick to what you do well, run the ball, not too many attempts for Vick. This method worked well in the second quarter. Then I saw the playbook from recess at your 6th grader’s middle school and they got off track, what a surprise.
NY Giants—Mathematically you are still in the playoff hunt. I like the way Shockey plays the game (I hear he’s dating Tara Reid. Can someone show him the season tapes from Taradice? This is Tara 2006 not 2001. The surgery seems to have gone well, but its only a matter of time before Taradice returns. I think an excellent career move would be for Tara to go tutor the likes of Lohan and Spears. Can E! put out Tara’s THS soon for the benefit of these girls?). Eli’s biggest fans are coincidentally San Diego fans. Without Eli’s sulking the Bolts would be without Rivers, Merriman, or Nate Kaeding. Thanks Eli, from all of San Diego!
San Francisco 49ers—With one win they are mathematically alive! As a 49er fan I have to be happy that we have two weeks remaining and I can say that, though what does it say about the league that I am saying this about a team that is 6-8? I think we can get to 10 wins next year. I like what Nolan is building here and the way Frank Gore has run over the league.
Planning for the Future:
Carolina Panthers—The most disappointing team of the season. How many sports “experts”—myself included—picked this team to get to the Super Bowl? Wienke is not the answer, but I’m not sure if Delholmme is either. And what happened to the defense? Listen to Keyshawn’s press conference after last week, it tells you all you need to know.
St. Louis Rams—I thought this team had a real chance to compete with Seattle this year for the West. Then Seattle beat them twice and I was obviously wrong. How much has Pace being out hurt them? I say not as much as you think. Even without his pancakes they are better than this. In stretches they can compete with anyone in the league and at other times they are as bad as Oakland. Time to decide who you are.
Green Bay Packers—There is this argument that the Packers cannot get rid of Farve, cannot ask him to retire because of what he has meant to the franchise. As a 49er fan I remember when we sent Joe Montana (the greatest quarterback of all time and a legend to 49er fans) to the Chiefs and cut Jerry Rice (the greatest receiver of all time, and another 49er legend). Both players were upset at the time, both players got over it, finished out the twilight of their careers, and ended up retiring as 49ers with one day contracts. Farve will get over it. For this franchise to move forward he has to go, until then you are treading water.
Minnesota Vikings—No one thought you would be good. Strangely you won a few games early in a terrible league and gave your fans hope. You then crashed back to reality midway through and fans were in disbelief. I was not.
Washington Redskins—When was the last time this franchise mattered? Oh, I remember, back when you were competing every year for the Super Bowl and Joe Gibbs was your coach. Wait a minute…….I mean over TEN YEARS AGO! This team has no receivers and no quarterback. With Portis healthy and a descent defense it will be interesting to see if Gibbs gets any receivers and a decent quarter back. I hear Farve may be available soon…
Arizona Cardinals—They are who we thought they were! You all wanted to crown their ass, well go ahead and crown them! But they are who we thought they were, the Cardinals. They have never won, and I’m not sure if they ever will. You have to be encouraged by Lienhart though.
Tampa Bay Bucs—Good work against Chicago. That Tim Rattay is a real athlete.
Detroit Lions—I wonder if they are going to take Calvin Johnson? How awesome would it be if they let Millen do that? Next year, right? No.
AFC:
Playoff Bound:
San Diego Chargers—LT will end up going down as one of the greatest running backs of all time. Rivers had his worst game of the year and they still won a game that was never close. How excited are you to see this team play Baltimore in the playoffs?
Baltimore Ravens—You know things are going your way when Kyle Boller leads you to victory. Did I just write that? My one question on this team remains McNair and his health. If he can stay healthy—should they just rest him after the 1st quarter of the next two games for the rest of the year? I would—they have a shot to head to Miami. I am not sure if they have the fire power to take down the Chargers, but I would never discount Ray Lewis. He will kill you, literally.
Indianapolis Colts—Monday night had to restore a great deal of faith in this team from their fans. Obviously they still have some issues on defense, but it is not like they beat Miami, the Bengals are a good team. Peyton has never won the big one, but I like this team if for no other reason they are going to enter the playoffs under the radar this year, something that hasn’t happened in a few years. No one will be truly surprised if they get ousted, but their will be plenty of people jumping on the Manning wagon if they do.
New England Pats—Last week this team was in shambles and this week they look like they could end up in Miami. That is what happens in the NFL week to week. All Tom Brady does is win, and I will not be surprised if that continues. Ok, I will a little bit because Miami smacked them two weeks ago.
Playoff Hopefuls:
NY J-E-T-S, JETS! JETS! JETS!—The way the schedules work out they have the best shot at winning their two remaining games and making the playoffs (@Miami and home against Oakland). Getting it done against the Fins will be the more difficult of the two, but any time beating Joey is the difficult of the two you have to like your chances. Mangini deserves some real consideration for COY.
Cincinnati Bengals—They blew a golden opportunity on Monday night. They faced a reeling Indy team and laid down. No one on that team can be happy with the way they preformed, and it is going to be tough to win their final two games to get in. At Denver is never easy, and Pittsburg would love to ruin Cinci’s season or somehow sneak in themselves. No more DUI’s boys, pay for a cab for Christ’s sake!
Jacksonville Jaguars—After demolishing the Colts at home I think this team was more than humbled at Tennessee. If they are going to get in Garrard MUST play better, that was heinous (def: enormously and shockingly evil). I do not see them winning both of their remaining games (New England at home, at KC) so they are going to need some help. That said, if Garrard is playing well this team can play with anyone.
Denver Broncos—Although Jay Cutler just had the best game of his young career I still believe it was a mistake to go to him this season. Particularly going to him this late illustrated to everyone, especially Broncos players, that the team is looking beyond this season. They may get it but it will not matter, this team is planning for next season.
Kansas City Chiefs—I am willing to give Herm one more year, that’s it. Does anyone else think that he would make a great college coach? He totally reminds me of Pete Caroll: player’s coach, defensive minded, younger (for a coach). I think he would be very successful at that level, and the pay is comparable with less stress, who would not want to coach at a major college program?
Tennessee Titans—I have heard the phrase, “All Vince Young does is win,” roughly 1,000 times in the past two to three weeks. This seems accurate but I’m going to wait and see what happens when teams and defenses actually prepare for him as they do now for superior athletic quarterbacks like Vick. You cannot deny VY’s ability and his competitiveness, but I think the jury is still out on his throwing ability.
Buffalo Bills—You beat Miami at home in bad weather, don’t get to excited. That said, you’re playing better than most thought. I suppose you could give JP one more year to make his case no more than that.
Pittsburg Steelers—Mathematically they could still make the playoffs but I’m guessing that it will not happen. It would have been difficult to repeat regardless, but it would have certainly been more interesting if you had made the playoffs. I actually hope you do, just for the drama. Its like on those Road Rules-Real World challenges when they bring back someone (Beth) who you don’t even remember what show they were originally on. At first you’re completely against her presence and then you remember the added drama of her presence and you are happy she responded to that invitation in her inbox once more.
Planning for the Future:
Miami Dolphins—If Miami fans are lucky Nick Saban will not leave for Alabama. I do not think he will, but either way you need to figure out your offensive line, running game, and quarterback for next year. Not too much to worry about right?
Cleveland Browns—We know that Frye is not the answer at quarterback but the jury is still out on DA. Here’s hoping that he gets a legitimate shot next season: he ran a pro system in college, he has prototypical size, and he appears to have the confidence to succeed. If Kitna can start why not DA?
Houston Texans—I am positive that Texan’s fans watch Mario Williams weekly and thank their lucky stars everyday they did not draft Bush, Lienhart, VY, or Cutler. Oh, and the David Carr era is over.
Oakland Raiders—Who else laughed when they heard that Aaron Brooks complained about being yanked in the fourth during a shutout loss? I thought so. How scared is Brady Quinn right now that Art Shell could be responsible for shaping his future? I’m scared for him. Here’s hoping someone trades up to get him or Al Davis pulls, well, an Al Davis.
With two weeks left on a season crippled with parity, it comes time to examine what will happen to shape the playoffs and determine a Super Bowl champion. This past week of action provided plenty of evidence to establish teams that are playoff bound, playoff hopefuls, and those teams that are planning for the future. Because of the divisional and wild card make up of the playoffs it really does not benefit anyone to rank the teams 1-32, even though I believe the AFC has four maybe even five teams better than any team in the NFC. What matters is who is in and who is out.
NFC:
Playoff Bound:
Chicago Bears—Bears fans are very happy that their team has secured the number one seed throughout the playoffs, will have a first round bye, and host all games at home. Based on their performance at home Sunday it is evident that though their record is first their play more resembles a superior high school team. You know, the team your extremely gifted cousin plays on that seems to dominate every week even when they play horrible football, simply because they have superior athletes? They gave up 21 points to Tim Rattay in the 4th quarter and nearly blew the game! Remember when we were trying to compare the ’06 defense to The Monsters of the Midway? I wouldn’t book any flights to South Beach this year Bears fans.
New Orleans Saints—Yes they lost this past weekend to a team they should have beat in a dome where they are supposedly indestructible. All that sane, rationality aside I still like this team. Brees, with all due respect to LT, had his first OK game of the season and should be this year’s MVP. They have major weapons with Bush, McAllister, Colston, and Horn. If their defense can play like it did against Dallas they will represent the NFC in Miami.
Dallas—Beating Atlanta was a great rebound victory after what happened against the Saints. There are still many questions with this team. As good as Tony Romo has played he has no playoff experience and thus far has mixed reviews in big games (Saints one week, Atlanta the next). Also, the catastrophe that is T.O. and his ego will play a large roll in how this team fares. Honestly though, the NFC is so wide open anyone could go to the Super Bowl this year, so why not Dallas?
Hopefuls:
Seattle—First of all, lets take a moment to realize that there are only three teams planning for the playoffs in the NFC……Wow, as much as parity creates multiple fan bases with teams with legitimate opportunities to win championships (like in the AFC), it also can backfire and create a league filled with pathetic teams struggling with identities and continually causing their fans to jump off the boat only to be pulled back by a life preserver. Seattle could, and should, have wrapped up the West in Arizona. They failed. They should have beaten the 49ers at home on a Thursday night in driving rain. They were out played. They control their own destiny, win and they’re in. This may be easier said than done.
Philadelphia Eagles—Jeff Garcia looks long and throws down field……touchdown!!! I bet Eagles fans did not think that they would be hearing those words in week 15 and think they had a shot at the playoffs, but in the wacky NFC all bets are off. Jeff, way to channel your inner youth for one last run. Win and you’re in. (Wait, really? Is that possible? Yes.)
Atlanta Falcons—During the first quarter against Dallas I thought your season was over and that Vick should be benched. After the second quarter I thought you could beat anyone in the NFC and that Vick was the most athletic quarterback in history. After the game Mora should look into the possibilities at UW, and Vick should go talk to Randell Cunningham more. They ran far too many trick plays. Stick to what you do well, run the ball, not too many attempts for Vick. This method worked well in the second quarter. Then I saw the playbook from recess at your 6th grader’s middle school and they got off track, what a surprise.
NY Giants—Mathematically you are still in the playoff hunt. I like the way Shockey plays the game (I hear he’s dating Tara Reid. Can someone show him the season tapes from Taradice? This is Tara 2006 not 2001. The surgery seems to have gone well, but its only a matter of time before Taradice returns. I think an excellent career move would be for Tara to go tutor the likes of Lohan and Spears. Can E! put out Tara’s THS soon for the benefit of these girls?). Eli’s biggest fans are coincidentally San Diego fans. Without Eli’s sulking the Bolts would be without Rivers, Merriman, or Nate Kaeding. Thanks Eli, from all of San Diego!
San Francisco 49ers—With one win they are mathematically alive! As a 49er fan I have to be happy that we have two weeks remaining and I can say that, though what does it say about the league that I am saying this about a team that is 6-8? I think we can get to 10 wins next year. I like what Nolan is building here and the way Frank Gore has run over the league.
Planning for the Future:
Carolina Panthers—The most disappointing team of the season. How many sports “experts”—myself included—picked this team to get to the Super Bowl? Wienke is not the answer, but I’m not sure if Delholmme is either. And what happened to the defense? Listen to Keyshawn’s press conference after last week, it tells you all you need to know.
St. Louis Rams—I thought this team had a real chance to compete with Seattle this year for the West. Then Seattle beat them twice and I was obviously wrong. How much has Pace being out hurt them? I say not as much as you think. Even without his pancakes they are better than this. In stretches they can compete with anyone in the league and at other times they are as bad as Oakland. Time to decide who you are.
Green Bay Packers—There is this argument that the Packers cannot get rid of Farve, cannot ask him to retire because of what he has meant to the franchise. As a 49er fan I remember when we sent Joe Montana (the greatest quarterback of all time and a legend to 49er fans) to the Chiefs and cut Jerry Rice (the greatest receiver of all time, and another 49er legend). Both players were upset at the time, both players got over it, finished out the twilight of their careers, and ended up retiring as 49ers with one day contracts. Farve will get over it. For this franchise to move forward he has to go, until then you are treading water.
Minnesota Vikings—No one thought you would be good. Strangely you won a few games early in a terrible league and gave your fans hope. You then crashed back to reality midway through and fans were in disbelief. I was not.
Washington Redskins—When was the last time this franchise mattered? Oh, I remember, back when you were competing every year for the Super Bowl and Joe Gibbs was your coach. Wait a minute…….I mean over TEN YEARS AGO! This team has no receivers and no quarterback. With Portis healthy and a descent defense it will be interesting to see if Gibbs gets any receivers and a decent quarter back. I hear Farve may be available soon…
Arizona Cardinals—They are who we thought they were! You all wanted to crown their ass, well go ahead and crown them! But they are who we thought they were, the Cardinals. They have never won, and I’m not sure if they ever will. You have to be encouraged by Lienhart though.
Tampa Bay Bucs—Good work against Chicago. That Tim Rattay is a real athlete.
Detroit Lions—I wonder if they are going to take Calvin Johnson? How awesome would it be if they let Millen do that? Next year, right? No.
AFC:
Playoff Bound:
San Diego Chargers—LT will end up going down as one of the greatest running backs of all time. Rivers had his worst game of the year and they still won a game that was never close. How excited are you to see this team play Baltimore in the playoffs?
Baltimore Ravens—You know things are going your way when Kyle Boller leads you to victory. Did I just write that? My one question on this team remains McNair and his health. If he can stay healthy—should they just rest him after the 1st quarter of the next two games for the rest of the year? I would—they have a shot to head to Miami. I am not sure if they have the fire power to take down the Chargers, but I would never discount Ray Lewis. He will kill you, literally.
Indianapolis Colts—Monday night had to restore a great deal of faith in this team from their fans. Obviously they still have some issues on defense, but it is not like they beat Miami, the Bengals are a good team. Peyton has never won the big one, but I like this team if for no other reason they are going to enter the playoffs under the radar this year, something that hasn’t happened in a few years. No one will be truly surprised if they get ousted, but their will be plenty of people jumping on the Manning wagon if they do.
New England Pats—Last week this team was in shambles and this week they look like they could end up in Miami. That is what happens in the NFL week to week. All Tom Brady does is win, and I will not be surprised if that continues. Ok, I will a little bit because Miami smacked them two weeks ago.
Playoff Hopefuls:
NY J-E-T-S, JETS! JETS! JETS!—The way the schedules work out they have the best shot at winning their two remaining games and making the playoffs (@Miami and home against Oakland). Getting it done against the Fins will be the more difficult of the two, but any time beating Joey is the difficult of the two you have to like your chances. Mangini deserves some real consideration for COY.
Cincinnati Bengals—They blew a golden opportunity on Monday night. They faced a reeling Indy team and laid down. No one on that team can be happy with the way they preformed, and it is going to be tough to win their final two games to get in. At Denver is never easy, and Pittsburg would love to ruin Cinci’s season or somehow sneak in themselves. No more DUI’s boys, pay for a cab for Christ’s sake!
Jacksonville Jaguars—After demolishing the Colts at home I think this team was more than humbled at Tennessee. If they are going to get in Garrard MUST play better, that was heinous (def: enormously and shockingly evil). I do not see them winning both of their remaining games (New England at home, at KC) so they are going to need some help. That said, if Garrard is playing well this team can play with anyone.
Denver Broncos—Although Jay Cutler just had the best game of his young career I still believe it was a mistake to go to him this season. Particularly going to him this late illustrated to everyone, especially Broncos players, that the team is looking beyond this season. They may get it but it will not matter, this team is planning for next season.
Kansas City Chiefs—I am willing to give Herm one more year, that’s it. Does anyone else think that he would make a great college coach? He totally reminds me of Pete Caroll: player’s coach, defensive minded, younger (for a coach). I think he would be very successful at that level, and the pay is comparable with less stress, who would not want to coach at a major college program?
Tennessee Titans—I have heard the phrase, “All Vince Young does is win,” roughly 1,000 times in the past two to three weeks. This seems accurate but I’m going to wait and see what happens when teams and defenses actually prepare for him as they do now for superior athletic quarterbacks like Vick. You cannot deny VY’s ability and his competitiveness, but I think the jury is still out on his throwing ability.
Buffalo Bills—You beat Miami at home in bad weather, don’t get to excited. That said, you’re playing better than most thought. I suppose you could give JP one more year to make his case no more than that.
Pittsburg Steelers—Mathematically they could still make the playoffs but I’m guessing that it will not happen. It would have been difficult to repeat regardless, but it would have certainly been more interesting if you had made the playoffs. I actually hope you do, just for the drama. Its like on those Road Rules-Real World challenges when they bring back someone (Beth) who you don’t even remember what show they were originally on. At first you’re completely against her presence and then you remember the added drama of her presence and you are happy she responded to that invitation in her inbox once more.
Planning for the Future:
Miami Dolphins—If Miami fans are lucky Nick Saban will not leave for Alabama. I do not think he will, but either way you need to figure out your offensive line, running game, and quarterback for next year. Not too much to worry about right?
Cleveland Browns—We know that Frye is not the answer at quarterback but the jury is still out on DA. Here’s hoping that he gets a legitimate shot next season: he ran a pro system in college, he has prototypical size, and he appears to have the confidence to succeed. If Kitna can start why not DA?
Houston Texans—I am positive that Texan’s fans watch Mario Williams weekly and thank their lucky stars everyday they did not draft Bush, Lienhart, VY, or Cutler. Oh, and the David Carr era is over.
Oakland Raiders—Who else laughed when they heard that Aaron Brooks complained about being yanked in the fourth during a shutout loss? I thought so. How scared is Brady Quinn right now that Art Shell could be responsible for shaping his future? I’m scared for him. Here’s hoping someone trades up to get him or Al Davis pulls, well, an Al Davis.
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