Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Herbie Awards - Clarett inks Deal in UFL


10th annual Herbie Awards
espn.com
You can watch these tonight on espn, or just read this article from espn.com. These are really good. As usual, Herbie does an excellent job!
With the season's kickoff just days away, it's time to step back and celebrate the players, coaches, color and pageantry of college football. Who are the players to know? Where are the places to be? The 10th annual Herbie Awards presentation answers those questions and more.
This list tackles the top playmakers, the defensive difference-makers, the fresh faces on the scene, the student sections that roar and everything else that's great about college football. Herbies are given to the best college football players, coaches, teams and fans across the nation.
Also, this is just my list. These are my choices, but not everyone will agree. That's the beauty of it. Let the second-guessing begin.
So, without further ado, here are the 10th annual Herbie Awards:


RIGHT TO EXCITE: MOST EXCITING PLAYERS
Jacquizz Rodgers is no stranger to the highlight reel.
1. Jacquizz Rodgers, Oregon State
2. LaMichael James, Oregon
3. Jake Locker, Washington
4. DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
5. Noel Devine, West Virginia


BORN TO RUN: BEST RUNNING BACKS
Ryan Williams was one of 2009's best freshmen.
1. Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
2. Mark Ingram, Alabama
3. DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
4. LaMichael James, Oregon
5. Evan Royster, Penn State


CATCH A RISING STAR: TOP WIDE RECEIVERS
Defenses will handle A.J. Green with care in 2010.
1. A.J. Green, Georgia
2. Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
3. Jon Baldwin, Pitt
4. DeAndre Brown, Southern Miss
5. James Rodgers, Oregon State


OFF AND RUNNING: READY TO TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
1. Jeff Demps, Florida
2. Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech
3. Shane Vereen, California
4. Ron Johnson, USC
5. Brandon Bolden, Ole Miss


RODNEY DANGERFIELDS: PLAYERS WHO DON'T GET ENOUGH RESPECT
The Herbies appreciates the work Montel Harris does.
1. Montel Harris, Boston College
2. Chris Polk, Washington
3. Ryan Whalen, Stanford
4. Jordan Todman, Connecticut
5. Stephen Paea, Oregon State


FRESH APPROACH: TOP TRUE FRESHMEN
1. Dillon Baxter, USC
2. Michael Dyer, Auburn
3. Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina
4. Kenny Stills, Oklahoma
5. Lamarcus Joyner, Florida State


QUARTERBACKS: POCKET PRESENCE
Andrew Luck is lethal in the pocket.
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford
2. Kellen Moore, Boise State
3. Christian Ponder, Florida State
4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
5. Jacory Harris, Miami


QUARTERBACKS: DUAL-THREAT
Jake Locker gets it done on the ground or in the air.
1. Jake Locker, Washington
2. Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State
3. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
4. Robert Griffin III, Baylor
5. B.J. Daniels, South Florida



MOST EXPLOSIVE PLAYERS
The Herbies loves DeMarco Murray's extra gear.
1. DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
2. Noel Devine, West Virginia
3. Titus Young, Boise State
4. Jeremiah Masoli, Ole Miss
5. Shane Vereen, Cal


ALL TOGETHER NOW: BEST POSITION UNIT
No QB looks forward to the day he has to face UNC.
1. North Carolina LBs
2. Alabama backfield
3. Iowa DL
4. Arkansas WRs
5. Nebraska secondary



DRESS FOR SUCCESS: LOOKS THE PART
DeAndre McDaniel anchors Clemson's secondary.
1. DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
2. Patrick Peterson, LSU
3. Kyle Rudolph, Notre Dame
4. Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
5. Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina



ALL THE MARBLES: QB WITH THE GAME ON THE LINE
Not many can match Kellen Moore in the win column.
1. Kellen Moore, Boise State
2. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
3. Andrew Luck, Stanford
4. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
5. Jacory Harris, Miami


SHOW ME SOME RESPECT: UNDERRATED COACHES
Mike Riley has worked wonders at Oregon State.
1. Mike Riley, Oregon State
2. Randy Edsall, Connecticut
3. Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern
4. Houston Nutt, Ole Miss
5. Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech



TAPE 'EM UP: ANKLE-BREAKERS
LaMichael James is deadly in the open field.
1. LaMichael James, Oregon
2. Jacquizz Rodgers, Oregon State
3. Jeremy Kerley, TCU
4. Dion Lewis, Pittsburgh
5. Roddy Jones, Georgia Tech



HITS KEEP COMING: BIGGEST HITTERS
Ronnell Lewis delivers a mean hit for the Sooners.
1. Ronnell Lewis, Oklahoma
2. Jay Valai, Wisconsin
3. Manti Te'o, Notre Dame
4. Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
5. Jeron Johnson, Boise State



NOSE FOR THE BALL: MOST INSTINCTIVE PLAYER
Wherever the ball is, that's where Scott Lutrus is.
1. Scott Lutrus, Connecticut
2. Ross Homan, Ohio State
3. DeJon Gomes, Nebraska
4. Luke Kuechly, Boston College
5. Greg Jones, Michigan State


NICE TO SEE YOU AGAIN: COMEBACK PLAYER
Baylor happily welcomes back QB Robert Griffin III.
1. Robert Griffin III, Baylor
2. Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
3. Mark Herzlich, Boston College
4. Darren Evans, Virginia Tech
5. Jewel Hampton, Iowa



ULTIMATE GAME-CHANGER
UW's fortunes rest on Jake Locker's shoulders.
1. Jake Locker, Washington
2. Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State
3. Mark Ingram, Alabama
4. DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
5. A.J. Green, Georgia


TOE THE LINE: TOP LINEBACKERS
1. Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
2. Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
3. Kelvin Sheppard, LSU
4. Greg Jones, Michigan State
5. Brian Rolle, Ohio State


CORNERING THE MARKET: TOP CORNERBACKS
Patrick Peterson has things covered for the Tigers.
1. Patrick Peterson, LSU
2. Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
3. Aaron Williams, Texas
4. Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
5. Kendric Burney, North Carolina



OFF THE EDGE: BEST DEFENSIVE ENDS
Robert Quinn will have his eyes on opposing QBs this fall.

1. Robert Quinn, North Carolina
2. Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
3. Cameron Heyward, Ohio State
4. Greg Romeus, Pitt
5. Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue


STAGE DIRECTION: TOP PLAYCALLERS
Steve Sarkisian pulls the strings for Washington.

1. Steve Sarkisian, Washington
2. Chip Kelly, Oregon
3. Gus Malzahn, Auburn
4. Bobby Petrino, Arkansas
5. Kevin Wilson, Oklahoma


TOP DEFENSIVE MINDS
T-1. Bo Pelini, Nebraska
T-1. Will Muschamp, Texas
T-1. Nick Saban, Alabama
4. Monte Kiffin, USC
5. Gary Patterson, TCU


MOST UNDERVALUED TEAMS
Greg Jones and MSU might surprise people in 2010.
1. Michigan State
2. UCLA
3. Northwestern
4. Rutgers
5. Ole Miss



AND THE BAND PLAYED ON: TOP STUDENT BANDS
Fortunately, the band plays on at Ohio State.


1. Ohio State
2. Florida A&M
3. Wisconsin
4. Michigan
5. Tennessee


STAY IN SCHOOL: TOP STUDENT SECTIONS
1. Penn State's White Out is a sight to behold.
2. Notre Dame
3. LSU
4. Wisconsin
5. South Carolina


BEST RESTAURANTS
1. Ruffino's -- Baton Rouge, La.
2. Mark's U.S. Prime -- Gainesville, Fla.
3. El Arroyo -- Austin, Texas
4. Little Dooey -- Starkville, Miss.
5. Hyde Park Steakhouse -- Columbus, Ohio


FAVORITE UNIFORMS (after the scarlet-and-gray of Ohio State, of course)
1. Texas home
2. USC's away
3. Alabama
4. Penn State
5. TCU's Nike Pro Combat


CANDID COACHES (arranged alphabetically)
1. Bret Bielema, Wisconsin
2. Mack Brown, Texas
3. Gene Chizik, Auburn
4. Chip Kelly, Oregon
5. Rick Neuheisel, UCLA
6. Houston Nutt, Ole Miss
7. Bo Pelini, Nebraska
8. Nick Saban, Alabama
9. Steve Sarkisian, Washington
10. Randy Shannon, Miami
11. Mike Stoops, Arizona
12. Jim Tressel, Ohio State



BULL DURHAM COACHES: GREAT COACHES WHO PLAY IT CLOSE TO THE VEST
1. Frank Beamer, V-Tech
2. Kirk Ferentz, Iowa
3. Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern
4. Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech
5. Gary Pinkel, Missouri


FREQUENT FLIERS: BEST/WORST AIRPORTS
Best to travel to and through Least favorite
1. Detroit 1. Atlanta
2. Cincinnati 2. Atlanta
3. Dallas 3. Philadelphia
4. Salt Lake City 4. Washington Dulles
5. Los Angeles 5. Memphis



TEAMS ON THE MOVE
Movin' On Up Headin' On Down
1. Oklahoma 1. Oklahoma State
2. Auburn 2. Texas Tech
3. Miami 3. BYU
4. Boston College 4. Minnesota
5. Michigan 5. Tennessee



ALL-HERBIE TEAM
Offense Defense Specialists

QB - Jake Locker, Washington DL - Robert Quinn, North Carolina RET - Jeremy Kerley, TCU
RB - LaMichael James, Oregon DL - Adrian Clayborn, Iowa RET - Kenjon Barner, Oregon
RB - Mark Ingram, Alabama DL - Cameron Heyward, Ohio State K/P - Alex Henery, Nebraska
WR - A.J. Green, Georgia DL - Greg Romeus, Pitt
WR - Jon Baldwin, Pitt LB - Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
WR - Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma LB - Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
TE - Kyle Rudolph, Notre Dame LB - Quan Sturdivant, UNC
T - Anthony Castonzo, BC LB - Von Miller, Texas A&M
T - Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin CB - Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
G - Rodney Hudson, Florida State CB - Patrick Peterson, LSU
G - Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State S - Rahim Moore, UCLA
C - Mike Pouncey, Florida S - DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson



ALL-UNI TEAM: WHAT A COLLEGE TEAM SHOULD LOOK LIKE
Offensive Team Defensive Team

QB - Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State DL - Robert Quinn, North Carolina
RB - DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma DL - Greg Romeus, Pitt
RB - Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech DT - Allen Bailey, Miami
WR - DeAndre Brown, Southern Miss DT - Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
WR - Greg Little, North Carolina LB - Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
TE - Kyle Rudolph, Notre Dame LB - Akeem Ayers, UCLA
T - Anthony Castonzo, Boston College LB - Martez Wilson, Illinois
T - Lee Ziemba, Auburn LB - Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
G - Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State CB - Aaron Williams, Texas
G - Barrett Jones, Alabama CB - Patrick Peterson, LSU
C - Mike Pouncey, Florida S - DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
S - Rahim Moore, UCLA



BCS CONFERENCE PICKS
Conference Best Player Likely To Disappoint Sleeper Team Champion
ACC Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech North Carolina Boston College Miami over BC
Big 12 Travis Lewis, Oklahoma Oklahoma State Texas A&M Oklahoma over Nebraska
Big East Dion Lewis, Pitt West Virginia Cincinnati Connecticut
Big Ten Adrian Clayborn, Iowa Wisconsin Northwestern Ohio State
Pac-10 LaMichael James, Oregon USC UCLA Stanford
SEC Patrick Peterson, LSU Arkansas Georgia Florida over Auburn
National championship game: Ohio State over Oklahoma



Maurice Clarett joins Omaha of UFL
I say good for him!!!!

OMAHA, Neb. -- Former Ohio State star Maurice Clarett has signed a one-year contract with the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League.

Clarett met Monday with team officials and UFL commissioner Michael Huyghue, who gave his blessing.

Clarett was expected to be on the practice field Monday night for his first football activity since he was a bust with the Denver Broncos and spent 3½ years for having a hidden gun and holding up two people outside a Columbus, Ohio, bar, in 2006.

"I am humbled by the opportunity the Omaha Nighthawks have given me and will dedicate myself on and off the field to prove that I can be a valuable member of the team and the Omaha community," Clarett said in a statement. "I am committed to working hard to earn the right for a second chance in football and more importantly in life."

Clarett, who is not scheduled to meet with reporters until Wednesday, went through a private workout and physical Sunday.

"The things you can't coach you can see were there -- footwork, hands, those types of things. And he's in really good physical condition," general manager Rick Mueller said. "Those were the things that jumped out more than anything else. He's done a pretty good job getting himself in condition to play football."

Clarett, 26, needed a judge's permission to leave Ohio to work out for the Nighthawks. He was allowed to be out of state for 30 days. Nighthawks general manager Rick Mueller said he's confident Clarett will be allowed to stay the entire season in Omaha and that he won't be barred from traveling to road games.

Clarett ran into trouble after a sensational freshman year at Ohio State in 2002. He rushed for 1,237 yards and 18 touchdowns, the last one clinching a victory in the national title game against Miami.

He was suspended the entire 2003 season for taking gifts and lying to the NCAA. He later lost a court case challenging the NFL's rule requiring a player to be out of high school three years before becoming eligible for the draft.

The Denver Broncos drafted Clarett in the third round in 2005, but he was hindered by a groin problem, never played in a preseason game and was cut before the regular season.

His downward spiral continued with the robbery, which landed him in prison and then, for the last 4½ months, in a community-based lockdown dormitory.

Huygue had said that he wouldn't allow Clarett to sign with the Nighthawks unless the team provided a strong support system. Ahman Green, a native of Omaha and four-time Pro Bowler with the Green Bay Packers, has agreed to serve as Clarett's mentor.

"I met with Maurice Clarett today and additionally reviewed all of the reports surrounding his circumstances," Huygue said. "I support allowing his return to football and believe he will make the most of this opportunity with the Omaha Nighthawks."

Clarett has the full support of his former coach, Ohio State's Jim Tressel. He said he received several calls from people associated with the UFL about whether Clarett would be interested in making a comeback.

"I think he kind of felt good that there was some interest," Tressel said.

Besides Green, the Nighthawks feature Pro Bowl quarterback Jeff Garcia and several other players with NFL experience.

"We're going to be patient with him," Mueller said of Clarett. "We have to be smart about it and so does Maurice. This kid is anxious to get out there and show what he can do, but it's no good if he's hurt.

"He's done everything he can personally, legally and physically to put himself in condition to be successful. Now we have to find out if he can get back."

Ohio State's Nathan Williams will NOT play vs Marshall on Thursday night!

Monday, August 30, 2010

Ohio State Starters Announced for Marshall


Ohio State Football
Official Marshall Game Depth Chart Share |

Offense Defense
Pos. Num. Name Ht., Wt., Cl. Pos. Num. Name Ht., Wt., Cl.

QB 2 Terrelle Pryor (6-6, 233, Jr.) DE 43 Nathan Williams (6-3, 260, Jr.)
14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr.) 98 Solomon Thomas (6-5, 226, Jr.)

DT 72 DexteFB 44 Zach Boren (6-0, 252, So.)
r Larimore (6-2, 310, Sr.)
52 Johnathan Hankins (6-3, 335, Fr.)
49 Adam Homan (6-2, 238, So.)

DT 54 John Simon (6-2, 270, So.) TB 3 Brandon Saine OR (6-1, 219, Sr.) 53 Garrett Goebel (6-3, 281, So.)
1 Dan Herron (5-10, 202, Jr.)

DE 97 Cameron Heyward (6-5, 288, Sr.)
93 Adam Bellamy (6-4, 295, RFr.)

WLB 51 Ross Homan (6-0, 227, Sr.)
TE 11 Jake Stoneburner (6-5, 245, So.) 11 Dorian Bell (6-1, 225, RFr.)
88 Reid Fragel (6-8, 260, So.)

MLB 36 Brian Rolle (5-11, 218, Sr.)
6 Etienne Sabino (6-3, 240, Jr.)
WR 12 Dane Sanzenbacher
(5-11, 180, Sr.) 32 Storm Klein (6-2, 230, So.)
80 Chris Fields OR (6-0, 185, RFr.)
10 Corey Brown (5-11, 170, Fr.) SLB 42 Andrew Sweat (6-2, 238, Jr.)
55 Jon Newsome (6-3, 219, So.)

WR 8 DeVier Posey (6-2, 213, Jr.) CB 5 Chimdi Chekwa (6-0, 190, Sr.)
5 Taurian Washington (6-1, 181, Sr.) 18 Travis Howard (6-0, 190, So.)

FS 7 Jermale Hines (6-1, 216, Sr.)
8 Aaron Gant (6-0, 206, Sr.)
LT 75 Mike Adams (6-8, 300, Jr.)
55 Andrew Miller (6-6, 288, Sr.)

LG 65 Justin Boren (6-3, 320, Sr.) SS 4 C.J. Barnett (6-0, 190, So.)
77 Connor Smith (6-4, 313, Sr.) 19 Orhian Johnson (6-2, 203, So.)

C 50 Mike Brewster (6-5, 293, Jr.)
71 Corey Linsley (6-2, 298, RFr.)
CB 10 Devon Torrence (6-1, 200, Sr.)
3 Corey Brown (6-0, 189, RFr.)

RG 70 Bryant Browning (6-4, 313, Sr.)
74 Jack Mewhort (6-6, 288, RFr.) Star 26 Tyler Moeller (6-0, 210, Sr.)
7 Jermale Hines (6-1, 216, Sr.)
2 Christian Bryant (5-9, 178, Fr.)

RT 76 J.B. Shugarts (6-7, 297, Jr.)
78 Andrew Norwell (6-5, 308, Fr.)

Specialists
Pos. Num. Name Ht., Wt., Cl.

K 23 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr.)
24 Drew Basil (6-1, 200, Fr.)

KO 24 Drew Basil (6-1, 200, Fr.)
23 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr.)

P 17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 195, So.)
39 Derek Erwin (5-10, 203, So.)

LS 96 Jake McQuaide (6-3, 234, Sr.)
56 George Makridis (5-11, 236, RFr.)

H 14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr.)
39 Derek Erwin (5-10, 203, So.)

Friday, August 27, 2010

Ohio State President Favors Division Split


Ohio State president favors division split

Ohio State president Gordon Gee told the Dayton Daily News he is in favor of a plan that would put the Buckeyes and Michigan Wolverines in separate divisions when the Big Ten reorganizes.

The conference added Nebraska as a 12th member, which will force scheduling changes. Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez has said expansion to nine games in conference will happen in 2015.
Gee is also in favor of a schedule in which Michigan and Ohio State would not play the final game of the regular season, as is tradition.
The Buckeyes' fan base may not be in line with the president.
Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith told The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer he has received about 350 fan e-mails -- 90 percent want the Buckeyes and Wolverines to continue to play the final Saturday of the regular season.
"I think in the division or out of the division, you could play the last game," Smith told The Plain Dealer. "There are obviously warts with both of those. But there's no doubt you could do it both ways."
The fear is if the two teams are in different divisions, they would play in the final week of the regular season and turn around and play in the Big Ten title game.
Gee is in favor of playing the Wolverines twice, just not back-to-back.
"We want to beat them twice," Gee told the Daily News.



Barry Alvarez Slip? Iowa, Wisconsin to Be in Separate Divisions, AD Tells Paper
Iowa and Wisconsin will not be in the same division when the Big Ten expands to 12 teams next season, according to Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez. Alvarez told the Wisconsin State Journal that the long-time natural rivals are going to be in different divisions, the first hint anyone has given about what the new landscape of the Big Ten will look like.
Realignment has been the source of much angst in Big Ten country. Conference commissioner Jim Delany (right) has already hinted that Ohio State and Michigan might not be in the same division and their annual matchup, usually held on the last Saturday of the season, may take place earlier.
The public has reacted to Delany's comments about moving the Michigan-Ohio State game in much the same manner as it would react to finding a dead rat in the potato salad. Everybody knew that some traditional rivalries would wind up being discombobulated as a result of expansion. OSU-Michigan, in the last game of the season, was never thought to be negotiable.
The question of competitive balance won't go away, however. Michigan is down at the moment, but recent experience with traditional powers suggests the Wolverines won't be down forever. Alabama was 7-6 in 2007, Nick Saban's first season, and the Tide would prefer not to discuss the decade before that. Keeping the league in two balanced divisions means that no more than two of Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Nebraska can be in the same division. How much sense would it make to pin Penn State and Nebraska together?
Delany also held out the possibility of an Ohio State-Michigan championship game, which would be quite a big deal indeed. Others have pointed out that the Big 12 didn't ever get the Clash of the Titans championship game it wanted, and the ACC has yet to produce the Miami-Florida State title game we all expected would be an annual event.
Part of the problem in the Big 12's case is that the divisions are unbalanced. A school from the Big 12 South won the conference 10 out of 14 years. That was an unforeseen complication. Remember back to 1996, when Colorado went 10-2 and Kansas State 9-3 but still didn't win the North, while Texas won the South with a record of 8-4. Oklahoma was 3-8 that season. You'd better believe Delany looked at the Big 12's struggles before he decided to forgo a strictly geographic split.
Alvarez also told the State Journal that the conference will adopt a nine-game schedule but cannot do so before 2015 because of previously scheduled games. That means that every Big Ten team will play the other five teams in its own division and four from the other division. Big Ten teams already skip two conference opponents a year, so this won't be too disruptive.
Nonetheless, the Iowa-Wisconsin split means an annual game between those two schools isn't necessarily a guarantee. A lot will depend on if other teams get separated from natural rivals. A protected rivalry or two is a safe assumption, and Iowa-Wisconsin would be one of many rivalries the conference would want to protect.
Delany says we'll know by mid-September how the divisions will be split. Alvarez's revelations probably aren't the last we'll hear before then, however. Mid-September is only three weeks away, but in Internet time, that's a couple years. You can't expect a secret to be kept that long these days.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

The Best Pro Football Players to Where the Numbers 00-99




This is a great article on si.com that shows the best football players to ever where the numbers 00-99. These are just two of my favorite numbers. I like the numbers not necessarily the player, especially Jim Brown.
Click HERE to go check out your favorite number!!!





32
Jim Brown

Many consider him the NFL’s greatest player. Brown led the NFL in rushing for eight seasons and was the Most Valuable Player three times. He retired at 30 at the peak of his career.

Runner-up: O.J. Simpson

Worthy of consideration: Marcus Allen, Ottis Anderson, Jamal Anderson, Mike Curtis, Franco Harris, Jack Tatum, Ricky Watters, John L. Williams




3
Bronko Nagurski

A two-way superstar, Nagurski excelled for the Bears at fullback and linebacker. He gained 4,031 yards over nine NFL seasons (1930-37, 1943) and scored the go-ahead touchdown in the 1943 title game. He was 35 at the time.

Runner-up: Jan Stenerud

Worthy of consideration: Tony Canadeo, Daryle Lamonica (Oak.), Mark Moseley, Jeff Reed

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Ohio State vs Michigan Football Could Be Moved From Last Game of Year - Olympic World Basketball Rosters Named - Caption this Photo

Skydiver Stuck on Flagpole at Texas Game

Put your own caption on this photo in the comment section




ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- The U.S. national basketball team finalized its roster for the world championships when Celtics star Rajon Rondo asked to withdraw from consideration.
Rondo had started the Americans first two exhibition games, then surprisingly didn't play at all Sunday when the U.S. edged Spain.
The final 12-man roster set Tuesday includes: Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, Rudy Gay, Lamar Odom, Chauncey Billups, Danny Granger, Russell Westbrook, Eric Gordon, Stephen Curry, Kevin Love, Tyson Chandler and Andre Iguodala.
Coach Mike Krzyzewski's team has one more tuneup against Greece on Wednesday. The world championships start Saturday in Turkey and run through Sept. 12.


Big Ten Not Sure What to do with Ohio-State vs Michigan Football Game
By RUSTY MILLER msnbc.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Since 1943, fans have always known where to find the annual showdown between Michigan and Ohio State: Right at the end of the Big Ten schedule.
With the Big Ten expanding to 12 teams in 2011 and also going to divisional play and a conference championship game, that sacred spot is no longer a certainty.
"I can't sit here and say that it's going to be in place, or it's not going to be in place," Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said Tuesday of the traditional season-ending rivalry. "We did have meetings yesterday in Chicago and we'll have more meetings. We're still looking at a lot of different scenarios. We'll just have to wait and see how it plays out."
Wisconsin AD and former football coach Barry Alvarez said every effort is being made to preserve the biggest traditional rivalry game at each school, but otherwise competitive balance will determine how the Big Ten divides into divisions.
"We're all going to protect one rivalry, we've decided that and we're going right back to what we've talked about, competitive equality," Alvarez said. "If you stick with that, you can get close (to guessing the divisions)."
Many who hold dear the traditions of the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry are hoping for something close to the status quo. Most don't want to let go of the finality of that late-November Saturday. "The Game," as it's called in much of the Midwest, was first played in 1897 and it's been played 106 times since.
"I'd rather keep it as the last game," said ex-Michigan quarterback Chad Henne, now with the Miami Dolphins. "There's tradition there, and you always look forward to that last game."
Moving it to October could make "The Game" feel like just another game.
"I'll tell you we'll go to great lengths to make sure that the tradition and rivalries are respected," Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany said this summer. He then added, "I think the important thing is, that they play."
And about those divisions? If Michigan and Ohio State are in the same division, they could never meet again for the conference championship as they have so many times, going back to when Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes prowled the sidelines?
If the Buckeyes and Wolverines are in different divisions, that could set up two meetings in some seasons. Wouldn't that detract from the win-or-else nature of the rivalry?
Michigan AD Dave Brandon believes that it would be enhanced.
"We're in a situation where one of the best things that could happen in my opinion in a given season would be the opportunity to play Ohio State twice, once during the regular season and once for the championship of the Big Ten," he told a Detroit radio audience earlier this month.
Fans are loyal to college football because it is built on its tried and true traditions. From Chief Osceola at Florida State to Southern California's Traveler, from rubbing Howard's rock at Auburn to Touchdown Jesus at Notre Dame, the sport is rich ties to the past.
In the Big Ten, Michigan will continue to wear its winged helmets and Ohio State will still sport scarlet and gray. They just might not play each other once a year on the final Saturday of the Big Ten season.
And it's not just fans of the Wolverines and Buckeyes who might feel as if tradition is being cast aside.
Purdue and Indiana have fought over the Old Oaken Bucket since 1925. Minnesota and Iowa for Floyd of Rosedale — a bronze pig, no less — since 1935, and Michigan State and Indiana over the Old Brass Spittoon since 1950. And what of Illibuck, the Purdue Cannon, Sweet Sioux Tomahawk and Paul Bunyan's Axe, all prizes of longtime Big Ten trophy games?
Some of those games might not be played every season.
"We may have 15 trophy games, rivalry games that are in that same number," Delany said. "We'll need to do everything we can to preserve those. Whether or not we'll be 100 percent able to preserve every trophy game or every rivalry game ..."
In a conference that has held on to its traditions more than any other, this could be jolting.
"Change is tough," Smith said somberly. "At the end of the day, I don't know what change we'll have. Even if we have Michigan at the end of the schedule, there's still going to be change. I don't know what it's going to be. But I'm looking at a number of different scenarios and there's change in all of them."

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

College Football Unranked Sleepers and AP Top 25




Five unranked teams with BCS sleeper potential in 2010
Stewart Mandel si.com
Really good article from Stewy. I would have to agree with his teams, but I don't think Purdue will be there in the end. The Big Ten is too tough this year.

With the 2010 season rapidly approaching, I've received numerous questions lately from e-mailers, talk-radio hosts, bloggers, etc., about who my "dark horse" team is this year. Presuming this to mean "a team aside from usual suspects Alabama/Ohio State/Florida/Texas that could rise up and win the national title," I've been going with Miami. Jason McIntyre of TheBigLead.com took exception to this. On Twitter, he wrote of my choice: "Top 20 end of last year, top 15 preseason = dark horse?"
Well, yes -- going by recent BCS history, No. 13 Miami is as close to a "dark horse" as you'll find. It's been seven years since a team that low rose up and won the title (No. 14 LSU in 2003), and only one team with a lower ranking (No. 19 Oklahoma in 2000) has ever pulled it off. The average preseason ranking of the past six BCS champions: 3.8. Even with the circumstances ripe for a more parity-fueled season, it's still highly unlikely that a team ranked much lower than Miami will emerge as national champion.
However, if we change the topic from "BCS champion" to "BCS bowl participant" -- then we can ditch the "dark horse" connotations and start identifying true, off-the-radar "sleepers." Over the past four seasons, eight teams that were unranked to start the season ended the year with a BCS berth, including such out-of-nowhere teams as ACC champ Wake Forest in 2006, Kansas' 12-1 team in '07, Illinois' Rose Bowl team that same year and, believe it or not, Nick Saban's '08 Alabama team that very nearly played for the national championship.

Arizona (8-5 in '09)
Oregon is still my pick to win the Pac-10. USC is ineligible for the postseason. And Oregon State checks in at No. 22. After that, there are several similarly bunched Pac-10 teams -- Arizona, Stanford, Washington, Arizona State -- that could be poised for a breakout, but Mike Stoops' team is the only one I could see getting to 10 wins. And the Wildcats have a chance to make an early jump in the polls if they can knock off No. 10 Iowa at home on Sept. 18.

Arizona returns standouts at quarterback (Nick Foles) and running back (Nic Grigsby) and all-conference-caliber defensive ends (Ricky Elmore and Brooks Reed) and cornerbacks (Trevin Wade and Robert Golden). While last year's Top 25 defense lost seven starters, Stoops feels this unit will be faster and deeper thanks to some impressive juco transfers and redshirt freshmen. If the 'Cats can hold serve at home, they could be playing for the Rose Bowl when they head to Oregon on Nov. 26.

Connecticut (8-5)
The Huskies have won at least eight games in four of their six seasons since joining the Big East, even sharing a conference title with West Virginia in '07, but they've yet to climb that final hurdle and reach the 10-win plateau. This could be the year. Last year's team teetered ever so close, losing five games by a combined 15 points before closing with four straight wins, including a double-overtime thriller at Notre Dame and a 20-7 silencing of South Carolina in the PapaJohns.com Bowl.

UConn returns 16 starters, including its quarterback (Zach Fraser), top rusher (Jordan Todman), four offensive linemen, the front four on defense and standout linebackers Lawrence Wilson (140 tackles) and Scott Lutrus (106 in '08, injured much of last year). With a favorable conference schedule that includes home games against Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and West Virginia, the Huskies could conceivably earn the Big East's BCS berth.

Can Pitt, West Virginia or UConn unseat Cincy as Big East champ?

Boston College (8-5)
Five other ACC teams appear in the preseason rankings. Fortunately for the Eagles, four of them (Virginia Tech, Miami, Georgia Tech and UNC) play in the opposite division and only two of them (Virginia Tech and Florida State) appear on BC's regular-season schedule. That alone gives Frank Spaziani's team an auspicious path to the ACC Championship Game in Charlotte, at which point an upset is certainly possible.

The Eagles have a bona fide stud at running back (Montel Harris) and All-America candidates at tackle (Anthony Castonzo) and linebacker (Mark Herzlich and Luke Kurechly). Herzlich, who missed last season while recovering from Ewing's sarcoma, still hasn't practiced due to a stress fracture in his right foot and may miss the Eagles' opener.

On the flip side, BC's offense was dreadful last season, with then 25-year-old freshman quarterback Dave Shinskie thrown into the fire out of desperation. Yet the Eagles still managed to win five ACC games. What might they do now with a more talented team?

Purdue (5-7)
With four Big Ten teams ranked in the preseason top 14 (No. 2 Ohio State, No. 10 Iowa, No. 12 Wisconsin and No. 14 Penn State), you're excused if you haven't given a passing thought to the Boilermakers. But perhaps you should reconsider. Remember, this is a team that handed Ohio State its only conference defeat last season, came within a last-minute two-point conversion at Pac-10 champ Oregon and lost three other contests by less than a touchdown.

Now in his second season, coach Danny Hope adds a lauded quarterback in Miami transfer Robert Marve to throw to the league's top returning receiver, Keith Smith. Sacks leader Ryan Kerrigan (13) returns as well. Admittedly, Purdue is a long-shot to reach the BCS -- it might not even win its opener at Notre Dame -- but with a friendly conference schedule that avoids both Iowa and Penn State, nine wins and a Jan. 1 bowl aren't out of the question.

Navy (10-4)
Who says this year's "BCS buster" has to come from the Mountain West or WAC? The Midshipmen took a notable competitive leap last season. For the first time since their seven-year bowl streak began under former coach Paul Johnson, the Middies beat a BCS-conference foe (Missouri) in postseason play. In fact, they crushed the Tigers, 35-13, after previously taking Ohio State to the wire (losing on an intercepted two-point conversion) and beating Notre Dame.

Navy's triple-option offense returns six of last year's top seven rushers. The school is touting quarterback Ricky Dobbs as a Heisman candidate after he both rushed and passed for 1,000-plus yards and set an NCAA record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (27). And then there's the schedule. Navy plays three ACC teams -- but they're Maryland, Duke and Wake Forest. Undefeated Navy playing in the Rose Bowl? Don't laugh. It could happen.

A few other teams and items worth noting:

• There are no SEC teams on this list simply because so many of them (six) are already ranked. No. 21 Georgia and No. 23 Auburn might otherwise have qualified as sleepers, and I don't have any particular faith in South Carolina or Kentucky.

• There are no Big 12 teams on this list because, outside of Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska, the Big 12 is not going to be very good.

• I strongly considered Notre Dame. Both of the Irish's last two coaches, Tyrone Willingham (10-3 in 2002) and Charlie Weis (9-3 in '05), produced major improvement in their first seasons, and Brian Kelly is inheriting a more talented squad than either of them. The schedule's just too tough, though, to forecast anything better than eight or nine wins and the Champs Sports Bowl.

• Finally, a few other non-AQ "sleepers" to consider: Houston (10-4 last season, though a Nov. 27 return trip to Texas Tech a week before a potential date in the Conference USA title game comes at a tough time); Air Force (8-5 last season and creeping up on TCU/Utah/BYU in the Mountain West); and SMU (8-5 last season, and playing for a coach, June Jones, who has gotten it done before).



Pre-season College Football Polls

AP Rankings
Rankings as of 8/21/2010
Rank School Votes Prev Rank
1 Alabama (0-0) 1491 (54) NR
2 Ohio State (0-0) 1400 (3) NR
3 Boise State (0-0) 1336 (1) NR
4 Florida (0-0) 1237 NR
5 Texas (0-0) 1223 (1) NR
6 TCU (0-0) 1160 NR
7 Oklahoma (0-0) 1104 (1) NR
8 Nebraska (0-0) 1033 NR
9 Iowa (0-0) 1007 NR
10 Virginia Tech (0-0) 973 NR
11 Oregon (0-0) 870 NR
12 Wisconsin (0-0) 822 NR
13 Miami (FL) (0-0) 785 NR
14 USC (0-0) 590 NR
15 Pittsburgh (0-0) 516 NR
16 Georgia Tech (0-0) 511 NR
17 Arkansas (0-0) 496 NR
18 North Carolina (0-0) 397 NR
19 Penn State (0-0) 382 NR
20 Florida State (0-0) 379 NR
21 LSU (0-0) 300 NR
22 Auburn (0-0) 296 NR
23 Georgia (0-0) 206 NR
24 Oregon State (0-0) 198 NR
25 West Virginia (0-0) 184 NR

Others: Cincinnati (108) , Stanford (81) , Utah (80) , South Carolina (71) , Houston (66) , Connecticut (32) , Notre Dame (31) , Missouri (27) , Brigham Young (19) , Clemson (15) , Arizona (15) , Texas Tech (14) , Navy (12) , Washington (8) , Texas A&M (7) , Mississippi (6) , Oklahoma State (3) , Temple (2) , Central Michigan (2) , Middle Tennessee (2) , Boston College (1) , Southern Methodist (1) , UCF (1)

Coaches' Rankings
Rankings as of 8/6/2010
Rank School Votes Prev Rank
1 Alabama (0-0) 1469 (55) NR
2 Ohio State (0-0) 1392 (4) NR
3 Florida (0-0) 1245 NR
4 Texas (0-0) 1240 NR
5 Boise State (0-0) 1215 NR
6 Virginia Tech (0-0) 1052 NR
7 TCU (0-0) 1051 NR
8 Oklahoma (0-0) 1035 NR
9 Nebraska (0-0) 1001 NR
10 Iowa (0-0) 952 NR
11 Oregon (0-0) 940 NR
12 Wisconsin (0-0) 778 NR
13 Miami (FL) (0-0) 728 NR
14 Penn State (0-0) 508 NR
15 Pittsburgh (0-0) 492 NR
16 LSU (0-0) 476 NR
17 Georgia Tech (0-0) 455 NR
18 North Carolina (0-0) 445 NR
19 Arkansas (0-0) 438 NR
20 Florida State (0-0) 374 NR
21 Georgia (0-0) 312 NR
22 Oregon State (0-0) 263 NR
23 Auburn (0-0) 260 NR
24 West Virginia (0-0) 169 NR
24 Utah (0-0) 169 NR

Others: Cincinnati (135) , Houston (76) , Brigham Young (66) , Arizona (65) , Mississippi (48) , Clemson (44) , Stanford (41) , Connecticut (40) , South Carolina (38) , Notre Dame (38) , Washington (26) , Missouri (23) , Navy (12) , Oklahoma State (11) , Boston College (10) , Michigan State (10) , Arizona State (6) , California (6) , Texas Tech (5) , South Florida (4) , Texas A&M (3) , Temple (2) , Northwestern (2) , Nevada (1) , Northern Illinois (1) , Central Michigan (1) , Mississippi State (1) , Southern Methodist (1) Last updated Aug. 21, 10:37 A.M. ET

Monday, August 23, 2010

OSU Running Back, Maurice Clarett Wants Back in the Game and Jim Brown May Not Show up for Ring of Honor Ceremony in Cleveland


Clarett asks to be allowed to travel to pro tryout
By RUSTY MILLER
msnbc.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Former Ohio State tailback Maurice Clarett has gotten back into the classroom. Now he wants to get back onto the football field.
Clarett filed a motion with a judge asking to be allowed to travel to try out with the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. A review of the motion was tentatively set for Monday afternoon and then later pushed back to Aug. 30. Clarett cannot leave the state until he receives clearance from the court.
On Monday, Clarett, who led the Buckeyes to the 2002 national championship, finished up 4½ months in a locked-down, dormitory-style facility that serves as a transition for those getting out of prison. He asked Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge David Fais to leave the state to try out for the pro team.
His attorney, Michael Hoague, said Clarett was ready to make the most of the opportunity.
"Since he re-enrolled in summer-quarter classes at Ohio State, he's been going to school and also working out each morning at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center," Hoague said. "He looks really good."
Clarett pleaded guilty in 2006 to aggravated robbery and carrying a concealed weapon and served 3½ years in a Toledo prison. He has been attending classes at Ohio State while living in a detention facility in Columbus. Now he will either move to Nebraska to try to make the team or will find an apartment and continue his schooling.
"The people in Nebraska had a couple of questions about Maurice. First, was his head on straight? And it's on really straight," Hoague said. "Second, is he in shape? And the answer to that is he's in great shape."
Tim Jackson, Fais' bailiff, said Monday that the review of Clarett's request had to be pushed back because of scheduling problems. Clarett's case will be discussed in open court then.
The expansion Omaha franchise will be making its debut in the UFL's second season this fall, joining the Florida Tuskers, Hartford Colonials, Las Vegas Locomotives and Sacramento Mountain Lions. Among the players on the team, currently going through preseason camp, are two former NFL stars, quarterback Jeff Garcia and running back Ahman Green.
The Nighthawks open their season Sept. 24 against the Hartford Colonials.
A spokeswoman for the Nighthawks declined to comment on Clarett possibly practicing with the team.
Omaha's player personnel director is Ted Sundquist, former general manager of the Denver Broncos, who took Clarett in the third round of the 2005 NFL draft.
Clarett, a former Mr. Football in Ohio, started for the Buckeyes as a freshman and quickly asserted himself as one of the premier running backs in the country. He rushed for 1,237 yards in 2002, helping Ohio State to its first national championship in 34 years. He scored the winning touchdown in the second overtime of a dramatic Fiesta Bowl victory over top-ranked Miami.
But he was ruled ineligible the following year for taking special benefits worth thousands of dollars. He sued to enter the NFL draft early, before he was out of high school for three years, but lost in court.
After he was eventually drafted by the Broncos, he was cut before the season started. He missed most of the preseason with a groin injury.
Then in September 2006 he pleaded guilty to having a hidden gun in his sport utility vehicle and holding up two people outside a bar.
Hoague said Clarett is nervous but hopeful.
"In his position, it's like he's in shark-infested waters and the rescue boat is coming to get him," Hoague said. "He's nervous. But he's optimistic."




Jim Brown won't attend ceremony
This is simply because he is pouting about the ownership finally getting smart and stripping him of his position with the Browns. I don't think it will matter to the fans whether he shows up or not. Keep crying the blues Jim, but just don't hit anybody when you decide to take your frusttration out.
Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown does not plan to attend the Cleveland Browns' first-ever ring of honor ceremony at the team's home opener on Sept. 19, The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer reported.
"He won't be able to make it," said his wife, Monique Brown, according to the report. "He tried to move a few things around [his schedule], but wasn't able to."
The Browns, who are planing to make the team's 16 Hall of Famers the franchise's first honorees, have not directly heard from Brown that he will not be attending, according to the report.
But a source close to Brown said the Hall of Famer has been stung by two developments since losing his formal role as a team adviser, according to the report. Those are the team ending its funding of Brown's Amer-I-Can program and a lack of contact from owner Randy Lerner since Brown was stripped of his role as an executive adviser and left the team.
"I'm afraid we've seen the last of Jim Brown around here," the source said, according to the report.
Brown, who is still considered by many the greatest running back in NFL history despite his records being surpassed, had played a visible role with the Browns since the franchise was restored in 1999 as an expansion team. But he lost his title shortly after Mike Holmgren was named team president in January.
Holmgren offered Brown a reduced role at a lower salary, which Brown declined. But he offered to make himself available to the team and did so on two occasions. He took part in the NFL draft at the league's request and addressed the team's rookies for coach Eric Mangini.
The team is expected to formally announce its plans for the ring of honor this week, according to the report.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Lagarrette Blount is back at it and so is Brett Favre


Legarrette Blount, Worse than Mike Tyson

Aiming for teammates, Blount inadvertently punched Bellotti while at Oregon
Posted by John Taylor on August 20, 2010 8:46 AM ET
The Punch Heard 'Round the College Football World was back in the news earlier this week, courtesy of LeGarrette Blount going Marvin Hagler on one of his Tennessee Titans (helmeted) teammates after the final play of a training camp practice.


"I am not disappointed whatsoever," Fisher said after the incident. "His past is his past. Is that the first punch you've seen at camp this year? No. OK. I am not disappointed whatsoever. I have great confidence in the young man that he has learned from his mistake and is very competitive."


While that may have been the first time Blount went swinging at the professional level, his right jab to the jaw of Boise State linebacker Byron Hout wasn't the first time he took a swing at the collegiate level.


Two of Blount's Oregon teammates and a former Ducks assistant coach relayed to John Canzano of The Oregonian an incident that happened two years ago involving Blount, his fists and his temper, an incident that's never been reported until now.
Two football seasons ago. Closed practice. Autzen Stadium. Running back LeGarrette Blount was carrying the football on a play that swung wide when he was met by two University of Oregon defenders.
Defensive back Jairus Byrd and linebacker Jerome Boyd grabbed Blount and shoved him toward the sideline. A scuffle broke out, facemasks were grabbed, bodies tangled and then Ducks head coach Mike Bellotti hurried toward the mess, trying to break up the players.
Blount threw a punch.
It missed Byrd and Boyd, but caught the side of Bellotti's face -- square.


So, yeah, good luck with this "rehabilitated" running back you have on your hands, Coach Fisher. If people like Tony Dungy say it's all good, then by God it's all good, though. But, just in case, wear a helmet.


Or, as Canzano put it, "If you cut the guy, do it from a distance."



10 questions that need to be answered regarding Favre and the Vikings

Posted by Mike Florio on August 18, 2010 12:19 PM ET
Vikings coach Brad Childress and quarterback Brett Favre will meet the media on Wednesday. They'll likely be asked a question or two, and they'll likely offer up at least a semi-plausible answer to each one.

Here are 10 of the questions that we think need to be asked, regardless of whether all we get is a semi-plausible answer, or worse.

1. When will Favre take the field for the first time?

Few expected Favre to show up in time to take the trip to San Francisco for a Sunday night preseason game against the 49ers.

Will he travel with the team to California?

Will he take a few snaps against a 49ers team that probably would like to snap that bum ankle in order to improve its chances of qualifying for -- and advancing in -- the 2010 postseason?

2. Will Favre's contract be adjusted?

A member of the media has reminded us of this quote from Gordon Gekko: "It's all about bucks, kid. The rest is conversation."

At this point, it's widely believed that the Vikings will give Favre a hefty raise. It's also believed that Favre will "aw, shucks" his way through a monologue regarding how it's not about the money.

If that's the case, someone should ask him to declare that he'll take nothing more than the $13 million he already is due to earn.

3. Are we really supposed to believe that a supposedly impromptu visit from three teammates prompted Favre to make up his mind on the spot?

The actual answer to this one is meaningless. It'll just be interesting to see Childress and/or Favre try to offer an explanation that passes the smell test.

4. What did Dr. Andrews say last week about the ankle?

Favre's ankle supposedly wasn't recovering quickly enough. Last week, he visited with Dr. James Andrews. In the aftermath of the visit, no details have emerged regarding the condition of the joint.

So what did Andrews say to Favre about the ankle? Is it all of a sudden at 100 percent? Is it less than 100 percent? Will it improve or has it reached its ceiling?

5. What other injuries does Favre currently claim to have?

Last year, Favre talked openly (and repeatedly) about a laundry list of ailments and maladies. The exercise eventually forced the NFL to fine the Jets for failing to report the partially torn biceps tendon that he suffered during the 2008 season.

And it all became so ridiculous that we eventually added extra body parts (including "taint") to the list of Favre's supposedly injuries, along with a trio of illnesses -- polio, swine flu, and lupus.

Beyond the ankle, he'll surely point to some other injured area, if for no reason other than to have a built-in excuse in the event he throws five interceptions against the Saints on September 9.

6. Is the double standard that applies to Favre hurting the team?

Jimmy Johnson of FOX had some pointed remarks regarding the Vikings' approach to Favre during Wednesday's edition of The Dan Patrick Show. (More on that later.) While we don't expect Childress or Favre to say anything insightful or, you know, truthful on that point, it's a fair question that needs to be posed to anyone and everyone in the organization.

The Vikings have been bending over backwards for Brett, and it possibly has created a sense in the locker room that other players deserve similar consideration. Some think that receiver Sidney Rice has been milking a hip injury; others think that receiver Percy Harvin made the very most out of his most recent bout with migraines. And don't forget about running back Adrian Peterson's bizarre decision to skip a mandatory minicamp so that he could attend a parade in his hometown. Could the treatment of Favre be emboldening them?

The 2009 Vikings by all appearances sold their souls for the possibility of getting back to the Super Bowl, and they seem to be willing to do it again, even as they deal with the possible aftermath of the first season with Favre in the fold.

7. Will the Vikings keep Sage Rosenfels?

It's an issue that we've addressed in today's edition of PFT Daily, which will be posted soon. (We suspect that you're holding your breath, and possibly other bodily functions.)

Though we doubt that Childress will be providing a straight answer to the question, it remains a highly relevant question to the make up of the 2010 edition of the team.

8. Will the Vikings be as good in 2010 with Favre as they were in 2009?

This is a question that no one will be able to answer until the regular season begins to unfold. But it likely will be very difficult for the Vikings to match or improve on their 12-4 mark from a season ago.

For starters, they'll play the teams of the NFC East this year, not the NFC West. Also, the Vikings have to face every team from a top-heavy AFC East, including trips to Foxborough and the new Meadowlands Stadium.

The team's 13 opponents (they play three teams twice, obviously) will have had an entire offseason to study the film from Favre's first year in purple for any and all tendencies and tells. We also have a feeling that every defensive coordinator will try to replicate the "remember me" shots the Saints applied to No. 4 in the NFC title game -- and that the Saints likely will try to reprise on September 9.

While much of the roster has remained in place, the departure of underrated third-down back Chester Taylor and primary offensive line backup Artis Hicks could present real challenges for an attack that produced career-high statistics for Favre. Meanwhile, tailback Adrian Peterson will continue to be a pin cushion for pulling and punching and poking and prodding every time he tries to put the football under wraps.

On defense, everyone is a year older -- and the secondary remains the biggest weakness on either side of the ball. With cornerback Cedric Griffin still recovering from a torn ACL suffered on the overtime kickoff of the NFC title game and linebacker E.J. Henderson still working his way back from a gruesomely broken leg, it remains to be seen whether the Vikings' defense continues to be among the better units in the league.

9. Can Childress and Favre get along?

Last year, Childress himself drove Favre from the airport to the team facility. This year, Childress was nowhere to be seen.

We've heard persistent rumors that the players in Minnesota generally don't like or respect Childress. Though no good head coach openly aspires to be liked by his players, a lack of respect could kill a team's chances -- especially if it starts with the quarterback whose ring, feet, and ass everyone kisses.

Last year's twelve-men-in-the-huddle routine probably didn't help matters.

After a home field advantage-killing loss to the Panthers on Sunday Night Football, troubling reports emerged regarding Chilly's effort to bench Favre, regarding Favre's resistance, and regarding Chilly's angry reaction to news that Favre had blabbed out it. Thereafter, ESPN's Ed Werder reported based on unnamed sources (i.e., Favre) that Childress "seldom" discussed the game plan with his quarterback, and that Childress "bristles" when Favre changes the play at the line of scrimmage.

For the Vikings to reach their full potential in 2010, whatever it may be, Favre and Childress need to be on the same page. More importantly, Favre needs to ensure that his teammates buy in to Childress' schemes and tactics and decisions, even when Favre otherwise may be inclined to disagree.

10. How will the Vikings fare this year?

In the PFT Season Preview magazine, which was written under the assumption that Favre will be back, I picked the Vikings to win the NFC North, but not to make it to Dallas for Super Bowl XLV. The rest of the crew pegged the Packers as division champs, with Rosenthal and MDS predicting a wild-card berth for Minnesota. (Silva has them not getting in at all.)

Whether the Vikings can win the division again or not, Favre probably will get the team back into the postseason tournament. But with the Cowboys looking to avenge last year's 34-3 drubbing in the Metrodome and with the widely-overlooked Saints as potent as they were in 2009 and with a surprise team or two likely to emerge in the NFC, it will be even harder in 2010 for Favre to cap his career in the manner that he clearly covets -- by winning another Super Bowl and walking away as the credits start to roll.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Big Ten Football: Can Anyone Catch Terrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes

Buckeyes on the Pre-Season All-Big Ten Team


Terrelle Pryor
QB, Ohio State
On the heels of his Rose Bowl MVP performance, the Buckeyes star enters his third year as starter with Heisman hopes and the chance to lead a national-title contender.


Mike Brewster
C, Ohio State
A third-year starter and former Freshman All-American, the Orlando native is one of several talented veterans on the Buckeyes' O-line.


Cameron Hayward
DE, Ohio State
The son of late NFL star Craig "Ironhead" Hayward becomes the Buckeyes' primary pass-rusher following the departure of Thaddeus Gibson.


Ross Homan
LB, Ohio State
An instinctive playmaker, Homan led the Buckeyes last season with 108 tackles while also notching five interceptions and a pair of forced fumbles.


Chimdi Chekwa
CB, Ohio State
With the speed to anchor OSU's 4X100 relay team, Chekwa locks down opposing receivers, notching seven pass breakups in 2009.


Jermale Hines
S, Ohio State
A fast, hard-hitting strong safety who moved into a starting role last season, Hines will be counted on more in pass coverage with the departure of star Kurt Coleman.








CAN ANYONE CATCH PRYOR AND THE BUCKEYES THIS YEAR

Good article from si.com and I agree with it, but I am very scared that everyone is basing the Buckeyes on one good game by Pryor in the Rose Bowl. What do you think, please leave your feedback.
Big Ten Conference Report
Is Ohio State ready to set Terrelle Pryor loose? Has Penn State found a quarterback? Can Rich Rodriguez save his job? SI.com's 2010 conference reports continue with Stewart Mandel's Big Ten breakdown.

How They'll Finish

Conference Overall
Ohio State 7-1 11-1
Wisconsin 6-2 10-2
Iowa 6-2 9-3
Penn St. 5-3 8-4
Michigan St. 4-4 8-4
Northwestern 4-4 8-4
Purdue 4-4 7-5
Michigan 3-5 6-6
Illinois 3-5 5-7
Indiana 1-7 5-7
Minnesota 1-7 2-10

Offensive MVP
QB Terrelle Pryor
2009 Season Stats: 2,094 pass yards, 18 TDs, 11 INTs, 779 rush yards
2010 Projected Stats: 2,730 passyards, 26 TDs, 8 INTs, 660 rush yards

In his third season as starter, the athletic star should continue the momentum generated by his breakthrough Rose Bowl performance. With a healthy knee, improved decision-making, more touch on his deep ball and a plethora of weapons around him, Pryor will primarily be a passing threat while using his elite scrambling ability to produce big gains out of broken plays. He gets the slight nod here over Wisconsin running back John Clay.


Defensive MVP
DE Adrian Clayborn

2009 Season Stats: 70 tackles, 11.5 sacks, 20 tackles for loss
2010 Projected Stats: 62 tackles, 13 sacks, 23.5 tackles for loss

Coming off a monstrous junior season in which he forced four fumbles, blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown against Penn State and earned MVP honors in Iowa's Orange Bowl win over Georgia Tech, Clayborn should establish himself as the nation's top defensive end in 2010. His production might not increase significantly due to the wealth of other elite defenders around him, but his presence will be felt by opposing quarterbacks and rushers on virtually every snap.

Impact Freshman
LB William Gholston

High School Stats: 115 tackles, 27 sacks, 44 tackles for loss
2010 Projected Stats: 22 tackles, five sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss

The gifted 6-foot-7, 237-pound Gholston was the conference's top-rated recruit last winter and just happens to fill an immediate need for the Spartans. MSU is looking for a third starting linebacker to go alongside All-American Greg Jones and veteran Eric Gordon. Gholston might not get the nod on opening day, but should become a frequent contributor, possibly as a hybrid rush-end whom coaches can use in certain blitz packages.

Coach On The Hot Seat

Rich Rodriguez
Last Season: 5-7 (1-7 Big Ten)
Career at Michigan: 9-15 (3-13 Big Ten)

While a transition period was inevitable after the former West Virginia coach replaced the retired Lloyd Carr, no one could have foreseen such a nightmarish two years both on the field and off it, where Rodriguez's program stands accused of the school's first-ever major NCAA violations. If the Wolverines reach a bowl and show they can compete with the league's upper-echelon, Rodriguez will be fine. But another embarrassing finish will be too much for the administration to bear. Note: Illinois' Ron Zook -- coming off a 3-9 debacle -- is on similarly thin ice.
VIDEO: Can Rich Rodriguez save his job?

Three Key Nonconference Games

Connecticut at Michigan
Saturday, September 4

3:30 p.m. ET (ABC)
If Rodriguez wants to start rebuilding enthusiasm in Ann Arbor, he needs to win the school's first game in the remodeled Big House -- no small chore against the Huskies.

Miami at Ohio State
Saturday, September 11

3:30 p.m ET (ESPN)
This rematch of the thrilling and controversial 2003 Fiesta Bowl should indicate whether the Buckeyes have what it takes to reach this year's championship game in Arizona.



Penn State at Alabama
Saturday, September 11

7 p.m. ET (ESPN)
The Nittany Lions' new quarterback -- likely sophomore Kevin Newsome -- faces a daunting first road start against the defending national champions.



Three Key Conference Games

Michigan State at Michigan
Saturday, October 2
TBD
In what could be a benchmark game for both programs, the Spartans look to build on their first two-game winning streak over Michigan in 42 years.
MANDEL: Michigan seniors looking to go out on high note

Ohio State at Wisconsin
Saturday, October 16
7:15 pm. ET (ESPN or ESPN2)
The Buckeyes' first real conference test may well be their toughest -- the Badgers are 25-3 at home in four seasons under coach Bret Bielema.

Ohio State at Iowa
Saturday, November 20

TBD
Last year's winner-takes-the-conference showdown in Columbus was an overtime thriller, and this year's edition could well be for the same stakes.

Did You Know?

Eleven of the conference's top 12 rushers from 2009 return, including three (Dan Herron, Terrelle Pryor and Brandon Saine) from Ohio State.
While Iowa boasts four accomplished starters on its defensive line, its returning offensive linemen have combined for just 36 career starts -- fewest in the Big Ten.
The Big Ten's top three returning receivers all play in the state of Indiana: Purdue's Keith Smith (91.7 yards per game) and Indiana's Tandon Doss (80.2) and Damario Belcher (64.2).

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Brett Favre is Back..... Again - Josh Hamilton the Best Player in MLB



He's Back!!!!
Brett Favre practices with Vikings
espn.com
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Brett Favre says the strong chance of playing in another Super Bowl brought him back to the NFL -- again.
Favre was back on the field with the Minnesota Vikings on Wednesday. The three-time MVP started his second season in Minnesota wearing a helmet, shoulder pads and red quarterback's jersey as he worked out with his teammates on their practice field. "As we were driving on that last drive it seemed like it was destiny -- for us," said Favre, whose interception in the final minute ended that march and the Vikings never got the ball in overtime. "I was so close, so close to getting these guys to the Super Bowl.
"I owe it to this organization to give it one more try."
Not that coming back for a 20th season was a simple decision.
"I could make a case for both playing, not playing," Favre said. "This is a very good football team, the chances here are much greater than other places. From that standpoint, it was always going to be easier [to return].
"Part of me said it was such a great year, it would be easy to say, 'Hey can't play any better, why even try?' Then the other part is, 'Guys are playing on a high level. Why don't I go back out?' The expectations are high here, as they should be."
Favre said that this, his 20th season, will be his final NFL season. However, the future Hall of Fame quarterback has come out of retirement twice before.
After staying away from training camp, as he's done for much of the past two summers, Favre was practicing less than 24 hours after the team sent Steve Hutchinson, Jared Allen and Ryan Longwell -- three of his closest friends -- to Mississippi to bring him back. Favre underwent left ankle surgery on May 21 and just a few weeks ago texted several teammates and Vikings officials that he would not return because the recovery was slower than he expected.
He's back now.
"There is nothing on me that's 100 percent, there wasn't anything that was 100 percent last year or the year before," Favre said. "The surgery made me a little better.
"I have played 309 straight games, I can't complain."
However, the 40-year-old Favre cautioned that he wasn't making any promises that he will be able to make it through another full season.
"I can't promise you I can make it through the season," he said. "I couldn't promise that to you when I was 21."
• Favre timeline
Favre's return to the field comes on the one-year anniversary of the day he signed a two-year, $25 million contract with the Vikings.
Favre reportedly will get a pay raise for returning to the 2010 season. Favre, who was scheduled to make $13 million this season, will have his base salary bumped to $16.5 million, the (Minneapolis) Star Tribune reported.
Favre also will have $3.5 million in incentives added to his contract, based on postseason success, the Star Tribune reported, potentially boosting his 2010 salary to $20 million.
In a scene nearly identical to his arrival last August, Favre took a private plane from Hattiesburg on Tuesday, was followed by news helicopters from a suburban airport to the team headquarters, and was greeted by dozens of fans and media members upon his arrival.
"Helicopters acting like they are following O.J.," tight end Visanthe Shiancoe tweeted. "Where is the bronco."
The big difference? His signing with the Vikings -- Green Bay's bitter NFC North rival -- was a stunner after he tormented Minnesota for so long as a member of the Packers.
This time around, virtually everyone expected the quarterback who flirts with quitting every summer to return.
Favre's latest dalliance -- and hesitation -- centered on an ankle that was injured in the NFC Championship Game loss to New Orleans in January. Favre had surgery on his left ankle in June and told teammates and team officials earlier in August that he didn't believe he had another full season left in him.
This is the third straight year the Vikings have dealt with questions about Favre, so they weren't convinced he was done.
Now it's time to see if the old man can do it all again.
The gray-haired Favre turned in one of the best seasons in a terrific career last year, throwing 33 touchdowns and only seven interceptions to lead the Vikings to the NFC North title. He threw for 310 yards and a touchdown against the Saints in the Superdome, but also threw an interception at the end of regulation that cost them a chance at a winning field goal that would have put Minnesota in the Super Bowl for the first time in 33 years.
After being cajoled by Allen, Hutchinson and Longwell, Favre will have one more shot at redemption and a second Lombardi Trophy.
Even though it was expected that he would be back, the same excitement as last year surrounded his return Tuesday. Fans clogged Viking Drive, and police tried to control traffic and keep youngsters and television cameras from spilling onto the street.
Last year, Childress picked up Favre from the airport. This year, Longwell was the chauffeur, and fans tried to mob his black BMW SUV as he pulled into the driveway at Winter Park.
"Brett Favre for President!!" receiver Bernard Berrian tweeted.
He'll have to settle for quarterback for now.
Even though he will turn 41 in October, Favre doesn't figure to need much time to
get warmed up and ready for another season. He skipped all of training camp last year before unretiring and joining the Vikings. The three-time MVP delivered a season even he didn't expect.
He set career bests in completion percentage (68.4), quarterback rating (107.2) and fewest interceptions, while throwing for 4,202 yards. The Vikings (12-4) earned a first-round bye in the NFC playoffs, and Favre became the first 40-year-old quarterback to win a playoff game with a four-touchdown performance against the Dallas Cowboys.






Hamilton leaving no doubt he is the best player in baseball
Tom Verducci si.com
I love Josh Hamilton and couldn't agree more with Verducci!
Just another night in the life of the best player in baseball went something like this, at least as far as last Friday the 13th:

• Smash four hits all over the park: a single to left, a 440-foot bomb to center, a single and double to right.

• Score from third base on a pop fly to deep shortstop/short left.

• Score from second base on a ground ball to second.

• Make a diving catch on the warning track and a leaping catch against the centerfield wall.

• Cause the third-base coach to halt a runner from scoring from second on an otherwise routine run-scoring single to centerfield.

• Crush the postgame spread.

• Throw around hundreds of pounds of iron in a postgame weightlifting session.

• Gulp down a 2,000-plus-calorie protein shake, made with real cream, on the car ride home.

• Sit down for a full home-cooked meal by his wife. (Yes, for those of you scoring at home, that's the equivalent of three full meals just between the last out and bedtime.)


The legend of Josh Hamilton, Texas Ranger, is growing on a nightly basis. There is nobody like him in baseball, and possibly nobody this good, this big, this fast and this unique -- a 6'4", 235-pound sledgehammer of a hitter who can run balls down in center field and fly around the bases and hit for such a high average -- since Mickey Mantle in his prime.
Hamilton leads the league in batting (.362), slugging (.634), hits (161) and total bases (282). The rest of the league is playing for second place in the MVP race. He has no contemporaries, especially when you consider that the Rangers, somewhat against their better judgment, have started him 26 times in center field.
How rare is that kind of skill set? The last three players to have batted .360 and slugged .600 while playing that much center field are none other than Mantle in 1957, Stan Musial in 1948 and Joe DiMaggio in 1939.
Now, are there any more questions about who is the best player in baseball this year?
"He's certainly in the discussion," Texas GM John Daniels said. "You rarely see a guy perform at this level for this length of time."
In 65 games since June 1, just when the Texas heat is supposed to wilt players, Hamilton has hit .423. He also sets himself apart from other great sluggers because he is one of the game's best base runners and can play Gold Glove-caliber defense in the middle of the field. He has made 14 of his past 24 starts in center field.
Baseball doesn't have official player rankings as does golf and tennis, though its No. 1 player typically has caused little debate -- from Ken Griffey Jr. to Barry Bonds to Alex Rodriguez to Albert Pujols. Pujols' consistency is remarkable, especially measured against Hamilton's career. Hamilton is 29 and only 16 months older than Pujols, but has yet to play 100 games in back-to-back seasons -- minors or majors. But in the snapshot of today's game, based on skill set and production right now, Hamilton is the new BPB -- Best Player in Baseball. At the end of the year he could wind up with the batting title, MVP, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove and All-Star Game election, all for a first-place team.
The game last Friday against Boston belongs in a time capsule, so that when somebody who never saw him play wonders what Hamilton could do on a baseball field, just that one game will suffice.
"There aren't many days when Josh goes 0-for-4," Daniels said, "but if it does happen there are so many other ways he can help us win a game. Josh can influence the outcome of a game with his bat and glove.
"And when he goes from first to third, he's able to turn it on with his head up and without breaking stride and can see the ball or the coach. I was fortunate to see Larry Walker one year in Colorado. He runs the bases like that. He runs with his head up at full speed. He accelerates to full speed quickly, cuts the bases perfectly, and all the while his eyes are where they're supposed to be."
Walker and Bonds are the only outfielders in the past 50 years to hit .360 with 30 homers -- measurements within Hamilton's grasp. The men to do it before them were Mantle, Musial, DiMaggio and Ted Williams.
Hamilton is nothing more than a breathtaking comet for the moment. He has no real career to speak of and no certainty to his future. He threw away his early years in baseball because of drug addiction, endured an alcohol-related relapse last year, and his years trying to remain clean have been marred by injuries. He has played fewer major league games than Billy Butler, the 24-year-old Kansas City first baseman.
New Rangers owner Chuck Greenberg would love to lock up Hamilton this winter to a contract extension that buys out at least one year of free agency. (Hamilton is under Texas' control for two more arbitration-eligible seasons.) But what kind of length could be guaranteed when his body of work, however great, is so checkered? His value is complicated, too, by the oddity of not earning free agent rights until he is 31 years old. Remember, age matters in baseball now. There is not one player today in his age 36 season or older who is healthy and has an OPS better than .800.
Just for argument's sake, you could draw a faint comparison to Kevin Youkilis, another rare late bloomer, who signed his extension with the Red Sox in 2009 at age 29 -- Hamilton's age now -- and with two arbitration years remaining and coming off a year in which he finished third in MVP voting. He signed for $41.125 million over four years. Here's how Youkilis' numbers then match up with those of Hamilton now:

Kevin Youkilis vs. Josh Hamilton
Player Age G HR RBI AVG/OBP/SLG OPS
Youkilis 29 553 66 314 .289/.385/.472 .857
Hamilton 29 447 87 311 .310/.370/.541 .911


Hamilton will have bigger numbers and more awards on which to bargain. He will lack the bigger body of work. The Rangers briefly discussed a contract extension with Hamilton in spring training of 2009, shortly after Youkilis signed, but the club hit a financial downward spiral that eventually led to bankruptcy and Hamilton played only 89 games while spending two stints on the disabled list. Both developments put extension talks off to the side.
Greenberg inherits many financial loose ends in addition to a possible Hamilton extension. The contracts of manager Ron Washington, pitcher Cliff Lee, DH Vladimir Guerrero, catcher Bengie Molina and reliever Frank Francisco all expire this year. All issues are likely to be set aside until after the postseason, in which Texas tries to win its first-ever postseason series.
"Let's not cloud the picture right now," Daniels said.
In the meantime, the Rangers will do the best they can to keep Hamilton healthy, which is why they need center fielder Julio Borbon to hit. If Borbon doesn't hit, the Rangers have to play Hamilton more in center field than they would like, with David Murphy in left field and Nelson Cruz, when he recovers from a hamstring strain, in right field. They also need to give Hamilton a few more days at DH while resting Guerrero.
"It's hard to take Josh out of the lineup," Daniels said.
Who knows how long Hamilton can keep up this pace? He already has dealt with tendinitis in his right knee this month. But for now, the sight of a guy built like an NFL strong safety crashing into walls, blasting long home runs, flying around the bases, and chasing a batting title with a 22-point lead on Miguel Cabrera is something to behold. There is nothing like it in baseball.

Prince Lebron James Disses Cleveland in GQ Article


Lebron you just need to shut up. You are the only one talking besides all of the other true nba greats that think you are an idiot. You are making Cleveland look better and better each time you open your mouth, so SHUT UP!

LeBron Prince James Runs his Mouth Again About Cleveland

Since "The Decision" really all we've heard or seen from LeBron is him being heckled or booed at an appearance. He didn't speak during the Nike World Basketball Festival and for the most part, has just kept a low profile.

Finally, we have some fodder. J.R. Moehringer of GQ had the opportunity to spend three weeks with LeBron in the lead-up to the decision and also spoke to James about a number of different things.

In the interview that drops in full Aug. 24, LeBron actually says he could see himself returning to Cleveland one day as well. "If there was an opportunity for me to return," he says, "and those fans welcome me back, that'd be a great story." But then again, he also talks about how as a kid, he hated Cleveland, italics used for added emphasis on hated.

A few of the other highlights:

LeBron on how those close to him view his decision: “They’re happy to see me happy. That’s what they can see in my face. They say: ‘It’s been a while since we’ve seen you look like that.’”

On Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert: “I don’t think he ever cared about LeBron. My mother always told me: ‘You will see the light of people when they hit adversity. You’ll get a good sense of their character.’ Me and my family have seen the character of that man.”
 
On how a kid could from Akron, located only thirty minutes from Cleveland, could grow up rooting for Chicago and Jordan: "It's not far, but it is far. And Clevelanders, because they were the bigger-city kids when we were growing up, looked down on us.… So we didn't actually like Cleveland. We hated Cleveland growing up. There's a lot of people in Cleveland we still hate to this day."

On how growing up helped him learn about facing adversity and staying humble: “That’s what keeps me humble, because I know my background, know what my mother went through. I never get too high on my stardom or what I can do. My mom always says, and my friends say, ‘You’re just a very low-maintenance guy.’"

Moehringer also describes in detail what it was like hanging with LeBron's crew. One of the more interesting points is how LeBron is surrounded at all times. Whether it be with friends, managers, agents or family, LeBron doesn't spend a lot of time by himself. Moehringer writes: "But as with anything, all that comfort comes at a cost, and I think that his fear of being alone keeps him at times from walking through the fire that we all have to walk through. Maybe sitting alone in a room and thinking might have helped him realize that an hour-long special devoted to his decision was ill advised. My suspicion from watching him surrounded by people wherever he goes is that he's not spending a lot of time alone in a room thinking through things."

There's also something in the article talking about how James is potentially trying to re-create his high school experience, something he calls his favorite time of his life, by going and playing with friends in Miami. It's interesting because James spurned his local predominantly African-American high school but instead enrolled at predominantly white St. Vincent-St. Mary to play with friends and build a superteam. He was called a traitor, a cop-out and pretty much all the things he's being called now. And as Moehringer points out, in LeBron's memoir, the chapter talking about his choice to play at the catholic prep school is entitled "The Decision."

I remember Brian Windhorst, who covered LeBron even in high school, tweeting in the build-up to the one-hour announcement special that this new media savvy, image conscious LeBron was not someone he knew. LeBron refers to himself in the third-person constantly, talks about hating Cleveland his entire life and is so enveloped in his own happiness that he surrounds himself with people that only tell him how happy he is. That doesn't sound a whole lot like the guy that was all about winning and teammates a few years ago with the Cavs.

But honestly, after this inside look, maybe LeBron never changed. Maybe he's the exact same guy he's always been.

Cavs to Change Uniforms

-- Austin Carr fondly remembers his glory days playing guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1970s.

Under coach Bill Fitch, they didn't have as much talent as many other teams, but those wine-and-gold expansion Cavs had something special.

 
The Cavs present their new look, which is actually a throwback to their early years in the NBA. (AP)   "We were 12 men deep," Carr said as he helped the Cavs unveil new uniforms for 2010-11. "You knew every night we were going to play 100 percent. Nobody was going to quit."
Realizing he had taken a shot at former Cavaliers' star LeBron James, Carr raised his eyebrows and shrugged his shoulders.

At this point, what else can be said?

Long before James announced he was leaving as a free agent for Miami, the Cavs planned to wear new uniforms next season and Tuesday they presented their "updated" look, a throwback to their early years in the NBA.

The uniforms include a "deeper" wine and "brighter" gold hue than the team's previous uniforms. They also include the word "Cleveland" written in a block-style lettering as opposed to the script of the past.

On Monday, owner Dan Gilbert said jokingly that the new uniforms would include the Comic Sans font. It's the style he used in his infamous letter to Cleveland fans on July 8 after James announced he was leaving Cleveland.

The Cavs insist they are trying to move on, but James was again in the news being quoted in an upcoming GQ interview that he feels Gilbert never cared about him and his hatred for Cleveland dates back to his days as a kid growing up in Akron.

Carr, who was the league's No. 1 overall draft pick in 1971 and Cleveland's first bona fide hoops star, remains disappointed in James' departure. The two-time MVP announced his decision in a prime-time TV special, breaking the hearts of his biggest fans.

"As an ex-player, I might have left myself," said Carr, a color analyst for the team. "So I don't begrudge him for that. But the way he did it was unprofessional and uncalled for."

After James announced his decision, Gilbert fired off his impassioned letter ripping James for being "narcissistic" and predicting the Cavs would win a championship before "the self-titled former king." Later, he told the Associated Press that he felt the superstar quit in this year's playoffs.

Although it seems the Cavs are trying to move on, James' magazine interview has reopened the issue. He's the one who can't seem to let things go.

"That's his problem," said Carr, who cried unashamedly the night the Cavs won the NBA draft lottery and the rights to draft James. "Not ours."

Carr was joined by former teammate Campy Russell at a launch party for the new uniforms. Both players laughed at the length of the shorts compared to the tight-fitting ones they wore.

"We wore Daisy Dukes," Carr said.

Thursday, August 12, 2010